Assessment of Spinal Anesthesia in Emergency Caesarean Section

Abstract

Background: Spinal anesthesia is widely utilized for emergency Caesarean sections due to its rapid onset, technical simplicity, and favorable maternal-fetal safety profile. However, its association with intraoperative hypotension and other complications necessitates ongoing evaluation, particularly in resource-limited settings where general anesthesia may be less feasible or riskier. Objective: To assess the efficacy, safety, and maternal satisfaction associated with spinal anesthesia during emergency Caesarean sections, and to explore the clinical impact of intraoperative hypotension on patient-centered outcomes. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted at Bahria International Hospital, Lahore, over four months. Fifty women undergoing emergency Caesarean sections under spinal anesthesia were enrolled via convenience sampling. Data on anesthesia onset, pain scores, hemodynamic changes, adverse events, and satisfaction were collected through structured interviews and observation. Statistical analyses included group comparisons using chi-square and t-tests, with stratified assessments of hypotension impact. Results: Rapid anesthesia onset (<5 minutes) was achieved in 70% of cases, and 80% of participants rated anesthesia quality as excellent. Hypotension occurred in 70% of patients but was not significantly associated with dissatisfaction or major complications. Pain scores averaged 2.7±1.2, and 90% of patients were very satisfied. Satisfaction was significantly lower among hypotensive patients reporting moderate-to-severe pain. Conclusion: Spinal anesthesia is a safe and effective method for emergency Caesarean sections. While hypotension is common, its clinical impact can be mitigated with vigilant intraoperative management, preserving high patient satisfaction.