ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION Obstetric anesthesia is responsible for 3%–12% of all maternal deaths [1,2]. The majority of maternal deaths occur during administration of general anesthesia and result from airway management-related complications (e.g., failed intubation, failed ventilation, and inadequate oxygenation) [1]. Subsequently, many obstetric anesthesiologists are recommending administration of regional anesthesia when possible, and that general anesthesia be given only when it is absolutely indicated [1-3]. Regional anesthesia is the technique of choice for cesarean delivery for the following reasons: (1) it is safer for the mother, (2) it has less depressant effects on the baby, (3) it allows mothers to be awake during the birth of their babies, and (4) the technique is simpler. Neuraxial techniques include three choices: spinal, epidural, and combined spinalepidural (CSE) anesthesia. One of them is chosen based on its characteristics, maternal preference, maternal general health condition, and the indications (e.g., fetal distress) for cesarean delivery.
