The Effect of Different Doses of Intrathecal Hyperbaric Bupivacaine Plus Sufentanil in Spinal Anesthesia for Cesarean Sections

BACKGROUND: Decreasing side effects and improving the quality of block in caesarean sections by appropriate dosage of local anesthetics and adjuvants could play an important role in the safe management of cesarean section. The present study aimed at comparing the effects of 3 different doses of intrathecal hyperbaric bupivacaine injected with a fixed dose of sufentanil in cesarean sections. METHODS: In a double- blind randomized clinical trial, 105 candidates of elective cesarean section were randomly assigned into 3 groups of 8, 9, and 10 mg of intrathecal bupivacaine plus sufentanil 2.5 µg. The maximum level of sensory block, the intensity of motor block, and vital signs were measured at regular intervals. The incidence of hypotension and bradycardia were also recorded. RESULTS: No significant difference was found between the maximum level of sensory block and the intensity of motor block in 3 groups. The incidences of hypotension and bradycardia as well as administration of atropine and ephedrine were comparable among the 3 groups (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: According to similar effects of different doses of bupivacaine, administration of lower doses of bupivacaine (8mg) is more reasonable for spinal anesthesia for cesarean section.