Journal of Anesthesiology and Pain

Aim and Background: The correct management of delivery and anesthesia is important for the maternal and fetal health outcome during cesarean section. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of spinal anesthesia with plain bupivacaine, bupivacaine+25 µg fentanyl and bupivacaine+12.5 µg fentanyl on the newborn Apgar score during elective cesarean section.

Methods and Materials: This study was randomized double blind clinical trial on 120 women aged 20-40 years, ASA 1&2 who were admitted for elective cesarean section. Patients were allocated in the three equal groups (n=40). Spinal anesthesia was applied by a plain bupivacaine (group 1), bupivacaine+12.5 µg fentanyl group (group 2), bupivacaine+25 µg fentanyl group (group 3). The 1st and 5th minute Apgar scores, demographic variables and other variables were recorded during the operation. The statistical analysis was applied by ANOVA using SPSS 16.00 software.

Findings: The three groups were the similar regarding age, weight and height. Apgar scores at 1 and 5 minutes were not significantly different between the three groups. The incidences of side effects were not significantly different among the three groups.

Conclusion: The doses of 12.5 and 25 microgram fentanyl added to intrathecal bupivacaine did not have any significant effect on the neonates Apgar scores. Additionally it did not significantly increase spinal anesthesia side effects in the parturients.