Low dose spinal anesthesia for caesarean section in a patient with peripartum dilated cardiomyopathy

Abstract

The patient with peripartum dilated cardiomyopathy (PPCM) was diagnosed at 28 wks gestation, and treated. Emergent caesarean section (C/S) was performed at 38 wks gestation under low dose spinal anesthesia combined with epidural catheter. Spinal anesthesia provides sufficient analgesia for C/S operation. Heart rate, blood pressure, central venous pressure and peripheral oxygen saturation were monitored continuously. Hemodynamic and respiratory parameters remained stable during the operation. No postoperative complications occurred. The epidural catheter was used for postoperative analgesia.