Spinal versus Epidural Anaesthesia for Obstetric Delivery: A Narrative Review of Outcome Impacts

Abstract

As the most popular methods of pain management for women in labour, spinal and epidural anaesthesia are commonly used during normal vaginal deliveries. Epidural analgesia offers significant pain relief while maintaining maternal and foetal safety. This method involves the administration of anaesthetic agents into the epidural space, allowing for continuous pain management during labour. Spinal anaesthesia involves injecting a local anaesthetic, often combined with an opioid, into the cerebrospinal fluid in the spinal canal. Both techniques offer distinct advantages and considerations that can significantly impact the labour experience. The present review aims to evaluate all possible findings and outcomes of the comparison between spinal and epidural anaesthesia in normal delivery. Both spinal and epidural anaesthesia significantly impact maternal and foetal outcomes in obstetric care. Spinal anaesthesia provides rapid and profound analgesia, making it ideal for shorter procedures and urgent deliveries. However, its association with motor blockade and the potential prolongation of the second stage of labour requires careful consideration. Epidural anaesthesia, on the other hand, offers greater flexibility in dose adjustment and a more gradual onset, making it suitable for prolonged labour. The choice between spinal and epidural anaesthesia should be guided by factors such as the stage of labour, maternal co-morbidities, anticipated delivery duration and patient preference. Future research should focus on refining anaesthesia protocols to enhance maternal and neonatal outcomes while minimising complications.

Keywords

• analgesia
• labour
• pain
• postoperative complications
• pregnancy