Apnea 6 h after a cesarean section

Abstract

Intrathecal narcotics have proven to be invaluable in providing pain relief following a cesarean section. They also aid in earlier mobilization. Unfortunately, they come at the risk of delayed apnea requiring close monitoring for a prolonged period of time. Physicians may sometimes underestimate the risk of these delayed complications. This especially a big concern in hospitals that cannot provide the necessary postoperative monitoring required for these women. I present a case where it took more than 6 h after injection of narcotics before the complication occurred.

Keywords

• Anesthesia complication; cesarean section; intrathecal narcotics; intrathecal opioids; pain control; postoperative apnea