General Anesthesia
Anesthetic technique involving loss of consciousness and total body muscle relaxation, used for emergency cesarean deliveries or when neuraxial techniques are contraindicated.
Full Definition
General anesthesia in obstetrics involves rendering the patient unconscious with complete loss of sensation and muscle relaxation through the administration of intravenous and inhaled anesthetic agents. This technique is typically reserved for emergency cesarean deliveries when time is critical, or when neuraxial anesthesia is contraindicated due to conditions such as coagulopathy, infection, or patient refusal. Obstetric general anesthesia requires special considerations including rapid sequence induction to reduce aspiration risk, awareness of physiological changes of pregnancy, and potential effects on the fetus. The technique carries higher maternal and fetal risks compared to regional anesthesia but may be necessary in certain clinical scenarios.
Usage
Usage note: Specify indication when used in obstetric cases.
In Context
- "General anesthesia was induced with rapid sequence intubation due to fetal bradycardia requiring immediate delivery." — Emergency cesarean section note
- "The patient was counseled on the increased risks associated with general anesthesia compared to neuraxial techniques." — Pre-operative consultation