Changes in serum uric acid concentrations after caesarean section using methoxyflurane

In a study comparing the changes in serum uric acid concentration after methoxyflurane anaesthesia in 10 patients subjected to either Caesarean section or minor general surgical procedures, a significantly greater increase in serum uric acid concentration occurred in those patients undergoing Caesarean section. These results were compared with results from a control group of five patients undergoing Caesarean section, anaesthetized without methoxyflurance and with a second control group of five patients having uncomplicated spontaneous deliveries. Reasons are presented to suggest that although obstetric patients are unlikely to be more vulnerable to methoxyflurane nephrotoxicity, those with pre-eclamptic toxaemia may be more at risk.