Haemodynamic changes during epidural caesarean delivery

The cardiovascular changes during epidural caesarean delivery were studied, using a non-invasive cardiac output monitor (BoMed NCCOM3-R7). Two different regimens were used to control hypotension (A = 15 ml/kg of 3% dextran 70, B = 7.5 ml/kg of 3% dextran 70 followed by an infusion of 17.5 mg of ephedrine). Cardiac index (CI) and heart rate (HR) increased after delivery and oxytocin administration (P < 0.001) and maximum values were recorded 1-1.5 min after administration of oxytocin. The maximum increase in CI was 76% (A) and 117% (B), in HR 42% (A) and 56% (B), and in SI 23% (A) and 47% (B) compared with values before anaesthesia. The increase in cardiac output after delivery was greater than that measured previously, which might be because impedance cardiac output is a continuous method. It is also suggested that the most pronounced changes are augmented by the use of a bolus injection of 10 units oxytocin i.v.