ANAESTHETICS AND AIRWAY
PREGNANCY
PromptPregnant airway changes
See also O+G
See also O+G
ResponseNeed optimum positioning and preparation
3rd trimester place in Left lateral position to avoid aortocaval compression syndrome
Physiology:
Rapid desaturation
Increased O2 consumption, increased minute volume, decreased FRC, decreased TV
Reduced LOS tone, reduced gastric emptying >> Aspiration risk
Increased circulating volume, dilutional anaemia, reduced BP, Reduced total peripheral resistance
Avoid hypotension - decreased perfusion to placenta in low flow states
Anatomy:
Large breasts (may interfere with laryngoscope positioning)
Engorged and friable airway tissue - increased bleeding
Difficult BVM
3rd trimester place in Left lateral position to avoid aortocaval compression syndrome
Physiology:
Rapid desaturation
Increased O2 consumption, increased minute volume, decreased FRC, decreased TV
Reduced LOS tone, reduced gastric emptying >> Aspiration risk
Increased circulating volume, dilutional anaemia, reduced BP, Reduced total peripheral resistance
Avoid hypotension - decreased perfusion to placenta in low flow states
Anatomy:
Large breasts (may interfere with laryngoscope positioning)
Engorged and friable airway tissue - increased bleeding
Difficult BVM