Comparison of 2-chloroprocaine 1% versus hyperbaric bupivacaine 0.5% for subarachnoid block in pregnant females posted for elective caesarean section

Abstract

Introduction and Objectives: Caesarean sections generally done under subarachnoid block using 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine as the local anaesthetic of choice. As most caesarean sections are of short duration, we decided to study whether 1% 2-chloroprocaine would be suitable alternative to bupivacaine with primary outcome being duration of sensory blockade in elective lower segment caesarean sections. Materials and Methods: In this prospective study, 60 pregnant females belonging to ASA status 1 and 2, posted for elective lower segment caesarean section were equally randomized into two groups. The first group received 1% chloroprocaine 25 mg (2.5 ml, Group CP) and second group received 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine 10 mg (2.0 ml, Group B), intrathecally. We measured the level of sensory and motor blockade, duration of sensory blockade and side effects. Results: Mean duration of sensory blockade was 61.83 ± 23.54 minutes for group CP, which is significantly shorter than group B which had 174.67 ± 41.17 minutes (p Value <0.001). Group B had clinically significant incidences of hypotension (53.33% Vs 30%) compared to group CP. Conclusion: Intrathecal low dose 1 % chloroprocaine is a safe and suitable alternative to low dose 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine for an uncomplicated elective lower segment caesarean section.