Study of Carotid Blood Flow Changes to Predict Low Blood Pressure After Spinal Anesthesia in Pregnant Women Undergoing Cesarean Delivery

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to understand the relationship between changes in carotid artery blood flow and low blood pressure following spinal anesthesia in pregnant women aged 20 to 40 undergoing cesarean delivery. The study focuses on how carotid blood flow and corrected flow time measurements change before and after spinal anesthesia and their connection to post-spinal hypotension. Participants are women classified as ASA 1-2 with uncomplicated pregnancies at term. Participants will receive spinal anesthesia with a standardized dose of 10 mg heavy bupivacaine and 10 mcg fentanyl as part of their cesarean delivery. Doppler ultrasound will be used to measure the diameter and flow velocity of the left carotid artery at three different points before anesthesia and repeated three minutes after returning to the supine position post-anesthesia. Blood pressure and fluid administration will be monitored from the start of anesthesia until delivery to assess hypotension occurrence. During the study, each participant will undergo two carotid ultrasound exams performed by the same investigator. Hemodynamic data, including blood pressure changes and fluid resuscitation, will be recorded throughout the procedure. The main outcome measured is post-spinal hypotension between anesthesia and delivery, with secondary outcomes including the amount of fluid given. The study participation involves minimal additional procedures beyond standard care and ultrasound measurements.

Carotid Flow Measurements in Pregnant Women