DOI: 10.36347/sasjm.2024.v10i06.007

Pages: 510-513

Background: The emergence of COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has posed significant challenges in managing pregnant women, who are particularly vulnerable due to physiological changes and immunological adaptations during pregnancy. Anesthetic management during cesarean section in COVID-19-positive parturients remains contentious, necessitating a nuanced approach to balance maternal and fetal well-being with infection control measures. Material and Methods: This prospective study, conducted from June 2020 to December 2021 at the Anesthesiology Department of HMIMV, Rabat, aimed to analyze anesthetic practices for cesarean sections in COVID-19-positive parturients. Inclusion criteria comprised positive SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR tests within a week before delivery, with cesarean section performed during the study period. Exclusion criteria included suspected cases not confirmed by PCR. Results: Twenty parturients were included, with ages ranging from 20 to 36 years and gestational ages from 30 to 41 weeks. Respiratory manifestations varied, from mild symptoms in 11 patients to moderate cases with bilateral pneumonia in 5 patients. Four patients required intensive care, including one intubated and ventilated. Spinal anesthesia was the preferred technique, with 19 patients undergoing it, while one patient received general anesthesia. Despite challenges, favorable outcomes were observed in most cases, with only one maternal mortality and two neonatal deaths. Conclusion: In COVID-19-positive parturients, the choice of anesthetic technique hinges on respiratory status, with spinal anesthesia emerging as a preferred option for those with mild to moderate severity. This study underscores the importance of tailored approaches in managing cesarean sections in this vulnerable population, balancing maternal-fetal safety with infection control imperatives.