Magnesium sulphate has benificial effect as an adjuvent during general anaesthesia for caesarean section

Abstract

Introduction: In modern clinical practice “Balanced Anaesthesia” technique has special significance in patients undergoing caesarean section under general anaesthesia with concern of awareness, uterine atony & of respiratory depression due to avoidance of opioids and use of low concentration volatile anaesthesia. In this randomized, double-blind study, the safety & efficacy of magnesium sulphate as an adjunct during general anaesthesia for caesarean section was evaluated. Methods: • The patients were randomly divided into three groups: • The M30 group received Magnesium sulphate (30 mg/kg) at IV bolus & then 10 mg/kg/hr by continuous infusion after induction of anaesthesia. • The M45 group received Magnesium sulphate (45 mg/kg) as IV bolus & then 15 mg/kg/hr by continuous infusion. • The control group received similar volumes of saline as IV bolus & continuous infusion. • After delivery midazolam & fentanyl was administered as required. BIS was targeted between 40-60. Results: • Bis values during the pre-induction period were similar in the groups. However the M45 group showed less increase in the BIS values as compared to the other groups. MAP was significantly higher in the control group. The heat rates were similar for all groups. • The control group showed higher consumption of midazolam, fentanyl & atracurium. Conclusion : • This study shows that pre-operative administration of magnesium sulphate only attenuates increase in arterial pressure but also prevents awareness by attenuating BIS increase. • This study also demonstrate that magnesium reduces midazolam, fentanyl & atracurium requirement.