Intrathecal isobaric 1% 2-chloroprocaine versus hyperbaric 0.5% bupivacaine in parturients undergoing lower segment cesarean section: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background: Cesarean sections are usually done under spinal anesthesia (SA) using local anesthetics. This study is aimed to compare the efficacy of intrathecal isobaric 1% 2-chloroprocaine (CP) and hyperbaric 0.5% bupivacaine in parturients undergoing lower segment cesarean section (LSCS). Materials and Methods: One hundred parturients aged 18–35 years with the American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I or II undergoing LSCS were randomly allocated into two groups. Group A (n = 50) received intrathecal isobaric 1% 2-CP 5 ml (50 mg), while Group B (n = 50) received intrathecal hyperbaric 0.5% bupivacaine 2 ml (10 mg) in SA. Onset and duration of both sensory and motor block, highest dermatomal level achieved, time to achieve highest dermatomal level, two-segment regression, duration of analgesia, hemodynamic changes, and side effects were noted. Results: The onset of sensory blockade was significantly faster in Group A (1.66 ± 0.49 min) compared to Group B (3.00 ± 0.58 min) (P 0.05). Conclusion: Intrathecal 1% 2-CP (50 mg) appears to be a safe and effective alternative, preferably in elective and uncomplicated LSCS, as it has faster onset and predictable sensory block height with shorter but adequate duration of motor block and analgesia.