COMPLICATIONS OF SPINAL ANAESTHESIA FOLLOWING EXTRADURAL BLOCK FOR CAESAREAN SECTION

After extradural blockade failed to extend sufficiently forelective Caesarean section, spinal anaesthesia was performedusing 1.6 ml of hyperbaric 0.5% bupivacaine solution in 8% glucose(Marcain Heavy). The patient rapidly developed sensory blockadeto the level of T2, and became distressed and dyspnoeic. Generalanaesthesia was induced. Despite i.v. ephedrine and fluid loading,severe hypotension occurred, which responded subsequently tofurther doses of ephedrine and infusion of colloid. A healthyinfant was delivered by Caesarean section.