National survey of obstetric anaesthesia clinical practices in the republic of Austria

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to describe the current obstetric anaesthetic practices in Austria by performing a comprehensive questionnaire survey.MethodsA questionnaire was sent via email to key anaesthesiologists from obstetric anaesthesia departments of 81 hospitals registered at the Austrian Ministry of Health.ResultsOf 81 departments contacted, 65 (80%), covering 84% of annual births in Austria, responded to the 82-question survey. Epidural analgesia was offered universally, at a rate under 30% in 56 (86%) of respondent hospitals. The caesarean section rate was under 30% in 44 (68%) respondent obstetric units. All respondents provided spinal anaesthesia as the primary anaesthetic technique for elective caesarean section. Three (5%) respondents administered long-acting intrathecal morphine and 18 (28%) respondents did not routinely administer any intrathecal opioid. Wound infiltration for acute postoperative pain control was practiced in two (3%) respondent units. A transversus abdominis plane block was offered as rescue analgesia in 14 (22%) departments. Spinal hypotension was treated using a prophylactic phenylephrine infusion in two (3%) respondent hospitals. Prophylactic antibiotics were administered prior to skin incision by 31 (48%) respondents.ConclusionThis survey reveals that obstetric anaesthetic practices in Austria differ in part from current European and American guidelines. Findings will direct the national workforce on obstetric anaesthesia that aims to introduce into Austria practice guidelines, based on international collaborations and guideline recommendations.