The effect of different altitude levels on spinal anesthesia in cesarean section surgery: comparison of anesthesia parameters and hemodynamic changes.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of varying altitude levels on anesthetic parameters in pregnant women undergoing cesarean sections under neuraxial anesthesia.

METHOD: Conducted at three different altitudes: sea level (0-10 m, Giresun-Group G), moderate altitude (810 m, Çorum-Group Ç), and high altitude (1725 m, Van-Group V), this study included 98 patients undergoing elective cesarean sections. All were administered the same anesthetic protocol. We assessed anesthetic characteristics and hemodynamic parameters.

RESULTS

Patients at sea level showed a significantly lower upper sensory block limit than those at higher altitudes (p < 0.01). The time to reach each Modified Bromage scale level varied, with the shortest at moderate altitudes and longest at high altitudes, particularly noted at the third scale level (p < 0.01). Group G had a significantly higher cerebrospinal fluid pH (p < 0.01). Although sensory block duration differences were not significant, motor block duration was notably longer at moderate altitude (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Minimal effect on spinal anesthetic block times was observed due to the close proximity of the altitude levels studied. Future research should include higher altitudes and more patients to determine the effect of altitude on anesthetic efficacy and safety.