Anaesthetic Management of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) in a Cesarean Section: A Case Report.

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening complication of diabetes mellitus that poses unique challenges during pregnancy. We present a case of a 36-year-old pregnant woman with a history of type 1 diabetes mellitus who developed severe DKA at 33.5 weeks of gestation, necessitating an emergency cesarean section. Despite a known history of diabetes, the patient's infrequent clinic attendance and suboptimal disease management contributed to her critical condition. DKA was promptly diagnosed, and a multidisciplinary team comprising obstetricians, endocrinologists, anesthesiologists, and neonatologists collaborated to provide comprehensive care. The preoperative assessment revealed dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, necessitating meticulous planning for IV fluid administration and hemodynamic stability during the cesarean section. Regional anaesthesia was chosen as the anaesthetic approach, and close postoperative monitoring was initiated. The neonate, delivered with satisfactory Apgar scores, was transferred to the neonatal ICU for observation. The patient's gradual clinical improvement over 48 hours demonstrated the importance of ongoing care. This case highlights the significance of early recognition, multidisciplinary teamwork, and meticulous perioperative care in managing DKA during pregnancy, ensuring favourable outcomes for both the mother and the neonate.