Can vertebral column length and abdominal girth predict the spread of intrathecal hyperbaric Bupivacaine in LSCS A prospective observational study

This prospective observational study will be conducted among pregnant women aged 18 to 40 years undergoing both elective and emergency caesarean section. The primary objective of this study is to determine whether there is any correlation between vertebral column length and abdominal girth in the spread of 0.5% [H] Bupivacaine. The secondary objective is to assess the impact of these factors on haemodynamic parameters including mean arterial blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen saturation. Vertebral column length will be measured from C7 to S1 vertebrae both in sitting and left lateral position. Abdominal girth will be measured at the level of umbilicus at the end of expiration. Sensory block level. determined by loss of cold sensation and haemodynamic parameters will be monitored at specified intervals till the end of surgery. The maximum sensory block level achieved and the time taken for the same will also be recorded. Given its observational nature, this study poses no risk to the parturients as no additional drug administration or interventions are carried out. The findings of this study will contribute in determining precise dosage requirements for spinal anaesthesia in pregnant women. Thus it potentially reduces the complications associated with this procedure such as high spinal anaesthesia.