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01-12-2016 | Invited Review Article

Remifentanil for labor analgesia: a comprehensive review

Authors: Yayoi Ohashi, Leyla Baghirzada, Hiroyuki Sumikura, Mrinalini Balki

Published in: Journal of Anesthesia | Issue 6/2016

Abstract

Japan has seen significant developments in obstetric anesthesia in recent years, including the establishment of the Japanese Society of Obstetric Anesthesia and Perinatology. However, labor pain, which is one of the most important issues in obstetric practice, is still not treated aggressively. The rate of epidural administration for labor analgesia is very low in Japan as compared to other developed countries. Remifentanil has been used for labor analgesia, as part of general anesthesia for cesarean delivery, as well as for various fetal procedures around the world. Intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (IVPCA) with remifentanil is considered to be a reasonable option for labor pain relief. Several studies have demonstrated its efficacy with minimal maternal and neonatal adverse effects. On the other hand, reports of cases of maternal cardiac and respiratory arrest with remifentanil IVPCA within the past couple of years have redirected our attention to its safe use. Remifentanil IVPCA warrants one-to-one nursing monitoring, appropriate education of healthcare providers, continuous maternal oxygen saturation monitoring, end-tidal CO₂ monitoring, and availability of both maternal and neonatal resuscitation equipment. This article provides an overview of knowledge and principles of using remifentanil IVPCA for labor analgesia and introduces its potential usage in Japan.

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Title: Remifentanil for labor analgesia: a comprehensive review
Authors: Yayoi Ohashi
Leyla Baghirzada
Hiroyuki Sumikura
Mrinalini Balki
Publication date: 01-12-2016
Publisher: Springer Japan
Published in: Journal of Anesthesia / Issue 6/2016
Print ISSN: 0913-8668
Electronic ISSN: 1438-8359
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00540-016-2233-y

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Remifentanil for labor analgesia: a comprehensive review

Abstract

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

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