Evaluation of Adverse Effects of Epidural Anesthesia in Obstetric Patients: A Clinical Study

Abstract

Background: “ Epidural anesthesia is widely used for labor analgesia and cesarean delivery, offering effective pain relief with a generally favorable safety profile. However, complications (ranging from minor to severe) can occur and warrant careful monitoring. Aim: To assess the incidence, pattern, and severity of complications associated with epidural anesthesia in obstetric patients. Methodology: A descriptive, hospital-based observational study was conducted at the Department of Anesthesia, Sadar Hospital, Koderma, Jharkhand, India over 8 months. Ninety obstetric patients aged 18–40 years, ASA I–II, and receiving epidural anesthesia for labor or cesarean section were included. Demographics, procedure details, and intraoperative and postpartum complications were recorded and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: Among 90 patients, 50% experienced some complication. Intraoperative events occurred in 33.3%, with hypotension (16.7%), shivering (13.3%), and nausea/vomiting (11.1%) being most common. Postpartum complications were less frequent, including urinary retention (5.6%) and post-dural puncture headache (3.3%). Major complications were rare (6.7%), with no cases of total spinal anesthesia or persistent neurological deficits. Conclusion: Epidural anesthesia in obstetric patients is generally safe, with minor, manageable complications predominating. Vigilant monitoring, careful technique, and individualized dosing are essential to maintain maternal and fetal safety