The changing profile of patients presenting for Caesarean section in South Africa

Abstract

The new challenges facing those practicing obstetric anaesthesia are reflective of changes in the demographics of the South African parturient. Factors such as HIV and AIDS, obesity, advanced maternal age, and co-existing diseases are known to increase the risk of maternal morbidity and mortality. As more high risk patients present for Caesarean section, anaesthetic challenges increase. Predisposing factors for anaesthesia-related maternal mortality are inexperienced anaesthesia personnel, airway problems, and a lack of appropriate monitoring or resuscitation equipment.