Anesthetic Management of the Parturient for Lumbar Disc Surgery in the Prone Position

Ochsner J. 2015 Fall;15(3):259-61.

Abstract

Background: While back pain is common in pregnancy, urgent surgical intervention is rarely required.

Case report: A parturient in the third trimester presented with foot drop and sensory deficits. Surgical intervention was deemed necessary and was performed in the prone position to facilitate exposure. A multidisciplinary approach was vital to the management plan.

Conclusion: For any pregnant patient undergoing nonobstetric surgery, the care provided should be individualized and thoughtful, keeping in mind both the mother and fetus.

Keywords: Anesthesia–obstetrical; disc herniation; diskectomy; nonobstetric surgical procedures; prone position.