The Effects of Hydroxyethyl Starch 6% and Crystalloid on Volume Preloading Changes following Spinal Anesthesia

BACKGROUND Hypotension is one of the most common complications after spinal anesthesia for cesarean delivery. Normally, preloading with fluids, especially crystalloids, is used to prevention of hypotension. METHODS In the present randomized clinical trial study, 120 parturients presenting for elective cesarean section with the American Society of Anesthesiologists Class I and II received either 15 cc normal saline or 7 cc/kg hydroxyethyl starch 6% (Voluven) fluid. Information regarding to systolic, diastolic, mean arterial pressure, and heart rate, incidence of hypotension, adverse effects, the total dose of atropine, and ephedrine were recorded in before and 3, 6, 9, 15, and 20 min after spinal anesthesia. Furthermore, Apgar score of newborn at the 1st and 5th min after birth was recorded. RESULTS There was no significant difference in mean arterial pressure at different stages such as: Exactly after spinal and 3, 6, 15, and 20 min after spinal anesthesia between two groups (P > 0.05). Total dose of ephedrine and atropine were similar between groups (P > 0.05), respectively. There was no significant difference in Apgar score at the 1st and 5th min after birth between two groups. There were not any adverse effects of drugs in two groups. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study show that hydroxyethyl starch 6% compared to normal saline are similar to prevent hypotension during spinal anesthesia for cesarean delivery.