"Do no harm" - Where to place remifentanil for labour analgesia?. (December 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Melber, Andrea Anna; Sia, Alex Tiong Heng
• Is Part Of: Trends in anaesthesia and critical care. Volume 17(2017)
• Page Start: 17
• Page End: 20
• Publication Date: 2017-12
• Subjects: Anesthesia -- Periodicals; Critical care medicine -- Periodicals; Anesthesia in traumatology -- Periodicals; Anesthesia -- Case studies -- Periodicals; 617.9605
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tacc.2017.10.065
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2210-8440

Abstract

Highlights: Remifentanil PCA is arguably the second most effective analgesic method in labour after neuro-axial analgesia. Remifentanil PCA has not had long-term sequelae described so far. It is not hazardous to the environment or medical staff. The unique metabolism of remifentanil into inactive products without accumulation presents a benefit over other opioids. It is associated with the risk of respiratory suppression in the mother and neonate which implies strict safety standards.