TDNet Discover

Introduction: Nearly 1.2 million cesarean deliveries are performed annually in the United States, making effective analgesia a major focus in obstetric anesthesia. Local anesthetics such as bupivacaine provide reliable pain relief; however, their limited duration often necessitates supplemental interventions to ensure adequate sensory and motor blockade throughout the procedure. This challenge highlights the need for adjuncts that can enhance anesthetic duration and reduce reliance on systemic opioids, which are associated with significant maternal morbidity, including nausea, sedation, and respiratory depression. Dexamethasone, a synthetic glucocorticoid, has been extensively studied for its role in prolonging the duration of peripheral nerve blocks and neuraxial anesthesia. When used as an adjunct, dexamethasone has demonstrated potential in extending blockade duration without introducing substantial adverse effects. Its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to inhibit nociceptive C-fiber transmission contribute to enhanced analgesic effects. This literature review examines the effects of adding dexamethasone to current neuraxial protocols in parturients undergoing elective cesarean delivery at tertiary care facilities. Specifically, it explores how this addition compares to existing protocols in terms of sensory and motor blockade duration, as well as associated postoperative risks and benefits. By evaluating current evidence, this review seeks to provide insight into the potential role of dexamethasone in optimizing anesthesia care during cesarean deliveries.