Anesthetic management in obese pregnant women: contemporary challenges and safety strategies

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.1595632602038

• Palavras-chave: maternal obesity; obstetric anesthesia; cesarean section.

• Keywords: maternal obesity; obstetric anesthesia; cesarean section.

• Abstract:

  Maternal obesity is one of the main risk factors for obstetric and anesthetic complications, with a direct impact on maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. The progressive increase in the prevalence of obesity among women of reproductive age poses new challenges for obstetric anesthesia, especially with regard to airway management, choice of anesthetic technique, and prevention of respiratory and thromboembolic complications. The present study aims to review and critically discuss the current evidence on anesthetic management in obese pregnant women, addressing pathophysiological aspects, preanesthetic evaluation, labor analgesia, anesthesia for cesarean section, and postoperative care. This is a narrative review based on recent scientific literature and international guidelines. It is observed that regional anesthesia is the technique of choice in most cases, with advance planning and a multidisciplinary approach being essential. It is concluded that structured protocols and individualized strategies are essential to reduce complications and optimize maternal-fetal outcomes.