Comparison of ropivacaine and racemic bupivacaine in epidural analgesia after cesarean section

Objective: To compare the effects and side effects of ropivacaine and racemic bupiacaine in epidural analgesia after cesarean section.Methods: Fifty full-terms,nulliparous women undergoing cesarean section under eqidural anesthesia ware enrolled in this randomized double-blind study and were divided into ropivacaine group and racemic bupiacaine group.After operation,the patients were randomized to receive 1.5 ropivacaine(group R,n=25)or 0.125 bupivacaine(group B,n=25)for patient-controlled epidural analgesia(PCEA).The PCEA solution for the 2 groups contained fentany1 2 μg/ml.The visual analog scale(VAS),Bromage motor scale score,cardiovascular variables and side effects were recorded within 48 hours after operation.Results: There was no significant difference in VAS scores;group R was lower in extremity locomotion blockage and was superior in muscle force recovery.Conclusions: PCEA with 0.15 ropivacaine containing fentanyl 2 μg/ml provides adequate pain relief after cesarean section with little noxious or side effects.