Spinal anesthesia-related complications among obstetric patients who have undergone cesarean sections in Saudi Arabia

Background: Spinal anesthesia is the preferred method of anesthesia in patients undergoing cesarean sections (CSs) due to its effectiveness and safety. However, the associated complications necessitate further investigation, particularly in Saudi Arabia, where the prevalence of spinal anesthesia-related complications remains underexplored. This study aims to assess the occurrence of complications associated with spinal anesthesia among obstetric patients who have undergone CSs in Saudi Arabia and examine factors influencing satisfaction. Methods: This cross-sectional study, which involved 480 women who underwent CSs under spinal anesthesia, was conducted between July and November 2024. Data were collected via a self-administered Arabic questionnaire distributed on social media and analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 26. Descriptive statistics, cross-tabulations, and Chi-square tests were used to explore associations between complications and satisfaction. Results: The study revealed that 53.3% of participants experienced both immediate and late complications, while 25.8% reported no complications. Immediate complications included headaches (32.9%), back pain (27.5%), and nausea/vomiting (26.7%). Late complications included back pain (29%) and headaches (27.1%). Complications were more common in emergency CSs (p = 0.047) and among patients who experienced pain or stress during the procedure (p = 0.001). Women without complications reported significantly higher satisfaction (57.3% rated satisfaction as "5") compared to those with complications (29.8%, p = 0.001). Conclusion: Although spinal anesthesia is effective and widely accepted for CSs, a substantial proportion of patients experienced complications, particularly headaches and back pain. Enhanced patient communication and improved management techniques are crucial for reducing these complications and increasing satisfaction. Further quantitative research is recommended to refine preventive strategies and optimize patient outcomes.