A Study Comparing Hemodynamic Effects of 0.5% Hyperbaric Levobupivacaine and Bupivacaine in Caesarean Section under Spinal Anaesthesia

Background: Spinal anaesthesia is the preferred technique for caesarean section due to its rapid onset, reliability, and maternal safety profile. Hyperbaric Bupivacaine is commonly used but is associated with cardiovascular side effects. Levobupivacaine, the S(-)-enantiomer of Bupivacaine, offers similar anaesthetic efficacy with a better safety profile. Aims: To compare the hemodynamic stability, efficacy, and side effects of 0.5% Hyperbaric Levobupivacaine and 0.5% Hyperbaric Bupivacaine for spinal anaesthesia in caesarean section. Study Design: Prospective, randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical study. Materials And Methods: Sixty ASA I-II partuients undergoing elective caesarean section were randomly divided into two groups. Group B received 2.5 ml of 0.5% Hyperbaric Bupivacaine and Group L received 2.5 ml of 0.5% Hyperbaric Levobupivacaine intrathecally. Hemodynamic parameters, sensory and motor block onset and duration, and side effects were recorded and compared. Results and Discussion: Both groups achieved adequate surgical anaesthesia. Group L showed significantly better hemodynamic stability with fewer episodes of hypotension and bradycardia. Onset times for sensory and motor blocks were comparable. Duration of motor block was longer in Group B. Levobupivacaine was associated with fewer adverse effects like nausea and vomiting. Conclusion: Levobupivacaine is a safer and equally effective alternative to bupivacaine for spinal anaesthesia in caesarean sections, offering better hemodynamic stability and fewer side effects.