Anaesthetic management of oncological disease in pregnancy: a narrative review
Authors' conclusion
Effective and safe anaesthetic management of cancer in pregnancy requires a multidisciplinary approach to balance maternal and fetal safety, with a focus on careful planning and individualised care.
Study context
- Population
- Pregnant patients with cancer
Methodological detailsLiterature search of PubMed and Google Scholar, English peer-reviewed articles, 1 January 1990 to 30 July 2024
- Literature search of PubMed and Google Scholar, English peer-reviewed articles, 1 January 1990 to 30 July 2024
Main finding
As reported in the abstract
- Pregnancy does not appear to worsen cancer prognosis; diagnosis and treatment complicated by overlap of cancer symptoms with physiological changes of pregnancy and safety concerns
- Ultrasound and MRI preferred imaging; careful use of ionising radiation advised
- Surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy possible during pregnancy, with specific timing and modality considerations
- Anaemia, poor nutrition and preterm birth are significant concerns
- Operative births: neuraxial techniques preferred; GA may be required in complex cases
- Oncological surgery preferably in second trimester, with consideration of fetal monitoring and steroids; RA if possible, uteroplacental perfusion maintained
- Increased thromboembolism risk to be addressed postoperatively, with psychological support; multidisciplinary support incl. psychosocial care essential
Original publication
Anaesthetic management of oncological disease in pregnancy: a narrative review. Anaesthesia. Published 8 January 2025. doi:10.
Composed by AI from the published abstract and checked against it. How Briefs are made →