Fetomaternal pharmacology. Anesthesiological approach in surgical interventions during pregnancy

The choice of anesthesia procedure for surgical interventions in pregnancy is particularly important considering the responsibility for the unborn child and the patient. Uncertainties with the treatment of this patient group and lacking routine are common. Nevertheless, 0.5-2% of pregnant women require non-gynecological surgery. In this respect knowledge about the interrelationship between physiological changes and pharmacological effects with potentially negative impact for the embryo, fetus or neonate is of particular importance. In this article the physiology relevant for anesthesia during pregnancy is discussed and commonly used drugs are reviewed to enable anesthesiologists to formulate concepts to preclude adverse effects for the mother and child and to provide an adequate therapy.