Efficacy of Acupuncture for Prophylaxis of Intrathecal Morphine Induced Pruritis in Patients Undergoing Caesarean Delivery

Efficacy of Acupuncture for Prophylaxis of Intrathecal Morphine Induced Pruritis in Patients Undergoing Caesarean Delivery

Intrathecal morphine is commonly used for pain relief in caesarean delivery. Side effects such as itch (pruritis) and nausea & vomiting are common and have been shown to be the most common cause for dissatisfaction. The incidence of pruritis is 74% even with current available medications. Acupuncture has been shown to be effective for morphine related side effects but has not been evaluated for prophylaxis of itch in pregnant population.

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE:

Acupuncture at LI 11 reduces the incidence of pruritis after elective caesarean section under spinal with intrathecal morphine

Inclusion criteria:

• ASA I & II patients undergoing elective caesarean delivery under spinal with intrathecal morphine

Exclusion criteria:

• Patient refusal
• ASA III & IV patients
• Pre-existing pruritis
• Eczema
• Bleeding tendencies
• Known allergy to any of medications used
• Any contra indication to spinal anaesthesia