The investigators examined whether there was a difference in the occurrence of ST depressions after injection of five or ten units of oxytocin, in preeclamptic patients delivered by caesarean section (CS) under regional anesthesia.

ST depression on electrocardiograms has been reported in healthy women undergoing cesarean section in regional anesthesia. The investigators examined whether there was a difference in the occurrence of electrocardiogram changes suggestive of myocardial ischemia (ST depressions) in preeclamptic patients randomized to five or ten units of oxytocin during cesarean section with regional anesthesia.

In a double-blind randomized controlled study preeclamptic patients undergoing cesarean section under spinal anesthesia were randomized to 5 or 10 units of oxytocin, given as an intravenous bolus. A Holter monitor was used to record electrocardiograms. Non-invasive blood pressure and heart rate were monitored.

Inclusion Criteria:

• women with preeclampsia undergoing CS under spinal anesthesia. Preeclampsia was diagnosed if blood pressure was ≥ 140/90 mm Hg and if proteinuria of more than 1000 mg/day persisted.

Exclusion Criteria:

• multiple birth,
• obesity (body mass index > 35),
• age < 18 years,
• complications of the pregnancy other than preeclampsia or non-proficiency in the Swedish language