Anästhesie und klinische Forschung
Offener Zugang

Abstrakt

Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Spells During the Peri-Operative Period of a Cesarean Section

Chanchal Mangla, Joel Yarmush

We present a case of 37 year old female developing new onset seizures during the cesarean section which continued in the immediate and early postpartum period. All possible causes of seizure were ruled out by respective diagnostic imaging studies and electroencephalogram (EEG). Diagnosis of psychogenic non-epileptic spells (PNES) was concluded by the neurologist. We emphasize on the importance of having the knowledge of PNES to prevent any iatrogenic injury and increased morbidity due to endotracheal intubation, antiepileptic drugs and prolonged hospital stay. Delayed diagnosis of PNES in obstetric population may adversely affect the newborn because of antiepileptic drugs or premature delivery. To our knowledge, this is the first case of PNES reported during the cesarean section.