4. Preeclampsia Explained | OB Anesthesia, Scoliosis, and Preeclampsia Management

On this episode of The Anesthesia Playbook, we break down one of the most important and high-yield patients in obstetric anesthesia: the preeclamptic patient.This case-based episode walks through a real-world scenario, from labor epidural placement to urgent Cesarean section, while teaching the physiology, anesthetic decision-making, and complication management you need to understand to take care of these patients safely.We cover:The pathophysiology of preeclampsia (and why it’s more than just hypertension)Key pregnancy physiology that drives anesthetic managementEpidural vs spinal vs CSE in preeclamptic patientsPlatelet thresholds and neuraxial anesthesia considerationsPractical epidural tips in patients with scoliosisBlood pressure goals and vasopressor managementMagnesium sulfate: mechanism, benefits, and anesthetic implicationsFluid management and risk of pulmonary edemaIntraoperative management for Cesarean sectionPostoperative complications including respiratory distress and lower extremity weaknessThis episode is designed for anesthesia residents, CRNAs, and practicing anesthesiologists who want a clear, physiology-based understanding of preeclampsia and how to manage it in real clinical scenarios.If you’ve ever wondered:“Is it safe to place an epidural with low platelets?”“Why can fluids worsen preeclampsia?”“What’s the safest anesthetic for a C-section in these patients?”This episode answers those questions and more.