Combined spinal-epidural versus epidural analgesia in labour

Abstract

Background: Traditional epidural techniques have been associated with prolonged labour, use of oxytocin augmentation and increased incidence of instrumental vaginal delivery. The combined spinal-epidural (CSE) technique has been introduced in an attempt to reduce these adverse effects. CSE is believed to improve maternal mobility during labour and provide more rapid onset of analgesia than epidural analgesia, which could contribute to increased maternal satisfaction. Objectives: To assess the relative effects of CSE versus epidural analgesia during labour. Search methods: We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (28 September 2011) and reference lists of retr..