To the Editor

During a recent pediatric mask induction on a mother’s lap, the mother happened to mention that she was 16 weeks pregnant. The next two patients’ mothers, who also chose to be present for induction, were also pregnant but this information was only elicited after direct questioning.

Although the original controversy about trace anesthetic exposures seems to be settled, do experts among the APSF Newsletter readership feel there is any potential medical or legal liability if we allow mothers of child bearing age in the OR, if they are pregnant? Do we know enough about sevoflurane (which has replaced halothane for this use at our institution) in this regard? All thoughts welcome.

Lowell Garner, M.D. Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine Cayuga Medical Center, Ithaca, NY