Use of atracurium besylate to arrest fetal activity during intrauterine intravascular transfusions
Bernstein, H.H.; Chitkara, U.; Plosker, H.; Gettes, M.; Berkowitz, R.L.
Obstetrics and Gynecology 72(5): 813-816
1988
ISSN/ISBN: 0029-7844 PMID: 3173933 Document Number: 315941
Prevention of movement during intrauterine transfusion is important to facilitate the procedure and to prevent injury to the fetus. We administered atracurium besylate to the fetus via the umbilical vein during 12 intrauterine intravascular transfusions. A dose of 0.2-0.4 mg/kg of estimated fetal weight was administered after needle entry into the umbilical vein. With a dose of 0.2 mg/kg, fetal movement was slowed transiently. Thereafter, 0.4 mg/kg, was administered. All recipients were paralyzed for the duration of the procedure. Fetal activity returned 20-130 minutes later.