Comparison of General Anaesthesia versus Spinal Anaesthesia on Perioperative Outcomes in Lower Abdominal Surgeries

Abstract

Background: Choice of anaesthetic technique significantly influences perioperative outcomes in lower abdominal surgeries. General anaesthesia (GA) and spinal anaesthesia (SA) are commonly used, yet their comparative effects on haemodynamic stability, postoperative recovery, pain control, and complications remain clinically relevant.

Objectives: To compare perioperative outcomes between general anaesthesia and spinal anaesthesia in patients undergoing lower abdominal surgeries.

Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at PMCH, Patna, from February to September. A total of 100 adult patients undergoing elective lower abdominal surgeries were included, with 50 patients receiving GA and 50 receiving SA. Perioperative haemodynamic parameters, intraoperative complications, postoperative pain scores, analgesic requirement, recovery profile, and postoperative complications were assessed.

Results: Patients in the SA group demonstrated overall better perioperative outcomes, including lower postoperative pain scores, reduced analgesic consumption, and earlier ambulation compared to the GA group (p < 0.05). Postoperative nausea and vomiting were more frequent in the GA group.

Conclusion: Spinal anaesthesia offers superior perioperative outcomes compared to general anaesthesia in lower abdominal surgeries and should be preferred when not contraindicated.

Keywords: General anaesthesia, Spinal anaesthesia, Lower abdominal surgery, Perioperative outcomes