Abstract
Background and aims. After abdominal surgery, postoperative ileus is a common issue that can result in significant postoperative morbidity, extended hospital stays, and higher healthcare costs. The purpose of this study was to assess the regain of bowel movement after administration of general versus spinal anesthesia in pregnancy underwent caesarean section. Methods. This prospective cross-sectional study was carried out at Alkhadra Hospital , Tripoli University Hospital, and Alajala Hospital during the period from Sept 2022 to November 2022 after approval of the hospital health ethical committee. It included 60 patients who had cesarean delivery and they were subdivided into 2 groups (spinal versus general). Results. In comparison to general anesthesia, spinal anesthesia had a quicker return to normal bowel function after cesarean delivery, and longer surgery duration. Moreover, spinal anesthesia results in a shorter mean time interval to normal intestinal sound, flatus, and first motion, compared to general anesthesia. Conclusion. We recommend using spinal anesthesia for cesarean section if there are no contraindications.