Background: Lipid emulsion is recommended in the guidelines for the management of local anesthetic systemic toxicity. In this study, we sought to identify the current level of lipid emulsion availability in U.S. obstetric units.
Methods: A survey was developed addressing lipid emulsion availability and sent to U.S. obstetric anesthesia directors in June 2011. Univariate statistics were used.
Results: The response rate was 69%. Lipid emulsion was available in 88% of the units (95% confidence interval, 73%-94%). At least 95% of respondents had lipid emulsion available in <30 minutes (100% of n=68).
Conclusions: U.S. academic obstetric anesthesia units are equipped to administer lipid emulsion in the setting of local anesthetic systemic toxicity.