[Lumbar tattoos and neuraxial anaesthesia in obstetrics: practice survey in Languedoc-Roussillon, France]. / Tatouages lombaires et anesthésie périmédullaire : enquête de pratique dans les maternités du Languedoc-Roussillon.

ABSTRACT

To determine neuraxial anesthesia practices in obstetric departments in Languedoc-Roussillon in parturient with large lumbar tattoo covering the puncture area. "A prospective anonymous survey was sent to anaesthesiologists" including a clinical case scenario with a tattooed woman. Questionnaire included items on neuraxial anaesthesia in various circumstances, reasons for the decision process, and "consensus management" or not "within the unit". Fifty-four anaesthesiologists answered (response rate 57%). Fifty-seven percent would perform an epidural anaesthesia (EA) through the tattoo. Thirty-nine percent would not; among which two third only would propose an alternative for EA. Elective or emergency caesarean section would prompt most of the anaesthesiologists to perform a spinal anaesthesia, especially in parturients with Mallampati Class III (93%) versus Class I (70%) airway. Seventy percent of responders reported no consensual management in their unit. Our study illustrates this lack of consensus in obstetrical units and among anaesthesiologists along with a variable attitude linked with the obstetrical and anaesthesiological situation.