Dr. Flowers, an obstetrician, has written this book for physicians practicing in his specialty. The author is no stranger to the field of obstetrical anesthesia, having pioneered the use of continuous peridural anesthesia in 1949.
The book contains 11 chapters, each devoted to a different phase of obstetrical anesthesia. Early in the book the author deals with changes in maternal physiology associated with pregnancy that may influence the action of anesthetic agents. An excellent chapter deals with psychological preparation of the pregnant woman. His recommendation on the use of analgetic drugs and their effect on labor is well done. Other notable sections deal with the effects of anesthetic agents on the fetus, and with newborn resuscitation.
Dr. Flowers admirably emphasizes moderation in obstetrical anesthesia. He recommends the judicious use of analgetic drugs and pudendal or paracervical block whenever possible.
Several chapters deal largely with the technique of administration of spinal