Anesthetic Management of the Pregnant Patient: Part 2

Part 2 of “Anesthetic Management of the Pregnant Patient” reviews fetal development and maternal physiologic changes of interest to the dental practitioner. Part 2 of this review focuses on pharmacologic considerations, particularly the potential impact on the developing fetus. Along with a brief overview involving pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of selected drugs, the following discussion focuses on currently accepted therapies and commonly used agents for pain control, sedation, and general anesthesia in the pregnant patient planned for or undergoing dental treatment.