Bloc paracervical en obstétrique

Paracervical block (PCB) is routinely used over the world despite the risk of foetal bradycardia. Bradycardia occurring immediately after the performance of block is short lasting. The reports of few cases of foetal or neonatal deaths have caused many physicians to question its safety. The incidence of bradycardia has dramatically decreased (less than 10%) due to the Jägerhorn superficial injection method. In case of healthy neonate the occurrence of bradycardia is harmless but its mechanism is still imprecise. The intensity an duration of analgesia is poor in comparison with epidural anaesthesia. PCB is a viable alternative to epidural in selected cases.