There are now many large and authoritative texts on obstetric anaesthesia and analgesia available to the anaesthetic trainee. With reduced time available for obstetric anaesthetic training, we feel there is a need for a shorter, more practically based text, suitable for both the trainee starting in the maternity suite and the more experienced trainee preparing for anaesthetic examinations. Similarly, such a book may be of use to anaesthetists involved in teaching obstetric anaesthesia. In addition, obstetric anaesthetists of all grades are increasingly involved in the management of sick obstetric patients, and few manuals or handbooks bridge the gap between routine obstetric anaesthesia and analgesia and this challenging area of practice. Finally, the boundaries between obstetric anaesthesia and anaesthesia for certain gynaecological procedures are becoming increasingly blurred as women present for anaesthesia (or anaesthetic advice) before pregnancy as well as throughout pregnancy itself.

We hope this book fulfils these needs and provides useful, practical information and advice to obstetric anaesthetists. Whilst aimed primarily at trainees, we hope it will also be useful to more senior anaesthetists as a ready guide to be supplemented by larger and more comprehensive texts. Other specialties and disciplines are also involved in the care of pregnant women, and they too may find the book helpful. Indeed, we wish to stress the importance of a team approach to maternity care, particularly in the care of complex cases.