Postoperative analgesia after major abdominal surgery: Fentanyl–bupivacaine patient controlled epidural analgesia versus fentanyl patient controlled intravenous analgesia

BackgroundMajor abdominal surgeries induce neurohumoral changes responsible for postoperative pain, various organ dysfunctions and prolonged hospitalization. Inadequate pain control is harmful and costly to patients thus an appropriate pain therapy to those patients must be applicated.MethodsOne hundred patients (ASA I or II) of either sex aged from 20 to 60 years were scheduled for elective major abdominal surgery. Patients were allocated randomly into two groups (fifty patients each) to receive: patient-controlled epidural analgesia with bupivacaine 0.125% and fentanyl (PCEA group), or patient controlled intravenous analgesia with fentanyl (PCIA group). Postoperative pain was assessed over 24 h using Numerical Pain Rating scale (NPRS). The frequency of rescue analgesia, sedation score and overall patient satisfaction were recorded. Any concomitant events like nausea; vomiting, shivering, pruritus or respiratory complications were recorded postoperatively.ResultsThere was a significant less pain in PCEA group at 2, 8 and 12 h. postoperative but PCIA group had less pain at immediate postoperative time. As regard sedation scale, patients of the PCEA group were significantly less sedated than PCIA group at immediate postoperative only. Overall patient satisfaction was significantly more in PCEA group.ConclusionThis study concluded that both PCEA and PCIA were effective in pain relief after major abdominal surgery but PCEA was much better in pain relief, less sedating effect and overall patient satisfaction.     

Post-thoracotomy pain relief: Thoracic paravertebral block compared with systemic opioids

BackgroundWe evaluated the safety and efficacy of thoracic paravertebral block as a method of pain relief after thoracotomy in comparison with systemic opioids.Study designRandomized controlled trial.MethodsWe scheduled 40 patients divided into two groups to receive either 20 ml bupivacaine (0.5%) incremental injections for intra and postoperative analgesia via a catheter inserted in the thoracic paravertebral space. The other 20 patients received systemic morphine for postoperative analgesia. We recorded postoperative Visual Analog Scale pain score, total morphine consumption, time to first analgesic request, changes in pulmonary functions and side effects.ResultsVisual analogue scale (VAS) at rest was lower in the paravertebral group at all measurement points except at 16, 20 and 24 h postoperatively. Pain on coughing showed significant difference (P value < 0.05) at 8 and 16 h but not at 24 h. Post-operative consumption of morphine was 36 (22–42) mg in the control group versus 9 (2–22) mg in the paravertebral block group (PVB) (P value = 0.003). Total bupivacaine dose used in the PVB group in the first 24 h was 300–420 mg. For time to first analgesic request it was significantly longer in the morphine group than the paravertebral block group. VAS at first analgesic request was not statistically different between the two groups.There was no significant difference between the two groups as regards to peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) preoperatively, after 12 h or 24 h.There was a significant reduction in the incidence of side effects in the TPVB group compared to morphine group concerning vomiting and pruritus.no local anesthetic toxicity was reported.ConclusionWe conclude that thoracic PVB provides effective post thoracotomy analgesia supported by lower VAS pain scores at rest and on coughing compared to intravenous morphine with significant less incidence of side effects.     

Ultrasound guided single injection caudal epidural anesthesia of isobaric bupivacaine with/without dexamethasone for geriatric patients undergoing total hip replacement surgery

BackgroundDexamethasone has anti-inflammatory properties that can affect postoperative analgesia when added to caudal bupivacaine.MethodsSeventy-two geriatric patients scheduled for elective total hip replacement under ultrasound guided caudal anesthesia were randomized blindly into two groups: Group BD received caudal isobaric bupivacaine 0.25% (20 ml) and dexamethasone 8 mg (2 ml) and Group BS received caudal isobaric bupivacaine 0.25% (20 ml) and normal saline (2 ml). Postoperative analgesia was assessed by recording time to first rescue analgesia and the analgesic doses (paracetamol and meperidine hydrochloride) required during the first 24 h postoperatively as a primary outcome. Secondary outcomes were the time taken to the onset of sensory analgesia at T10, time to the onset of complete motor block, VAS pain score at rest and on movement at 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12 and 24 h, and postoperative adverse events.ResultsGroup BD had a significantly longer time to first rescue analgesia [402 (63) vs 213 (53)] min and significantly lower doses of paracetamol [3389 (728) vs 2833 (697)] mg meperidine hydrochloride [78 (30) vs 142 (28)] mg than Group BS. VAS scores were significantly lower in Group BD than Group BS both at rest and on movement respectively at 4, 6, 8, 12 and 24 h.ConclusionAdding dexamethasone with isobaric bupivacaine caudal anesthesia prolongs the duration of postoperative analgesia and decreased postoperative analgesic requirement in geriatric patients undergoing total hip replacement surgery in comparison isobaric bupivacaine alone.     

Preemptive use of epidural magnesium sulphate to reduce narcotic requirements in orthopedic surgery

Background and objectivesAs pain is one of the most common problems challenging the anesthetist, and as regional anesthesia is a safe, inexpensive technique with the advantage of prolonged postoperative analgesia. Also, we all know that Magnesium is the fourth most plentiful cation in the body with antinociceptive properties arising from being the natural physiological calcium antagonist and the antagonism to N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor. Thus, the study is a prospective, randomized, double-blind study designed to evaluate analgesic efficacy of magnesium sulphate when added to epidural bupivacaine in patients undergoing orthopedic surgery in the lower limb.MethodsAfter approval of the ethical committee and informed written consent 60 patients ASA I and II, undergoing orthopedic surgery in the lower limb were enrolled to receive either bupivacaine 0.5% or bupivacaine 0.5% plus magnesium sulphate 50 mg as an initial bolus dose followed by a continuous infusion of 10 mg/h as intraoperative epidural analgesia. Postoperatively, all patients were equipped with a patient-controlled epidural analgesia device. Heart rate, mean arterial pressure, oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, pain assessment using a visual analogue scale (VAS), sedation score, the first time patient ask for analgesics and postoperative fentanyl consumption were recorded.ResultsVAS was significantly less in the magnesium group during 15 and 30 min intra-operatively and in the first and third hour post-operatively. The postoperative rescue analgesia, as well as the PCEA fentanyl consumption, was significantly reduced in the magnesium group.ConclusionCo-administration of epidural magnesium provides better intraoperative analgesia as well as the analgesic-sparing effect on PCEA consumption without increasing the incidence of side-effects.     

Clonidine versus fentanyl as adjuvants to bupivacaine in peribulbar anesthesia

BackgroundPeribulbar anesthesia is widely practiced as a safe local block for cataract eye surgeries. Fentanyl has been used as an adjuvant to local anesthetics, prolonging their duration of action. Clonidine has been shown to increase the duration of analgesia and anesthesia produced by local anesthetics.Aim of the studyThe aim of this study was to compare the effect of fentanyl versus that of clonidine when used as adjuvants to bupivacaine in peribulbar block.MethodologyNinety patients, ASA physical status I–III, scheduled for cataract operations, under peribulbar block, were enrolled in the study and randomly assigned into 3 equal groups. Group F (n = 30) received a mixture of bupivacaine, hyaluronidase, and fentanyl; Group C (n = 30) received a mixture of bupivacaine, hyaluronidase, and clonidine; and in the control Group B (n = 30), a mixture of bupivacaine, hyaluronidase, and saline was used for peribulbar block. The onset, duration of globe anesthesia, akinesia, and lid akinesia were recorded. Intraoperative and postoperative patient comfort, first time to analgesic request, and any recorded complications due to drugs used were all assessed.ResultsGroups C and F showed significantly faster onset and longer duration of globe anesthesia, akinesia, lid akinesia, and the time to first analgesic request when compared to Group B (p < 0.001). The onset, of lid akinesia was significantly faster in Group C compared to Group B (p < 0.01). Group C showed a significantly longer duration of lid akinesia and globe akinesia compared to Group F (p < 0.01).ConclusionThe addition of either clonidine or fentanyl to the local anesthetic during peribulbar block results in a faster onset and longer duration of the block with a longer period of postoperative analgesia. The addition of clonidine was found to prolong the duration of the block more than fentanyl.     

Comparación de ibuprofeno y ketorolaco intravenosos para analgesia postoperatoria en niños tratados mediante cirugía de la zona inferior del abdomen: estudio aleatorizado,controlado y de no inferioridad

BackgroundNon-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are often used as part of multimodal analgesia to control postoperative pain. This randomized, controlled, double-blinded, non-inferiority study aimed to compare the postoperative analgesic effects of intravenous ibuprofen versus ketorolac in children undergoing open unilateral lower abdominal surgery. The authors hypothesized that postoperative analgesia produced by intravenous ibuprofen would be non-inferior to that of intravenous ketorolac.MethodsSixty-six children aged 2 to 8 years who were scheduled to undergo unilateral lower abdominal surgery, were recruited. Patients in the ibuprofen group received 10 mg/kg/6 h intravenous ibuprofen. Patients in the ketorolac group were given 0.5 mg/kg/6 h intravenous ketorolac. The primary outcome measure was 24-h postoperative morphine consumption. The secondary outcome measures were postoperative pain score, the incidence of early postoperative fever and the incidence of ibuprofen and ketorolac adverse effects including pain during drug infusion, vomiting, epigastric pain and allergic reaction.ResultsFifty-nine patients completed the study (30 ibuprofen, 29 ketorolac). There was no significant difference (P= .305) in the mean (SD) 24-h postoperative morphine consumption (μ/kg) between intravenous ibuprofen, 16.00 (5.31), and ketorolac, 14.65 (4.61). The reported pain scores were similar in both groups. The incidence of postoperative fever was significantly lower (p = 0.039) in the ibuprofen group (3%) than the ketorolac group (20%). The incidence of adverse effects was similar in both ibuprofen and ketorolac groups.ConclusionsIntravenous ibuprofen can be used as an alternative to ketorolac for postoperative analgesia in children undergoing unilateral lower abdominal surgery because both drugs similarly provide safe and effective postoperative analgesia.     

The effects of caudal or intravenous dexmedetomidine on postoperative analgesia produced by caudal bupivacaine in children: a randomized controlled double-blinded study

Study ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to compare the effects of caudal and intravenous (IV) dexmedetomidine (1 μg/kg) on postoperative analgesia after caudal bupivacaine in pediatric patients undergoing lower abdominal and perineal surgeries.DesignA randomized controlled double-blind study.SettingUniversity-affiliated teaching hospital.PatientsSeventy-five American Society of Anesthesiologists I children, aged 1 to 6 years.InterventionPatients were randomly allocated to 3 groups. All patients received 1 mL/kg caudal 0.25% bupivacaine. In addition, those in group B (n = 25) received 10-mL IV saline, those in group B-D_cau (n = 25) received 1 μg/kg caudal dexmedetomidine and 10-mL IV saline, and those in group B-D_IV (n = 25) received 1 μg/kg IV dexmedetomidine in 10-mL saline.MeasurementsIntraoperative mean blood pressure, heart rate, peripheral oxygen saturation, end-tidal sevoflurane, and bispectral index as well as postoperative pain and behavior scores and time to first analgesia were assessed.Main resultsGroup B-D_cau had a significantly longer time to first rescue analgesia than groups B-D_IV and B, with mean (SD) values of 14.4 (7.5), 9.18 (2.7), and 6.6 (2.5) hours, respectively (P < .05). Fewer patients in group B-D_cau (n = 16) required rescue analgesia during the first 24 hours postoperatively compared to group B (n = 24) and group B-D_IV (n = 20) (P < .05).Groups B-D_cau and B-D_IV had lower pain and behavior scores than Group B. Eight patients Group B had agitation compared to 2 in Group B-D_IV and 0 in Group B-D_cau. Four patients in Group B-D_IV developed bradycardia and hypotension during surgery.ConclusionsCompared to IV administration, caudal administration of dexmedetomidine during caudal bupivacaine anesthesia provided prolonged postoperative analgesia and a greater analgesic sparing effect without significant side effects. This suggests a greater role of neuraxial compared to that of peripheral α-2 adrenoceptors in pain processing.     

Comparison of caudal epidural block and ultrasonography-guided transversus abdominis plane block for pain relief in children undergoing lower abdominal surgery

Study objectiveWe conducted this study to compare the efficacy of caudal epidural block (CEB) vs ultrasonography-guided transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block for providing postoperative pain relief in children scheduled for lower abdominal surgery. Whereas the primary objective was to compare the duration of postoperative analgesia, the secondary objectives included comparative assessment (TAP vs CEB) of quality of pain relief in the first 24 hours postoperatively and rescue analgesia requirements.DesignRandomized-control, prospective, observer-blinded, 2-arm, single-center comparison.SettingOperating room, postoperative recovery area.PatientsEighty-children, aged 2-6 years, of American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I/II scheduled to undergo unilateral lower abdominal surgery under general anesthesia.InterventionsThe recruited children were randomly allocated to receive under general anesthesia either CEB (group C, 0.75 mL/kg of 0.25% bupivacaine) or ultrasonography-guided administration of TAP block (group T, 0.5 mL/kg of 0.25% bupivacaine).MeasurementsIntraoperative: heart rate and noninvasive blood pressure; postoperative: pain profile, including duration of postoperative analgesia, quality of pain relief, and rescue analgesia requirements.Main resultsThe median duration of postoperative analgesia was significantly greater in children who received CEB than those who were administered TAP block (group C: 362.5 minutes [172.5-693.75] vs group T: 210 minutes [108.75-362.5]; P < .05). No difference was found in the incidence of postoperative pain up to 6 hours from the point of initiation of assessment (group C: 47.2% vs group T: 55.9%; P > .05). The children who received CEB experienced greater incidence of pain in the 6- to 24-hour postoperative interval than those administered TAP block (group C: 75% vs group T: 44.1%; P < .05). Although there was no difference in the rescue analgesia requirements, the number of children not requiring any rescue analgesia in the first 24 hours postoperatively was significantly higher in the TAP group (group C: n = 2 vs group T: n = 8; P < .05).ConclusionsIn children undergoing lower abdominal surgery, CEB provides a significantly prolonged duration of postoperative analgesia when compared with ultrasonography-guided TAP block.     

Evaluation of liposomal bupivacaine infiltration at reconstructive skin graft donor sites in adolescent and young adult burn patients: A retrospective analysis

BackgroundPostoperative pain at skin graft donor sites is frequently undertreated in burn patients, which can impair reconstructive outcomes and result in harmful psychological consequences. We find a critical need to explore and promote non-opioid, multimodal analgesics. Donor site infiltration of the local anesthetic liposomal bupivacaine in adolescent and young adult burn patients has not been previously investigated. Therefore, the goal of this study was to evaluate intraoperative liposomal bupivacaine infiltration for postoperative donor site pain control in adolescent and young adult burn patients undergoing reconstructive skin graft procedures.MethodsThis retrospective analysis included patients aged 14–25 years, who underwent at least two reconstructive skin graft procedures, one that received donor site infiltration of the standard treatment (bupivacaine hydrochloride) and one that received donor site infiltration of liposomal bupivacaine. The final sample included 30 patients with a total of 44 liposomal bupivacaine cases and 53 standard treatment cases analyzed.ResultsIn the authors’ five-year experience, the use of liposomal bupivacaine compared to standard treatment was associated with statistically significant decreases in 0–4 h postoperative pain scores (mean 1.4/10 versus 2.3/10, p = 0.04) and 0–24 h postoperative pain scores (mean 1.7/10 versus 2.4/10, p = 0.02). Neither analgesic was associated with adverse events. Differences in length of stay and inpatient postoperative opioid usage were not regarded as significant.ConclusionIn this retrospective analysis, the authors report the first results that suggest intraoperative liposomal bupivacaine donor site infiltration may be associated with statistically improved patient outcomes in adolescent and young adult burn patients. However, the reported differences are most likely not clinically significant, establishing the necessity for further evaluation of using liposomal bupivacaine in this unique patient population.     

Effect of intra-articular injection of midazolam and/or bupivacaine on postoperative analgesia after arthroscopic knee surgery

BackgroundA variety of analgesic techniques have been used to manage postoperative pain after arthroscopic knee surgery. We investigated the hypothesis that intra-articular midazolam would result in lower pain score and reduced analgesic requirements.MethodsOne-hundred patients undergoing arthroscopic meniscectomy were allocated randomly to receive intra-articular 20 mL of isotonic saline containing 50 μg/kg midazolam (midazolam group (group M),the bupivacaine group (group B) received 0.25% (20 mL) bupivacaine, and the midazolam with bupivacaine group (group MB) received bupivacaine 0.25% and 50 μg/kg of midazolam in 20 mL. The postoperative analgesia was assessed using visual analog score at rest and during movement at 1/2 h, 1 h, 2 h, 6 h, 12 h, and 24 h.ResultsPatients in group MB showed significantly lower visual analog scores, both at rest and during movement, long time to first postoperative analgesic request, as well as reduced total analgesic consumption than the other two groups.ConclusionIntraarticular administration of midazolam in combination with bupivacaine improves the quality of postoperative analgesia after arthroscopic meniscectomy.     

Portal track infiltration versus Interscalene brachial plexus block for Pain control following shoulder arthroscopy

Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is often associated with severe postoperative pain that can be difficult to manage without large-dose opioids 1, 2.Local anaesthetics can also be injected into joint spaces to provide analgesia during and after arthroscopic surgery [3].The goal of the present study was to assess the efficacy of the portal track infiltration versus interscalene block on adequacy of pain control, and possible side effects.MethodsSixty patients of ASA I or II patients, presenting for arthroscopic subacromial decompression, were included in this comparative randomized study.Group I received preincisional 30 ml of bupivacaine 0.5% using spinal needle 22G at the site of insertion of the trocars, 10 ml at each trocars site. Group II received interscalene block using the same equal amount of 30 ml bupivacaine 0.5% at the start of the procedure before general anaesthesia using electric nerve stimulator. Visual analogue scale (VAS), time to first need of analgesia in each group, total amount of analgesia and the occurrence of side effects necessitating overnight hospital stay were recorded.ResultsThere was significant reduction of heart rate and mean blood pressure in group II compared to group I from 15 min onwards.VAS readings were insignificant between the two groups in the first 9 h postoperatively.As regards the timing of first requirement of analgesics and total amount of analgesia required in the first 24 h, and the complications necessitating overnight stay, the readings were insignificant in both groups.ConclusionThis denotes that pre-emptive analgesia offered using portal track infiltration not only gives equipotent analgesia to that of the interscalene, but lacks significant risks and can be easily to give by the surgeon.     

Preoperative use of gabapentin decreases the anesthetic and analgesic requirements in patients undergoing radical mastectomy

Background/aimGabapentin is an anticonvulsant drug that is safe and effective for the treatment of neuropathic pain syndrome, as well as postoperative pain with good results. This prospective randomized study was done to evaluate the effects of preoperative administration of oral gabapentin (1200 mg) on the intraoperative fentanyl and isoflurane consumption, postoperative analgesic requirements and postoperative pain in patients undergoing radical mastectomy.MethodsSixty ASA I and II patients were randomly allocated into two equal groups to receive oral gabapentin 1200 mg, 2 h before surgery (G group) or control (C group). General anesthesia was induced and maintained at bispectral index value between 40 and 60. During surgery the end-tidal isoflurane concentrations required to maintain adequate depth of anesthesia and the required incremental doses of intraoperative fentanyl were recorded. Postoperative pain was assessed using visual analogue scale (VAS) at rest for 24 h. Postoperatively, whenever visual analogue scale (VAS) was more than 5 or on patients’ demand, analgesia in both groups was provided with diclofenac sodium (1 mg/kg IM) or tramadol hydrochloride (1 mg/kg IV) as needed. VAS, analgesics requirements, and side-effects were assessed for 24 h postoperatively.ResultsIntraoperative fentanyl and postoperative analgesic consumption were significantly lower in G group than C group (P < 0.001). Patients in the G group had significantly lower end-tidal concentrations of isoflurane required to maintain adequate depth of anesthesia (P < 0.05). VAS was significantly lower in G group than C group at the first three measurement times (P < 0.01). The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting was significantly lower in G group than C group (30% versus 60% of patients, respectively, P < 0.05). The incidence of dizziness was significantly higher in the G group than C group (26% versus 3.3% of patients, respectively, P < 0.05).ConclusionGabapentin (1200 mg) administered orally 2 h before surgery decreased the intraoperative fentanyl and isoflurane consumption, postoperative analgesic requirements, postoperative pain, and the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting, but increased dizziness.     

Analgesic effects of intrathecal tramadol in patients undergoing caesarean section: a randomised,double-blind study

BackgroundIntrathecal tramadol combined with local anaesthetics has been used for postoperative analgesia following lower abdominal and perineal surgery. The present study evaluated the effect of intrathecal tramadol on spinal block characteristics and neonatal outcome after elective caesarean section.MethodsEighty full-term parturients scheduled for elective caesarean section were randomly divided into two groups. In the fentanyl group, patients received intrathecal 0.5% bupivacaine 10 mg with fentanyl 10 μg; in the tramadol group, patients were given the same dose of bupivacaine with tramadol 10 mg. Sensory and motor block characteristics, duration of postoperative analgesia, maternal side effects, and neonatal outcome were compared.ResultsOne patient in the tramadol group and two patients in the fentanyl group were excluded from data analysis. Median [interquartile range] duration of postoperative analgesia in the tramadol and the fentanyl groups was 300 [240–360] min and 260 [233–300] min respectively (P = 0.02). The incidence of shivering was lower in patients who received tramadol (5%) than those who had fentanyl (32%) (P = 0.003). Apgar scores, umbilical cord acid–base measurement and neurologic and adaptive capacity scores were comparable between the two groups.ConclusionCompared to intrathecal fentanyl 10 μg, tramadol 10 mg, as an adjunct to bupivacaine for subarachnoid block for caesarean section, showed a longer duration of analgesia with a reduced incidence of shivering.     

The effect of adding magnesium sulphate to epidural bupivacaine and fentanyl in elective caesarean section using combined spinal–epidural anaesthesia: a prospective double blind randomised study

BackgroundCombined spinal–epidural anaesthesia is commonly used for elective caesarean section. Intrathecal injection produces rapid onset with minimal doses of local anaesthetic and epidural administration can be used to prolong the block. Our study examined the effects of adding magnesium sulphate to epidural bupivacaine and fentanyl in patients undergoing elective caesarean section using combined spinal–epidural anaesthesia.MethodsWomen ASA physical status I or II at term were recruited. All received 2 mL intrathecal 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine, 10 mL epidural 0.25% plain bupivacaine with fentanyl 100 μg, and were randomly allocated to receive either 10 mL of epidural 0.9% sodium chloride or 10 mL epidural 5% magnesium sulphate. The quality of surgical anaesthesia, incidence of hypotension, Apgar scores, intraoperative pain assessment, onset of postoperative pain, sedation scores and side effects were recorded in the postoperative period.ResultsNinety women were recruited. There was no difference in the time taken for the block to reach T4 sensory level, time to reach the highest level of sensory block, time interval between first neuraxial injection and onset of surgery between the groups. Women who received magnesium had greater motor block and muscle relaxation (P < 0.05). Apgar scores were 7 or more in almost all neonates in both groups. There was no significant difference in the incidence of hypotension, nausea and vomiting and duration of motor blockade between the groups. Women who received magnesium showed less shivering and later onset of post operative pain (P < 0.05).ConclusionThe addition of magnesium to epidural bupivacaine and fentanyl in women undergoing elective caesarean section with combined spinal–epidural anaesthesia improved intraoperative conditions and the quality of postoperative analgesia.     

Efficacy of dexmedetomidine addition to bupivacaine on the quality of blind fascia iliaca compartment block in children undergoing femur fracture surgery

Efficacy of dexmedetomidine addition to bupivacaine on the quality of blind fascia iliaca compartment block in children undergoing femur fracture surgery.ObjectivesThe objectives of this study were designed to detect the effects of addition of dexmedetomidine to bupivacaine on the quality of blind fascia iliaca compartment block and its possible side effects in children undergoing fracture femur surgery.MethodsThis study was conducted on 28 children (2–6 years of age), scheduled for fracture femur surgery. Children were randomly allocated to receive either 0.25% bupivacaine 1 ml kg^?1 (B group), or 0.25% bupivacaine 1 ml kg^?1 with dexmedetomidine 2 μg kg^?1 (BD group). Anesthesia was maintained with sevoflurane 1–1.5 minimum alveolar concentration. Intraoperative sevoflurane concentration, hemodynamic, postoperative emergence delirium, sedation scores and pain scores were recorded. Duration of surgery and emergence time were recorded. Postoperative complications such as (nausea and vomiting, respiratory depression, purities, hypotension and bradycardia) were reported.ResultsCompared to the group B, patients received bupivacaine–dexmedetomidine for fascia iliaca compartment block had lower intraoperative sevoflurane concentration, higher sedation score, longer duration of postoperative analgesia, less use of rectal paracetamol for the first 24 h postoperatively and less number with postoperative agitation. No patients developed postoperative respiratory depression, purities, hypotension or bradycardia.ConclusionThe present study concluded that the combined use of bupivacaine–dexmedetomidine for fascia iliaca compartment block in children provided significant reduction of end-tidal sevoflurane concentration, remarkable hemodynamic stability, significant postoperative analgesia with lower postoperative analgesics requirements without any undesirable complications.     

Role of postoperative continuous subfascial bupivacaine infusion after posterior cervical laminectomy: Randomized control study

IntroductionOne of the major drawbacks of posterior cervical decompression and rigid internal fixation is the severe postoperative neck pain created by extensive soft tissue and muscular dissection. The usual management of acute postsurgical pain consists of systemic opioids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Another satisfying method of postoperative pain relief is continuous local infusion of analgesic agents in posterior subfascial paravertebral space on both sides of the wound using epidural catheters.MethodsSixty patients scheduled for cervical laminectomy with fixation surgery via the posterior midline approach with postoperative epidural catheters placed subfascially on both sides of the wound. They were randomly divided into two groups, bupivacaine group with local infiltration of 0.5% bupivacaine at the rate 2 ml/h, and control group with saline infusion at a rate 2 ml/h. The patient controlled analgesia device (PCA) was given to all patients and set to deliver IV morphine in 1 mg boluses with a lock out at 10 min and a 4 h maximum 10 mg.ResultsThe visual analog score was statistically significant lower in bupivacaine group compared to control group during the first 60 h postoperatively. While in 66 and 72 h postoperatively there was no statistical significant difference was observed between the two groups. The total doses of morphine delivered by PCA in the three postoperative days were statistically significantly higher in control group than bupivacaine group. The incidence of side effects related to narcotics was higher in control than bupivacaine group.ConclusionBilateral subfascial continuous 0.5% bupivacaine infiltration through an ordinary epidural catheter at the rate 2 ml/h for three successive postoperative days is associated with better pain control, reduced narcotics, early ambulation and no serious side effects in the postoperative period in patients undergoing posterior cervical fixation.     

The value of epidural magnesium sulfate as an adjuvant to bupivacaine and fentanyl for labor analgesia

ObjectiveWe conducted this clinical study to assess the adjuvant effects of single dose magnesium sulfate (Mg) when administered epidurally during labor with fentanyl and bupivacaine.MethodsEighty healthy nulliparous women in labor requesting epidural analgesia were divided into two groups. Group 1 received bupivacaine 0.125% with magnesium sulfate 50 mg and fentanyl 50 μg as a loading dose; group 2, received bupivacaine 0.125% and fentanyl 50 μg only. Hemodynamic parameters, motor and sensory evaluation, cervical dilation at time of consenting, the progress of labor, the visual analog pain score (VAS), Apgar score, cord blood acid base status, side effects as nausea, vomiting, itching and respiratory depression were recorded. Fetal heart rate tracings were also documented.ResultsEpidural single dose magnesium sulfate added to bupivacaine and fentanyl in labor resulted in significantly faster onset and longer duration of epidural analgesia (169 ± 50 min) in comparison to those patients who received bupivacaine and fentanyl only (105 ± 41 min), also there was a significant reduction in the number of women requiring additional boluses of bupivacaine when Mg was added (P = 0.016). The two groups had no significant differences as regards maternal satisfaction score, maternal and neonatal adverse effects.ConclusionMagnesium sulfate added to bupivacaine and fentanyl for labor epidural analgesia resulted in faster onset, longer duration of action and reduced the break through pain.     

The effect of bupivacaine with fentanyl temperature on initiation and maintenance of labor epidural analgesia: a randomized controlled study

BackgroundLabor epidural analgesia is highly effective, but can be limited by slow onset and incomplete blockade. The administration of warmed, compared to room temperature, bupivacaine has resulted in more rapid onset epidural anesthesia. We hypothesized that the administration of bupivacaine with fentanyl at 37°C versus 20°C would result in improved initial and ongoing labor epidural analgesia.MethodsIn this prospective, randomized, doubled blinded study, 54 nulliparous, laboring women were randomized to receive epidural bupivacaine 0.125% with fentanyl 2 μg/mL (20 mL initial and 6 mL hourly boluses) at either 37°C or 20°C. Pain verbal rating scores (VRS), sensory level, oral temperature, and side effects were assessed after epidural loading (time 0), at 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, 60 min, and at hourly intervals. The primary outcome was the time to achieve initial satisfactory analgesia (VRS ⩽3). Secondary outcomes included ongoing quality of sensory blockade, body temperature and shivering.ResultsThere were no differences between groups in patient demographics, initial pain scores, cervical dilatation, body temperature or mode of delivery. Epidural bupivacaine at 37°C resulted in shorter mean (±SD) analgesic onset time (9.2 ± 4.7 vs. 16.0 ± 10.5 min, P = 0.005) and improved analgesia for the first 15 min after initial bolus (P = 0.001–0.03). Although patient temperature increased during the study (P < 0.01), there were no differences between the groups (P = 0.09). Six (24%) and 10 (40%) patients experienced shivering in the 37°C and 20°C groups, respectively (P = 0.23).ConclusionsThe administration of epidural 0.125% bupivacaine with fentanyl 2 μg/mL at 37°C versus 20°C resulted in more rapid onset and improved labor analgesia for the first 15 min. There was no evidence of improved ongoing labor analgesia or differences in side effects between groups.     

Clinical evaluation of post-operative analgesia comparing suprascapular nerve block and interscalene brachial plexus block in patients undergoing shoulder arthroscopic surgery

BackgroundShoulder arthroscopic surgeries have a high incidence of severe post-operative pain significant enough to interfere with recovery and rehabilitation. A regional anaesthetic technique combined with general anaesthesia reduces intra-operative requirements of anaesthesia and provides a better post-operative pain relief. As the commonly employed technique of interscalene brachial plexus block (ISB) is associated with potential serious complications, suprascapular nerve block (SSB) can be used as a safer alternative.Methods and materialIn this prospective study, 60 ASA 1 or 2 adult patients undergoing shoulder arthroscopic surgery were randomised into two groups – ISB and SSB. In group ISB, ISB with 20 ml of 0.5% bupivacaine mixed with 75 μg clonidine was given. In the SSB group SSB was given with 15 ml of 0.5% bupivacaine with 75 μg clonidine. Pain was assessed using visual analogue scale and verbal pain scale scores and time to first rescue analgesia was noted. We used Student's t test and Chi-square/Fisher Exact test and used a statistical software to compare data.ResultsIn the present study, the mean duration of analgesia was 2.53 ± 2.26 h in SSB group compared to 7.23 ± 6.83 h in group ISB (p value < 0.05). Overall rescue analgesic requirements were higher in SSB group compared to ISB group (63.3% versus 40.0%) but this was statistically not significant (p value > 0.05).ConclusionBoth interscalene and SSB can be used to provide intra-operative and post-operative analgesia in patients undergoing shoulder arthroscopy.     

Dexamethasone bupivacaine versus bupivacaine for peribulbar block in posterior segment eye surgery

AimThe study conducted aims to assess the efficacy, time to first analgesic request, and postoperative inflammatory response after adding dexamethasone to local anesthetic mixture for a peribulbar block in posterior segment eye surgery.Patients and methodsA double-blind randomized study was carried out on 50 ASA I and II patients scheduled for elective posterior segment surgery (vitreoretinal). Patients were allocated randomly into two groups, 25 patients in each group. Group I received equal volumes of 10 ml of a l:1 mixture of bupivacaine 0.5% and saline, supplemented with 4 mg dexamethasone in 1 ml saline and group II received the same local anesthetic mixture (total volume 10 ml) without adding dexamethasone. The duration and onset of motor block, time to first analgesic request, postoperative inflammatory response, and other side effects such as nausea and vomiting were assessed.ResultsPatients receiving peribulbar block were significantly pain free by end of surgery (0 h) (P < 0.05) and throughout the postoperative period in the dexamethasone group at 2 and 6 h postoperatively. The number of patients requiring rescue analgesics was significantly lower with dexamethasone bupivacaine block (P < 0.05). The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting was significantly less in the first group (I) in comparison to the other group (II) (P < 0.05) and lastly the level of C reactive protein postoperatively was found to be significantly less in the dexamethasone group than the other one (P < 0.0001).ConclusionAdding dexamethasone to bupivacaine in peribulbar block appears to be a safe and clinically superior adjuvant with less postoperative pain, inflammatory response in patients undergoing posterior segment eye surgery.