Improved analgesia with the ilioinguinal block compared to the transversus abdominis plane block after pediatric inguinal surgery: a prospective randomized trial

Background: Ultrasound‐guided transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block has shown promise for analgesia after pediatric inguinal surgery. This prospective, randomized study tested the hypothesis that the TAP block would provide comparable analgesia after pediatric inguinal surgery compared with a conventional ultrasound‐guided ilioinguinal block. Methods: After induction of general anesthesia , infants and children presenting for elective inguinal surgery were randomly assigned to receive an ultrasound‐guided TAP block (needle cephalad of the iliac crest at the anterior axillary line) (n = 20) or ilioinguinal block (needle immediately anteromedial to the anterior superior iliac spine) (n = 21). Supplemental analgesia consisted of as‐required intraoperative fentanyl, regular acetaminophen, as‐required ibuprofen, and rescue morphine. Patients were assessed in the recovery room, the day‐stay unit (30 min to 2 h after surgery) and at 24 h for age appropriate numerical pain score, analgesic consumption, and parental satisfaction. Results: In the day‐stay unit, pain was more frequent (76% vs 45%, P = 0.040), and ibuprofen use was higher (62% vs 30%, P = 0.037) in the TAP group. Recovery room pain, morphine consumption and postdischarge ibuprofen use, comfort and satisfaction scores were similar between groups. Ultrasound image quality was poorer, and needle time under the skin was longer (median [interquartile range] 81 [66–120] vs 46 [40–51], P < 0.001) for the ilioinguinal group. Conclusions: Following pediatric inguinal surgery, ilioinguinal block provides more effective analgesia than the TAP block.     

Single level paravertebral versus caudal block in paediatric inguinal surgery

Paravertebral block (PVB) has been used for postoperative analgesia in children since 1992. There are no prospective randomised studies comparing the use of PVB versus caudal block (CB) for outpatient inguinal hernia repair surgery. The hypothesis of this study is that a single level, single injection PVB can provide a longer duration of analgesia and less requirement for supplemental analgesia than single shot CB for children undergoing inguinal surgery. Seventy children, aged three to seven, American Society of Anesthesiologists score I to II, having unilateral inguinal surgery were enrolled in the study. The patients were divided into two randomised groups. In group PVB, a single shot of 0.2 ml/kg levobupivacaine was administered via the lumbar paravertebral route and in group CB, patients were given 1 ml/kg levobupivacaine caudally. Sevoflurane concentration was evaluated after induction and recorded during incision, sac traction and closure. Face, legs, activity, cry and consolability (FLACC) scores, heart rate, blood pressure and SpO2 were evaluated postoperatively. Only four (11.4%) patients in the PVB group needed rescue analgesic drugs compared to 12 (34.3%) patients in the CB group (P = 0.044). Patients were given tramadol as rescue analgesia in the first four postoperative hours. No other supplemental analgesic drug was given apart from tramadol. FLACC scores were the same in the both groups. Parental satisfaction was significantly higher in the PVB group compared to the CB group (74.3 vs 40%, P = 0.01). This study has demonstrated that a single level single injection paravertebral block provides superior intraoperative and postoperative analgesia when compared to a caudal block for unilateral inguinal hernia repair.     

Dexmedetomidine decreases the required amount of bupivacaine for ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane block in pediatrics patients: a randomized study

BackgroundThe effect of dexmedetomidine on the potency of bupivacaine for transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block in pediatric patients has not been investigated.Study objectiveThe primary objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of dexmedetomidine to decrease the concentration of bupivacaine needed for analgesia for ultrasound-guided TAP block in a pediatric patient undergoing hernia repair or hydrocelectomy.DesignThis is a randomized, double-blind, up-down, dose-finding study.SettingOperating room.PatientsSixty American Society of Anesthesiologists I and II patients aged 1-4 years scheduled for elective unilateral herniorrhaphy or hydrocelectomy.InterventionsPatients were randomly assigned to 1 of the 2 groups: group B (0.125% bupivacaine, 1 mL/kg) TAP block or group BD (0.125% bupivacaine plus 2 μg/kg dexmedetomidine, 1 mL/kg) TAP block.MeasurementsThe response of each child was observed for 60 seconds after skin incision and evaluated as ‘unsuccessful’ when skin incision caused a change in hemodynamic parameters (heart rate and mean blood pressure) 20% more than the preincision values. If the response was determined to be unsuccessful, the concentration of bupivacaine administrated to the next patient was increased by 0.02%. If it was successful, the concentration of bupivacaine administrated to the next patient was decreased by 0.02%.ResultsThe minimum local anesthetic concentration of bupivacaine was 0.0839% (0.0137) in the B group and 0.0550% (0.0169) in the BD group. The difference was statistically significant (t = 7.165, P = .0001). The total postoperative analgesic dosage of morphine was significantly higher in the B group (0.17 ± 0.04 mg/kg) than the BD group (0.11 ± 0.02 mg/kg, P = .001).ConclusionsThe addition of 2 μg/kg of dexmedetomidine reduced the minimum local anesthetic concentration of bupivacaine used for a TAP block and improved postoperative analgesia in children undergoing surgery for inguinal hernia repair or hydrocelectomy.     

Three concentrations of levobupivacaine for ilioinguinal/iliohypogastric nerve block in ambulatory pediatric surgery

Study ObjectiveTo compare the postoperative analgesia of three different concentrations of levobupivacaine for ilioinguinal/iliohypogastric (II/IH) block in children undergoing inguinal hernia repair.DesignDouble-blind, prospective, randomized, controlled trial.SettingOperating room and postoperative recovery area of a university hospital.Patients73 ASA physical status I and II children, aged one to 6 years, scheduled for outpatient inguinal hernia repair.InterventionsPatients were randomized to receive one of three levobupivacaine concentrations: 0.125% (L0.125), 0.25% (L0.25), or 0.375% (L0.375). All patients received standard anesthesia with sevoflurane and II/IH nerve block.MeasurementsHeart rate (HR), non invasive blood pressure (NIBP), respiratory rate, end-tidal carbon dioxide concentration (ETCO₂), and oxygen saturation via pulse oximetry (SpO₂) were monitored during surgery. Postoperative pain scores with CHEOPS (Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Pain Scale) and need for rescue analgesia postoperatively were measured and recorded.Main Results60 patients entered the postoperative observational period. The number of patients who received rescue analgesia was comparable in the three groups. In Group L0.125, mean CHEOPS score was significantly higher, and time to first administration of rescue analgesia was shorter, than in the other two groups (P < 0.05). Pain scores and time to first administration of rescue analgesia were comparable between Groups L0.25 and L0.375.ConclusionsII/IH nerve block using 0.4 mL kg^-1 of 0.25% levobupivacaine provided satisfactory postoperative pain relief after inguinal herniorraphy.     

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.     

Paediatric post orchidopexy analgesia—effect of diclofenac combined with ilioinguinal/iliohypogastric nerve block

Summary
When ilioinguinal/iliohypogastric nerve blockade is used to provide postoperative analgesia after paediatric orchidopexy, supplemental analgesia may be required postoperatively. Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal analgesic which produces effective analgesia after tonsillectomy. We examined the effect of combining diclofenac with inguinal field block for post orchidopexy analgesia. Following induction of anaesthesia, group 1 ( n = 25) received ilioinguinal block and rectal diclofenac (2 mg·kg⁻¹) and group 2 ( n = 25) received ilioinguinal block alone. Objective pain scores were assessed for the first three h postoperatively and the incidence of postoperative rescue analgesia, noted. Pain scores were significantly less in group 1 at 45, 60, 90 and 120 min postop ( P < 0.05). The postoperative analgesic requirement was significantly lower in the diclofenac group compared to control ( P < 0.05). A single administration of rectal diclofenac is a simple and effective method of significantly improving analgesia associated with inguinal field block, after paediatric orchidopexy.     

Feasibility of combined paravertebral block and subcostal transversus abdominis plane block in postoperative pain control after minimally invasive esophagectomy

ObjectivesSubcostal transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block and paravertebral block (PVB) offer postoperative analgesia for laparoscopic and thoracoscopic surgery, respectively. We investigated the early postoperative analgesic effects of PVB in combination with subcostal TAP block in patients undergoing minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) for esophageal cancer.MethodsSeventeen patients undergoing MIE without nerve block for postoperative analgesia and 16 patients undergoing MIE with PVB and subcostal TAP block for postoperative analgesia were enrolled for the study. The surgeon performed PVB with bupivacaine at T4, T6, and T8 levels under video-assisted thoracoscopy at the end of the thoracoscopic stage. The anesthesiologist responsible for the anesthesia performed ultrasound-guided bilateral subcostal TAP with bupivacaine at the end of the surgery. Postoperative morphine consumption, pain severity, vital capacity, intensive care unit (ICU) stay, and complication rate were compared between groups.ResultsThe group receiving nerve blocks consumed less morphine on postoperative Day 0 (p = 0.016), experienced lower levels of pain at postoperative 0 hour (p = 0.005) and 2 hours (p = 0.049), and had a shorter ICU stay (p = 0.02). No between-group differences in postoperative vital capacity and respiratory complications were observed.ConclusionPVB in combination with subcostal TAP block could reduce morphine consumption and pain severity in the early postoperative period but did not offer other clinical benefits in MIE.     

Posteromedial quadratus lumborum block versus transversus abdominal plane block for postoperative analgesia following laparoscopic colorectal surgery: A randomized controlled trial

Study objectiveOur hypothesis was that a pre-operative posteromedial quadratus lumborum (QL) block would reduce postoperative morphine consumption and provide superior analgesia in the setting of multimodal analgesia compared with a lateral transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block for laparoscopic colorectal surgery.DesignA randomized controlled study.SettingA single tertiary hospital. March to August 2018.Patients80 ASA I–II colorectal cancer patients undergoing laparoscopic radical resection were enrolled. 77 patients (group QL 38, group TAP 39) were included in the analysis.InterventionPre-operatively, patients were randomized to receive either a QL or TAP block (0.375% ropivacaine 20 ml bilaterally for each group).MeasurementsThe primary outcome was cumulative morphine consumption 24 h postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included postoperative pain scores, clinical recovery, and side-effect profiles of the blocks.Main resultsFor the primary outcome measure, morphine consumption 24 h postoperatively was significantly lower in the QL group than in the TAP group (estimated median difference −8 mg, adjusted 95% confidential interval −12 to −6 mg, P < 0.001). The pain visual analogue scores at rest and during movement were found to be statistically significantly lower in the QL group than in the TAP group 8, 12, and 24 h postoperatively (P < 0.006). The QL group reported higher overall satisfaction scores regarding postoperative analgesia than the TAP group (P = 0.014). One patient in the QL group experienced moderate back pain close to the needle entry site postoperatively. There was no statistically significant difference in postoperative nausea and vomiting, bowel recovery or length of hospital stay between the groups.ConclusionsThe pre-operative bilateral, ultrasound-guided posteromedial QL block reduces morphine consumption and improves analgesia in the setting of multimodal analgesia compared with the lateral TAP block after laparoscopic colorectal surgery.     

椎板后阻滞对乳腺癌改良根治术病人术后镇痛效果的影响

目的探讨椎板后阻滞(RLB)对乳腺癌改良根治术病人术后镇痛效果的影响。方法乳腺癌改良根治术病人50例,随机分为两组:椎板后阻滞组(RLB组)和对照组(C组)。RLB组病人在手术结束后行手术侧椎板后阻滞,注入0.5%罗哌卡因20 ml。两组术后均使用静脉自控镇痛(PCIA)。记录术后24小时内PCIA舒芬太尼总用量、有效按压次数及补救镇痛例数。记录术后2、4、6、12、24小时的静息视觉模拟评分(VAS)和Ramsay镇静评分及不良反应的发生情况。结果 RLB组术后24小时内PCIA舒芬太尼总用量和有效按压次数分别为(20±4)μg和(13±4)次,C组分别为(29±3)μg和(19±3)次,两组比较差异有统计学意义(P<0.05),两组补救镇痛率比较差异无统计学意义(P>0.05)。RLB组术后4、6、12小时的静息VAS评分分别为(1.9±0.5)、(2.1±0.5)和(1.9±0.7)分,C组分别为(2.6±0.6)、(2.5±0.5)和(2.3±0.5)分,两组比较差异有统计学意义(P<0.05),两组各时点Ramsay镇静评分比较差异无统计学意义(P>0.05)。RLB组术后恶心、呕吐发生率为16%,低于C组的44%,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05),两组术后头晕、皮肤瘙痒和呼吸抑制等发生率比较差异无统计学意义(P>0.05),RLB组未见阻滞相关并发症发生。结论椎板后阻滞能用于乳腺癌改良根治术,不仅可以减少术后阿片类药物用量,提高术后镇痛效果,还可以降低术后恶心、呕吐的发生率。     

Ilioinguinal/iliohypogastric nerve block for pediatric inguinal herniorrhaphy; evaluation of the dose of ropivacaine

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to investigate the appropriate dose of ropivacaine in efficacy and safety when administered for ilioinguinal/iliohypogastric nerve block in children undergoing inguinal herniorrhaphy. METHODS: Forty six children (aged 1-8 yr, classified ASA I-II) undergoing ambulatory surgery for inguinal herniotomy were randomly assigned to one of the three groups, according to the dosage of ropivacaine: group I (n = 15), group II (n = 16) and III (n = 15) received 1.875, 0.9375 and 0.5625 mg x kg(-1) of ropivacaine, respectively. Intraoperative hemodynamics and modified CHEOPS score at 1, 3 and 5 hours after operation were recorded. RESULTS: There were no significant differences among the three groups in the intraoperative hemodynamics, whereas postoperative modified CHEOPS scores were significantly higher in group III than the other groups. Trivial femoral nerve palsy occurred in one patient of the group II, and no other adverse effects were seen in any groups. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that more than 0.9375 mg x kg(-1) of ropivacaine might be recommended to obtain sufficient postoperative analgesia for the ilioinguinal/iliohypogastric nerve block in children undergoing inguinal herniorrhaphy.     

The analgesic efficacy of continuous fascia iliaca block vs. continuous psoas compartment block after hip surgery: A comparative study

BackgroundBoth psoas compartment block and fascia iliaca compartment block have been shown to be reliable blocks for postoperative pain relief for procedures involving the hip joint. This study evaluated the efficacy of continuous psoas compartment block with continuous fascia iliaca block for postoperative analgesia after hip surgery.MethodsIn randomized blinded study Forty, ASA I–III patients aged 30–75 years, with BMI less than 40, scheduled for hip surgery, were divided to one of two groups. Group P: continuous psoas compartment block (n = 18) and group F: continuous fascia iliaca block (n = 19). Standard general anesthesia was induced after finishing the block technique. After recovery 30 ml of 0.125% levobupivacaine was injected through the catheter to all patients. Postoperative 24 h meperidine consumption, patient satisfaction, visual analogue scale pain scores at (1, 6, 12, 18, and 24 h) postoperative, postoperative hemodynamics (HR and MAp), evidence of sensory and motor blockades, and incidence of adverse effects were recorded.ResultsThere was no significant difference between the two groups in 24 h postoperative meperidine requirements, postoperative VAS, patient satisfaction, postoperative hemodynamics, and distribution of sensory and motor block of (femoral, lateral femoral cutaneous, and obturator nerves). The epidural anesthesia occurred in two patients in psoas group (11%).ConclusionBoth continuous fascia iliaca block and continuous psoas compartment block were comparable in providing safe and effective analgesia after hip surgery.     

The effect of erector spinae plane block on postoperative analgesia and respiratory function in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A double-blind randomized controlled trial

Study objectiveLaparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) causes moderate-to-severe postoperative pain. Postoperative pain is one of the leading contributors to respiratory dysfunction following surgery. This study investigated the effect of erector spinae plane (ESP) block on postoperative analgesia and respiratory function in patients undergoing LC.DesignProspective, randomized, controlled trial.SettingUniversity of Health Science.PatientsSixty-eight adult patients undergoing LC.InterventionsBoth groups received a standardized analgesia protocol. Patients assigned to the ESP block group received an additional bilateral ESP block.MeasurementsThe primary outcome was assessed as postoperative pain intensity associated with a lower opioid requirement and significant respiratory function improvement.Main resultsNumerical rating scale (NRS) scores both at rest and during coughing were significantly lower in the ESP block group than in the control group at all time intervals (p < 0.001 in each) except for hour 2 postoperatively (p = 0.06 and p = 0.13, respectively). Tramadol consumption at 2 h and 24 h postoperatively was significantly lower in the ESP block group than in the controls (p < 0.001 for each). There was significant preservation in forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV₁) and forced vital capacity (FVC) in the ESP group in comparison to the control group at 2 and 24 h after surgery (p < 0.05 in each). FEV₁/FVC and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) values were similar in each time interval.ConclusionsBilateral ESP blocks provides adequate analgesia, allowing for a lower opioid requirement and significant respiratory function improvement after LC; therefore, we concluded that ESP block could be added to the multimodal analgesia protocol in LC.     

Pre-emptive multimodal analgesic bundle with transversus abdominis plane block enhances early recovery after laparoscopic cholecystectomy

BackgroundAs postoperative pain after laparoscopic cholecystectomy may delay recovery and discharge, a multimodal and pre-emptive analgesic approach is necessary. This study demonstrated that a multimodal analgesic bundle improves postoperative recovery, using the Quality of Recovery-40K (QoR-40K) questionnaire during the first 24 h after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.MethodsIn this prospective non-randomized study with two parallel groups, 80 patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy were allocated into either the multimodal analgesia group or the conventional analgesia group. The multimodal analgesia group received a pre-emptive analgesic bundle (preoperative intravenous administration of paracetamol, ketorolac, and dexamethasone, and a posterior approach to the transversus abdominis plane block), while the conventional analgesia group did not. The primary outcome was the QoR-40K score during the first 24 h after surgery. Secondary outcomes were the peak visual analog scale pain score at rest and the incidence rates of rescue analgesic use and nausea/vomiting during the first 24 h after surgery.ResultsThe QoR-40K score was higher in the multimodal analgesia group than in the conventional analgesia group (196 [190–199] vs. 182 [172–187], p < 0.001). The peak visual analog scale pain score was significantly lower in the multimodal analgesia group than in the conventional analgesia group. Multimodal analgesia also reduced the incidence rates of rescue analgesic use and postoperative nausea/vomiting (22.5% [95% CI, 9.6–35.4%] vs. 55.0% [39.6–70.4%], p = 0.003), compared to conventional analgesia.ConclusionsMultimodal analgesia significantly improves the quality of early postoperative recovery after laparoscopic cholecystectomy, as shown by the QoR-40K score.     

Analgesic efficacy of ultrasound guided bilateral transversus thoracis muscle plane block in pediatric cardiac surgery: a randomized,double-blind,controlled study

Study objectiveAdequate perioperative pain control in children undergoing cardiac surgery is mandatory. Intravenous opioids and neuraxial anesthetic techniques have been used but didn't gained any popularity. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the analgesic efficacy of transversus thoracis plane (TTP) block in pediatric cardiac surgery.DesignSuperiority, randomized, double-blind, controlled study.SettingIntraoperative and postoperative in intensive care unit (ICU), Mansoura university children hospital, Egypt.PatientsEighty pediatric patients aged 2–12 years, undergoing cardiac surgery via median sternotomy, were randomly allocated into 2 equal groups, the control group and TTP block group.InterventionsControlled group received only fentanyl for perioperative analgesia, while TTP block was performed in the intervention group (TTP group).MeasurementsThe primary outcome measure was the total dose of fentanyl in the first postoperative 24 h after extubation, while the secondary outcome measures were postoperative pain score, intraoperative fentanyl consumption, time to extubation and ICU length of stay.Main resultsDuring the first postoperative 24 h, total fentanyl consumption was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in the TTP block group (9.892 ± 3.397 μg/kg) than the control group (18.500 ± 3.401 μg/kg) and modified objective pain score was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in TTP block group than the control group all over the time. Total intraoperative fentanyl requirement was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in TTP block group (8.27 ± 1.170 μg/kg) than the control group (13.72 ± 1.186 μg/kg).ConclusionThe use of TTP block decreased perioperative fentanyl consumption and reduced postoperative pain intensity.     

Bloqueio dos nervos ílio‐hipogástrico/ilioinguinal em correção de hérnia inguinal para tratamento da dor no pós‐operatório: comparação entre a técnica de marcos anatômicos e a guiada por ultrassom

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to compare the efficacy of iliohypogastric/ilioinguinal nerve blocks performed with the ultrasound guided and the anatomical landmark techniques for postoperative pain management in cases of adult inguinal herniorrhaphy.

Methods

40 patients, ASA I–II status were randomized into two groups equally: in Group AN (anatomical landmark technique) and in Group ultrasound (ultrasound guided technique), iliohypogastric/ilioinguinal nerve block was performed with 20 ml of 0.5% levobupivacaine prior to surgery with the specified techniques. Pain score in postoperative assessment, first mobilization time, duration of hospital stay, score of postoperative analgesia satisfaction, opioid induced side effects and complications related to block were assessed for 24 h postoperatively.

Results

VAS scores at rest in the recovery room and all the clinical follow‐up points were found significantly less in Group ultrasound (p < 0.01 or p < 0.001). VAS scores at movement in the recovery room and all the clinical follow‐up points were found significantly less in Group ultrasound (p < 0.001 in all time points). While duration of hospital stay and the first mobilization time were being found significantly shorter, analgesia satisfaction scores were found significantly higher in ultrasound Group (p < 0.05, p < 0.001, p < 0.001 respectively).

Conclusion

According to our study, US guided iliohypogastric/ilioinguinal nerve block in adult inguinal herniorrhaphies provides a more effective analgesia and higher satisfaction of analgesia than iliohypogastric/ilioinguinal nerve block with the anatomical landmark technique. Moreover, it may be suggested that the observation of anatomical structures with the US may increase the success of the block, and minimize the block‐related complications.     

Ureteroscopic lithotripsy combined with paravertebral block anesthesia or general anesthesia: A propensity matched case–control study

BackgroundTo evaluate the safety, efficacy and cost of paravertebral block anesthesia for ureteral stones patients undergoing ureteroscopic lithotripsy.MethodsFour hundred and eighty-two patients who underwent ureteroscopy for unilateral ureteral stones were incorporated into our retrospective study. A propensity-matched comparison in patients with paravertebral nerve block anesthesia (PVB) group and general anesthesia (GA) group was performed. Intraoperative hemodynamic parameters, operative time, visual analog scale for pain, stone-free rate, anesthetic cost and postoperative hospital stay were compared between the two groups.ResultsSixty-one GA cases were propensity matched to 61 PVB cases. In the PVB group, all the procedures were completed successfully without anesthesia conversion. Significantly less intraoperative severe hypotensive (P = 0.002) and arrhythmia (P < 0.001) episodes in PVB group. There were no significant differences in operative time (p = 0.702), initial stone-free rate (p = 0.686), and total stone-free rate (p = 0.794) between the two groups. The PVB group had lower postoperative pain and prolonged analgesia (p = 0.007). The postoperative hospital stay in the PVB group was significantly shorter (3.20 ± 0.73 vs 3.84 ± 1.32 d, p = 0.001). And the cost of anesthesia was lower in the PVB group (195.47 ± 13.01 vs 396.31 ± 36.45 US dollars, p < 0.001).ConclusionUnder PVB anesthesia, URS can be successfully completed without anesthetic transformation, and its efficacy and safety have been demonstrated. When economic aspects are taken into consideration, PVB seems to be a more economical and effective anesthetic method of URS.     

Anesthesia management with ultrasound-guided thoracic paravertebral block for donor nephrectomy: A prospective randomized study

Study objectiveTo determine the efficacy of ultrasound-guided thoracic paravertebral block intraoperatively and 24 hours postoperatively in patients undergoing donor nephrectomy.DesignProspective randomized controlled study.SettingPrivate foundation university hospital; November 2014 to June 2015.PatientsThirty-two patients undergoing donor nephrectomy (exclusion criteria: coagulation disorders, allergy to local anesthetics, and unwillingness to participate). The final study population comprised 30 patients (15 male, 15 female) randomly assigned to either Group P (paravertebral block, n = 14) or Group M (morphine, n = 16).InterventionsIn Group P, a unilateral paravertebral catheter was inserted 1 day preoperatively; on the day of surgery, a single-level unilateral paravertebral block was administered through the catheter before general anesthesia. Infusion of bupivacaine continued intraoperatively and postoperatively. Patients in Group M received only general anesthesia, and morphine patient-controlled analgesia was begun postoperatively.MeasurementsIntraoperative analgesic and anesthetic requirement, postoperative numerical rating scale pain scores, additional analgesic consumption during the postoperative period, and incidence of complications related to thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB) like pleural puncture, pneumothorax, epidural spread, injection into the subarachnoid space, intravascular injection, and Horner's syndrome and rate of opioid related adverse reactions like nausea and vomiting, itching, constipation, and respiratory depression.ResultsIntraoperative remifentanil consumption was significantly higher in Group M, and postoperative morphine consumption was significantly lower in Group P (P < .001). During the first 24 hours postoperatively, the mean numerical rating scale pain scores were similar and there were no significant differences between the 2 groups. There were no statistically significant differences in the additional analgesic consumption and rate of adverse reactions between the 2 groups. We didn't detect any complication related to TPVB in group P.ConclusionsContinuous thoracic paravertebral block provides good intraoperative stability with a low anesthetic requirement and reduces postoperative morphine consumption for up to 24 hours. Ultrasound guided technique enhanced the safety of TPVB and provides analgesia without major complications.     

The impact of dexamethasone as a perineural additive to ropivacaine for PECS II blockade in patients undergoing unilateral radical mastectomy – A prospective,randomized, controlled and double-blinded trial

Study objectiveDexamethasone is commonly used as an adjuvant to local anesthetics to prolong duration of peripheral nerve blocks with minimal side-effects. The present study investigates the efficacy of dexamethasone added to ropivacaine 0.2% as compared to ropivacaine 0.2% alone for pectoral nerves block II (PECS II) in unilateral radical mastectomy.DesignA prospective, randomized, controlled and double-blinded trial.SettingThe study was performed at Innsbruck Medical University Hospital, Austria, between January 2019 and October 2020.PatientsSixty female patients with an American Society of Anesthesiologists Score I-II (18–90 years, BMI 18–35) scheduled for unilateral radical mastectomy without one-stage immediate autologous breast reconstruction were randomly assigned to receive PECS II block with ropivacaine 0.2% with or without dexamethasone 8 mg.InterventionsPatients were randomly assigned to receive PECS II block with ropivacaine 0.2% with or without dexamethasone 8 mg.MeasurementsPrimary outcome parameter was the cumulative opioid consumption during the first 72 postoperative hours. Secondary outcome parameters were the duration of analgesia and the course of the visual analogue scale (VAS) and the area under the curve VAS (AUC-VAS).Main resultsThere was no difference in cumulative opioid consumption after 72 h between the ropivacaine 0.2% plus dexamethasone group and the ropivacaine 0.2% plus placebo group (11.89 vs 11.90 morphine milligram equivalent, respectively; p 0.831). Duration of analgesia also did not differ significantly between the ropivacaine 0.2% plus dexamethasone group and the ropivacaine 0.2% plus placebo group (12.75 versus 8.75 h, respectively; p 0.680). There also was no difference in the course of VAS and AUC-VAS.ConclusionsDexamethasone 8 mg when added to ropivacaine 0.2% for PECS II block in unilateral radical mastectomy was not found to reduce total opioid consumption over 72 postoperative hours or to prolong duration of analgesia as compared to pure ropivacaine 0.2%.     

罗哌卡因髂腹下/髂腹股沟神经阻滞在儿童腹股沟疝围手术期的效果

目的探讨罗哌卡因髂腹下/髂腹股沟神经阻滞在儿童腹股沟疝围手术期中的应用效果。 方法将2018年8月至2019年7月仙桃市第一人民医院收治的108例腹股沟疝患儿以抽签法分为对照组（54例）和观察组（54例）,均行腹股沟疝手术,对照组常规全身麻醉,观察组在常规全麻基础上于超声引导下行罗哌卡因髂腹下/髂腹股沟神经阻滞,观察2组不同时间点血流动力学指标,包括心率（HR）、收缩压（SBP）、舒张压（DBP）,记录其术中全麻药物（舒芬太尼和丙泊酚）用量、术后拔管时间、苏醒时间、麻醉复苏室（PACU）留观时间、术后特殊患者疼痛评估量表（FLACC）评分、麻醉不良反应,并采用躁动评分（PAED）评估2组患儿躁动发生及严重程度。 结果观察组入室后（T₀）HR、SBP、DBP与对照组均无显著差异（P>0.05）;切皮时（T₁）、术毕时（T₂）HR、SBP、DBP均低于对照组（P<0.05）。观察组舒芬太尼和丙泊酚使用剂量均少于对照组（P<0.05）,术后拔管时间、苏醒时间、PACU留观时间均短于对照组（P<0.05）,术后30 min、术后2、6、12和24 h FLACC评分均低于对照组（P<0.05）,恶心呕吐及躁动发生率、PAED评分均低于对照组（P<0.05）。 结论罗哌卡因髂腹下/髂腹股沟神经阻滞有利于维持儿童腹股沟疝围手术期血流动力学稳定,减轻术后疼痛。     

Same-day discharge following the Nuss repair: A comparison

PurposeIntercostal Nerve Cryoablation (INC) has significantly improved pain control following the Nuss repair of pectus excavatum (PE). This study sought to evaluate patients undergoing the Nuss repair with INC compared to the Nuss repair with an ERAS protocol, INC, and intercostal nerve blocks (INB).MethodsIn June 2020, a new protocol was implemented involving surgery, anesthesia, nursing, physical therapy, and child life with the goal of safe same day discharge for patients undergoing the Nuss repair. They were compared to a control group who underwent the Nuss repair with INC alone in 2017–2019. The primary outcome measure was hospital length of stay (LOS) in hours, secondary outcomes were number of patients discharged on postoperative day (POD) 0, and returns to the emergency department (ED), urgent care (UC), and operating room (OR).ResultsThe characteristics between the groups were the same (Table 1). The mean LOS was 11.8 h in the INB group versus 58.2 h in the INC group, p < 0.01. 10 of 15 patients in the INB group went home on POD 0 (average of 5.5 h postop), versus 0 patients in the INC only group, p < 0.01. Five patients in the INB stayed overnight. Two patients stayed owing to anxiety, one owing to urinary retention, one owing to nausea, and one owing to drowsiness. None stayed for pain control. Four patients in the INC group returned to the ED for pain control, versus 0 in the INB group, and 1 patient in the INB returned to UC for constipation.ConclusionsThe majority of patients undergoing the Nuss repair of PE with a multidisciplinary regimen of pre and postoperative nursing education, precise intraoperative anesthesia care, performance of direct vision INB and INC, as well as careful surgery can go home on the day of surgery without adverse outcomes or unanticipated returns to the hospital.Level-of-evidenceLevel II.