Perineal infiltration with lidocaine 1%, ropivacaine 0.75%, or placebo for episiotomy repair in parturients who received epidural labor analgesia: a double-blind randomized study

BackgroundEpisiotomies are performed in approximately 20% of vaginal deliveries and may result in postpartum pain. Perineal infiltration with lidocaine during the episiotomy is widely used, despite an early study showing no difference when compared with saline. Ropivacaine has increasingly been used in the obstetric setting, although not for episiotomies. We sought to compare the analgesic efficacy of ropivacaine, lidocaine or saline for perineal infiltration before repair of a mediolateral episiotomy in patients who delivered with epidural labor analgesia.MethodsIn this double-blind randomized prospective study, infiltration with 15 mL of 0.75% ropivacaine, 1% lidocaine, or saline was performed immediately before initiating the perineal repair. During the first 24 h, the time to the first oral analgesic, analgesic intake, visual analog scale scores for pain, and patient satisfaction scores were recorded.ResultsA total of 154 patients were included. Demographic data were comparable between the groups. Time to first oral analgesic request was 13.9 h with 0.75% ropivacaine, 17.0 h with 1% lidocaine, and 16.6 h with saline (P = 0.104); the proportion of patients who did not request oral analgesics were 35%, 54% and 53%, respectively (P = 0.09). Visual analog pain scores were low and not different between the three groups (ropivacaine 16.8 ± 11.6, lidocaine 12.4 ± 9.7; and saline 16.2 ± 11.5, P = 0.08).ConclusionFor the first 24 h, perineal infiltration of ropivacaine, lidocaine, and saline were equivalent in producing post-episiotomy analgesia.     

Efficacy of ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane blocks for post-cesarean delivery analgesia: a double-blind,dose-comparison,placebo-controlled randomized trial

BackgroundThe analgesic benefit of TAP (transversus abdominis plane) blocks for cesarean delivery pain remains controversial. We compared the analgesic efficacy of two doses of local anesthetic for TAP blocks after cesarean delivery.MethodsSixty women having cesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia were randomized to receive ultrasound-guided TAP blocks using either high-dose ropivacaine (3 mg/kg), low-dose ropivacaine (1.5 mg/kg) or placebo. Patients received intrathecal 0.75% bupivacaine 10–12 mg, fentanyl 10 μg and morphine 150 μg and standard multimodal analgesia. The primary outcome was the difference in pain with movement using a numeric rating scale at 24 h. Other outcomes included time to first request for analgesia, pain scores at 6, 12, 36, 48 h and at 6 and 12 weeks, opioid consumption, adverse effects, quality of recovery, and satisfaction.ResultsThere were no differences between groups in the primary outcome. Mean ± SD pain scores (0–10) with movement at 24 h were: high-dose ropivacaine 3.6 ± 1.5, low-dose ropivacaine 4.6 ± 2.1 and placebo 4.1 ± 1.7. With respect to secondary outcomes, the mean ± SD pain scores at 6 h were lower in the high-dose group 2.0 ± 1.8 compared to the low-dose 3.4 ± 2.7 and placebo groups 4.2 ± 2.0 (P = 0.009). Pain scores at 12 h were also lower in the high-dose group 2.2 ± 2.0 compared to the low-dose group 4.1 ± 2.7 and placebo group 4.0 ± 1.3 (P = 0.011). There was no difference in other outcomes between groups.ConclusionsNeither high- or low-dose TAP blocks as part of a multimodal analgesia regimen including intrathecal morphine improved pain scores with movement at 24 h after cesarean delivery when compared to placebo TAP blocks. High-dose TAP blocks may improve pain scores up to 12 h after cesarean delivery.     

Comparação do bloqueio do canal adutor para analgesia em cirurgia artroscópica com ropivacaína isolada e ropivacaína + clonidina

Background and objectivesInadequate pain relief after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction affects mobility leading to development of adhesions, weakened ligament insertion and muscle atrophy. Adductor canal block for postoperative analgesia preserves quadriceps strength. The present study was conducted to compare pain free period in patients undergoing arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, receiving ultrasound‐guided adductor canal block with ropivacaine alone and ropivacaine with clonidine.MethodsA prospective randomized double blinded study was conducted including sixty‐three adult, ASA class I, II patients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. They were randomized into three groups: Group S – control group received adductor canal block with 30 mL saline, Group R – ropivacaine group received adductor canal block with 30 mL of 0.375% ropivacaine and Group RC – clonidine group received adductor canal block with 30 mL of 0.375% ropivacaine with clonidine 1 μg.kg⁻¹. The primary aim was to compare the pain free period in patients receiving adductor canal block with ropivacaine alone or ropivacine with clonidine. The secondary outcomes were pain score at rest and movement, total analgesic requirement, sedation score and postoperative nausea and vomiting.ResultsThe mean pain free periods were 20 min, 384.76 min and 558.09 min for Group S, Group R and Group RC, respectively and this difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference between Group R and Group RC in terms of pain scores at rest and movement and total analgesic requirement.ConclusionAddition of clonidine to ropivacaine in USG guided adductor canal block led to significant prolongation of pain free period though pain score at rest and movement, and rescue analgesic requirement, did not differ.     

Effect of thoracic epidural analgesia on recovery of bowel function after major upper abdominal surgery

Study ObjectiveWe investigated whether thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA) shortens the first gas-out time compared to intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (iv-PCA) and promotes earlier discharge after major upper abdominal surgery.DesignProspective observational study.SettingA tertiary care university hospital.PatientsFifty-six patients undergoing major upper abdominal surgery.InterventionsTEA (n = 28) was performed using a paramedian approach at T6-7 or T7-8. Hydromorphone (8 μg/mL) was added to 0.15% ropivacaine (bolus/lockout time/basal: 3 mL/15 minutes/5 mL). The iv-PCA regimen (n = 28) included 20 μg/mL fentanyl (bolus/lockout time/basal: 0.5 mL/15 minutes/0.5 mL). The 2 analgesic methods were maintained for 3 days.MeasurementThe primary end point was first gas-out time, and the secondary end points were hospital discharge, pain scores, and first voiding time.Main ResultsNo differences in first gas-out time (TEA, 4.1 ± 1.2 days; iv-PCA, 3.4 ± 1.9 days; P = .15) or hospital stay (TEA, 9.8 ± 2.2 days; iv-PCA, 11.4 ± 5.2 days; P = .19) were observed between the 2 groups. A visual analog pain scale scores during rest and coughing were lower in the TEA than those for iv-PCA even with 40% to 46% less rescue analgesic. However, TEA delayed first voiding time (3.6 ± 0.9 vs 2.8 ± 1.6 days; P = .02) and required more frequent bladder catheterization (46% vs 11%; P = .008) than those of iv-PCA.ConclusionTEA with a regimen of hydromorphone (8 μg/mL) added to 0.15% ropivacaine did not provide earlier gas-out compared to that of iv-PCA in patients who underwent major upper abdominal surgery.     

Rectal ketamine during paediatric burn wound dressing procedures: a randomised dose-finding study

BackgroundWorldwide, ketamine is used during paediatric procedures, but no recommendations are available regarding a suitable dose for rectal administration during procedures involving high levels of pain and/or anxiety such as burn wound dressing change.MethodsWe evaluated three different single doses of rectally administered racemic ketamine mixed with a fixed dose of 0.5 mg/kg of midazolam. In total, 90 children – aged 6 months to 4 years – were randomised 1:1:1 to receive 4 mg/kg (K-4 group), 6 mg/kg (K-6 group) or 8 mg/kg (K-8 group) of racemic ketamine for a maximum of three consecutive procedures. Primary outcome measure was procedural pain evaluated by Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability (FLACC) behavioural scale. Secondary outcome included feasibility and recovery time. Patient safety was evaluated using surrogate outcomes.ResultsIn total, 201 procedures in 90 children aged 19 ± 8 months were completed. The median maximum pain was FLACC 0 in all groups (p = 0.141). The feasibility was better for groups K-6 (p = 0.049) and K-8 (p = 0.027) compared with K-4, and the mean recovery time was the longest for group K-8 (36 ± 22 min) compared with groups K-4 (25 ± 15 min; p = 0.003) and K-6 (27 ± 20 min; p = 0.025). Median maximum sedation measured by the University of Michigan Sedation Scale (UMSS) was higher in group K-8 compared with group K-4 (p < 0.0001) and K-6 (p = 0.023). One child in group K-8 had a study drug-related serious adverse event — laryngospasm/airway obstruction. No rescue analgosedative medication was administered for group K-6.ConclusionsA rectally administered mixture of racemic ketamine (6 mg/kg) and midazolam (0.5 mg/kg) during paediatric burn dressing procedures with a duration of approximately 30 min provides optimal conditions regarding pain relief, feasibility, recovery time and patient safety, with no need for rescue analgosedative medication.     

Preincisional peritonsillar vs. intravenous lornoxicam for posttonsillectomy analgesia: A clinical and platelet aggregometry comparative study

BackgroundLornoxicam is a fairly new short-half oxicam with an improved tolerability profile. Our objective was to investigate the safety and efficacy of intravenous and peritonsillar infiltration of 8 mg lornoxicam on pain relief in children undergoing tonsillectomy.MethodsIn a double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial, 60 children were randomized into three groups; intravenous group (n = 20), received lornoxicam 8 mg iv., infiltration group (n = 20) received lornoxicam 8 mg peritonsillar infiltration, and placebo controls (n = 20). The verbal rating pain scale, time to first postoperative analgesic request, total analgesic consumption during 1st 24 h postoperative, platelet aggregometry before, 15 min, 2 and 24 h after study drug administration, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative bleeding, and adverse effects were evaluated.ResultsThe time to first postoperative analgesic request was significantly prolonged in intravenous (318.75 ± 67.37 min) and infiltration (214.50 ± 43.06 min) groups compared with placebo group (66.75 ± 26.95 min). A significantly lower mean postoperative VRS scores and significantly reduced 1st day postoperative diclofenac consumption were recorded in iv. group (44.73 ± 9.31 mg), compared with infiltration (69.80 ± 38.71 mg) and placebo (87.8 ± 24.40 mg) groups. An increased intraoperative blood volume losses and intraoperative bleeding complains were observed in infiltration group (34.25 ± 11.93 ml), rather than in iv. (28.85 ± 10.01 ml) and placebo (24.75 ± 8.70 ml) groups. The (%) of platelet aggregation with ADP, collagen, and arachidonic acid was significantly reduced 15 min and 2 h after study drug administration with highest decreases in iv. group compared with infiltration and placebo groups. No patients reported postoperative bleeding or GIT adverse effects in the study.ConclusionIntraoperative preincisional intravenous lornoxicam enhanced postoperative analgesia after tonsillectomy in children. In comparison, the analgesic efficacy of locally applied lornoxicam was inferior to intravenous administration and was associated with increased incidence of intraoperative bleeding.     

Optimal epidural analgesia for patients diagnosed as having gynecologic cancer undergoing interstitial brachytherapy

Study objectiveTo determine the optimal epidural analgesia for patients receiving interstitial brachytherapy (ISBT) for gynecologic cancers.DesignRetrospective analysis.SettingOperating room and hospital ward.PatientsSeventy-three patients diagnosed as having gynecologic cancer and undergoing ISBT.InterventionsTwelve patients received ropivacaine alone, 14 patients received ropivacaine with fentanyl, and 45 patients received ropivacaine with hydromorphone by epidural infusion.MeasurementsNumeric Rating Scale pain scores, amounts of nonnarcotic and narcotic pain medications used in intravenous morphine equivalents (IVMEs), and amount of antiemetic or antipruritic medications used.Main resultsPatients receiving ropivacaine alone had higher pain scores the morning of day 2 (4.2 vs 1.71 vs 0.6, P = .001), the afternoon of day 2 (4.9 vs 2.5 vs 1.7, P = .005), and the night of day 2 (2.4 vs 2.0 vs 0.6, P < .001). Patients receiving opioids in their epidural had lower pain scores on the night of placement (P = .050), the morning of day 2 (P < .001), the afternoon of day 2 (P = .002), and the night of day 2 (P < .001). Patients receiving ropivacaine alone used more oral narcotics than did those receiving ropivacaine with fentanyl or ropivacaine with hydromorphone on day 3 (5.9 vs 3.8 vs 2.8 mg IVME) and received more intravenous opioids day 1 (5.8 vs 0.0 vs 0.7 mg IVME, P = .004) and day 2 (20.6 vs 4.8 vs 1.0 mg IVME, P = .042). There were no differences in antiemetic or diphenhydramine usage at any time point. No epidural complications occurred.ConclusionsFor patients receiving ISBT for gynecologic cancer, epidural analgesia provides safe and effective pain control. Combined modality epidural analgesia improves pain control and lessens oral and intravenous opioid requirements without increased risk of adverse effects compared with epidural analgesia with local anesthetic alone.     

Comparison of the efficacy of dexmedetomidine,ketamine, and a mixture of both for pediatric MRI sedation

AimTo compare the efficacy of intramuscular ketamine, dexmedetomidine, and a mixture of both for pediatric MRI sedation.Subjects and methodsOne-hundred and sixty-two children with ASA physical I–II were enrolled in a double-blind comparative study and assigned into three equal groups for sedation. Group D, patients received IM dexmedetomidine 3 μg/kg. Group K, patients received IM ketamine 4 mg/kg. Group DK, patients received a combination of IM dexmedetomidine 1.5 μg/kg and ketamine 2 mg/kg. Primary outcomes included incidence of failed sedation and the requirement of midazolam supplementation. Secondary outcomes were time to sedation, duration of sedation, and discharge time.ResultsThe onset of satisfactory sedation was significantly shorter in the DK group in comparison with the D group (4.8 ± 1.6 vs. 16.8 ± 4.5 min), while no significant difference between the DK group and K group. The duration of sedation was significantly less in the DK group in comparison with the K group, and the discharge time was significantly less in the DK group in comparison with the D and K groups. The sedation failure rate was significantly lower in the DK group (5.6%) in comparison with the K group (22.2%) and the D group (27.8%). The use of rescue midazolam was significantly less in the DK group (0.03 ± 0.12 mg) in comparison with the K and D groups (0.21 ± 0.41 mg, 0.24 ± 0.41 mg, respectively). None of the patients experienced episodes of hypotension or bradycardia in the DK and K groups while four patients (7.4%) experienced episodes of hypotension and five patients (9.3%) experienced episodes of bradycardia in the D group.ConclusionIn pediatric MRI sedation, the combination of IM dexmedetomidine and ketamine was superior to either IM dexmedetomidine or ketamine given individually with regard to the onset of sedation, the sedation failure rate, and hemodynamic stability.     

Efficacy of preoperative melatonin versus pregabalin on perioperative anxiety and postoperative pain in gynecological surgeries

BackgroundWe compared the efficacy of melatonin and pregabalin on perioperative anxiety and postoperative pain in patients undergoing laparoscopic gynecological surgeries.MethodsIn this randomized double-blind study, 40 patients, 25–35 yr undergoing gynecological surgeries were divided into 2 equal groups to receive either melatonin capsule 6 mg (Group M), or pregabalin capsule 150 mg (Group P) 1 h before induction of general anesthesia. Our primary outcome was preoperative acute anxiety level 1 h after drug administration, 1, 6, and 12 h after operation. The secondary outcomes were postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, analgesic consumption, sedation level using the inverted observer’s assessment of alertness/sedation scale (OAA/S) scale, and incidence of adverse effects.ResultsThe anxiety scores decreased significantly >50% after premedication in both groups compared to baseline values (p < 0.01) with no statistically significant difference between the two groups (30.4 ± 4.5 in group M versus 31.7 ± 4.2 in group P, p > 0.05). Postoperative VAS for pain, time for first analgesic demand and number of patients requiring postoperative analgesia did not differ between groups, and the sedation score was higher in melatonin group compared to pregabalin group 1 h after drug (3.45 ± 0.7 versus 1.95 ± 0.6, p < 0.001, respectively) and at all the subsequent readings postoperatively with equal incidence of adverse effects in both groups.ConclusionOral melatonin 6 mg or pregabalin 150 mg administered 1 h before operation had reduced perioperative anxiety and postoperative pain in patients undergoing gynecological surgeries, without untoward sedative effects in the pregabalin group compared to melatonin group.     

Preoperative paracetamol infusion reduces sevoflurane consumption during thyroidectomy under general anesthesia with spectral entropy monitoring

BackgroundIntravenous (IV) paracetamol has a significant opioid-sparing effect. We investigated the effect of paracetamol infusion on sevoflurane consumption during entropy monitored general anesthesia.MethodsSixty-two ASA I and II patients undergoing thyroidectomy under general anesthesia were included in a prospective, randomized, double-blind and placebo controlled study. The patients were randomized to receive a slow infusion of either 1 g paracetamol (paracetamol group, n = 31) or saline (control group, n = 31) just before induction of anesthesia. Sevoflurane concentration was titrated to keep the state entropy value between 40 and 50. End-tidal sevoflurane concentration, sevoflurane consumption, recovery characteristics, time to first analgesic request and meperidine consumption during the first 6 postoperative hours were recorded.ResultsThe mean ± SD estimated sevoflurane consumption was significantly lower in the paracetamol treated patients (36.2 ± 15 vs 44.9 ± 13.9 ml, in the control group; p = 0.021). Patients receiving paracetamol had a faster post-anesthetic recovery profile (extubation time, time to eye opening to command and time to state name and mention his/her home address) than the other group (p < 0.05). Mean ± SD time to first analgesic request was significantly prolonged in paracetamol group compared to control group (48.4 ± 14.0 vs 40.7 ± 11.5 min, respectively; p = 0.021). Meperidine consumption was higher in control group than in paracetamol group (28.7 ± 10.2 vs 23.1 ± 9.0 mg, respectively; p = 0.025).ConclusionPreoperative IV paracetamol infusion improved consumption and emergence from entropy monitored sevoflurane anesthesia with enhancement of the early postoperative analgesia.     

Single dose spinal analgesia: Is it a good alternative to epidural analgesia in controlling labour pain?

ObjectivesRegional anaesthesia is considered the optimal technique for obstetric patients; nevertheless, the optimal method of regional anaesthesia for delivery remains to be determined. In our study we investigate the safety, efficacy and cost benefits of single-dose spinal analgesia in comparison with epidural analgesia during labour.Study designIn our study women in advanced labour were randomly allocated into two equal groups using a computer-generated randomization table, one group (spinal group = S group) were given 3.75 mg hyperbaric bupivacaine +25 μg fentanyl with 0.75 ml saline, the other group (Epidural group = E group) were given 4 ml bupivacaine with 4 ml saline and 1 ml (50 μg) fentanyl pain intensity was recorded by the parturient on a visual analogue scale. The quality of pain relief was also rated with a verbal score directly after delivery. Side effects, such as hypotension, Pruritus, sedation, nausea and motor block were noted. Obstetric parameters were followed and recorded, Apgar score were noted, and all the results were compared in the two groups.ResultsOnset of sensory block (detected by pin-prick test) was early (4.4 ± 1.5 min vs 12.5 ± 2.3 min, p < 0.001) and duration of sensory block was longer (120.4 ± 15.6 vs 103.2 ± 18.3 min, p < 0.001) in S group compared to E group, time to reach maximum dermatome level of sensory block (T₁₀) was shorter in S than E group (8.3 ± 2.4 min vs 22.4 ± 5.7 min, p < 0.001), two segment regression occur late in S group compared to E group(75.6 ± 12.5 min vs 66.3 ± 9.4 min, p < 0.001). Visual analogue scores after 5, 15, 30, 60, 90, 120 and 150 min were lower in S group compared to E group, all the previous result is statically significant (p < 0.001). 88% of the parturients in S group vs 60% in E group scored the analgesic quality as excellent, the mean duration of analgesia (Mean ± SD) was longer in S group compared to E group. 8% of parturients in S group vs 14% of parturients in E group had hypotension. Motor block, sedation and nausea were 2–6% in both groups. Pruritus was seen in 60% in E group vs 25% in spinal one. No caesarean section was performed. Vacuum extraction was done in 15% vs 25% among S group and E group respectively. Oxytocin augmentation was needed in 48% vs 62% of the parturients among S group and E group respectively. Faetal heart rate disturbances following the spinal block were seen in 2 cases. Apgar score were high and no neonate had Apgar score <7 in both group. The overall cost was lower in S group compared to E group.ConclusionsBased on the results of our study we concluded that single dose spinal analgesia is a good alternative to epidural analgesia in controlling labour pain i.e. spinal compared to epidural is more easy performed, faster, less expensive, and provide effective analgesia.     

Chronobiology of parturients receiving neuraxial labour analgesia with ropivacaine and fentanyl: a prospective cohort study

BackgroundThe circadian variation in biologic rhythm has been known to affect labour pain. The duration of action of ropivacaine or fentanyl used in treatment of labour pain has been demonstrated to vary with different times of the day. The aim of this study is to find whether the need for epidural supplementation for breakthrough pain is significantly affected by the time of day, in patients who are on a continuous epidural infusion of these drugs.MethodsIn this prospective cohort study, parturients with spontaneous onset of labour were given a combined spinal-epidural technique with spinal ropivacaine 2 mg + fentanyl 15 μg followed by an epidural infusion of ropivacaine 0.1–0.125% with fentanyl 2 μg/mL at 10 mL/hour. A total of 1657 patients were divided into four groups: (1) morning: analgesia request: 7:01 to 13:00, delivery before 19:00; (2) afternoon: analgesia request: 13:01 to 19:00, delivery before 1:00; (3) evening: analgesia request: 19:01 to 1:00, delivery before 7:00 and (4) night: analgesia request: 1:00 to 7:00, delivery before 13:00. Pain scores before epidural analgesia, need for additional epidural supplementation, side effects and patient satisfaction scores were compared between the groups.ResultsThe pain scores before epidural analgesia were significantly higher in evening and night groups than in morning and afternoon groups (6.95 ± 2.4, 7.38 ± 2.2 compared to 6.67 ± 2.5, 6.49 ± 2.7 respectively, P < 0.001). Incidence of breakthrough pain, side effects and parturient satisfaction scores were not significantly different between groups.ConclusionParturients with labour onset and neuraxial analgesia request in the evening and night experienced higher pain scores. However, no significant differences in the incidence of breakthrough pain or the quality of analgesia were observed with the provision of commonly used concentrations of ropivacaine with fentanyl via continuous epidural infusion.     

Clinical relevance of diffusion tensor imaging parameters in lumbar disco-radicular conflict

PurposeTo measure the fractional anisotropy (FA) and the mean diffusivity (MD) values of L4, L5 and S1 nerve roots using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and to correlate them with four different clinical patterns.Patients and methodsFifty-six human participants were prospectively included and divided between four groups: healthy subjects, patients with clinical symptomatic nerve root pain with and without anatomical discoradicular conflict and patients with incidental anatomical discoradicular conflict seen on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI protocol included anatomical sequences (sagittal T1- and T2-weighted, axial T2-weighted) and a 25 directions DTI sequence. FA and MD values were measured in consensus by two readers and compared between the four groups.ResultsMean FA and MD values were significantly different for patients with clinically symptomatic nerve root pain (n = 27) both with (n = 16) (FA = 0.187 ± 0.015; MD = 510 ± 40) and without (n = 11) (FA = 0.193 ± 0.011; MD = 490 ± 30.5) anatomical discoradicular conflict compared to healthy subjects (n = 29) (FA = 0.221 ± 0.011; MD = 460.9 ± 35.5) including 2 subjects with incidental anatomical discoradicular conflict (FA = 0.211 ± 0.013; MD = 450.8 ± 41.2) on MRI (P = 0.003).ConclusionMeasurement of FA and MD values of L4, L5 and S1 nerve roots using DTI could be useful in lumbar nerve root pain assessment. Further studies with different image processing methods are needed.     

Intrathecal morphine 100 and 200 μg for post-cesarean delivery analgesia: a trade-off between analgesic efficacy and side effects

IntroductionIntrathecal morphine is highly effective for post-cesarean analgesia; however, the optimal dose is yet to be established. The aim of this study was to compare analgesia and side effects after a change in institutional practice to give 200 μg rather than 100 μg.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective chart review of 241 patients who had an elective cesarean delivery and received either 100 or 200 μg of intrathecal morphine. The primary outcome variables were mean and peak verbal pain scores (0–10) and analgesic use (milligram-morphine equivalents). Postoperative administration of antiemetics, antipruritics and episodes of nausea or vomiting were recorded. Data are reported as mean ± SD or percentages with P < 0.05 considered statistically significant.ResultsWomen receiving intrathecal morphine 200 μg had lower pain scores and opioid use compared with morphine 100 μg. Mean verbal pain scores were 1.6 ± 1.1 versus 2.0 ± 1.1 (P = 0.01) and peak verbal pain scores were 4.9 ± 2.0 versus 5.6 ± 1.8, respectively (P = 0.008). The group receiving 200 μg used less opioids in the first 24 h after surgery (44 ± 35 versus 54 ± 35 milligram-morphine equivalents, respectively, P = 0.04) and received less intravenous opioids (18% versus 30%, P = 0.02). However, women receiving intrathecal morphine 200 μg had more nausea (mean number of episodes of nausea 1.9 ± 1.3 versus 1.6 ± 1.3, P = 0.037) and used more antiemetics (52% versus 24%, P < 0.0001).ConclusionsIntrathecal morphine 200 μg provided better analgesia but with more nausea compared with morphine 100 μg. Our results can be used to help guide intrathecal morphine dosing in cesarean delivery based on patient preference for analgesia versus side effects.     

Adjuvant alpha adrenergic blockers: Are they equally efficient for renal and upper ureteral calculi disintegrated by shock wave lithotripsy?

ObjectivesTo evaluate the effects of tamsulosin on stone clearance and analgesic requirements after shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) for solitary renal and upper ureteral calculi.Patients and methodsA prospective randomized placebo controlled study was carried out on 126 patients who underwent SWL for solitary radio-opaque renal or upper ureteral calculi ≤20 mm. Patients were randomized into two groups receiving either 0.4 mg of tamsulosin (GT) or placebo (GP). SWL was performed 3-weekly until patients became stone-free or for a maximum of 3 months. Analgesics were used on demand and pain was evaluated by a visual pain scale.ResultsRenal stones represented 55.6% and 66.7% for GT and GP, respectively (p = 0.27). Mean renal and ureteral stone size were (12.3 ± 1.8 mm vs. 11.5 ± 2.3 mm, p = 0.14) and (9.7 ± 2.6 mm vs. 8.6 ± 1.7 mm, p = 0.1) for the GT and GP, respectively. GT required fewer SWL sessions for ureteral (1.2 vs. 1.6, p = 0.02) and renal stones (1.8 vs. 2.3, p = 0.08). Stone-free rate (SFR) was higher in GT for upper ureteral stones (96.4% vs. 66.7%, p = 0.01) and renal pelvis stones at a cutoff size >10 mm (p = 0.01). The mean time of stone clearance was significantly lower in GT (4.2 ± 1.9 weeks vs. 7.5 ± 2.3 weeks, p = 0.001) for ureteral stones. Attacks of renal colic were more frequent in GP (82.5% vs. 44.4%, p = 0.04) with increased demand for analgesia (p = 0.04). Steinstrasse was recorded in 3 and 7 patients of the GT and GP, respectively (p = 0.32).ConclusionTamsulosin facilitates clearance of upper ureteral stone fragments after SWL and decreases the analgesic requirements. These effects were not similarly evident for renal stones.     

Evaluation of tonsillectomy before kidney transplantation in patients with IgA nephropathy

The effectiveness of a tonsillectomy before kidney transplantation (KTx) in suppressing the recurrence of IgA nephropathy (IgAN) has never been studied. The aim of this study was to analyze the effectiveness of a preoperative tonsillectomy for preventing IgAN recurrence and to identify predictive risk factors for IgAN recurrence. Of the 462 recipients who underwent a KTx between 2006 and 2011, a total of 78 patients had biopsy-proven IgAN as their primary disease. Among these 78 patients, 28 patients (group 1) underwent a tonsillectomy and 50 patients (group 2) did not undergo a tonsillectomy before KTx. The time to recurrence was 15.5 ± 8.7 months, in group 1 and 20.2 ± 18.6 months in group 2. No significant difference was observed between the two groups (P = 0.63). Using a multivariate Cox regression analysis, ABO incompatible KTx and acute rejection were associated with a lower incidence of recurrence (P = 0.02 and 0.002 respectively). These results suggested that a preoperative tonsillectomy might not affect the recurrence of IgAN during a short-term follow-up period, whereas preoperative desensitization and the use of a higher steroid dose were effective for suppressing the recurrence of IgAN.     

Ultrasound guided transversus abdominis plane block versus local wound infiltration in children undergoing appendectomy: A randomized controlled trial

BackgroundThe transversus abdominis plane block (TAP) has been described for pain management following abdominal surgery in adults, but there are only few reports on its use in pediatrics. The aim of this study was to evaluate the analgesic effect of ultrasound guided TAP block in patients scheduled for open appendectomy versus an active comparator (wound infiltration).MethodsForty-four children aged 4–16 years (ASA 1–2) were enrolled. Patients were randomized into two groups (22 in each). Patients in group (T) were assigned to receive ultrasound guided TAP block using 0.4 ml/kg of bupivacaine 0.25%, and those in group (L) were assigned to receive local infiltration by the surgeon. Maximum pain scores, the time to the first analgesic requirement and the number of analgesic requirements were recorded over 48 h.ResultsThe ultrasound guided TAP block increased the mean time to the first analgesic requirement (10.4 ± 1.5 h) in comparison with the local infiltration group (5.4 ± 1.5). The cumulative number of doses of analgesic was significantly lower in TAP group than in local infiltration group (3.7 ± 1.1 versus 5.3 ± 2.1) and the Pain Scale score was significantly lower in the TAP group over the study period. Besides, there were no complications attributable to the ultrasound guided TAP block.ConclusionUltrasound-guided TAP block with (0.4 ml/kg) 0.25% bupivacaine provides prolonged postoperative analgesia and reduced analgesic use without any clinical side-effects after appendectomy in children.     

Ketamine/propofol versus fentanyl/propofol for sedating obese patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)

ObjectiveThis study was conducted to compare two techniques of sedation for obese patients undergoing ERCP, using either ketofol or fentanyl–propofol as regards propofol consumption, recovery time, patients’ satisfaction, and sedation-related adverse events.Materials and methodsTwo hundred obese patients were randomly allocated to one of two groups; ketamine/propofol (ketofol) group KP (n = 100) or fentanyl/propofol group FP (n = 100). The level of sedation was adjusted to achieve a Ramsay Sedation Scale (RSS) score of 5.ResultsTotal dose of propofol consumed was significantly higher in group FP compared with group KP (97.08 ± 23.31 mg and 57.71 ± 16.97) mg. Recovery time was slightly longer in group KP compared with group FP (11.19 ± 2.59 min and 9.43 ± 1.23 min, respectively), time needed to achieve Aldrete Recovery Scale Score of 9 was comparable in both groups, and sedation-related side effects as hypotension, bradycardia, apnea, and reduction of SpO₂ were more significant in the FP group.In conclusionKetamine/propofol combination 1:4 provided better sedation quality than fentanyl/propofol combination with less side effects and can be safely used for sedating obese patients undergoing ERCP.     

Intraocular pressure changes: the McGrath video laryngoscope vs the Macintosh laryngoscope; a randomized trial

Study ObjectiveTo determine the effects of the McGrath Series 5 video laryngoscope on intraocular pressure (IOP) during laryngoscopy.DesignProspective, randomized, double blind.SettingOperating room.PatientsEighty adult patients of American Society of Anesthesiologist physical status 1 scheduled for nonophthalmic elective surgery under general anesthesia.InterventionsThe endotracheal intubation was provided using McGrath series 5 video laryngoscope in MG group (n = 40) or Macintosh laryngoscope in M group (n = 40).MeasurementsThe IOP of the right and left eyes was measured before and after the laryngoscopic process.Main ResultsThe mean arterial blood pressure values just before laryngoscopy and intubation and after intubation were 77.38 ± 6.18 and 97.38 ± 12.77 in the McGrath video laryngoscope group and 75.85 ± 7.88 and 99.12 ± 14.30 in the Macintosh laryngoscope group, respectively. The IOP values of the left eye after intubation and at the 5th and the 10th minutes in the Macintosh laryngoscope group were found to be significantly higher than those in the McGrath video laryngoscope group (P = .019, P = .019, and P = .007, respectively). In addition, the IOP values of the right eye were found to be higher after intubation and at the 5th and the 10th minutes in the Macintosh laryngoscope group, compared to the McGrath video laryngoscope group (P = .009, P = .021, and P = .011, respectively). The mean IOP values for the left eye just before laryngoscopy and intubation and after intubation were 10.65 ± 2.52 and 15.57 ± 3.62 in the McGrath video laryngoscope group, and for the right eye, they were 10.60 ± 1.64 and 17.17 ± 2.38 in the Macintosh laryngoscope group, respectively.ConclusionThe McGrath Series 5 video laryngoscope may provide a lower IOP level compared to the Macintosh laryngoscope in an otherwise healthy, young patient population.     

Pulmonary effects of bupivacaine,ropivacaine, and levobupivacaine in parturients undergoing spinal anaesthesia for elective caesarean delivery: A randomised controlled study

BackgroundSpinal anaesthesia is the method of choice for elective caesarean delivery, but has been reported to worsen dynamic pulmonary function when using bupivacaine. Similar investigations are lacking for ropivacaine and levobupivacaine. We have therefore compared the pulmonary effects of intrathecal bupivacaine, ropivacaine and levobupivacaine used for caesarean delivery.MethodsForced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in the first second, and peak expiratory flow rate were measured in 48 parturients before and after onset of spinal anaesthesia using either 0.5% bupivacaine 10 mg, 1% ropivacaine 20 mg, or 0.5% levobupivacaine 10 mg. Apgar scores and umbilical arterial pH were recorded.ResultsThe final level of sensory blockade was not different between groups. Forced vital capacity was significantly decreased with bupivacaine (3.6 ± 0.5 L to 3.5 ± 0.4 L, P < 0.05) and ropivacaine (3.2 ± 0.4 L to 3.1 ± 0.5 L, P < 0.05), but not with levobupivacaine (3.6 ± 0.5 L to 3.4 ± 0.6 L). Forced expiratory volume during the first second was not decreased in any group. Peak expiratory flow rate was significantly decreased with ropivacaine (5.5 ± 1.5 L/s to 5.0 ± 1.1 L/s, P < 0.05) and levobupivacaine (from 6.0 ± 1.1 L/s to 5.2 ± 0.9 L/s, P < 0.01). Neonatal vital parameters did not differ between the three groups.ConclusionsDecreases in maternal pulmonary function tests were similar following spinal anaesthesia with bupivacaine, ropivacaine, or levobupivacaine for caesarean delivery. The clinical maternal and neonatal effects of these alterations appeared negligible.