Quadratus lumborum block in pediatric patients - a case series

Abstract

Introduction. The quadratus lumborum block (QLB) was the first interfascial plane block introduced to the Leskovac General Hospital thanks to the Kybele Inc. international teaching program in April 2017. Outlines of cases. During the period from April 2017 to December 2019, 22 pediatric patients underwent various surgical procedures and had the QLB type 1 block as a part of a multimodal perioperative pain management plan. Unilateral QLB was provided for unilateral inguinal hernia repair, orchidopexy, testicular torsion repair, and open appendectomy. Bilateral QLB was provided for laparoscopic appendectomy and cholecystectomy. Decreased use of fentanyl and sevoflurane was noticed in the cases when QLB was performed preoperatively. All the patients had well controlled pain. Conclusion. QLB is a simple and safe technique. Clear sonographic landmarks allow it to be easily performed. QLB has great potential to improve and facilitate postoperative pain management.