Anesthesia Group Research Articles

Wide Awake Surgery Is Safe and Feasible in Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery.

Wide awake local anesthesia no tourniquet (WALANT) techniques are increasingly utilized for hand surgeries in adults, given the clinical benefits to patients, reduced environmental waste during surgery, and lower costs to the health care system. This technique is not widely employed for pediatric hand surgeries given concerns for parental and patient anxiety, noncompliance during surgery, and tolerance of administration of local anesthesia. Select patients undergoing amenable procedures can potentially benefit from this method and enjoy the lower morbidities and costs that adult patients enjoy. It was hypothesized that WALANT technique would be safe, efficient, and feasible in a pediatric cohort. A retrospective chart review of all 223 upper extremity surgeries performed by a single surgeon at a pediatric hospital and its surgery center was performed. Patients aged 7 to 20 years scheduled for local anesthesia without monitored anesthesia care were included. These patients were not instructed to fast before their procedure. Patient demographics, surgical and recovery room times, pain scores, and complications were recorded. Eighty-six patients underwent surgery under local anesthesia and were compared with 76 patients undergoing similar surgeries under general anesthesia. Both soft tissue and bony surgeries were included. The WALANT group had both significantly shorter average length of surgery and time spent in recovery compared with the general anesthesia group, translating into significant cost savings. Lower pain scores and fewer narcotic prescriptions were noted. There were no conversions to any type of monitored anesthesia care, nor cancellations due to inability to tolerate administration of local. No difference in infection rates or other complications were noted between groups. WALANT is safe, efficient, and feasible in a pediatric hospital for a variety of surgeries. Expanding this technique for use in select children allows patients, their families, and the health care system to enjoy the clinical, financial, and environmental benefits of WALANT surgery. Level III-retrospective comparative study.

The genotoxicity effects and oxidative stress of common volatile and injectable anesthesia drugs on peripheral blood during irradiation of BALB/c mice

IntroductionIonizing radiation (IR) is well-known for its genotoxic and cytotoxic effects. Additionally, anesthesia has been shown to cause various side effects, including genotoxicity. This study aims to evaluate the DNA damage and oxidative stress resulting from exposure to both anesthesia and IR. MethodsSeventy BALB/c male mice were divided into 14 identical groups and anesthetized using three different inhalation anesthetics (isoflurane, sevoflurane, and halothane) and three different injectable anesthetics (propofol, ketamine, and thiopental). We also evaluated combinations of these anesthetic drugs with 1 Gy IR. DNA damage in white blood cells was assessed using the alkaline comet assay at 0, 2, and 24 h after treatment. Additionally, oxidative stress in blood samples was measured 6 h post-treatment. ResultsThe percentage of DNA in the tail and fragmented nuclei after 2 and 24 h was significantly higher in the groups given volatile anesthetics compared to the propofol and thiopental groups (P<0.05). Furthermore, oxidative stress levels were also significantly higher in the volatile anesthetic groups (P<0.05). When combined with IR, the volatile anesthetics and ketamine resulted in increased genotoxicity and significantly higher oxidative stress compared to the group exposed only to IR (P<0.05). In contrast, propofol and thiopental did not lead to a significant increase in genotoxicity or oxidative stress compared to the control group (P>0.07). ConclusionCombining volatile anesthetic drugs and ketamine with 1 Gy irradiation resulted in higher levels of toxic effects and oxidative stress, although this combination did not produce a synergistic effect. Additionally, the combination of propofol and thiopental with IR did not show a significant difference compared to the irradiated-only group in both the alkaline comet and oxidative stress assays.

Hypotension after unilateral versus bilateral spinal anaesthesia: A Systematic review with meta-analysis.

Spinal anaesthesia is frequently used in surgical procedures involving the lower abdomen and extremities, however, the occurrence of hypotension remains a common and clinically important adverse effect. Unilateral spinal anaesthesia seems to be a promising approach to minimise this complication but the effectiveness of this remains controversial. A meta-analysis was undertaken to evaluate the superiority of unilateral spinal anaesthesia over bilateral spinal anaesthesia with regard to the incidence of hypotension and other complications. Systematic reviews and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs). PUBMED, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were searched from their inception to 5 March 2024. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing unilateral spinal anaesthesia with bilateral spinal anaesthesia were eligible for inclusion. Observational studies, case reports, case series, and studies not conducted in humans were excluded. The incidence of hypotension, vasopressor requirement, and other complications were compared. Heterogeneity was assessed by subgroup analyses and sensitivity analysis. Twenty-one trials involving 1358 patients undergoing unilateral lower extremity surgery or lower abdominal surgery were included in the meta-analysis. Hyperbaric solutions were used in most trials. The Mantel-Haenszel random-effect model was used for the analysis of binary endpoints, reported as relative risk (RR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). The incidence of hypotension was significantly lower in the unilateral spinal anaesthesia group compared with the bilateral spinal anaesthesia (RR 0.38, 95% CI 0.27 to 0.55; P < 0.001; I2 = 38%). Subgroup analysis shows that the occurrence of hypotension was significantly lower in the unilateral subgroup, regardless of dosage, surgical site, adjuvants to the local anaesthetics, and different definitions of hypotension. Unilateral spinal anaesthesia is associated with a significant reduction in the occurrence of hypotension, despite variations in the definition of hypotension, adjuvants, and site of surgery. These results favour the use of lateral spinal anaesthesia in patients undergoing unilateral lower abdominal or lower limb surgery. However, the GRADE assessment of the quality of evidence was 'low' due to the high risk of bias and heterogeneity. All the results should be treated with caution.

Opioid-free anesthesia for minimally invasive abdominal surgery: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and trial sequential analysis.

Opioid anesthesia is commonly employed in minimally invasive surgeries but is associated with adverse effects, including postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). Opioid-free anesthesia aims to mitigate these issues. We conducted a systematic review, meta-analysis, and trial sequential analysis (TSA) comparing opioid and opioid-free anesthesia in minimally invasive abdominal surgeries. We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, and Embase for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing these approaches. Our primary outcomes were adverse effects (PONV, bradycardia), while secondary outcomes were pain, opioid consumption, and postanesthesia care unit (PACU) length of stay (LOS). We performed a TSA to investigate the conclusiveness of the results. We included 26 RCTs encompassing 2,025 patients, with 1,009 (49%) in the opioid-free anesthesia group. Opioid-free anesthesia reduced PONV significantly (risk ratio, 0.55; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.40 to 0.74; P < 0.001), but we found no significant differences in bradycardia rates. We found nonclinically relevant higher pain scores for opioid anesthesia (mean difference [MD], -0.9; 95% CI, -1.7 to -0.2; P = 0.01) and opioid consumption at 2hr post surgery (MD, -5.4mg oral morphine equivalents; 95% CI, -9.1 to -1.8; P = 0.004). We also noted a reduced time to first analgesia (MD, 88min; 95% CI, 18 to 159; P = 0.01). We found no differences in PACU LOS. The TSA confirmed the sample size's adequacy in showing PONV reduction with opioid-free anesthesia. Opioid-free anesthesia showed a significant reduction in PONV and a decrease in opioid consumption during the first 2hr postoperatively, suggesting it can be an alternative to opioid anesthesia in minimally invasive abdominal surgeries. PROSPERO ( CRD42023492385 ); first submitted 18 December 2023.

Perioperative Pain Observation of Hip Fracture Surgery Patients with Cheek Acupuncture.

The objective of this study is to investigate the impact of cheek acupuncture on perioperative pain in patients with hip fracture. A random number table was utilized to allocate the patients into three distinct cohorts: Only spinal anesthesia was performed (group S), cheek acupuncture was performed before spinal anesthesia (group C), and ultrasound-guided fascia iliaca block was performed before spinal anesthesia (group F). The primary outcome measure was the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score within 24hours post-surgery, as well as the level of beta-endorphin. The secondary outcome measures included intraoperative mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), length of hospital stay, postoperative complications, levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), and degree of motor block. Compared to Group S, patients in group C and group F exhibited significantly lower Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores at the following endpoints: when the patient is positioned in the spinal anesthesia position (T2); 12hours post-surgery (T5); and 24hours post-surgery (T6). And patients in group C and group F demonstrated a decreased beta-endorphin level at the T6. Compared to Group S, patients in group C and group F displayed reduced Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) levels at T2. The application of cheek acupuncture therapy in hip fracture surgery can effectively reduce the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score, enhance perioperative safety, facilitate postoperative recovery, and optimize the overall medical experience for patients. ChiCTR2100043194.

Altieri modified Nesbit corporoplasty for the treatment of penile curvature: Comparison of local anesthesia vs loco-regional anesthesia on the clinical outcomes

Objective: To compare the safety profile and clinical outcomes of Altieri-modified Nesbit corporoplasty using two different anesthesia methods including spinal anesthesia and local anesthesia. Materials and methods: A total of 40 patients with congenital penile curvature (CPC) and Peyronie’s disease (PD) underwent Altieri-modified Nesbit corporoplasty. Group 1 (n = 20) received spinal anesthesia, and Group 2 (n = 20) received local anesthesia. The patients were categorized into age groups (&lt; 30 years, 31-45 years, 46-60 years, and 61-75 years) for analysis. Clinical outcomes, post-operative complications, hospital stay, pain levels, and other parameters were assessed. Results: The results showed that 2 patients (10%) reported postoperative complications, including headache, arterial hypotension, and penile foreskin necrosis from the spinal anesthesia group. Whereas, in the local anesthesia group, 1 patient (5%) reported scar phimosis. Further, post-operative pain was predominantly very mild, with 16 patients (80%) in the spinal anesthesia group and 14 patients (70%) in the local anesthesia group experiencing minimal discomfort. Age did not significantly impact hospital stay, post-operative intestinal disorders, constipation, lower urinary tract symptoms, voiding burning, or dysuria. Conclusions: Spinal anesthesia may lead to more post-operative complications and longer hospital stays compared to local anesthesia. Age does not significantly affect most clinical outcomes but can influence post-operative pain in patients receiving local anesthesia.

Effect of Dural Puncture Epidural Technique on Management of Breakthrough Pain for Parous Women Receiving Labor Analgesia during Induced Labor: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

This study assessed the effectiveness of the dural puncture epidural (DPE) technique in managing breakthrough pain in parous women receiving labor analgesia during induced labor. This single-center retrospective cohort study included term pregnant women with singleton pregnancies who received treatment for breakthrough pain during labor. All participants underwent induced labor, and some parous women among them underwent DPE. The DPE technique consisted of placing an epidural catheter after dural puncture with a 27-gauge spinal needle. Eligible women were allocated into a DPE group and conventional epidural (CE) anesthesia group. Pain was assessed with a numerical rating scale (NRS), and a patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) bolus was administered when the NRS score was ≥3. Breakthrough pain was defined as an NRS score ≥3 during PCEA management. The primary outcome was the efficacy of rescue interventions in managing breakthrough pain, as determined by a reduction in pain intensity to an NRS score <3 before birth. Among the 55 parous women who received labor analgesia, 44 required additional rescue administration for breakthrough pain. Of the remaining women, 23 received DPE and 19 received CE anesthesia. The DPE group experienced significantly more effective relief of breakthrough pain before birth than did the CE group (DPE: 100%; CE: 68.4%; p=0.005). In parous women, DPE anesthesia was more effective than CE anesthesia in providing analgesia for breakthrough pain immediately before delivery during induced labor.

Comparison of the Incidences of Anesthesia-Related Adverse Events in Patients Undergoing Surgery in the Daytime, Care Transition, and After-Hours Period

Background: The timing of surgery might affect anesthesia-related adverse events due to limited personnels, inadequate supervision, and/or lack of equipment, especially after-hours period. Objective: To compare the incidence of adverse anesthesia events in patients undergoing surgery in different periods of the day. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed in adult patients who undergone surgery under anesthesia at Siriraj Hospital in 2020. Patients were randomly selected and categorized into three groups according to the time of anesthesia, Group 1, daytime anesthesia group (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.), Group 2, anesthesia with care transition between the daytime and after-hours period, and Group 3, after-hours anesthesia group (4 p.m. to 8 a.m.). The patients’ demographic data, surgical-related, anesthesia data, and anesthesia-related adverse events were reviewed from the hospital electronic medical records. Analysis was performed to compare the incidence and determine the risk factors associated with adverse anesthesia events. Results: One thousand two hundred patients were included in the present study with 600, 400, and 200 patients in groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The overall incidence of adverse anesthesia events was 5.3% with 6.7%, 3.5%, and 5.0% in groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively (p=0.090). The most common adverse anesthesia event was difficult intubation at 1.5%. The factor found to be significantly associated with anesthesia-related adverse events was the non-operating room anesthesia (OR 5.97, 95% CI 2.94 to 12.13, p&lt;0.001). Conclusion: The present study was unable to demonstrate a significant difference in the incidences of anesthesia-related adverse events among the various anesthesia periods.

Comparison of intrathecal fentanyl as an adjunct in spinal anaesthesia to ultrasound-guided quadratus lumborum block as an effective postoperative analgesia for Caesarean section surgery.

Postoperative pain in patients, if dealt with inadequately, has been a significant cause of morbidity. The present study compared the postoperative analgesic efficacy of intrathecal fentanyl and ultrasound-guided quadratus lumborum block following Caesarean surgery. A prospective randomised controlled study was planned for parturients who underwent Caesarean surgery under spinal anaesthesia. Patients received bupivacaine (10mg) and 25µg of intrathecal fentanyl in the spinal anaesthesia (group intrathecal fentanyl, n = 30) or 20mL of 0.375% ropivacaine bilateral quadratus lumborum block (group quadratus lumborum; n = 30) after surgery. The visual analogue scale score, quality of recovery-15 score and incidence of ill effects were recorded. The postoperative haemodynamic parameters were comparable between the two groups. The visual analogue scale score at different time intervals decreased after the quadratus lumborum block (p < 0.05). The mean global quality of recovery score was better in the quadratus lumborum group (p < 0.001). In the quadratus lumborum group, the mean time to first ambulation was lower than that in the intrathecal fentanyl group (p < 0.05). The requirement for first-rescue analgesia was earlier in the intrathecal fentanyl group (4.67 ± 0.72) than in the quadratus lumborum group (4.92 ± 0.88). Intrathecal fentanyl and quadratus lumborum block had effective postoperative analgesic effects on Caesarean surgery patients. However, the quadratus lumborum block group exhibited better analgesia and early ambulation than the intrathecal fentanyl group, with an improved quality of recovery.

Influence of Anesthesiology Protocol on the Quality of Intraoperative Nerve Monitoring During Thyroid Surgery, One-Year Single Center Experience.

Anesthesia plays a very important role in the successful management of intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM). The aim of our study was to investigate the impact of anesthesia induction and maintenance on the quality of signals during surgeries on the thyroid and parathyroid glands using neuromonitoring. The study included 72 patients who underwent surgery with IONM for one year. All the patients were intubated using a Glidescope videolaryngoscope with a hyperangulated blade. Two different approaches were used to facilitate intubation: succinylcholine-1 mg/kg and rocuronium bromide-0.3 mg/kg. For anesthesia maintenance, total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) or combined anesthesia was used. Patients' body movements during operations, as well as electromyography signals from the vagus and recurrent laryngeal nerves before resection, were recorded as V1 and R1. Intraoperative unwanted movements were recorded in 25% of patients. Undesired movements were more frequently recorded in the TIVA group compared to the combined anesthesia group (p < 0.001) as well as in patients who received succinylcholine compared to patients who received rocuronium bromide (p = 0.028). Type of anesthesia maintenance as well as type of muscle relaxant did not affect the quality of recorded nerve signals. (p = 0.169 and p = 0.894, respectively). The type of muscle relaxant used significantly affects the occurrence of undesirable movements during thyroid surgery with IONM, while the type of anesthesia maintenance did not influence either the quality of the obtained signal or the occurrence of undesirable movements.

Effect of Anesthesia Type on Pain and Hemodynamic Parameters in Cesarean Section Surgery: Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: General and spinal anesthesia are commonly used for cesarean sections, each with implications for both the mother and the fetus. The choice of anesthesia technique depends on various factors. While spinal anesthesia is often preferred for cesarean surgeries due to its well-known benefits, general anesthesia may be chosen in emergency situations. The decision is ultimately based on the safety profile and benefits for both the mother and the fetus. Methods: This clinical trial was conducted at Fatemieh Hospital in Hamadan and involved 60 patients undergoing elective cesarean section. The patients were randomly divided into two groups of 30: One group received spinal anesthesia, and the other group received general anesthesia. Variables such as intraoperative bleeding, the Apgar score of the newborn, postoperative pain, and postoperative systolic and diastolic blood pressure were analyzed and compared between the two groups using SPSS software version 16. Results: The mean age of participants in the spinal and general anesthesia groups was 32 ± 3.5 years and 34 ± 3.4 years, respectively. The results showed that the amount of intraoperative bleeding in the general anesthesia group was higher than in the spinal anesthesia group, but this difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.85, P &lt; 0.05). The Apgar scores at the first and fifth minutes in the spinal anesthesia group were higher than those in the general anesthesia group, but this difference was also not statistically significant (P = 0.32, P &lt; 0.05). Postoperative pain in the spinal anesthesia group was significantly lower than in the general anesthesia group (P = 0.001, P &lt; 0.05). Regarding hemodynamic parameters, systolic blood pressure after the operation was higher in the spinal anesthesia group compared to the general anesthesia group (P &lt; 0.05). Conversely, diastolic blood pressure in the general anesthesia group was higher than in the spinal anesthesia group at all measurement stages, though not statistically significant in some measurements (P &gt; 0.05). Conclusions: The results of our study indicate that spinal anesthesia is a preferable and safer method compared to general anesthesia, based on the parameters examined, particularly in emergency cesarean sections.

Management of adult mechanically ventilated patients: A UK-wide survey.

Mechanical ventilation is a common and often lifesaving intervention that is utilised in intensive care. However, the practices can vary between centres. Through this national survey we aim to gain more information about different strategies adopted across the UK. All adult intensive care units in the UK were approached to participate. The questionnaire was developed with an electronic survey engine and conducted between 09/11/2023 and 01/04/2024 (Survey Monkey®). The survey included questions on ventilator modes, settings, protocols/pathways, rescue strategies, immediate post-extubation period and follow-up. There were 196 responses from 104 hospitals. The most widely adopted start-up ventilation mode was pressure-regulated volume-controlled mode. For acute hypoxaemic respiratory failure (AHRF), most of respondents reported full (39.8%) or partial compliance (58.1%) with the ARDSnet protocol, with PEEP settings being the commonest deviation. Prone positioning (99.0%), followed by recruitment manoeuvres (91.3%) were commonly used rescue measures during AHRF. APRV (55.7%), inhaled (51.3%) and systemic pulmonary vasodilators (44.1%) were also commonly used. Conservative oxygen targets (SaO2 of 88%-92%) were commonly adopted (70.6%). As a care bundle, intermittent ETT cuff pressure monitoring was more common (65.5%) than continuous cuff pressure monitoring (20.0%). Propofol and alfentanil were the most common initial sedative and analgesia (99.5% and 56.9%) respectively. Routine volatile anaesthetic use was rare. Our survey has shown significant variation of practice in common but crucial elements of management of patients receiving mechanical ventilation. We hope the results in our survey highlight potential future areas of research. South-coast Peri-operative Audit and Research Collaborative (SPARC)Severn Trainee Anaesthetic and Critical Care Research group (STAR)Collaborative research in Anaesthesia in the Northeast (CRANE).

Effect of intravenous versus inhaled anesthetics on blood-brain barrier dysfunction and neuroinflammation in elderly patients undergoing major surgery: study protocol of a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundPostoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is one of the major complications after surgery, with devastating clinical outcomes. Although POCD is a condition with a multifactorial pathophysiology, blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction and neuronal injury have been shown to play a critical role, especially in the elderly. Previous studies have demonstrated that the choice of anesthetics affect BBB permeability and neuroinflammation. However, most studies are carried out on animals, with limited research undertaken on humans. Therefore, we will compare the effect of intravenous anesthetics and inhaled anesthetics on BBB dysfunction and the change of inflammatory markers after surgery.MethodsOne hundred and fifty-four patients who are 60 years of age or older undergoing major surgery for more than 2 h will be randomly allocated to two anesthetics groups (intravenous, inhaled) in a 1:1 ratio. In the intravenous anesthetics group (group P), propofol will be infused with a target-controlled infusion (TCI) system throughout the entire surgery. In the inhaled anesthetics group (group G), bolus injection of propofol will be administered for loss of consciousness, and simultaneously sevoflurane will be initiated for the maintenance of anesthesia. The primary outcome is the change in serum S100 calcium binding protein β (S100β) at four time points: before induction of anesthesia, at the end of surgery, 4 h after surgery, postoperative day 1. Secondary outcomes include changes in the inflammatory markers, serum interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and C-reactive protein; the incidence of delirium; and the change in the cognitive function between groups. In patients pre-scheduled for postoperative intensive care unit admission, the cerebrospinal fluid/serum albumin quotient (Qalb) between the two groups will be compared before and after surgery, and change in inflammatory markers in serum and CSF will be analyzed in relation to the Qalb.DiscussionThe current study will compare the effect of intravenous versus inhaled anesthetics on blood-brain barrier permeability and, as a result, the difference in neuroinflammation in elderly patients. Also, the study results will provide additional information to develop intraoperative anesthetic strategies to reduce POCD.Trial registrationThe trial was prospectively registered at Clinical Trials protocol registration with identifier 2310-117-126 on April 9, 2024.

Chronic postoperative pain syndrome and its neuropathic component in long-term period of coronary artery bypass grafting

Background: Along with increased safety and quality of the early postoperative period, 6.9% of patients who undergo sternotomy experience chronic pain at the surgical site. The significance of this issue is underestimated, with a third of these patients developing a neuropathic component of chronic pain syndrome. Aim: To assess the severity of acute and chronic postoperative pain following sternotomy and to identify predictors of the neuropathic component of chronic pain syndrome. Materials and methods: Out of 115patients who underwent elective coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) randomized according to method of anesthesia, two study groups were formed based on the results of a telephone survey: a general anesthesia group (GA, n=28) and a combined anesthesia group (CA, n=34). As part of the posthoc analysis, a logistic regression model was built to predict chronic neuropathic pain syndrome based on gender, age, anesthesia method, and factors assessing the severity of the perioperative period and myocardial impairment. Results: Chronic postoperative pain syndrome was identified in 25.8% of patients, with a neuropathic component confirmed in 19.4% of cases. Pain severity at rest in the GA and CA groups was 2.0 (1.0) and 3.0 (3.0) points on a numeric rating scale one hour after extubation, and 2.0 (2.0) and 2.0 (2.0) points by the end of the first postoperative day (p=0.193 and 0.610, respectively). The logistic regression model achieved an AUROC of 0,82 (95% CI 0,68–0,96) with c2(10)=10.62, p=0.39. Conclusions: Neuropathic pain was diagnosed in 19.4% of patients following CABG. The use of regional anesthesia and the severity of acute pain did not impact the development of neuropathic pain syndrome in the long-term period after surgery. The proposed model for predicting the neuropathic component of chronic pain syndrome after CABG requires further improvement.

Bilateral erector spinae plane block by multiple injection for pain control in pseudomyxoma peritonei surgery: a single-blind randomized controlled trial

ObjectiveCurrently, the primary surgical treatment for pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). The perioperative period is frequently accompanied by severe pain. Erector spinae plane block (ESPB) can enhance analgesia for abdominal surgery. The purpose of this study was to compare the analgesic effects of bilateral multiple-injection ESPB in patients with PMP.MethodsFifty patients with PMP were randomly divided into two groups: the ESPB combined with general anesthesia group (Group E) and the general anesthesia alone group (Group C). Prior to the induction, patients in Group E underwent ESPB at the T7 and T11 levels. The primary outcome was the visual analog scale (VAS) scores during rest at 6 h post-extubation. Secondary outcomes included intraoperative and postoperative opioid consumption, time for first rescue analgesia, frequency distribution of rescue analgesia, incidence of nausea and vomiting, adverse events associated with ESPB.ResultsThe Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores in Group E were significantly lower compared to Group C at immediate post-extubation (1.6 ± 0.9 vs. 2.4 ± 1.2, P = 0.008), and at 2 (1.9 ± 1.2 vs. 3.2 ± 1.1, P < 0.001), 4 (2.4 ± 1.5 vs. 3.7 ± 1.0, P = 0.001), and 6 h (2.7 ± 1.1 vs. 3.8 ± 1.4, P = 0.004) post-extubation during rest. Similarly, the VAS scores in Group E were significantly lower than those in Group C at immediate post-extubation (3.0 ± 1.4 vs. 4.6 ± 1.2, P < 0.001), and at 2 (3.8 ± 1.7 vs. 4.9 ± 1.4, P = 0.019), 4 (3.5 ± 1.3 vs. 5.3 ± 1.5, P < 0.001), and 6 h (3.9 ± 1.8 vs. 4.9 ± 1.3, P = 0.004) post-extubation during movement. In Group E, the intraoperative remifentanil administration (2319.3 ± 1089.5 vs. 2984.6 ± 796.1, P = 0.017) and the amount of rescue analgesia within 2 h post-extubation (0 vs. 4, P = 0.037) were significantly less than in Group C, and the first rescue analgesia time was shorter as well (231.4 ± 147.5 vs. 668.8 ± 416.7, P < 0.001).ConclusionCompared to general anesthesia alone, bilateral multiple-injection ESPB with 0.2% ropivacaine can enhance analgesia and reduce opioid administration in patients with PMP. However, the duration of analgesia with ESPB is relatively short due to the low concentration of the local anesthetic used.Trial registrationChinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2300069504, 20/03/2023.

Comparison of postoperative outcomes after cranial neurosurgery using propofol-based total intravenous anesthesia versus inhalation anesthesia: a nationwide cohort study in South Korea.

We aimed to determine whether propofol-based total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) is associated with mortality and morbidity following cranial neurosurgery compared with inhalation anesthesia. This nationwide, retrospective, population-based cohort study included patients who underwent cranial neurosurgery under general anesthesia between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2021. The two study endpoints were 90-day mortality and postoperative complications. In total, 144,506 adult patients were included: 65,442 patients (45.3%) who received TIVA (TIVA group) and 79,064 (54.7%) who received inhalation anesthesia (inhalation anesthesia group). After propensity score (PS) matching, 97,156 patients (48,578 in each group) were included. The 90-day mortality rates after cranial neurosurgery were 14.0% (6,660 / 48,578) in the TIVA group and 14.2% (6,779 / 48,578) in the inhalation anesthesia group. Moreover, the postoperative complication rates following cranial neurosurgery were 47.1% (22,411 / 48,578) and 50.3% (23,912 / 48,578) in the TIVA and inhalation anesthesia groups, respectively. Based on the logistic regression analysis, TIVA was not associated with 90-day mortality compared with inhalation anesthesia (odds ratio [OR]: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.94, 1.01; P = 0.188) in the PS-matched cohort. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the TIVA group had a 12% (OR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.86, 0.90; P < 0.0.001) lower postoperative complication rate than the inhalation anesthesia group. There was no significant association between the type of anesthesia and postoperative 90-day mortality in patients who underwent cranial neurosurgery in South Korea. However, propofol-based TIVA was associated with a lower incidence of postoperative complications than inhalation anesthesia.

Description of Hypotension in Cesarean Section Patients Under Spinal Anesthesia Using Conventional and Enhanced Recovery after Surgery Methods

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) is a multimodal perioperative management aimed at faster recovery from major surgery, reducing the risk of complications, and shortening the length of stay compared to conventional perioperative methods. Hypotension is a side effect of a cesarean section with spinal anesthesia. This study aims to describe hypotension in patients undergoing cesarean sections with conventional spinal anesthesia methods and the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) method. This study used a quantitative research method with a descriptive design and a cross-sectional approach. The sampling technique was purposive sampling with a total of 40 cesarean section patients, consisting of 20 respondents in the conventional spinal anesthesia group and 20 respondents in the ERAS spinal anesthesia group. Blood pressure measurements were taken before and after spinal anesthesia using a bedside monitor. The data obtained included age and blood pressure, which were analyzed using statistics. The results showed that in the conventional spinal anesthesia group, 15 respondents experienced hypotension (75%), and 5 respondents did not experience hypotension (25%). In the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) spinal anesthesia group, 7 respondents experienced hypotension (35%), and 13 respondents did not experience hypotension (65%).

Application value of opioid-free anesthesia in renal cyst decompression by laparoscopy.

The objective of the study was to analyze the application value of opioid-free anesthesia (OFA) in renal cyst decompression by laparoscopy. A total of 124 patients undergoing renal cyst decompression by laparoscopy in our hospital were selected and divided into opioid anesthesia (OA) and OFA groups (n = 62). Fentanyl and remifentanil were used for anesthesia induction in the OA group, while lidocaine and dexmedetomidine were employed for anesthesia induction in the OFA group. The homeostasis indicators (cortisol [Cor], adrenocorticotropic hormone [ACTH], C-reactive protein [CRP], and interleukin-6 [IL-6]) were also compared 10 min before anesthesia (Ta), at the end of operation (Tb), and 24 h after operation (Tc). At T1-T3, heart rate, mean arterial pressure, mean airway pressure, and partial pressure of end-tidal carbon dioxide were all lower in OFA group than those in OA group (p < 0.05). At Tb-Tc, the levels of Cor, ACTH, CRP, and IL-6 were all higher in both groups than those at Ta (p < 0.05), while they were lower in OFA group than those in OA group (p < 0.05). OFA is more beneficial to the respiratory and circulatory system and homeostasis of patients, and has higher anesthetic safety.

Conscientious Objection and the Anesthesiologist: An Ethical Dilemma.

Conscientious objection is a legally protected right of medical professionals to recuse themselves from patient care activities that conflict with their personal values. Anesthesiology is different from most specialties with respect to conscientious objection in that the focus is to facilitate safe, efficient, and successful performance of procedures by others, rather than to perform the treatment in question. This could give rise to a unique, somewhat indirect ethical tension between the application of conscientious objection and potential infringement upon patient autonomy and well-being. While some situations have clear grounds and precedent for conscientious objection (e.g., abortion, or futile procedures), newer procedures, such as gender-affirming surgery and xenotransplantation, may trigger conscientious objection for complex reasons. This review discusses ethical, legal, and practical aspects of conscientious objection; challenges to anesthesia groups, departments, and healthcare organizations when conscientious objection is invoked by anesthesiologists; and strategies to help mitigate the ethical dilemmas.

Comparison of Total Intravenous Anesthesia with Inhaler Anesthesia in Children Intubated with Remifentanil without Muscle Relaxant

Objective: The effects of remifentanil and muscle relaxant-free intubation as well as total intravenous anesthesia and inhaled anesthesia for tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy in children were compared. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 80 patients who were to undergo tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy between December 2014 and June 2015. Patients were randomized and divided into two groups. In the total intravenous anaesthesia group, 2.5 mg/kg propofol and 2 mcg/kg remifentanil were administered as induction within 90 seconds. In this group, 3 mg/kg/h propofol and 0.5 mcg/kg/min remifentanil were used for maintenance of anesthesia. In the sevoflurane group, 8% sevoflurane and 2 mcg/kg remifentanil were administered as induction within 90 seconds. In this group, 2.5% sevoflurane, 50% nitrogen protoxide and 50% oxygen were used at 6 l/min for maintenance of anesthesia. Results: Peak heart rate and systolic arterial pressure were significantly higher in Group I. Diastolic arterial pressure was significantly higher in Group T at 1 and 2 minutes after intubation and in Group 2 at 10 minutes postoperatively. Mean arterial pressure was higher in Group T at 2 minutes after intubation. In addition, Wong-Baker pain scale and agitation score were significantly higher in Group I. Spontaneous respiration and extubation time were significantly shorter in Group I. There was no difference between the groups in terms of side effects. Conclusion: Group total intravenous anaesthesia was thought to be a better choice in children because it had less impact on postoperative pain, agitation and recovery.