Difference In Postoperative Pain Research Articles

Effect of a comfort scale compared with a pain numerical rate scale on opioids consumption in postanaesthesia care unit: the COMFORT study

BackgroundThe way that pain is assessed in the PACU could impact on postoperative pain and analgesic consumption. However, there is currently no evidence to support this speculation. The authors hypothesised that using a comfort scale reduces postoperative opioid consumption when compared with a standard numerical rating scale (NRS) to evaluate pain in the PACU. MethodsIn this cluster-randomised trial, patients were assessed using either a comfort scale (comfort group) or a pain NRS (NRS group). The primary outcome was the opioid consumption in the PACU. The main secondary outcomes were postoperative pain, nausea and vomiting, length of stay in the PACU, and satisfaction. ResultsOf 885 randomised patients, 860 were included in the analysis. Opioid consumption in the PACU was comparable in the comfort and NRS groups (median [interquartile range [IQR] 0 (0–5) vs 0 (0–6); P=0.2436), irrespective of the type of surgical procedure. The majority of patients did not need any postoperative opioid (59% in the comfort group and 56% in the NRS group, P=0.2260). There was no difference in postoperative pain, nausea and vomiting, time to reach an Aldrete score ≥9 after extubation, and global satisfaction. ConclusionsUsing a comfort scale to assess pain in the PACU did not spare any opioid compared with use of a standard NRS. Further studies focusing on patients at risk of increased postoperative opioid consumption are necessary. Clinical trial registrationNCT05234216.

Postoperative pain in oncological patients subjected to nonsurgical root canal treatment: a prospective case-control study.

The purpose of this prospective study was to evaluate the incidence and intensity of postoperative pain in oncological patients with infected teeth subjected to nonsurgical root canal treatment or retreatment. Teeth with apical periodontitis from healthy control patients and oncological patients (n = 70 per group) were root canal treated/retreated and evaluated for the development of postoperative pain. Patients from the two groups were matched for tooth type, gender, clinical manifestation of apical periodontitis, and intervention type. A visual analogue scale (VSA) was used to evaluate the incidence of postoperative pain at 24h, 72h, 7d, and 15d after chemomechanical procedures. Data were statistically analyzed for the incidence and intensity of postoperative pain in the two groups. Preoperative pain occurred in 10% of the individuals and in all these cases pain showed a reduction in intensity or was absent after endodontic intervention at 24-h evaluation. The overall incidence of postoperative pain at 24h was 14% in oncology patients and 30% in controls (p = 0.03). At 72h, the respective corresponding figures were 4% and 8.5% (p > 0.05). At 7 and 15 days, all patients were asymptomatic, irrespective of the group. No significant differences in postoperative pain were found between control and oncological patients. The low incidence of postoperative pain observed in both groups supports the routine use of nonsurgical root canal treatment/retreatment as valid options in oncological patients. Oncological patients had no increased risk of postoperative pain in comparison with control patients.

The effects of tourniquet use in elbow surgery: a retrospective analysis

BackgroundPneumatic tourniquets are frequently employed in extremity surgeries, aiming to enhance intraoperative visibility and minimize blood loss. While their benefits and drawbacks have been extensively studied in lower limb operations, their impact on upper limb procedures, particularly elbow surgery, remains poorly understood. This study investigates the advantages and risks associated with pneumatic tourniquet utilization in elbow surgery. MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on 183 patients who underwent elbow surgery for fractures between January 2019 and September 2023. Patients were categorized into two groups: those who underwent surgery with a tourniquet (WT) and those without a tourniquet (NT). Subgroup analyses were performed based on fracture complexity. Data collected included patient characteristics, tourniquet usage, surgical duration, pre- and postoperative hemoglobin levels, C-reactive protein levels, pain assessments, opioid administration, hospital stay duration, follow-up, complications, and revisions. Statistical analyses were used to identify significant differences and correlations. ResultsThe use of a tourniquet in elbow surgery yielded several notable outcomes. Patients in the WT group experienced significantly shorter surgical durations and hospital stays. Hemoglobin drop was lower in the WT group, indicating reduced blood loss. However, there were no significant differences in postoperative pain, opioid consumption, or complications between the WT and NT groups. Subgroup analysis revealed that the recorded differences, particularly shorter surgical durations, were more pronounced in complex fractures. ConclusionsThis study shows promising results in the use of pneumatic tourniquets in elbow surgery in terms of enhanced efficiency, reduced blood loss, and overall safety, without compromising patient outcomes. However, the potential influence of perioperative decision-making on tourniquet usage underscores the need for further research to elucidate its role and optimize its application, especially in complex elbow fractures.

The effect of bioactive glass-based, bioceramic based and epoxy amine resin based root canal sealers on post-obturation pain: A double blinded randomized controlled trial.

The aim of this study was to compare the effect of two calcium silicate-based and an epoxy resin-based root canal sealers on postoperative pain and analgesic intake following single-visit root canal treatment. Ninety patients with at least one first or second molar tooth diagnosed as symptomatic irreversible pulpitis and symptomatic apical periodontitis were selected and allocated into three groups (n=30) according to the sealer used. Root canals were prepared using Protaper Gold instruments (Dentsply Sirona) in a crown down technique and irrigated with 2.5% NaOCl (Calyx, India) and saline solution. Root canal filling was then accomplished with a single cone obturation technique and treated in a single visit by the same endodontist. Patients were told to use a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) to rate their postoperative pain severity as none, minimal, moderate, or severe after 6 h, 24 h, 48 h, 5 days and 7 days following obturation using the appropriate sealers. The need for analgesic intake was also recorded. The data were statistically analyzed. Results showed a significant difference among the studied groups. Bio-C Sealer Ion+ reported the least pain score followed by Nishika Canal Sealer BG and AH plus sealer at all the time intervals recorded. The intergroup analysis, revealed was a significant difference in postoperative pain at 6 h (p=0.000) and 24 h (p = 0.028), but not at 48 h, 5 day or 7 days (P > 0.05). VAS ratings for all the three groups decreased over time. Also, there were significant differences between the means of analgesic intake among 3 groups (p=0.022). Analgesic intake in group BIO-C Sealer Ion+ is significantly lesser than AH Plus and Nishika Canal Sealer BG group. Calcium silicate-based sealer (Nishika Canal Sealer BG and Bio-C Sealer Ion+) resulted in significantly lower levels of pain as compared to epoxy resin-based sealer (AH Plus) at 6h and 24-h interval, there was no significant difference in postoperative pain occurrence at 48-h, 5 day and 7-day period. The analgesic intake in Bio-C Sealer Ion+ group is significantly lesser than Nishika Canal Sealer BG and AH Plus group.

Post-operative pain in non-surgical root canal treatment after sealer-based obturation versus warm vertical compaction: A randomized clinical trial.

Post-operative pain may occur after non-surgical root canal treatment (NSRCT). The root filling technique and choice of sealer may be contributing factors. This randomized controlled clinical trial compared post-operative pain and analgesics intake after NSRCT using a sealer-based obturation technique (SBO) with single-cone gutta-percha and calcium silicate sealer (CSS) versus a warm-vertical compaction (WVC) technique with gutta-percha and a resin-based sealer (RBS). This study was designed as a parallel-two arm, double-blind, randomized superiority clinical trial registered at www. gov (NCT04753138). Patients referred for NSRCT fulfilling the inclusion criteria participated in this study. Pre-operative periapical radiographs and CBCT scans were taken and numerical rating scale (NRS) pain scores were recorded. Upon completion of canal instrumentation, participants were randomly allocated to either Group SBO: SBO with CSS or Group WVC: Warm-vertical compaction with RBS. Post-operative pain and analgesics intake were recorded at 1, 3 and 7 days after endodontic treatment completion. Non-parametric Mann-Whitney U and Friedman tests and a generalized estimating equation were used to assess differences in pain scores between the groups, within each treatment group at different time points and for correlations, respectively. The study included 195 participants (212 teeth). One participant declined to submit the NRS form. Therefore, 194 participants (211 teeth) were included in the final analysis (99.5% response rate). No statistically significant differences in post-operative pain or analgesic intake existed between the two groups at any time point (p > .05). Age, pre-operative pain, apical diagnosis and post-operative analgesic intake were significantly related to post-operative pain (p < .05). Sealer-based obturation technique with CSS was associated with similar post-operative pain levels and analgesics intake as WVC with RBS. Regarding post-operative pain, SBO with CSSs may be a suitable clinical alternative.

3-Dimensional versus standard 2-D laparoscopy for benign hysterectomy: A randomized clinical trial

ObjectiveOur aim was to evaluate possible short and long-term benefits of 3-dimensional (3-D) compared to 2-dimensional (2-D) laparoscopy for benign hysterectomy.Primary outcomes were long-term quality of life and postoperative pain. Secondary outcomes were operative time, surgical complications, time to return to work and length of hospitalization. Study designA randomized controlled trial conducted at two Danish university hospitals. In each arm, 190 patients were needed for an alpha of 3.3 % and a power of 90 %. For various reasons, however, the study was prematurely terminated after including 97 patients. Patients were randomized to either 2-D (n = 48) or 3-D (n = 49) laparoscopy. A laparoscopic hysterectomy was performed. Quality of life was assessed by the Short Form Health Survey 36 (SF-36) questionnaire at the time of inclusion and 6 weeks postoperatively. Postoperative pain was assessed using a Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) and by monitoring the amount of analgesic consumption. ResultsOut of the 97 randomized patients, 77 patients completed both SF-36 questionnaires. No significant differences in mental (p = 0.5) and physical status (p = 0.9) were found. The 2-D group had significantly higher pain-score registered in the post anesthesia care unit (PACU) (p = 0.004) and higher consumption of oral morphine equivalent dose (MEqD) (p = 0.003) than the 3-D group. This regardless a higher rate of minilaparotomies in the 2D (n = 7) than in the 3D (n = 1) group (p < 0.03). The 2-D group had also higher rate of Clavien-Dindo 2 (CD2) (n = 2) and Clavien-Dindo 3 (CD3) complications (n = 3) (p = 0.03) than 3-D (n = 0). The other secondary outcome parameters did not vary between groups. ConclusionsThe results are severely hampered by the premature termination of the study, as less than 25 percent of the patients were recruited. Thus, no firm conclusions can be drawn regarding the quality of life and many of the secondary outcomes, as the lack of difference may be attributed to a type 2 error. However, the significant differences in postoperative pain and in complication rates suggest a greater advantage of 3-D laparoscopy than originally expected. Despite the methodological problems, the current data deserve attention in a sparsely investigated field, emphasizing the urgent need for further studies.

Postoperative pain score does not correlate with injury severity in isolated tibial plateau fractures.

Appropriate management of acute postoperative pain is critical for patient care and practice management. The purpose of this study was to determine whether postoperative pain score correlates with injury severity in tibial plateau fractures. A retrospective review of prospectively collected data was completed at a single academic level one trauma center. All adult patients treated operatively for tibial plateau fractures who did not have concomitant injuries, previous injury to the ipsilateral tibia or knee joint, compartment syndrome, inadequate follow-up, or perioperative regional anesthesia were included (n = 88). The patients were split into groups based on the AO/OTA fracture classification (B-type vs C-type), energy mechanism, number of surgical approaches, need for temporizing external fixation, and operative time as a proxy for injury severity. The primary outcome measure was the visual analog scale (VAS) pain score (average in the first 24h, highest in the first 24h, two- and six-week postoperative appointments). Psychosocial and comorbid factors that may affect pain were studied and controlled for (history of diabetes, neuropathy, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and previous opioid prescription). Additionally, opioid use in the postoperative period was studied and controlled for (morphine milligram equivalents (MME) administered in the first 24h, discharge MME/day, total discharge MME, and opioid refills). VAS scores were similar between groups at each time point except the two-week postoperative time point. At the two-week postoperative time point, the absolute difference between the groups was 1.3. The groups were significantly different in several injury and surgical variables as expected, but were similar in all demographic, comorbid, and postoperative opioid factors. There was no clinical difference in postoperative pain between AO/OTA 41B and 41C tibial plateau fractures. This supports the idea of providers uncoupling nociception and pain in postoperative patients. Providers should consider minimizing extended opioid use, even in more severe injuries.

Patients' perception of the duration of analgesia provided by intrathecal bupivacaine/morphine after laparoscopic colorectal surgery: a prospective cohort study

PurposeThe addition of intrathecal morphine to general anesthesia for laparoscopic colorectal surgery is an effective method of providing analgesia. However, the analgesia duration of approximately 24 hours poses the risk of rebound pain on the second postoperative day. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the patients' perception on postoperative pain management using the International Pain Outcomes questionnaire on both the first and second postoperative day.MethodsThis prospective single-center cohort study was conducted between November 2020 and March 2021 and included forty patients. The primary outcome was a difference in postoperative pain on the first and second postoperative day. Secondary outcomes included opioid consumption, interference of pain with activities, side effects, and patients’ perception and satisfaction with pain treatment.ResultsThe intensity of postoperative pain did not increase on the second postoperative day NRS [numeric rating scale] 5 (2–7 [0–10]) vs 5 (3–7 [1–10]), p=0.414), but the percentage of time spent in severe pain increased (20% (10-40 [0-90]) vs 30% (20-50 [0-80]), p=0.010). There was no difference in opioid consumption (6 mg (0–12) [0–42] vs 6 mg (0–12) [0–29], p=0.914). Pruritis (NRS 2 (0–6 [0–10]) vs 0 (0–3 [0–8]), p=0.001) and dizziness (NRS 2 (0–7 [0–10]) vs 0 (0–2 [0–9]), p=0.002) decreased on the second postoperative day. Patients reported high satisfaction during the first two days after surgery (NRS 8 (7–9) [0–10] vs 8 (7–9) [0–10], p=0.395).ConclusionIntrathecal morphine is a suitable analgesic modality in laparoscopic colorectal surgery within an enhanced recovery after surgery program, without causing important rebound pain. Pain scores, however, may be further reduced by adding non-opioid analgesics.

Comparison of the therapeutic effect of different anticoagulation regimens after total hip arthroplasty based on enhanced recovery after surgery: A retrospective study

This retrospective study investigated the efficacy and economic outcomes of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), fondaparinux sodium (FPX), and rivaroxaban after total hip arthroplasty (THA) under Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS). The clinical data of patients who underwent primary THA due to hip joint disease in our Hospital from October 2020 to June 2022 were retrospectively collected and analyzed. According to different anticoagulant methods, patients were divided into LMWH group (42 cases), FPX group (24 cases), and Rivaroxaban group (39 cases). Perioperative blood coagulation-related factors, D-dimer, platelet (PLT) changes, blood routine, blood loss, lower limb vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism, and allogeneic blood transfusion were compared among the three groups. There was no statistical significance difference for coagulation indexes and Visual Analog Scale score before the operation among the three groups, but there were statistical significance differences for prothrombin time and international normalized ratio levels at 3 days after the operation. The postoperative drainage volume and blood loss of the three groups were different, but there were no significant differences in intraoperative blood loss, hidden blood loss, total blood loss, blood transfusion rate, DVT incidence rate and Visual Analog Scale score score 3 days after surgery among the three groups. Besides, the treatment cost in the LMWH group was significantly lower than that of the FPX group and the rivaroxaban group. Hence, Based on the ERAS concept, the use of LMWH, FPX, and Rivaroxaban after THA can effectively and safely prevent the occurrence of VTE and has no significant difference in postoperative pain, perioperative blood loss, and coagulation function. However, Rivaroxaban can be taken orally and has more advantages in some pharmacological effects, while LMWH is cheaper.

Bupivacaine Local Infiltration at Trocar Insertion Sites after Gynecologic Laparoscopic Surgery: A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Objective: To compare local infiltration of bupivacaine with placebo for reducing pain at trocar insertion sites after gynecologic laparoscopic surgery (GLS). Materials and Methods: A prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted on women who underwent GLS at Buddhachinaraj Phitsanulok Hospital, Thailand between September 2021 and March 2022. Eighty subjects were included for this trial. Bupivacaine 0.5% 10-mL was infiltrated at each port site after removing the trocars compared with placebo. Pain intensity was evaluated by visual analog scale (VAS) for four pain points including abdominal parietal pain (APP), abdominal visceral pain (AVP), and right and left shoulder pain at 2, 4, 8, 12, and 24 hours postoperatively. Results: There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics between the two groups except for parity. APP and AVP had no significant difference in postoperative pain (mean difference –0.23, 95% CI –0.58 to 0.10, p=0.169 and –0.35, 95% CI -0.72 to 0.02, p=0.063, respectively). Only mild pain, with a VAS of 0 to 2, on both sides of shoulder were found in most participants, which had no significant difference between the two groups. Opioid consumption and adverse events were also not a significant difference. Multivariate analysis showed the APP had no significant difference between the two groups after adjusting confounding factors. However, gynecologic cancer and increased age were the significant factors associated with postoperative pain (mean difference 0.60, 95% CI 0.12 to 1.08, p=0.014 and –0.02, 95% CI –0.04 to –0.01, p=0.010, respectively). Conclusion: Locally infiltrated bupivacaine at trocar insertion sites after GLS did not significantly improve postoperative analgesia. Keywords: Gynecologic laparoscopic surgery; Postoperative analgesia; Bupivacaine

Results of an exploratory survey within ESTS membership in 2022 on current trend of robotic-assisted thoracic surgery and its training perspectives.

Robotic-assisted thoracic surgery (RATS) is increasingly used in our specialty. We surveyed European Society of Thoracic Surgeons membership with the objective to determine current status of robotic thoracic surgery practice including training perspectives. A survey of 17 questions was rolled out with 1 surgeon per unit responses considered as acceptable. A total of 174 responses were obtained; 56% (97) were board-certified thoracic surgeons; 28% (49) were unit heads. Most responses came from Italy (20); 22% (38) had no robot in their institutions, 31% (54) had limited access and only 17% (30) had full access including proctoring. Da Vinci Xi was the commonest system in 56% (96) centres, 25% (41) of them had dual console in all systems, whereas RATS simulator was available only in half (51.18% or 87). Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) was the most commonly adopted surgical approach in 81% of centres (139), followed by thoracotomy in 67% (115) and RATS in 36% (62); 39% spent their training time on robotic simulator for training, 51% on robotic wet/dry lab, which being no significantly different to 46-59% who had training on VATS platform. There was indeed huge overlap between simulator models or varieties usage; 52% (90) reported of robotic surgery not a part of training curriculum with no plans to introduce it in future. Overall, 51.5% (89) responded of VATS experience being helpful in robotic training in view of familiarity with minimally invasive surgery anatomical views and dissection; 71% (124) reported that future thoracic surgeons should be proficient in both VATS and RATS. Half of the respondents found no difference in earlier chest drain removal with either approach (90), 35% (60) reported no difference in postoperative pain and 49% (84) found no difference in hospital stay; 52% (90) observed better lymph node harvest by RATS. Survey concluded on a positive response with at least 71% (123) surgeons recommending to adopt robotics in future.

Sex related difference in postoperative pain and opioid use following posterior spinal fusion for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

PurposeThis project aims to evaluate the relationship between biological sex and postoperative pain and in patients receiving posterior spinal fusion for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.MethodsThis is a retrospective study of patients (n=137) aged 10-17 receiving posterior spinal fusion for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis between 01/2018 and 09/2022. Each patient received surgery by the same pediatric orthopedic surgeon with identical postoperative pain management regimen at a children’s hospital or a tertiary referral center with a pediatric spine program.ResultsThere were no significant differences in any background characteristics between the male and female patients, including age, BMI, number of levels fused, preoperative degree of scoliosis, and length of surgery and anesthesia (p>0.05). There were no differences in amount given of any intraoperative medications, nor in amount of postoperative scheduled analgesics (p>0.05). Female patients demonstrated higher average pain scores on Visual Analogue Scale evaluations during the first 24 hours postoperatively (5.0 vs 3.6, p<0.0001), 24-48 hours postoperatively (4.9 vs 4.0, p=0.03), and at the first physical therapy evaluation (5.3 vs 3.8, p<0.001). These patients received significantly greater amounts of morphine milligram equivalents in the first 24 hours postoperatively (42.2 vs 31.5, p=0.01) and for the hospitalization in total (63.8 vs 51.3, p=0.048). There was no difference in hours until hospital discharge (44.3 vs 42.6, p=0.62) nor until first ambulation (20.1 vs 21.3, p=0.24) between the female and male patients.ConclusionThe influence of biopsychosocial factors on postoperative pain in adolescents is complex. This study adds to the existing pool of literature suggesting differences in pain perception between adolescent female and male patients. Female patients undergoing posterior spinal fusion for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis may benefit from increased preoperative counseling and more aggressive intra- and postoperative pain management regimens.

The Effects of a Laparoscopy by Single-Port Endoscopic Access in Benign Adnexal Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial

To evaluate whether laparoendoscopic single-site surgery (LESS) offers advantages over conventional laparoscopy (CL) in benign adnexal surgery. Randomized controlled study. Gynecology-Obstetrics Unit of the University Hospital of the Conception in Marseille, France. Patients older than 18 years requiring ovarian cystectomy or salpingo-oophorectomy by laparoscopy for symptomatic ovarian cysts requiring benign or prophylactic surgery. In the case of ovarian cysts, premenopausal patients typically undergo a unilateral cystectomy, whereas postmenopausal patients undergo a unilateral or bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy upon a patient's request. In cases requiring prophylactic surgery, a bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy was performed. All participants were randomly assigned to either the LESS or the CL group. Patients in both groups reported similar levels of pain at 24 hours: Simple Numerical Scale was 1.3 (standard deviation, 1.5) in the LESS group vs 1.7 (standard deviation, 1.5) in the CL group (p = .12), and there were no significant differences in postoperative pain at 2 hours, 4 hours, 6 hours, and 7 days. Furthermore, there was no difference in analgesic consumption. Regarding intraoperative criteria, the only difference was the longer operating time in the LESS group than the CL group. We also found that patients' satisfaction with their scar at 1 month may be higher with LESS than with CL. There was no significant difference between the 2 techniques in postoperative pain, although the LESS technique necessitated a longer operative time than the CL technique, while providing better aesthetic result patients.

Effect of patient-controlled analgesia on development of postoperative nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing microvascular decompression: a prospective randomized controlled trial.

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) occurs frequently after microvascular decompression (MVD). Fentanyl, an opioid, is strongly related to the development of PONV, and ketorolac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, has been approved for postoperative pain management. However, how ketorolac-based patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) causes PONV or how its efficacy differs from that of fentanyl-based PCA after MVD is unclear. In this study, the authors compared ketorolac-based with fentanyl-based PCA in terms of the incidence and severity of PONV and analgesia after MVD. This prospective, double-blind, single-center, randomized controlled trial conducted from December 2021 to February 2023 included patients with MVD who were randomly allocated to the ketorolac- or fentanyl-based PCA group postoperatively. The incidence (primary outcome) and severity of PONV and rescue antiemetic requirements were determined during the first 48 hours postoperatively. Additionally, postoperative pain scores, rescue analgesic requirement, PCA usage, and satisfaction scores were assessed during the study period. PONV severity and postoperative pain scores were assessed using an 11-point numeric rating scale (0 = none, 10 = extremely). Satisfaction scores for PONV and pain were determined (0 = very dissatisfied, 10 = very satisfied). Categorical variables were analyzed using the chi-square or Fisher's exact test. Continuous variables were analyzed using the Student t-test or Mann-Whitney U-test based on normal distribution. Of 185 screened patients, 91 were excluded based on predetermined exclusion criteria; 87 patients (43 in the ketorolac group and 44 in the fentanyl group) were analyzed and showed no significant differences in demographic data between groups. PONV incidence (48.8% vs 79.5%, p = 0.003) and severity (p = 0.004) were lower in the ketorolac-based PCA group than in the fentanyl-based PCA group. In the ketorolac group, there was a significant reduction in rescue antiemetic requirements compared with the fentanyl group (p = 0.049). The number of discontinuations was lower in the ketorolac-based PCA group than in the fentanyl-based PCA group (p = 0.001), whereas no significant differences in postoperative pain were found between the two groups. In patients with MVD, ketorolac-based PCA resulted in a decrease in PONV incidence and severity compared with fentanyl-based PCA, with analgesic effects similar to those of fentanyl-based PCA. This study provides clinical evidence that ketorolac-based PCA may be a valid alternative to fentanyl-based PCA in postoperative care.

The Influence of Obesity on Outcomes Following Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 118,331 Patients Internationally.

Given the rising prevalence of obesity, the number of patients with obesity undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (RCR) will likely increase; however, there have been mixed results in the existing literature with regard to the effect of elevated body mass index (BMI) on functional outcomes and complications. The patient-reported outcome measures included the visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, range of motion, and adverse events. Fourteen studies (118,331 patients) were included. There were significant decreases in VAS pain scores for both patients with obesity (mean difference, -3.8 [95% confidence interval (CI), -3.9 to -3.7]; p < 0.001) and patients without obesity (mean difference, -3.2 [95% CI, -3.3 to -3.1]; p < 0.001). There were also significant increases in ASES scores for both patients with obesity (mean difference, 24.3 [95% CI, 22.5 to 26.1]; p < 0.001) and patients without obesity (mean difference, 24.3 [95% CI, 21.4 to 26.0]; p < 0.001). There were also significant increases in ASES scores for both patients with obesity (mean difference, 24.3 [95% CI, 22.5 to 26.1]; p < 0.001) and patients without obesity (mean difference, 24.3 [95% CI, 21.4 to 26.0]; p < 0.001). However, there were no significant differences in final VAS pain scores, ASES scores, or range of motion between the groups. The mean rates of complications were higher among patients with obesity (1.2% ± 1.7%) than among patients without obesity (0.59% ± 0.11%) (p < 0.0001), and the mean rates of postoperative admissions were also higher among patients with obesity (5.9%) than patients without obesity (3.7%) (p < 0.0001). Although the mean rates of reoperation were similar between groups (5.2% ± 2.8% compared with 5.2% ± 4.2%), the meta-analysis revealed lower odds of reoperation in patients without obesity (odds ratio [OR], 0.76 [95% CI, 0.71 to 0.82]). No significant or clinically important differences in postoperative pain, ASES scores, or range of motion were found between patients with and without obesity following arthroscopic RCR. However, populations with obesity had higher rates of complications, postoperative admissions, and reoperation following arthroscopic RCR. Prognostic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Comparison Between Esketamine and Alfentanil for Hysteroscopy: A Prospective, Double-Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial.

This study aimed to establish the 95% effective dose (ED95) of esketamine in combination with propofol for hysteroscopy and then to evaluate its efficacy and safety profile. This prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled trial consisted of two cohorts. In cohort 1, 45 women aged 18-65 years undergoing hysteroscopy were randomly assigned to either group E (esketamine + propofol) or group A (alfentanil + propofol). Dixon's up-and-down method was used to determine the ED95 of esketamine and alfentanil. In cohort 2, 86 patients were randomized to group E and group A, with the calculated ED95 dose of the study drugs used for induction. The success rate of anesthesia using the ED95% dose, along with parameters related to anesthesia induction, recovery, and adverse events were also recorded. The ED95 of esketamine was 0.254 mg/kg (95% CI: 0.214-1.004), while that of alfentanil was 9.121 μg/kg (95% CI: 8.479-13.364). The anesthesia success rate was 93.0% in group E and 95.2% in group A (p = 0.664). After resuscitation, both groups achieved a 100% success rate. The induction time was significantly shorter in group E (60.0 [55.0-70.0] s) compared to group A (67.0 [61.0-79.3] s) (p = 0.006). Group E had lower rates of respiratory depression (p < 0.001), hypoxia (p = 0.006), minimum perioperative SpO2 (p = 0.010), and hypotension (p = 0.001). Esketamine had less effect on respiratory rate, heart rate, mean blood pressure, and end-tidal carbon dioxide compared to alfentanil (all p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in postoperative pain between the two groups. This study determined the ED 95 dose of esketamine for intravenous general anesthesia during hysteroscopy. Esketamine showed less respiratory and hemodynamic depression, as well as fewer adverse effects compared to alfentanil. Esketamine is an ideal anesthetic agent compared to alfentanil for hysteroscopic anesthesia. www.chictr.org.cn, (ChiCTR2300077283); registered November 3, 2023.

Surgical Outcome of Tumescent Versus Non Tumescent Technique for Harvesting Split Skin Graft: A Prospective Cohort Study

Introduction: The technique for harvesting Split-thickness Skin Grafts (STSG) varies among surgeons. To control bleeding from split-thickness skin graft donor sites, the use of several haemostatic agents has been reported. The tumescent technique involves injecting tumescent fluid into the subcutaneous fat, obtaining swelling and firmness (tumescence) of the surgical area. This creates regional anaesthesia of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, allowing painless cutaneous surgery, with adrenaline acts as a haemostatic agent. Aim: To compare the surgical outcomes in terms of blood loss during the harvesting of STSG, postoperative pain experienced by the patient, healing of the donor site, and graft take rate with tumescent versus non tumescent techniques of STSG. Materials and Methods: The present prospective cohort study was conducted in the Department of General Surgery, M S Ramaiah Medical College, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India, from November 2017 to March 2019. A total of 56 patients were enrolled after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria. Patients were alternately assigned into the groups of tumescent or non tumescent technique groups. Intraoperative bleeding was assessed, postoperative pain was assessed using the Visual Analogue Score (VAS), and healing of the donor and recipient sites were assessed. Student’s t-test (two-tailed, independent) was used to find the significance of study parameters on a continuous scale between the two groups. The Chi-square/ Fisher’s-exact test was used to assess the significance of study parameters on a categorical scale between two or more groups. Results: The mean±Standard Deviation (SD) age of patients in the tumescent group was 48.25±12.79 years and in the non tumescent group was 52.79±12.91 years. Intraoperative bleeding ranged from 0-25% in all 28 patients in the tumescent group, while it ranged from 76-100% in all 28 patients in the control group (p-value&lt;0.001). When the authors compared the pain on Postoperative Day (POD) 1 using VAS we observed that 32.1% of cases (n=9) had a score of 5-7 compared to 28.6% of controls (n=8). There was no significant difference in postoperative pain, and the technique used for harvesting STSG did not affect the healing of the donor site or the graft take at the recipient site. Conclusion: The tumescent technique is a safer and better alternative to the non tumescent technique, as intraoperative bleeding is significantly lower with the former. Additionally, the tumescent technique does not affect the healing of the donor or recipient site.

A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Ultrasonography-Guided Needle Aspiration and Surgical Drainage for the Management of Breast Abscess.

Background A breast abscess is a localized collection of inflammatory exudate in breast tissue. It is more common in lactating women. Treatment of the breast abscess is usually by incision and drainage, which is accompanied by extensive trauma, lengthy surgical incisions, psychological distress, surgical scar, and discomfort during dressing changes. Recent research has shown that ultrasonography-guided needle aspiration is an alternative to incision and drainage for breast abscess treatment, has superior cosmetic outcomes, and has fewer costs. However, there are no clear guidelines for the same. The primary objective of this study was to assess and contrast the outcomes and efficacy of two approaches in the treatment of breast abscesses: ultrasonography-guided needle aspiration and conventional incision and drainage. Methods This was a single-center, prospective, randomized, controlled, non-inferiority trial. Patients with breast abscesses were randomized either to receive needle aspiration or incision drainage. Patients with lactational breast abscesses were encouraged to breastfeed from either breast. The antibiotic was given for 10 days to all the patients. The study's main focus was on the primary outcome, which was the failure rate. Additionally, several secondary outcomes were examined, including postoperative pain, time required for healing, presence of residual abscess or recurrence, formation of fistulas, and the assessment of scar appearance. Results A total of 44 patients were randomized to 23 and 21 in each arm. There was no statistical difference in treatment failure (p-value=0.862), fistula formation (p-value=1.00), and recurrence (p-value=1.00). There was a significant statistical difference in healing period (p-value <0.001), scar formation (p-value <0.0001), continuation of breastfeeding (p-value=0.005), and clinical resolution (p-value=0.002). There was a significant reduction in post-intervention pain in the needle aspiration group than in the other group (p-value <0.001). Conclusion This study showed a significant difference in postoperative pain, healing time, the continuation of breastfeeding, and scar formation in the needle aspiration group, favouring minimally invasive treatment for breast abscess. However, due to the small sample size, we could not conclude that ultrasonography-guided needle aspiration of the breast abscess is non-inferior to the conventional incision and drainage.

Effect of Sphenopalatine Ganglion Nerve Block on Bleeding and Pain During and After Rhinoplasty and Septoplasty Surgeries: A Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: The sphenopalatine ganglion nerve block (SPGB) in endoscopic sinus surgeries has been shown to reduce postsurgery narcotic consumption. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effect of SPGB on bleeding and pain during and after rhinoplasty and septoplasty. Methods: This study was conducted as a double-blind, randomized clinical trial and included 30 patients who were scheduled for elective rhinoplasty and septoplasty. All the participants received propofol/remifentanil anesthesia and similar intraoperative care. The patients were divided into 2 groups: The SPGB group, which received 0.5% bupivacaine, and the placebo group, which received normal saline. The study compared the amount of narcotics used during and after the operation, pain levels during and after the operation (at 2, 4, 6, and 24 hours after the operation), and bleeding during the operation between the 2 groups. The surgeon's satisfaction with bleeding control was also recorded at 30, 60, and 90 minutes. Results: In the SPGB group, 86% of the participants had ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) class I, while in the placebo group, 80% had ASA class I. There was no significant difference in postoperative pain between the control and intervention groups (P &gt; 0.05). However, the SPGB group showed a significant decrease in intraoperative pain based on the amount of narcotics received (P &lt; 0.05). According to the Boezaart criterion, the control group had significantly higher rates of severe and moderate bleeding (P &lt; 0.05), whereas the bupivacaine group had a lower total bleeding rate (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusions: The administration of bupivacaine was effective in reducing pain, bleeding, and the need for narcotics during surgery. The SPGB has the potential to decrease bleeding and drug utilization, making it a preferable option for anesthesiologists aiming to minimize the use of anesthetics.

Effect of pre-infusion of hypertonic saline on postoperative delirium in geriatric patients undergoing shoulder arthroscopy: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundNeuroinflammation may be a potential mechanism of postoperative delirium (POD) in geriatric patients, and hypertonic saline (HS) has immunomodulatory properties. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether HS could reduce the incidence of POD in elderly patients and its effect on neutrophil activation and inflammatory cytokine expression.MethodsWe studied the effect of pre-infusion of 4 mL/kg 3% hypertonic saline vs. 4 mL/kg 0.9% normal saline on POD in patients undergoing shoulder arthroscopy in a prospective, randomized, double-blind, controlled trial. Neutrophil surface molecules (CD11b, CD66b and CD64) were analyzed by flow cytometry. Circulating concentrations of inflammatory factors IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and neurological damage factor S100β were assessed by enzyme immunoassay. The Confusion Assessment Method-Chinese Revision (CAM-CR) was applied for the assessment of POD 1–3 days after surgery.ResultsThe incidence of POD in group H was significantly lower than that in group N (7.14% vs 26.83%, P = 0.036). The expression levels of inflammatory cytokines ( IL-6 and TNF-α) and neutrophil surface markers (CD11b and CD66b) were significantly lower in group H than in group N at 24 h after surgery (P = 0.018, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P = 0.024). There were no significant differences in postoperative pain, nausea and vomiting, infection, phlebitis, and patients satisfaction between the two groups.ConclusionPre-infusion of HS can reduce the incidence of POD and the immune-inflammatory response.Trial registrationChinese Clinical Trial Registry (14/4/2022, registration number: ChiCTR2200058681.