Numerical Rating Pain Score Research Articles

Inattentive Delirium vs. Disorganized Thinking: A New Axis to Subcategorize PACU Delirium.

Background: Assessment of patients for delirium in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) is confounded by the residual effects of the varied anesthetic and analgesic regimens employed during surgery and by the physiological consequences of surgery such as pain. Nevertheless, delirium diagnosed at this early stage has been associated with adverse clinical outcomes. The last decade has seen the emergence of the confusion assessment method-intensive care unit (CAM-ICU) score as a quick practical method of detecting delirium in clinical situations. Nonetheless, this tool has not been specifically designed for use in this immediate postoperative setting.Methods: Patients enrolled in a larger observational study were administered the CAM-ICU delirium screening tool 15 min after the latter of return of responsiveness to command or arrival in the post-anesthesia care unit. Numerical pain rating scores were also recorded. In addition, we reviewed additional behavioral observations suggestive of disordered thinking, such as hallucinations, a non-reactive eyes-open state, or an inability to state a pain score.Results: Two-hundred and twenty-nine patients underwent CAM-ICU testing in PACU. 33 patients (14%) were diagnosed with delirium according to CAM-ICU criteria; 25 of these were inattentive with low arousal, seven were inattentive with high arousal, and one was inattentive and calm and with disordered thinking. Using our extended criteria an additional eleven patients showed signs of disordered thinking. CAM-ICU delirium was associated with increased length of operation (p = 0.028), but a positive CAM-PACU designation was associated with both increased operation length and age (p = 0.003 and 0.010 respectively). Two of the CAM-ICU positive patients with inattention and high arousal reported high pain scores and were not classified as CAM-PACU positive.Conclusion: Disordered thinking is correlated with older patients and longer operations. The sensitivity of the existing CAM-ICU score in diagnosing delirium or disordered thinking in PACU patients is improved by the inclusion of a few extra criteria, namely: patients having perceptual hallucinations, in an unreactive eyes-open state, or who cannot state a pain score. We present this alternative screening tool for use in the post-anesthetic period, which we have named CAM-PACU.

Can Arthroplasty Stem INfluence Outcome? (CASINO): a randomized controlled equivalence trial of 125\xa0mm versus 150\xa0mm Exeter V40 stems in total hip arthroplasty

BackgroundThe use of shorter length femoral stems during total hip arthroplasty has been suggested to accommodate wider patient femoral geometry and offer maximal bone preservation. However, cemented short-stem designs may increase the risk of varus stem malalignment and influence patient outcomes.Methods/DesignCASINO is a multi-centre randomised equivalence trial that will recruit 220 patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty for osteoarthritis at two NHS hospitals in Scotland. Patients will be aged 45–80, undergoing unilateral primary hip arthroplasty, with no plan for contralateral procedure within the study timeframe, and able to comply with the protocol. Participants will be randomised to receive either a short (125 mm) or a standard (150 mm) Exeter V40 stem. The Contemporary acetabular component will be used in all cases. All implants will be cemented.Patient pain, function and satisfaction will be assessed using change from baseline measurement in Oxford Hip Score, Forgotten Joint Score, EQ-5D, pain numerical rating scores, and patient satisfaction questionnaire at baseline and at 1 and 2 years following surgery. Radiographic assessment will evaluate stem position and will be appraised by independent reviewers. Patients will be blind to implant allocation.DiscussionStem length may be associated with outcome; however, we can find no randomised trial in which researchers investigated the effect of stem length on patient outcome following cemented total hip arthroplasty. The aim of this trial is to determine if the use of short cemented stems offers equivalent patient outcomes to those achieved following surgery with standard length stems.Trial registrationInternational Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number, ISRCTN13154542, Registered on 30 June 2017.

Sublingual sufentanil tablet system Zalviso\xae for postoperative analgesia after knee replacement in fast track surgery: a pilot observational study

BackgroundCurrently many TKA protocols rely on multimodal analgesic protocols with patient-controlled analgesia systems that administer opioids through a patient controlled IV infusion pump, in addition to concomitant peripheral nerve blocks and local anesthetics. Although effective, PCA IV opioids do not provide optimal results with fast track rehabilitation protocols.MethodsThe present is a retrospective study comparing the novel sublingual sufentanil PCA system (SSTS) to our standard of care foreseeing continuous femoral nerve block (cFNB) within a multimodal analgesic in a TKA fast-track protocol. The study evaluated 95 patients on SSTS (SSTS group) and 87 on cFNB (cFNB/control group) and collected data on numeric rating scores for pain from day 1–3 after surgery (T1, T2, T3), both at rest (NRS) and during movement (mNRS), patient’s ability to walk, need for supplementary analgesia (rescue dose), occurrence of adverse effects, length of hospital stay, and usability rating for SSTS by both patients and hospital staff.ResultsNRS at rest was lower in the cFNB than in the SSTS group for all 3 days after surgery, whereas mNRS scores were lower in the SSTS group at all time points measured. Adverse effects were significantly fewer among patients of the SSTS group (6% patients) than those of the cFNB (74% patients) (p < 0.001). Rescue doses were needed by 5% of SSTS patients vs 60% of cFNB. The fewer adverse events and lower pain scores for the SSTS group were associated to a notably better ability to ambulate, with all patients (100%) of the SSTS group being able to stand and walk for 10 m from T1 on; patients in the cFNB group showed a slower recovery with only 40% being able to stand and walk on T1, 70% on T2 and 85% on T3. All patients of the SSTS group had a length of stay of 4 days (day of surgery plus 3 after) as foreseen by the fast track protocol, in comparison only 36% of cFNB. Lastly, patient and nursing staff judged SSTS easy to use.ConclusionOur experience suggests that SSTS is a valuable strategy for routine postoperative analgesia following TKA in the context of a multimodal analgesic approach within the fast-track setting.

Treatment of recent onset low back pain with periradicular injections of meloxicam: a randomized, double blind, placebo controlled cross-over study.

Low back pain (LBP) is a common and costly illness. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study tested the hypothesis that periradicular injections of meloxicam would reduce LBP and improve physical activity compared to a saline injection at 3 months follow-up. After IRB approval, 80 consenting patients suffering LBP of <6 months duration were randomly assigned to the control (C-group, N.=40, receiving 10 mL of saline) or the meloxicam (M-group, N.=40, receiving 10 mg in 10 mL saline). If the pain Numeric Rating Score (NRS) at 24 hours remained >50% of the pretreatment score, the patient was crossed-over to the other group. A successful treatment was NRS<3 at 3 months follow-up. Secondary outcome measures which were assessed included work-absence, physical-assistance, physical-activities limitations and pain-related insomnia. The baseline NRS was 9.3 (95% CI: 8.9-9.7) in the C-group and 9.2 (95% CI: 8.8-9.6) in the M-group. At the 24 hours follow-up after the initial treatment, the mean NRS was 6.3 (95% CI: 5.4-7.2) in the C-group vs. 3.5 (95% CI: 2.6-4.4) in the M-group (P<0.05). The number of cross-over cases was significantly higher in the C-group (N.=31, 77.5% vs. N.=5, 12.5%, P<0.001). At the 3 months follow-up, 66 patients (35+31) were allocated in the M-group and 54 (82%) reported NRS Score <3, while only 14 (9+5) patients remained in the C-group and eight patients had NRS<3. Periradicular injection of meloxicam is an effective analgesic treatment for acute/subacute LBP. This novel use of meloxicam also leads to an improvement in the level of physical activity at the 3-month follow-up.

The Effect of Ketamine Infusion in the Treatment of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: a Systemic Review and Meta-analysis.

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a painful debilitating neurological condition that accounts for approximately 1.2% of adult chronic pain population. Ketamine, an NMDA receptor antagonist, is an anesthetic agent that has been used by some pain specialists for CRPS. There is a growing body of clinical evidence to support the use of ketamine in the treatment of neuropathic pain, especially CRPS. This meta-analysis study was aimed to examine the efficacy of ketamine in the treatment of CRPS. A search of Embase, Pubmed, Web of Knowledge, Cochrane, Clinical Trial.gov , and FDA.gov between Jan 1, 1950, and August 1, 2017, was conducted to evaluate ketamine infusion therapy in the treatment of CRPS. We selected randomized clinical trials or cohort studies for meta-analyses. I 2 index estimates were calculated to test for variability and heterogeneity across the included studies. The primary outcome is pain relief. The effect of ketamine treatment for complex regional pain syndrome was assessed by 0-10 scale numerical rating pain score. The secondary outcome is the pain relief event rate, which is defined as the percentage of participants who achieved 30% or higher pain relief in each of the qualified studies. Our meta-analysis results showed that the Ketamine treatment led to a decreased mean of pain score in comparison to the self-controlled baseline (p < 0.000001). However, there is a statistical significance of between-study heterogeneity. The immediate pain relief event rate was 69% (95% confidence interval (CI) 53%, 84%). The pain relief event rate at the 1-3months follow-ups was 58% (95% CI 41%, 75%). The current available studies regarding ketamine infusion for CRPS were reviewed, and meta-analyses were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of ketamine infusion in the treatment of CRPS. Our findings suggested that ketamine infusion can provide clinically effective pain relief in short term for less than 3months. However, because of the high heterogeneity of the included studies and publication bias, additional random controlled trials and standardized multicenter studies are needed to confirm this conclusion. Furthermore, studies are needed to prove long-term efficacy of ketamine infusion in the treatment of CRPS.

Paravertebral block with morphine or dexmedetomidine as adjuvant to bupivacaine for post-operative analgesia in modified radical mastectomy: A prospective, randomised, double-blind study

Background and Aims:General anaesthesia (GA) is the standard technique and paravertebral block (PVB) is suggested as an ideal analgesic in patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy (MRM). This study assessed post-operative analgesic efficacy of morphine or dexmedetomidine as adjuvant to bupivacaine in PVB.Methods:Forty-five women (18–60 years) undergoing MRM ± axillary clearance received PVB with 20 ml bupivacaine 0.25% with morphine 3 mg (Group BM) or dexmedetomidine 1 μg/kg (Group BD) in this prospective, randomised, double-blind study. After confirming the onset of PVB, standardised GA induction sequence was used. Intra-operative consumption of fentanyl and propofol along with postoperative morphine and diclofenac consumption, numerical rating scores (NRS) for pain at rest and on movement, nausea and vomiting scores, sedation scores and time to rescue analgesic were recorded. Chi-square or Fisher's exact test and Kruskal–Wallis followed by Mann–Whitney U-test were applied as applicable.Results:The number of patients requiring morphine during first 2-h post-operatively was significantly lower (P = 0.006) in Group BM. The mean dose of morphine in Group BM (0.84 [2.41] mg) and Group BD (1.70 [1.84] mg) was comparable (P = 0.187). NRS for pain at rest and on movement was significantly lower in Group BM at 2, 6, 12 and 18 h. The duration of analgesia was significantly prolonged in Group BM (1019.8 [422.9] min) than in Group BD (263.7 [194.9] min) (P < 0.001).Conclusion:Morphine is superior adjuvant to bupivacaine in PVB for modified radical mastectomy than dexmedetomidine.

Combined intrarectal lidocaine gel and periprostatic nerve block: A 'balanced' anaesthesia for transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy?

Periprostatic nerve block (PNB) which appears to be the gold standard for pain relief during transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate (TrusP) biopsy has been proven to be lacking in providing satisfactory anaesthesia during transrectal ultrasound (Trus) probe insertion into the anorectum necessitating the addition of another technique to produce a 'balanced' anaesthesia. The aim of this study was to determine whether combined intrarectal lidocaine gel and periprostatic nerve block (cGPNB) will provide adequate anaesthesia at all stages of TrusP compared with caudal block (CB). Data were prospectively collected from patients with indications for TrusP who were randomly assigned to either cGPNB (Group A) or CB (Group B). Comparative analysis of the numerical rating pain score (NRS) between two groups was done after administration of anaesthesia, Trus probe insertion, biopsy needle puncture of the prostate and 1 h after biopsy. There were 56 patients in Group A and 53 in Group B. There was no significant difference in NRS grouping between the two arms of the study after administration of anaesthesia (P = 0.93), biopsy needle puncture of the prostate (P = 0.28) and 1 h after the procedure (P = 0.39). There was no statistically significant difference in the number of patients with no/mild pain between the two arms of the study during probe insertion (P = 0.65). None of the patients in both arms of the study had severe pain. Across Group A and B, 35 (62.5%) versus 40 (75.5%), 20 (35.7%) versus 11 (20.8%) and 1 (1.8%) versus 2 (3.8%) adjudged the procedure as very tolerable, fairly tolerable and intolerable respectively (P = 0.20). All the patients in Group A versus 49 (92.5%) in Group B will choose the same anaesthesia for subsequent biopsies (P = 0.11). cGPNB provides balanced anaesthesia at all stages of TrusP with excellent patient tolerability.

Epidurals in Pancreatic Resection Outcomes (E-PRO) study: protocol for a randomised controlled trial

IntroductionEpidural analgesia provides an important synergistic method of pain control. In addition to reducing perioperative opioid consumption, the deliverance of analgesia into the epidural space, effectively creating a sympathetic blockade,...

Activities performed and treatments conducted before consultation with a spine surgeon: are patients and clinicians following evidence-based clinical practice guidelines?

Background ContextClinical practice guidelines (CPGs) are designed to ensure that evidence-based treatment is easily put into action. Whether patients and clinicians follow these guidelines is equivocal. PurposeThe objectives of this study were to examine how many patients complaining of low back pain (LBP) underwent evidence-based medical interventional treatment in line with CPG recommendations before consultation with a spine surgeon, and to evaluate any associations between adherence to CPG recommendations and baseline factors. Study Design/SettingThis is a cross-sectional cohort analysis at a tertiary care center. Patient SampleA total of 229 patients were referred for surgical consultation for an elective lumbar spinal condition. Outcome MeasuresThe outcome measures include the number of CPG-recommended treatments undertaken by patients at or before the time of referral, the validated pain score, the EuroQol-5D (EQ-5D) health status, and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) score. MethodsQuestionnaires assessing demographic and functional characteristics as well as overall health care use were sent to patients immediately after their referral was received by the surgeon's office. ResultsMedications were the most common modality before consultation (74.2% of patients), of which 46.3% received opioids. The number of medications taken was significantly related to a higher ODI score (R=0.23, p=.0004), a higher pain score (R=0.15, p=.026), and a lower EQ-5D health status (R=−0.15, p=.024). In contrast, a lower pain score (7.2 vs. 7.7, p=.037) and a lower ODI score (26.6 vs. 29.9, p=.0023) were associated with performing adequate amounts of exercise. There was a significant association between lower numbers of treatments received and higher numerical pain rating scores (R=−0.14, p=.035). The majority (61.1%) of patients received two or less forms of treatment. ConclusionsEvidence-based medical interventional treatments for patients with LBP are not being taken advantage of before spine surgery consultation. If more patients were to undertake CPG-endorsed conservative modalities, it may result in fewer unnecessary referrals from primary care physicians, and patients might not deteriorate as much while lingering on long wait lists. Further studies incorporating knowledge translation or health system pathway changes are necessary.

Acute effects of anesthetic lumbar spine injections on temporal spatial parameters of gait in individuals with chronic low back pain: A pilot study

This study examined whether epidural injection-induced anesthesia acutely and positively affected temporal spatial parameters of gait in patients with chronic low back pain (LBP) due to lumbar spinal stenosis. Twenty-five patients (61.7±13.6years) who were obtaining lumbar epidural injections for stenosis-related LBP participated. Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores, Medical Outcomes Short Form (SF-36) scores, 11-point Numerical pain rating (NRSpain) scores, and temporal spatial parameters of walking gait were obtained prior to, and 11-point Numerical pain rating (NRSpain) scores, and temporal spatial parameters of walking gait were obtained after the injection. Gait parameters were measured using an instrumented gait mat. Patients received transforaminal epidural injections in the L1-S1 vertebral range (1% lidocaine, corticosteroid) under fluoroscopic guidance. Patients with post-injection NRSpain ratings of “0” or values greater than “0” were stratified into two groups: 1) full pain relief, or 2) partial pain relief, respectively. Post-injection, 48% (N=12) of patients reported full pain relief. ODI scores were higher in patients with full pain relief (55.3±21.4 versus 33.7 12.8; p=0.008). Post-injection, stride length and step length variability were significantly improved in the patients with full pain relief compared to those with partial pain relief. Effect sizes between full and partial pain relief for walking velocity, step length, swing time, stride and step length variability were medium to large (Cohen’s d>0.50). Patients with LBP can gain immediate gait improvements from complete pain relief from transforaminal epidural anesthetic injections for LBP, which could translate to better stability and lower fall risk.

Continuous transversus abdominis plane block vs intermittent bolus for analgesia after abdominal surgery: a randomized trial

BackgroundContinuous and intermittent bolus techniques of transversus abdominis plane (TAP) blocks have been used for analgesia after abdominal surgery. Although both are effective, there are no studies comparing them. The aim of this study is to compare analgesia and cost-effectiveness between these groups.MethodsAfter obtaining ethical approval, 20 American Society of Anesthesiologists ASA grade I to III patients undergoing elective abdominal surgery were recruited with 10 patients allocated to each arm. Bilateral ultrasound-guided TAP blocks were performed with an initial bolus of 0.5% ropivacaine 20 mL per side, followed by catheter insertion. After surgery, the continuous infusion group received 0.2% ropivacaine 8 mL/hour on each side and the intermittent bolus group received doses of 0.2% ropivacaine 20 mL per side every 8 hours for 48 hours. Both groups received intravenous fentanyl patient-controlled analgesia and regular oral paracetamol. Parameters recorded included numerical rating scores for pain and post-operative analgesic consumption at baseline (time 0) and at 1 hour, 1 day and 2 days post-operatively. The duration of catheter insertion, complications, patient satisfaction and information regarding costs were also recorded. Patient satisfaction was assessed utilizing a 4-point “Likert” scale on day 2 and on day 30. Pain and Likert scores were analysed by non-parametric sum rank test and all two-sampled t-tests assumed unequal variances.ResultsThere was no difference between duration of TAP block, anesthetic and surgical technique and length of stay (p=0.23). Primary outcomes: pain scores at rest and cough were not significantly different (p=0.20) between the groups. Satisfaction scores were similar at day 2 and 30 (p=0.77). However, the bolus group was more cost-effective (AU$347.98 vs AU$429.43).ConclusionContinuous or bolus TAP blocks are effective analgesic techniques in abdominal surgery, with bolus technique being more economical.

Lower Pressure Pain Thresholds in Patellofemoral Pain Patients, Especially in Female Patients: A Cross-Sectional Case-Control Study.

It has been suggested that repeated overload might sensitize nociceptors, causing local hyperalgesia in patients with patellofemoral pain (PFP). This might also lead to generalized hyperalgesia, indicative of altered central pain processing. This study aimed to investigate differences in pressure pain threshold (PPT) as a measure of pressure hyperalgesia between patients with PFP and healthy controls and in predefined subgroups and to study associations between PPT and patient characteristics. Case-control study. Physiotherapy, general practices, and sports medicine practices. Sixty-four patients with PFP and 70 healthy controls. Demographics, pain (numerical rating score), and function (anterior knee pain score) were obtained by questionnaire. The PPT was measured with a handheld dynamometer with algometry tip at the most painful spot of the affected knee (medial facet in controls), the same spot at the contralateral knee, and at the contralateral forearm. Differences between groups were tested using analysis of variance techniques including the variables age, gender, body mass index, and sports participation. Patients had significantly lower PPTs compared with controls at all locations (affected knee: mean difference = -12.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -17.3 to -7.1; contralateral knee: mean difference = -4.7, 95% CI = -10.1 to 0.52; contralateral arm: mean difference = -5.7, 95% CI = -10.5 to -0.8). Both male and female patients demonstrated lower PPTs, though a significant subgroup effect was found for female gender (effect size ranging from 0.73 to 0.98). Local and generalized pressure hyperalgesia, suggesting alterations in both peripheral and central pain processing, were present in patients with PFP, though females with PFP were most likely to suffer from generalized hyperalgesia.

Abstract PR297

Background & Objectives: General anaesthesia (GA) is the standard technique used for breast surgery but is associated with considerable postoperative pain, nausea and vomiting. Paravertebral block (PVB) has been suggested as an ideal alternative to GA for breast surgeries. Benefits include reduction in intraoperative analgesic and anaesthetic requirement, postoperative pain relief and reduction in postoperative nausea and vomiting. We aimed to assess the efficacy of morphine or dexmedetomidine as adjuvant in PVB for postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy. Materials & Methods: Forty five women aged 18-60 years with unilateral carcinoma breast belonging to either ASA-1 or 2 undergoing modified radical mastectomy with or without axillary clearance were randomly assigned into group BM and BD where they received PVB with 20 ml of bupivacaine 0.25% with morphine 3 mg or dexmedetomidine 1 μg/kg, respectively. A standardised GA was induced after confirming the onset of PVB. Patient characteristics, intraoperative consumption of fentanyl and propofol were noted. Postoperatively, numerical rating scores for pain at rest and movement, nausea and vomiting, sedation scores, consumption of morphine, time of administration of first rescue analgesic and the duration of analgesia were recorded. Results: Patient demographics, duration of surgery and anaesthesia, intraoperative consumption of fentanyl and ephedrine were comparable between the two groups. Propofol consumption in group BD was significantly lower [654.35 (217.08) mg vs 822.73 (305.43) mg, p=0.0381]. Numerical rating score for pain at rest and upon movement was significantly lower in group BM at 2, 6, 12 and 18 h postoperatively. The number of patients requiring intravenous morphine during the first 2 h postoperatively was significantly lower (p=0.0061) in group BM. Duration of analgesia was significantly prolonged in group BM [1172.1 (194.4) min] than group BD [501.7 (159.7) min] (p=0.0001). The overall incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting was low and comparable between the two groups. Sedation scores were comparable at all time intervals. Conclusion: Morphine as an adjuvant to bupivacaine in PVB for modified radical mastectomy was more efficacious than dexmedetomidine in providing prolonged postoperative analgesia both at rest and on movement, and also in reducing postoperative analgesic requirement.

Short-Term Results of a Rehabilitation Program for Service Members With Lower Leg Pain and the Evaluation of Patient Characteristics.

Lower leg pain (LLP), including medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS) and chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS), remains a major problem for the military. Evaluation of patient characteristics and short-term results of the rehabilitation program for service members used in the Military Rehabilitation Centre Aardenburg. This retrospective study includes 161 service members of the Netherlands Armed Forces. Service members were grouped into the following diagnostic categories: MTSS (n = 47), conservative treatment of CECS (n = 34), and rehabilitation after operative intervention of the CECS (CECSo; n = 80). The results showed a significant improvement in all groups regarding the Patient-Specific Functional Scale (PSFS). Only the CECSo group showed significant improvement on the Numeric Pain Rating Score (NPRS). None of the patient characteristics like gender, age, military service, duration of symptoms, and treatment setting were identified to correlate with outcome results. Short-term results of the rehabilitation program for service members with LLP are successful as obtained with the PSFS. Evaluation by the NPRS seems insufficient and researchers should consider using other outcome measurements. The CECSo group seems to benefit the most from the rehabilitation program. No patient characteristics could be identified to correlate with outcome results.

A study on diaphragm function after interscalene brachial plexus block using a fixed dose of ropivacaine with different concentrations

To compare the effect of interscalene brachial plexus block (ISBPB) on the incidence of diaphragmatic paralysis, respiratory function and post-operative pain control using same dosage of local anesthetics diluted into two different volume and concentrations. Approved by the Peking University Third Hospital ethics committee, sixty patients undergoing elective arthroscopic shoulder surgery in Peking University Third Hospital from November 2013 to April 2014 were randomly allocated into two groups according to random number table method: before induction of general anesthesia, ultrasound-guided ISBPB was performed using 0.5% ropivacaine 10 ml (Group A) or 0.25% ropivacaine 20 ml (Group B). The incidence of diaphragmatic paralysis, respiratory function and reduction of pulse oxygen saturation at 30 min post-block were recorded and analyzed.Patients were interviewed at 4, 8 and 24 h after block for numerical rating pain score, rescue analgesics requirement and sleep quality. There were no statistically differences between group A and group B for the incidence of diaphragmatic paralysis at 30 min after block (67% vs 70%, χ(2)=0.077, P>0.05). The change of forced vital capacity ((78±16)% vs (80±18)%, t=0.435, P>0.05), the change of forced expiratory volume in 1 second ((85±16)% vs (78±22)%, t=1.472, P>0.05) and the reduction of pulse oxygen saturation (1(0-3)% vs 2(0-3)%, Z=-0.538, P>0.05) showed no significant differences between the two groups at 30 min after block.There were no statistically differences in terms of the numerical rating pain score, rescue analgesics requirement and sleep quality at 4, 8 and 24 h after block (all P>0.05). The use of 0.5% and 0.25% ropivacaine 50 mg for interscalene block provides similar effect on the incidence of diaphragmatic paralysis, changes in respiratory function and postoperative analgesia.

Assessment of liposome bupivacaine infiltration versus continuous femoral nerve block for postsurgical analgesia following total knee arthroplasty: a retrospective cohort study

Objective: Perioperative pain management is an important aspect of recovery from total knee arthroplasty (TKA) because severe pain can delay ambulation and hospital discharge. The objective of this retrospective sequential cohort study was to determine the impact of local infiltration analgesia using liposome bupivacaine (Exparel1) when compared with a continuous femoral nerve block (FNB) following TKA.Methods: This retrospective cohort study included consecutive patients who underwent TKA between April 2011 and April 2014, and received one of three interventions. Study Group A received adductor canal infiltration with bupivacaine HCl and knee infiltration with liposome bupivacaine. Study Group B received adductor canal infiltration with liposome bupivacaine and knee infiltration with liposome bupivacaine. The control group received a continuous FNB with ropivacaine HCl delivered via an elastomeric pump. Numeric pain rating scores (NPRS), distance walked, length of stay (LOS), and dose of narcotic medication were the key efficacy variables of interest.Results: A total of 237 patients were included in this study: 98 in Group A, 34 in Group B, and 105 controls. On postoperative day (POD) 0, mean (standard deviation [SD]) NPRSs were similar between Group A (1.8 [1.7]), Group B (2.7 [1.8]), and the control group (2.3 [2.4]). Significantly (p < 0.05) more patients in Group A (58%) and Group B (44%) walked on POD0 than in the control group (0%); almost all patients walked on POD1. The mean (SD) distance walked was also significantly greater (p < 0.05) on POD1 in Group A (193 [203] feet) and Group B (211 [144] feet) than in the control group (46 [73] feet). Mean (SD) LOS was significantly (p < 0.05) shorter in Group B (2.2 [1.2] days), than in the control group (3.2 [0.7] days) and Group A (3.0 [1.7] days).Conclusions: Local infiltration analgesia using liposome bupivacaine was associated with improved ambulation and shorter LOS following TKA when compared with continuous FNB in this retrospective cohort study.

Exploratory Study for Identifying Systemic Biomarkers that Correlate with Pain Response in Patients with Intervertebral Disc Disorders

Introduction Molecular events that drive disc damage and low back pain (LBP) may precede clinical manifestation of disease onset and can cause detrimental long-term effects such as disability. Biomarkers serve as objective molecular indicators of pathological processes. The goal of this study is to identify systemic biochemical factors as predictors of response to treatment of LBP with epidural steroid injection (ESI). Since inflammation plays a pivotal role in LBP, this pilot study investigates the effect of ESI on systemic levels of 51 inflammatory biochemical factors (cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors) and examines the relationship between biochemical factor levels and pain or disability in patients with disc herniation (DH), or other diagnoses (Other Dx) leading to low back pain, which included spinal stenosis (SS) and degenerative disc disease (DDD). Material and Methods Study participants ( n = 16) were recruited from a Back Pain Management practice. Pain numerical rating score (NRS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and blood samples were collected pre- and at 7 to 10 days post treatment. Samples were assayed for inflammatory mediators using commercial multiplex assays. Mediator levels were compared pre- and post-treatment to investigate the potential correlations between clinical and biochemical outcomes. Results Our results indicate that a single ESI significantly decreased systemic SCGF-β and IL-2 levels and increased levels of MMP3. Improvement in pain in all subjects was correlated with changes in chemokines (MCP-1, MIG), hematopoietic progenitor factors (SCGF-β), and factors that participate in angiogenesis/fibrosis (HGF), nociception (SCF, IFN-a2), and inflammation (IL-6, IL-10, IL-18, TRAIL). Levels of biochemical mediators varied based on diagnosis of LBP, and changes in pain responses and systemic mediators from pre- to post treatment were dependent on the diagnosis cohort. In the DH cohort, levels of IL-17 and VEGF significantly decreased and levels of MMP-3 and MMP-9 significantly increased post treatment. In the Other Dx cohort, levels of IL-2Ra, IL-3 and SCGF-β significantly decreased post treatment. To determine if mediator changes were related to pain, correlations between change in pain scores and change in mediator levels were performed. Conclusion Subjects with DH demonstrated a profile signature that implicated hematopoiesis factors (SCGF-β, GM-CSF) in pain response, while subjects with Other Dx demonstrated a biomarker profile that implicated chemokines (MCP-1, MIG) and angiogenic factors (HGF, VEGF) in pain response. Our findings provide evidence that systemic biochemical factors in patients with LBP vary by diagnosis, and pain response to treatment is associated with a unique profile of biochemical responses in each diagnosis group. Future hypothesis-based studies with larger subject cohorts are warranted to confirm the findings of this pilot exploratory study.

Long-term Results of a Randomized Double-blinded Prospective Trial of a Lightweight (Ultrapro) Versus a Heavyweight Mesh (Prolene) in Laparoscopic Total Extraperitoneal Inguinal Hernia Repair (TULP-trial).

The aim of the randomized clinical trial was to compare the 2 years of clinical outcomes of a lightweight (Ultrapro) vs a heavyweight (Prolene) mesh for laparoscopic total extraperitoneal (TEP) inguinal hernia repair. Lightweight meshes reduce postoperative pain and stiffness in open anterior inguinal hernia repair. The discussion about a similar benefit for laparoscopic repair is ongoing, but concerns exist about higher recurrence rates. Between March 2010 and October 2012, male patients who presented with a primary, reducible unilateral inguinal hernia who underwent day-case TEP repair were eligible. Outcome parameters included chronic pain, recurrence, foreign body feeling, and quality of life scores. During the study period, 950 patients were included. One year postoperatively the presence of relevant pain (Numeric Rating Score 4-10) was significantly higher in the lightweight mesh group (2.9%) compared with the heavyweight mesh group (0.7%) (P = 0.01), and after 2 years this difference remained significant (P = 0.03). There were 4 (0.8%) recurrent hernias in the heavyweight mesh group and 13 (2.7%) in the lightweight group (P = 0.03). No differences in foreign body feeling or quality of life scores were detected. In TEP hernia surgery, there was no benefit of lightweight over heavyweight meshes observed 2 years postoperatively.

Effect of second stage perineal warm compresses on perineal pain and outcome among primiparae

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of second stage perineal warm compresses on perineal pain and outcome among primiparae. A non-randomized controlled clinical trial was utilized at the labor and delivery unit of National Medical Institution in Damanhour, Albehera Governorate, Egypt. Research was carried out from beginning May 2014 till the end of October 2014, with a total of 160 parturients in their second stage of labor. They were equally randomly divided into study (N = 80) and control (N = 80) groups. Four tools were utilized to collect the necessary data. The first tool was a Socio-demographic and clinical data structured interview schedule. The second tool was a Numerical Pain Rating Score (NPRS), to estimate the subjective level of pain intensity. The third tool was a modified Behavioral Pain Scale (BPS), to measure the behavioral responses to pain. The fourth tool was the second stage and perineal outcome assessment tool: to assess duration of the second stage of labor, mode of delivery, need for pain relief during 2nd stage, baby birth weight, perineal condition, degrees of perineal tear and need to repair. The results revealed that perineal pain intensity did statistically significantly decrease among the study group after the intervention ( P = .000). On the other hand, it was slightly increased among the control group after the intervention ( P = .106). There was a statistically significant difference between the study and control groups in favor of the former in relation to perineal tear, vaginal tear, degree of perineal tear and need to repair where P = .000. The study concluded that second stage perineal warm compresses had better effects on perineal pain and perineal outcome. It resulted in less perineal pain and less genital tract trauma as well as decrease needs to repair. Consequently, it is recommended that perineal warm compresses should be incorporated into pain relief and perineal maintaining options available to women during second stage of labor.

Do obese patients have worse outcomes after direct lateral interbody fusion compared to non-obese patients?

Obese patients undergoing lumbar spinal fusion surgery are a challenge to the operating surgeon. Direct lateral interbody fusion (DLIF) has been performed for degenerative disease of the lumbar spine with good outcomes; nevertheless, how obese patients fare compared to non-obese patients after DLIF remains unknown. The primary aim of this study is to compare rates of postoperative complications and long-term outcomes between obese and non-obese patients undergoing DLIF. Sixty-three patients (obese: 29, non-obese: 34) undergoing index DLIF for degenerative disease of the spine between 2010 and 2012 at our institution were retrospectively enrolled. We analyzed data on demographics, postoperative complications, back and leg pain, and functional disability over 2years. Patients completed the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) back and leg pain numerical rating scores before surgery, then at 12 and 24months after surgery. Outcomes and complication rates were compared between the cohorts. The cohorts were similar at baseline. Postoperative complications rates were similar between obese and non-obese patients. There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of durotomy (p=0.91), anterior thigh numbness (p=0.60), cerebrospinal fluid leak (p=0.91), postoperative infection (p=0.37), or bleeding requiring transfusion (p=0.16). No patient experienced a nerve injury or psoas hematoma. Both cohorts had similar 2year improvement in VAS for back pain, leg pain, and ODI. Our study demonstrates that obese and non-obese patients undergoing DLIF have similar complication profiles; hence, a patient’s weight should not be a contraindication to DLIF.