Perioperative Analgesia Research Articles

Supraklavikularni blok sa perineuralnim kateterom kod deteta sa dvostrukim prelomom lakta i podlaktice - prikaz slučaja

Introduction: Ultrasound-guided supraclavicular block with perineural catheter placement has enabled a significant reduction in block-related complications, as well as far better perioperative pain management. Case report: A 9-year-old boy was admitted for a combined forearm/elbow fracture, with a history of laryngitis. As a result, we opted to perform an ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block under procedural sedation, with the placement of a perineural catheter. We used 25 mL of 0,5% Levobupivacaine. Orthopedic repositioning and internal fixation were performed under procedural sedation and the supraclavicular block with monitoring of basic vital parameters. Throughout the procedure, the patient maintained hemodynamic and respiratory stability, and the pain was postoperatively managed with a continuous Levobupivacaine infusion at 0,2-0,5 mg/kg/h. The patient was discharged on the fifth postoperative day. Discussion: Although information is limited regarding peripheral nerve block in the pediatric population their use in adults is well established, as is a higher degree of skill necessary for their administration in children due to clear anatomic nuance. The utilization of peripheral nerve blocks reduces the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting, as well as the use of opioid or nonopioid rescue analgesia. Their benefit is additionally underlined by the fact that adequate postoperative analgesia can reduce exaggerated responses to pain later in life. Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block with placement of a perineural catheter provides safe and effective perioperative analgesia in children with fractures at or below the level of the humerus.

A Comparative Study between Dexmedetomidine, Clonidine and Fentanyl as Adjuvants to Bupivacaine in Ultrasound Guided Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block

Introduction: Supraclavicular brachial block is a popular and widely used nerve block technique for perioperative anesthesia and analgesia for upper extremity surgery. The block is performed at level of distal trunks and the origin of divisions, where the brachial plexus is confined to its smallest surface area, thus producing a rapid and reliable block of the plexus. It is the popular technique of anesthesia for upper limb surgeries due to its effectiveness in terms of performance, cost, margin of safety and good post-operative analgesia. It provides rapid onset, dense upper limb anesthesia with a single injection. Materials and Methods: About 90 patients who underwent elective upper limb Orthopaedics surgery during the period of the study were randomly divided into three equal groups of participants each using a computer-based random number generator, i.e., group C, D and F. They were compared for the onset and duration of motor and sensory block and post operative analgesia. Results: Mean onset of sensory and motor block was minimum for fentanyl (7.13 ± 0.94, 9.77 ± 0.82 minutes) followed by dexmedetomidine (7.37 ± 1.06, 11.33 ± 1.61 minutes) and clonidine (8.73 ± 0.98, 12.23 ± 1.57 minutes). Duration of block amongst the three groups showed statistically significant difference, dexmedetomidine (585.13 ± 44.42, 546.07 ± 42.02 minutes) having maximum duration of sensory and motor block followed by clonidine (535.77 ± 32.11, 507.30 ± 33.59 minutes) and minimum for fentanyl (330.03 ± 44.25, 284.67 ± 59.96 minutes). Conclusion: We concluded that adding fentanyl to bupivacaine for supraclavicular brachial plexus block had a faster onset of sensory and motor blockade when compared to dexmedetomidine and clonidine, and dexmedetomidine prolonged the duration of analgesia when compared with clonidine and fentanyl.

The Influence of Pre-operative Pain and Anxiety on Acute Postoperative Pain in Cardiac Surgery Patients Undergoing Enhanced Recovery after Surgery.

Perioperative multimodal analgesia is an important step in enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) care. Many factors, such as preoperative chronic pain and anxiety, may provide information about the expected postoperative pain. In this study, we evaluated preoperative pain and anxiety and investigate their effects on acute postoperative pain in patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery. After ethics committee approval, 67 consenting patients undergoing on-pump cardiac surgery under the ERAS program were included in our prospective observational study. Pre- and postoperative pain scores were obtained using a numeric rating scale (NRS) at rest and during movement. Preoperative anxiety was assessed on a 0-10 scale, and data were recorded. The relationships between pre-operative pain/anxiety and postoperative pain were evaluated using correlation analysis. In preoperative pain assessment, the percentage of patients with a pain score above 4 with NRS was 1.5%, regardless of whether they were at rest or mobilize. In postoperative pain assessment, there were 20.9% and 34.3% patients with NRS >4 at rest and mobilization, respectively. 7.5% of patients had preoperative anxiety of grade 5 or higher. While preoperative pain was not correlated with postoperative pain, preoperative anxiety had a moderate positive correlation with postoperative pain (r=0.382, P=0.003). The prevalence of preoperative pain in patients who underwent cardiac surgery is quite low and is not associated with postoperative pain. There is also a significant relationship between the severity of preoperative anxiety and postoperative pain.

Posterior quadratus lumborum versus caudal epidural block for perioperative analgesia in pediatric patients undergoing upper abdominal surgeries: Arandomized, double-blind trial

ABSTRACT Background Ultrasound-guided Quadratus Lumborum block (QLB) has become an established modality for perioperative analgesia in lower abdominal surgeries. However, its efficacy in upper abdominal surgeries is still understudied. Objectives The study aimed to determine QLB2 efficacy as a perioperative analgesic modality in upper abdominal surgeries, compared to caudal epidural block (CEB), regarding FLACC score, the time to the first rescue analgesia, the amount of fentanyl consumed intraoperatively, amount of rescue analgesia administered, parents’ satisfaction, as well as the incidence of complications. Study design A randomized, prospective, double-blind, and single-center study. Setting Ain Shams University Hospitals Methods/patients/interventions/measurements Fifty-two pediatric patients scheduled for upper abdominal surgeries under general anesthesia were assigned randomly to undergo CEB or ultrasound guided QLB 2. As assessed by FLACC, postoperative pain scores were the primary outcome. The secondary outcomes included the amount of fentanyl consumed intraoperatively, the time to first rescue analgesia, the amount of rescue analgesia given, parents’ satisfaction, and the incidence of complications. Results The QLB cohort demonstrated decreased FLACC scores than the CEB group. Total fentanyl consumption was significantly lower (33.4 ± 14.9 µg vs. 56.5 ± 17.0 µg, p-value of 0.003), time to first rescue analgesia was more prolonged (14.4 ± 1.3hrs vs. 1.8 ± 1.2 hr, p-value <0.001), and parents’ satisfaction was significantly higher. Postoperative nausea incidence was significantly alleviated (11 (42.3%) vs. 22 (84.6%), p-value 0.002), whereas vomiting was substantially decreased (0 (0.0%) vs. 15 (57.7%), p-value <0.001). Conclusion Perioperative analgesia in pediatric patients can be effectively achieved using QLB type 2. Compared to CEB, it provides more stable hemodynamics, lower FLACC scores, less need for rescue analgesia, and higher parent satisfaction.

A Randomized Clinical Study to Compare the Perioperative Analgesic Efficacy of Ultrasound-Guided Erector Spinae Plane Block Over Thoracic Epidural in Modified Radical Mastectomy.

Aim This study aims to compare the effectivenessof ultrasound-guided erector spinaeblock (ESB) with thoracic epidural (TE) in managing postoperative pain amongbreast cancer (BC) surgery patients. Methods A total of 42 patients wereenrolled and randomly divided into two groups, each comprising 21 participants. Primary endpoints assessed included intraoperative fentanyl consumption, postoperative pain scores,andthe need forrescue analgesia.Secondary endpoints encompassed intraoperative hemodynamic changesand theincidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). Results Thestudy foundno significant difference inintraoperative fentanyl requirement (p=0.62) or postoperative pain scores measured using numerical rating scores (NRS)throughout the 48-hourpostoperative period. None of the patients in eithergrouprequired rescue analgesia.Notably, there was a statistically significant difference in postoperative nausea and vomitingat the two-hour mark, favoringthe erector spinae block. Both groups exhibited comparablehemodynamic changes during intraoperative monitoring. Conclusions Ourinvestigation concludes that theESF offersequivalentanalgesic efficacy to the thoracic epidural duringbothsurgery and thepostoperativeperiod withoutinducing any significant hemodynamic instability. Consideringthe lower complicationrate associated withparaspinal blocks compared to neuraxial blocks,the ESB presents itself as a promising alternative method for effectivepain reliefinmastectomy procedures.

Comparison of intravenous ibuprofen and paracetamol for peri-operative analgesia in paediatric day care tonsillectomy.

To determine the effectiveness of intravenous ibuprofen and acetaminophen as perioperative analgesics in paediatric patients undergoing day- care tonsillectomy with general anaesthesia. The quasi-experimental stud y was conduc ted at the Ana esthe sia D epartment of Pa k Emirates M ilitary Hospital, Rawalpindi , Pak ist an, from July 20 21 to June 2022, and comp rised paediatric pa t ients aged 5-12 yea r s undergoing day- care tonsil lec tomy with gen era l anaesthesia. The sub jec ts were divid ed into two equa l groups. Patients in Group I received intravenous ibuprofen 7mg/kg and patients in Group P received intravenous paracetamol 10mg/kg im media t ely after induction of anaesthesi a. All patients recei ved standard general anaesthesia with endotracheal intubation. The primary outcome measured was revised faces pain score immediately after recovery and at the time of discharge 6 hours later. Adverse events were also noted. Data was analysed using SPSS 26. Of the 100 patients, there were 50(50%) in Group I; 21(42%) boys and 29(58%) girls with mean age 7.82±1.903 years. The remaining 50(50%) subjects were in Group P; 25(50%) boys and 25(50%) girls with mean age 7.68±1.812 years. At baseline, 44(88%) patients in Group I and 42(84%) in Group P reported no pain, while 6(12%) and 8(16%) patients in the two groups, respectively, reported pain (p=0.56). At discharge, 35(70%) patients in Group I and 18(36%) in Group P reported no pain (p<0.001). Adverse events were not significantly different between the groups (p>0.05). I ntravenous ibuprofen was found to b e a superior pain-killer than intravenous paracetamol for perioperative care of paediatric patients in day- care tonsillectomy.

Comparison of Serratus Anterior Plane Block by Anatomical Landmark-Guided Technique Versus Ultrasound-guided Technique for Gynaecomastia Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Breast surgeries are common surgical procedures and postoperative pain after mastectomy is a major concern as inadequate pain relief can result in chronic pain and reduced quality of life. Serratus anterior plane (SAP) block is suitable for perioperative analgesia for gynaecomastia correction surgery. Objectives: To compare postoperative pain relief using the VAS and D-VAS scores between anatomical landmark-guided SAP block and ultrasound-guided SAP block in patients undergoing surgery for gynecomastia correction. Methods: Patients aged 16-40 years, belonging to American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I or II who were scheduled for gynaecomastia correction surgery were randomized and allocated into two groups. Group I (n = 15) patients received 20 ml of 0.25 % bupivacaine solution with 20 μg of Fentanyl by anatomical landmark-guided SAP technique while Group II (n = 15) patients in the control group received same drug using ultrasound-guidance technique. VAS and D-VAS from arrival to post anaesthesia care unit (PACU), then after 30 minutes, and at 1 hour, 2 hours, 6 hours, 12 hours, 18 hours, and 24 hours. Results: Both groups had comparable results in terms of pain scores at different time intervals, duration of analgesia (615 mins vs 706 mins) and need for rescue analgesics. Conclusion: Anatomical landmark-based SAP block technique is comparable to the ultrasound-guided SAP block technique in terms of efficacy and duration of analgesia with lesser complications. The former can serve as an alternative to the latter technique in resource-limited countries.

Molecular mechanisms of electropuncture in cerebrovascular protection during enhanced recovery after surgery period

The core intent of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) is to alleviate the perioperative stress response and postoperative complications through perioperative multimodal analgesia and intensive surgery. Previous studies have demonstrated that multiple molecular mechanisms function in improving ischemic stroke, reversing the process of ischemia reperfusion, relieving intracerebral hemorrhage and traumatic brain injury. Meanwhile, electroacupuncture (EA) has been validated with regard to its efficacy and safety in perioperative treatment, which has an important impact on rehabilitation research and ERAS development. Currently, studies have showed that EA provides a new approach for cerebrovascular protection by activating various molecular mechanisms. In this review, we display the recent progress of main molecular mechanisms of EA in ERAS from the perspectives of protecting cerebrovascular functions, in order to provide guidance for the clinical treatment.

Efficacy of Combined Epidural-General Anaesthesia [CEGA] in Attenuating Hemodynamic Responses to Pneumoperitoneum in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomies: A Prospective Randomised Study

Background: Pnuemoperitonium in laparoscopy is associated with cardiorespiratory changes. Combination of epidural with General anaesthesia (GA) will offer benefit of hemodynamic control and perioperative analgesia. We aimed to study the efficacy of Combined Epidural- General Anaesthesia (CEGA) with pre-emptive activation over general anaesthesia in laparoscopic cholecystectomies.&#x0D; Methods: In this prospective double blind –randomised study, 90 surgical inpatients were studied in two study groups. Group GE-(n=45) received Lumbar Epidural analgesia with ropivacaine 0.2% along with GA and Group G (n=45) received only GA. Heart rate (HR), Mean arterial Pressure (MAP), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), Capnogram (ETCO2), saturation (spo2), VAS score, Ramsay sedation score, requirement of propofol, muscle relaxants and analgesics were studied.&#x0D; Results: Statistical analysis was carried out with SPSS version 20. Statistical value of p&lt;0.05 was considered significant. We noted significant difference in MAP, SBP, DBP, muscle relaxants, Propofol, Fentanyl and lesser pain scores in Group GE than Group G i.e (p&lt;0.001).&#x0D; Conclusion: Combination of epidural and general anaesthesia technique with pre emptive activation has the benefit of better control of hemodynamics .It reduced requirements of analgesics and anaesthetic drugs and had faster recovery with less post operative pain in laparoscopic cholecystectomies.

Comparative effect of preoperative oral pregabalin 50 mg vs. 75 mg on nerve growth factor (NGF) levels in parturients undergoing cesarean section

Background &amp; objectives: Postoperative pain after cesarean section (CS) is a crucial problem faced by the parturients. Pregabalin is a choice of preventive analgesia to reduce neuropathic pain, inflammation, tissue irritation, and post-cesarean section pain. The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of giving pregabalin 50 mg or 75 mg in combination with paracetamol 1 g on nerve growth factor (NGF) levels after cesarean section. &#x0D; Methodology: A prospective, comparative model was used in this study. The study took place at Mother and Children Hospital of Sitti Khadijah I, Makassar, Indonesia. A total of 30 patients who underwent CS were randomly divided into two groups; group P1 who received pregabalin 50 mg orally and 1 g paracetamol intravenously, 1 h before surgery (n = 15), and group P2 who received pregabalin 75 mg orally and 1 g paracetamol intravenously, 1 h before surgery (n = 15). Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) levels were measured 2 h before surgery, and at 4 and 6 h post-surgery. Data were analyzed by the Mann-Whitney test using SPSS 26.0.&#x0D; Results: There was a decrease in NGF levels in the pregabalin 75 mg group at 6 h post-surgery, while in the pregabalin 50 mg group it tended to increase at 4 and 6 h post-surgery. In the pregabalin 50 mg group, there was a significant increase in NGF levels from measurements of NGF1 to NGF2 and NGF0 to NGF2 (P &lt; 0.05), whereas, in the pregabalin 75 mg group, there was a significant decrease in NGF levels from measurements of NGF1 to NGF2 and NGF0 to NGF2 (P &lt; 0.05). &#x0D; Conclusion: The combination of pregabalin 75 mg orally with paracetamol 1 g intravenously is effective as perioperative multimodal analgesia by reducing nerve growth factor levels after cesarean section surgery.&#x0D; Abbreviations: BDNF- brain-derived neurotrophic factor; CS- Cesarean section; GABA- Gamma Amino Butyric Acid; NGF- Nerve Growth Factor&#x0D; Keywords: Cesarean section; Nerve Growth Factor (NGF); Postoperative; Pregabalin&#x0D; Citation: Ahmad MR, Harahap MW, Wirawan NS. Comparison between pregabalin 50 mg and 75 mg on nerve growth factor (NGF) levels after cesarean section. Anaesth. pain intensive care 2022;27(6):721−725; DOI: 10.35975/apic.v27i6.2159&#x0D; Received: February 20, 2923; Revised: July 11,2023; Accepted: October 29, 2023

Preemptive deep parasternal intercostal plane block for perioperative analgesia in coronary artery bypass grafting with sternotomy: a randomized, observer-blind, controlled study

Objective The precise characteristics of deep parasternal intercostal plane block (DPIP), which is useful for providing analgesia during open heart surgery, have not yet been thoroughly elucidated. In this study, we aimed to establish the efficacy, define the cutaneous sensory block area, and determine the duration of preemptive DPIP block at the T3-4 or T4-5 intercostal spaces in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) via sternotomy. Design A prospective, single-blind, randomized controlled trial. Setting Patients were randomly divided into three cohorts, each containing thirty patients. Participants Ninety patients who underwent elective CABG via sternotomy were included in this study. Interventions The T3-4 and T4-5 groups received a preoperative single-shot DPIP block at the respective intercostal spaces. The principal objective of the study was to ascertain the optimal dosage of sufentanil administered during surgical procedures involving either a DPIP block or its absence, and to conduct a comparative analysis thereof across distinct injection sites, specifically T3-4 and T4-5. Secondary factors considered were the dosage of postoperative analgesics, the extent of sensory block on the skin, pain levels after extubation, time of recovery from anesthesia (time to extubation), duration of the block, and the occurrence of nausea and vomiting. Measurements & Main Results Preemptive DPIP block significantly reduced intraoperative sufentanil requirement compared to the control group (T3-4:0.38 ± 0.1, T4-5:0.32 ± 0.10, vs. Control:0.88 ± 0.3 μg/kg/h, p < 0.001). It also resulted in decreased analgesic consumption and numeric rating scale scores on the day of surgery (p < 0.01 compared to the control group). The DPIP block provided accurate anesthetic coverage of the dermatomes in the sternal region and reduced the time to extubation and postoperative nausea. However, the injection point (either via the T3-4 intercostal or the T4-5 intercostal) did not affect the efficacy. Preoperative DPIP block failed to provide adequate analgesia beyond 24 h post-surgery. Conclusion Preemptive bilateral DPIP block provided effective analgesia in patients undergoing CABG during surgery and in the early postoperative period. The analgesic effects of the DPIP block in the T3-4 and T4-5 intercostal spaces were comparable.

Chronic pelvic pain: An underrecognised perioperative consideration

Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) is a prevalent disorder amongst women. The physiology of CPP is attributed to various neurophysiological mechanisms and endometriosis, adenomyosis, chronic infection and functional disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome or interstitial cystitis are all diseases which fall under the umbrella term of CPP. CPP and its associated multitude of causes can affect perioperative care through several mechanisms. Patients with CPP may be more likely to experience significant pain in the perioperative setting and preoperative pain can be a predictor of post-operative pain. Thus, optimisation of CPP prior to the perioperative period is an important consideration. Currently limited and conflicting evidence exists regarding the peri-operative pharmacological analgesia. The various aetiologies of CPP and patient medical history result in the inability to generalise one analgesic regime. Areas of further research includes neuromodulation techniques, genomic and proteomic biomarker studies and the applicability of artificial intelligence.

Comparison of Ultrasound-Guided Anterior, Posterior and Combination of Quadratus Lumborum Block in Laparoscopic Abdominal Surgeries: A Pilot Study.

The quadratus lumborum block (QLB) is an effective technique to provide analgesia for upper and lower abdominal surgeries. There are various approaches described in the literature, but the best approach is still to be explored. This study aims to compare the analgesic efficacy of three different approaches of QLBs. Sixty-five patients, aged 18-70 years posted for elective laparoscopic abdominal surgery under general anesthesia were enrolled after taking written informed consent. QLB was given using bupivacaine 0.25% 40 mL with injection dexmedetomidine 1 mcg/kg in all the groups. In Group 1 and Group 2, the drug was injected into the anterior and posterior aspects of the muscle respectively. In Group 3, a combination of the anterior-posterior approach was used. Pain scores at various intervals along with analgesic consumption and complications were observed. The demographic variables, hemodynamic parameters, and complications were comparable among the three groups. There were statistically significant differences between treatment groups in fentanyl requirement as assessed using the Kruskal-Wallis test (P = 0.012). Pairwise post-hoc analysis between block groups showed that the differences between Group 1 & Group 2 and Group 2 & Group 3 were significant (P = 0.0098 and P = 0.013). The tramadol requirement was comparable in all the groups (P = 0.75). Patient satisfaction was significantly higher in Group 3 compared to other groups (P = 0.024). Further studies can be planned to evaluate the best approach for QLB in terms of perioperative analgesia, which remains a dilemma in this pilot study. The anterior, posterior, and combined anterior-posterior QLB approaches appear equally efficacious as a component of multimodal analgesia in laparoscopic abdominal surgeries.

Randomized Comparative Study of Analgesic Effects of Ilioinguinal and Iliohypogastric Nerve Block with Levobupivacaine (0.25%) versus Diclofenac Suppository in Pediatric Patients Undergoing Inguinal Herniotomy under General Anesthesia

Context: Pain management intraoperatively and postoperatively in the pediatric age group is a matter of concern. On the one hand, children are poorer at precisely conveying the extent of pain all the while being more susceptible to pain-related complications such as laryngospasm. On the other hand, children are less suited to use of potent opioids due to associated complications which can often lead to catastrophe. Therefore, a multimodal approach is desirable to optimize pain management in children. A nerve block is a highly effective and popular modality nowadays. In this single-blinded, parallel group, monocentric, and randomized protocol study, we have compared the efficacy of pain control achieved in the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs as analgesic versus iliohypogastric ilioinguinal (IIIH) nerve block in herniotomy in pediatric age group. Materials and Method: The parallel-group prospective study recruited 104 participants who were randomly allocated into two groups of 52 each, such that both groups received 1 mcg/kg fentanyl and sevoflurane during induction of GA. For analgesia, Group 2 was given diclofenac suppository intraoperative after induction of GA. Group 1 was given IIIH nerve block under nerve stimulator guidance for perioperative analgesia. Both groups were studied for the following parameters which included: time to get the 1st dose of rescue analgesic, total dose of rescue analgesic, visual analog scale (VAS) score, and hemodynamic parameters. Results: We observed that Group 1 showed a statistically significant difference in the form of longer duration of analgesia after surgery (9.67 ± 1.80 h vs. 6.35 ± 0.84 h) and lower total dose of rescue analgesic requirement (69.23 ± 2 [22.77] vs. 106.23 ± 2 [21.49]) while having a better hemodynamic profile and lower cumulative VAS score (7.71 ± 1.39 vs. 12.04 ± 1.72). Conclusion: Based on the above findings, we deduce that preincisional nerve stimulator-guided IIIH block by levobupivacaine (0.25%, 0.3 ml/kg) and rectal diclofenac (2 mg/kg) is both safe approaches to provide postoperative analgesia in pediatric inguinal herniotomy under general anesthesia. However, nerve stimulator-guided IIIH nerve block by levobupivacaine is a safe and better choice as it provides more intense analgesia for a longer duration compared to diclofenac suppository in the immediate postoperative period.

The Role of Anesthesia in Pain Management: Advancements in Perioperative Analgesia

This paper examines in detail the important role of anesthesia in perioperative pain management, focusing on recent advances in perioperative analgesia on. This paper examines the fundamental relationship between anesthesia and analgesia, with particular emphasis on recent innovations in surgical analgesic techniques. This study aims to elucidate the evolving panorama of anesthesia in surgical settings, losing light on how those trends are improving ache manipulate for sufferers. This paper uses a rigorous research approach including an extensive literature review and empirical data collection to support the findings. This study demonstrates the significant impact of modern anesthesia, including important insights into alternative mechanisms of action and effectiveness, for healthcare professionals and researchers in this field gain valuable insights. By addressing these factors, this paper seeks to inform the understanding of how anesthesia plays an important role in improving the perioperative experience of patients by improving pain and to make progress. Keywords: Anesthesia, Pain Management, perioperative Analgesia, Healthcare professionals, Patients care.

Ultrasound-guided continuous fascia iliaca compartment block for perioperative pain management in elderly patients undergoing hip fracture surgery

To study the effect of ultrasound-guided fascia iliaca compartment block on perioperative analgesia and postoperative complications in geriatric patients with hip fractures. A total of 127 elderly patients undergoing hip fracture surgery from January 2021 to September 2021 were randomized to receive ultrasound-guided continuous fascia iliaca compartment block(group F) either intravenous analgesia control group(group C). There were 62 cases in group F, including 19 males and 43 females with an average age of (82.4±7.2) years old ranging from 66 to 95 years old, involving 25 femoral neck fractures and 37 femoral intertrochanteric fractures. There were 65 cases in control group, including 18 males and 47 females, with an average age of (81.4±8.7) years old ranging from 65 to 94 years old, involving 29 femoral neck fractures and 36 femoral intertrochanteric fractures. The visual analogue scale(VAS), minimental state examination (MMSE), observer's assessment of alertness/sedation(OAA/S) scale, modified Bromage score, postoperative complications and general conditions during hospitalization in two groups were observed. The resting and exercise VAS at 30 min after block, anesthesia placement and 6, 24 and 48 h after surgery were lower than those in group C(P<0.05). In group F, MMSE scores at 12 h before surgery, and 1, 3 d after surgery and OAA/S scores at 3 d after surgery were higher than those in group C(P<0.05). The incidence of adverse effects and the number requiring additional analgesia were lower than those in group C(P<0.05). Group F had better perioperative analgesia satisfaction and hospital stay than group C(P<0.05). But there was no significant difference regarding Bromage score and 30-day mortality between two group(P>0.05). Ultrasound-guided continuous fascia iliacus space block was safe and effective for elderly patients with hip fracture, and could significantly reduce perioperative pain, improve postoperative cognitive function, and reduce postoperative complications, thereby shortening hospital stay and improving the quality of life during hospitalization.

Comparison of cardiorespiratory effects and perioperative analgesia efficacy of dexmedetomidine or fentanyl continuous infusion during ovariohysterectomy in propofol-anesthetized dogs

The present study aimed to compare the cardiorespiratory, perioperative analgesic and blood gas analysis of the constant rate infusion of dexmedetomidine or fentanyl in 16 female dogs undergoing to elective ovariohysterectomy. The dogs were premedicated with morphine (0.5 mg/kg) and dexmedetomidine (5 µg/kg) or acepromazine (0.05 mg/kg), both intramuscularly (IM), in GDEX or GFEN, respectively. After anesthesia induction with propofol intravenously (IV), animals of GFEN received bolus of fentanyl (2.5 µg/kg) IV followed by continuous rate infusion (CRI) (10 µg/kg/h) and the GDEX received bolus of saline solution 0.9% (corresponding volume of fentanyl) followed by CRI of dexmedetomidine (1 µg/kg/h) and anesthesia was maintained with propofol (0.22 mg/kg/min). In the end of surgery all animals were evaluated using the Glasgow composite measure pain scale (GCPS) and a visual analogue scale (VAS). Data was compared with a statistical p value &gt; 0,05. The mean heart rate was statistically lower in GDEX when compared to GFEN (p = 0.0498): 54.25 ± 3.919 and 88.38 ± 8.766 beats per minute, respectively. Opposed, the average mean blood pressure was statistically higher in GDEX when compared to GFEN (p = 0.0021): 99.38 ± 8.551 and 80.75 ± 11.12 mmHg, respectively. The GDEX and GFEN, in the firsts 4 and 2 postoperative hours, respectively, presented values significantly higher than baseline in the GCPS, occurring analgesic rescues for both groups. It is concluded that both drugs in the proposed rates were safe and efficient for nociceptive control during intraoperative, however, failed to promote efficient postoperative analgesia.

Ultrasound‐guided modified subcostal transversus abdominis plane block in a foal undergoing omphalectomy

SummaryA 7‐day‐old, 60 kg, Purebred Spanish Horse filly was referred with the mare to Complutense University of Madrid, Veterinary teaching hospital for elective omphalectomy. Upon admission, clinical examination was unremarkable except for a thickening of the umbilical area. Haematology and biochemistry values were within the normal range. On abdominal ultrasound (US) examination, a well‐defined, rounded (24 mm of diameter) area that contained heterogeneous material with numerous hyperechoic foci with acoustic shadowing was seen within the inner portion of the umbilical pedicle, between both umbilical arteries. Surgical correction with omphalectomy was scheduled. To provide perioperative analgesia, the transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block was considered. Under general anaesthesia, TAP block was performed in both left and right hemi‐abdominal walls with a modified subcostal approach with two‐site injections. A spinal needle was inserted under US guidance. During surgery, end‐tidal concentration of isoflurane was maintained at 0.7%–0.9%. Surgery was completed uneventfully and no signs of nociceptive input were observed, suggesting an adequate level of analgesia. Therefore, this TAP block technique may be considered to provide analgesia for surgical procedures involving the abdominal wall in foals.

Effect of Ultrasound-Guided Rhomboid Interfascial Plane Block on Pain Severity, Disability, and Quality of Life in Myofascial Pain Syndrome – A Case Series With One-Year Follow-Up

BACKGROUND: Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a condition characterized by trigger points in the taut bands of skeletal muscles, commonly affecting the trapezius, rhomboid, and supraspinatus muscles. Rhomboid intercostal block (RIB), an interfascial plane block used to assist perioperative analgesia might be a potential treatment option in MPS. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the short and long-term effects of ultrasound-guided RIB in reducing the severity of pain, disability, and improving quality of life in MPS patients with trigger points in the rhomboid muscle. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. SETTING: Physical medicine and rehabilitation outpatient clinic in a university hospital. METHODS: Patients with a diagnosis of MPS who received ultrasound (US)-guided RIB between November 2021 and January 2022 were enrolled in this study. All patients reported pain lasting &gt;= 3 months and severity &gt;= 4/10 on numeric rating scale (NRS), without any comorbidities affecting the neuromuscular system. Trigger points in the rhomboid muscle were treated with US-guided RIB. Pain intensity was evaluated using a NRS at pre-treatment and one week, one month and one year after the injection. At pre-treatment, one month, and one year after treatment, self-administered neck pain and disability scale and Nottingham Health Profile were evaluated. RESULTS: A total of 23 patients were included in this study (5 men and 18 women, with an average age of 45). Pain severity was statistically significantly reduced in approximately 90%, 60-70%, and 50% of the chronic MPS patients at the first week, first month, and first year following injection, respectively. Disability scores improved significantly in 70% and 56% of those patients at the first month and first-year follow-up. Improvement in the quality of life was observed at the first month and maintained at the first-year follow-up. LIMITATIONS: The retrospective design of this study is a limitation. Due to the lack of a control group, this treatment option could not be compared with other treatments. CONCLUSIONS: Our study demonstrated that RIB might be an effective long-term treatment option for MPS in the reduction of pain and disability, improvement of quality of life and overall patient satisfaction. KEY WORDS: Myofascial pain syndrome, trigger point, pain, pain management, interventional ultrasound

Perioperative Ultrasound-Guided Continuous Caudal Epidural Analgesia in Newborns: A Case Series in a Tertiary Medical Center.

Background Caudal epidural anesthesia technique is a relevant method for postoperative analgesia in newborns, allowing for the reduction of drug-induced respiratory depression. The threading of a catheter is, however, uncommon in clinical practice. Our main purpose was to describe our experience regarding caudally inserted epidural catheters in neonates undergoing major abdominal surgery. Methods We included every full-term neonate undergoing surgery under combined caudal epidural-general anesthesia from 2017 to 2022 in our institution. After induction of general anesthesia, an ultrasound-guided caudal epidural injection was performed, and an epidural catheter was inserted for perioperative analgesia. An epidural bolus of ropivacaine was administered to every patient before the surgical incision, and an epidural infusion of ropivacaine 0.05% was administered for 24 hours. Results Retrospectively obtained data included six full-term neonates with American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status II to IV. Intraoperatively, good analgesia was achieved without hemodynamic instability or need for additional systemic opioids after induction. At the end of surgery, five of the six neonates were extubated without adverse respiratory events. Postoperatively, effective analgesia was achieved in four cases with an epidural infusion of ropivacaine 0.05%, at a rate between 0.2 and 0.4 mg/kg/h, and intravenous paracetamol. Epidural pain control was not successful in one neonate, and thus an intravenous fentanyl infusion was added. The sixth neonate remained intubated for prolonged mechanical ventilation due to surgical complications, and thus an intravenous fentanyl infusion was introduced for sedation in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), not allowing to evaluate the effectiveness of the epidural infusion alone. No other complications related to the epidural catheters were reported. Conclusion Continuous caudal epidural analgesia may be a valuable technique with a low risk of complications, decreasing the incidence of respiratory adverse events in this patient population. Although more cases are needed for a stronger conclusion, it has become a useful analgesic strategy for major abdominal surgery in neonates in our institution.