Postoperative Analgesia In Patients Research Articles

Comparison of the Analgesic Effect of Pericapsular Nerve Group Block and Lumbar Erector Spinae Plane Block in Elective Hip Surgery.

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of pericapsular nerve group (PENG) and lumbar erector spinae plane (L-ESP) blocks, both administered with a high volume (40 mL) of local anesthetic (LA), for multimodal postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing hip surgery. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective, double-blind, randomized study that included 75 adult patients who were divided into three equal groups: control, PENG, and L-ESP. The study compared pain intensity, morphine consumption, time to first morphine request, and postoperative satisfaction between the control group, which received standard multimodal analgesia, and the block groups, which received PENG or L-ESP block in addition to multimodal analgesia. The numerical rating scale (NRS) was used to measure pain intensity. Results: The results showed that the block groups had lower pain intensity scores and morphine consumption, a longer time to the first morphine request, and higher postoperative satisfaction compared to the control group. The median maximum NRS score during the first 12 h was four in the control group, two in the PENG group, and three in the L-ESP group. The control group (21.52 ± 9.63 mg) consumed more morphine than the two block groups (PENG, 11.20 ± 7.55 mg; L-ESP, 12.88 ± 8.87 mg) and requested morphine 6.8 h earlier and 5 h earlier than the PENG and L-ESP groups, respectively. The control group (median 3) had the lowest Likert satisfaction scores, while the PENG group (median 4) had the lowest NRS scores (L-ESP, median 4). Conclusions: The application of PENG or L-ESP blocks with high-volume LA in patients undergoing hip surgery reduces the need for postoperative analgesia and improves the quality of multimodal analgesia.

To compare the efficacy of ropivacaine alone versus ropivacaine with magnesium sulphate for postoperative analgesia in peripheral nerve stimulator-guided supraclavicular plexus block in upper limb surgeries

Background Postoperative pain management is a crucial part of patient care for surgeries involving the upper limbs. A popular technique for providing both postoperative analgesia and regional anaesthesia is a supraclavicular plexus block guided by a peripheral nerve stimulator. Recent research has demonstrated that the analgesic effect of ropivacaine, a common local anaesthetic, can be enhanced by the addition of magnesium sulphate. The study aims to assess the safety and effectiveness of utilising magnesium sulphate in addition to ropivacaine alone for postoperative analgesia in patients having upper limb surgeries under peripheral nerve stimulator-guided supraclavicular plexus block. Methods This protocol outlines a prospective, double-blind, randomised, controlled trial that assesses the efficacy of ropivacaine versus ropivacaine plus magnesium sulphate for analgesia post surgery in patients undergoing upper limb surgeries under the guidance of a peripheral nerve stimulator (PNS). 50 Patients will be included in the study in total, and they will be split into two groups at random. PNS-guided supraclavicular plexus block with ropivacaine alone will be administered to one group, while ropivacaine combined with magnesium sulphate will be administered to the other. Regular monitoring will be done during the postoperative phase to determine pain levels, use of analgesics, motor and sensory blockade, and adverse events. Results The study aims to determine if ropivacaine with magnesium sulphate postoperative analgesia is superior to ropivacaine alone in supraclavicular plexus blocks. The motor and sensory blockade duration, opioid use, and any negative results will be evaluated as secondary outcomes. Statistical analysis will be performed to determine the significance of the differences between the two groups. Conclusion This study protocol compares the effectiveness of ropivacaine alone against ropivacaine with magnesium sulphate in peripheral nerve stimulator-guided supraclavicular plexus block, with the goal of adding to the repository of information on postoperative analgesia in upper limb procedures. The study’s findings could be very helpful in enhancing pain management strategies and enhancing patient outcomes in this context.

Effectiveness of intrathecal dexmedetomidine vs fentanyl as additives to hyperbaric bupivacaine for postoperative analgesia in women undergoing cesarean section: a systematic review protocol.

The aim of this review is to compare the effectiveness of intrathecal dexmedetomidine vs fentanyl as additives to hyperbaric bupivacaine in providing postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing cesarean section. Pain following cesarean section remains a challenge, with limited treatment options due to potential undesirable parturient and neonatal side effects. Intrathecal dexmedetomidine has emerged as a favorable alternative to opioid additives to hyperbaric bupivacaine in prolonging postoperative analgesia, but its effectiveness requires further investigation. The review will evaluate studies of patients who underwent cesarean section under spinal anesthesia where dexmedetomidine and fentanyl were compared as intrathecal additives to hyperbaric bupivacaine for postoperative analgesia. This review will consider randomized controlled trials, non-randomized controlled trials, and prospective cohort studies for inclusion. No limits regarding publication date or language will be applied. A preliminary search of PubMed and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials has been conducted to identify relevant index terms and keywords, which will be applied in a second search across PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL, Scopus, and Embase. Google Scholar, National Library of Medicine (Clinicaltrials.gov), and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trial Registry Platform will be searched to identify unpublished literature. Full-text studies will be subjected to an assessment of methodological quality, and data extraction will be performed independently by 2 reviewers. The results will be presented in both tabular and narrative format and, where possible, pooled into a meta-analysis. A Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) Summary of Findings will be created to grade the certainty of evidence of the reported outcomes. PROSPERO CRD42022364815.

Comparison of effectiveness of intraoperative subperiosteal versus periarticular analgesic cocktail injection for post operative analgesia in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty

Background: Early postoperative pain management is pivotal in patients undergoing Total knee arthroplasty. The advantage of Local infiltration analgesia is its ability to provide control of pain without interfering with motor strength of the lower extremity, thereby allowing early mobilization of patients. This study compares the effectiveness of local analgesic cocktail injection given through subperiosteal vs. periarticular routes. Methods: The study included 30 patients admitted for primary total knee arthroplasty. They were grouped into two groups based on different injection sites. Group A included patients who received subperiosteal injection and Group B included patients who received periarticular injection, under spinal anaesthesia. The difference in pain among the two groups, using VAS at 12, 24, 48, and 72 hrs postoperatively, postoperative range of movements, and Functional outcome using IKDC score at the end of 6 months were assessed and compared between the two groups. Results: The mean VAS scores at 12, 24, 48, and 72 hrs were 0.87±0.35, 1.47±0.52, 1.80±0.41, 1.07±0.46 in subperiosteal group and 2.00±0.53, 2.47±0.52, 2.80±0.56, 1.93±0.59 in periarticular group. The 6 months postoperative IKDC scores were 51.34±0.41 and 51.04±0.61 respectively. Conclusions: Subperiosteal cocktail injection can significantly reduce the postoperative pain and result in early recovery of range of movements, compared with periarticular cocktail injection in patients undergoing Total knee arthroplasty. But the long-term functional outcomes were comparable among both the groups.

The effects of combined acupuncture anesthesia and serratus anterior plane block with ropivacaine on postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing chest surgery

Objective To investigate the effects of combined acupuncture anesthesia and ropivacaine on postoperative analgesia and neuro-related factors in patients undergoing chest surgery. Methods The analgesic drug dosage, postoperative PCIA pressing times, VAS scores at rest and during activity at 6 h (T1), 12 h (T2), 18 h (T3), and 24 h (T4) postoperatively. Results The analgesic drug dosage and postoperative PCIA pressing times were lower in the observation group than in the control group (p < 0.05). The VAS scores at T1–T4 postoperatively were lower in the observation group than in the control group (p < 0.05). The SAS scores at T1–T4 postoperatively were lower in the observation group than in the control group (p < 0.05). The levels of IL-6 and IL-10 on postoperative day 1 were higher than those on preoperative day 1 in both groups, with a smaller change in the observation group (p < 0.05). The levels of S100β protein on postoperative day 1 were higher than those on preoperative day 1 in both groups, while the BDNF levels were lower, with a smaller change in the observation group (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions between the control group (11.36%) and the observation group (15.56%) (p > 0.05). Conclusion Combined acupuncture anesthesia and ropivacaine can effectively improve postoperative analgesia and agitation in patients undergoing chest surgery, reduce the dosage of analgesic drugs, regulate the levels of inflammatory factors and neurotrophic factors in patients, and do not increase the risk of adverse reactions related to patients.

Comparison of Preoperative Pregabalin Versus Dexamethasone for Postoperative Analgesia in Patients Undergoing Inguinal Hernia Repair

Comparison of Preoperative Pregabalin Versus Dexamethasone for Postoperative Analgesia in Patients Undergoing Inguinal Hernia Repair

Perioperative analgesic management in patients with bladder exstrophy: A clinical study

Background: Bladder exstrophy is a complex, rare congenital malformation with an incidence of 3.3 cases in every 100000 live births and is slightly more common in males. Primary surgical repair requires many hours of surgery with fluid and blood loss. Because of wide fluctuations in hemodynamics, a longer duration of surgery, smaller age, risk of hypothermia and post-operative intensive care may be required. We evaluated the use of continuous caudal epidural infusion of bupivacaine and fentanyl under general anesthesia for urinary bladder exstrophy-epispadias surgery in children. Aims and Objectives: Aim of the study was to evaluate the postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing surgery for bladder exstrophy. The primary objective was to assess the postoperative pain using FLACC scale and sedation score after successful caudal administration. Secondary objective was to assess the hemodynamic changes after caudal administration. Materials and Methods: A total of 13 patients aged between 9months and 13 years of either sex, weighing between 5kg to 30kg, belonging to ASA grade II to IV, underwent surgery for epispadias–exstrophy complex. Initial bolus 0.75ml/kg of 0.25% bupivacaine with fentanyl 1ug/kg was given through epidural. Postoperative analgesia was maintained by continuous infusion of 0.0625% bupivacaine @0.1ml/kg/hr in young children and 0.125% bupivacaine with fentanyl 1ug/ml in older children for 4-5 days with the help of ON-Q pump or infusion pump. Baseline hemodynamic parameters including MAP, heart rate and SpO2 was recorded at various time intervals. Postoperative pain was assessed using face, legs, activity, cry and consolability (FLACC) pain scale and sedation score was assessed by using ramsay sedation score. Results: There was a statistically significant decrease in mean pulse rate in the study group from baseline to thirty minutes after reversal (p&lt;0.001). Similar observation was made for mean arterial pressure which also showed statistically significant decrease from baseline to thirty minutes after reversal (p&lt;0.001). No change was observed in SpO2 from baseline to any other follow-up interval. Conclusion: Perioperative anesthetic and analgesic management of the bladder exstrophy patient can improve the success rate. Epidural bupivacaine with or without fentanyl infusions for short duration can provide safe analgesia.

Effects of Intrathecal Morphine Administration in Patients Undergoing Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty Under Spinal Anesthesia With Quadratus Lumborum Block for Postoperative Analgesia.

Introduction Quadratus lumborum (QL) block has previously been shown to provide improved analgesia in patients undergoing primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) under spinal anesthesia when compared to spinal anesthesia alone. Additionally, recent studies have shown the addition of intrathecal morphine (ITM) to provide superior postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing various surgical interventions including total knee arthroplasty under spinal anesthesia with peripheral nerve blockade. At this time, however, there has not been a study evaluating the effects of intrathecal morphine in patients undergoing THA under spinal anesthesia with QL block. This study aims to assess if the addition of intrathecal morphine can provide adequate or even superior postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing primary THA. Methods This retrospectivestudyincluded 26 patients in the spinal/QL block/intrathecal morphine (SA+QLB+ITM) group, 31 patients in the spinal/QL block group (SA+QLB), and 28 patients in the spinal only (SA or control) group. Twenty-six patients undergoing primary THA under a combination of spinal anesthesia and peripheral nerve blockade (quadratus lumborum block) were given a dose of 100 mcg of intrathecal morphine. Various parameters were evaluated including Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) and 24-hour visual analog scale (VAS) scores, time to first opioid use, 24- and 48-hour total opioid use as oral morphine equivalents (OME), 24-hour ambulation distance, and time from block placement to hospital discharge. The results were analyzed and compared to patients undergoing primary THA under spinal anesthesia with QL block (no intrathecal morphine) and compared to a control group of patients undergoing primary THA under spinal anesthesia only. Results The study analysis included 26 patients in the SA+QLB+ITM group, 31 patients in the SA+QLB group, and 28 patients in the SA (control) group. When compared with the control group, the SA+QLB+ITM had lower 24-hour total opioid usage (mean difference 20.80 OME, CI 6.454 to 35.15, p-value 0.0025), longer time to 1st opioid use (mean difference -20.51 hours later, p-value .0052), lower 24-hr VAS (difference 2.421, p-value 0.0012, CI 0.8559 to 3.987), and faster time to discharge (16.00 hr earlier, p-value 0.0459). When compared to the SA+QLB group, the SA+QLB+ITM group only showed a statistically significant difference in faster time to discharge (19.46 hr earlier, p-value 0.0068). However, while there was no statistically significant difference in time to 1st opioid use between the control and SA+QLB group, the difference did become significant when comparing the control to the SA+QLB+ITM group (mean difference -20.51 hours later (p-value .0052). There was no significant difference in either of the three groups in ambulation distance at 24 hours, PACU VAS, or 48-hour total opioid use. Conclusion Our study concludes that the addition of 100 mcg ITM for total hip arthroplasty under spinal anesthesia improved postoperative analgesia compared to the control group. Also, the ITM group did better with respect to delay in first opioid use and decreased hospital stay compared to the control and block-only groups. Our study warrants no more concerns of PONV, pruritus, or respiratory depression with this dose of ITM and requires standard postoperative care.

Efficacy of Peripheral Nerve Stimulator Guided Pectoral Nerve Block-1 and Serratus Anterior Plane Block for Post-operative Analgesia in Modified Radical Mastectomy: A Randomized Controlled Study.

Breast carcinoma is one of the most common cancers in present-day women worldwide, hence surgical intervention for the same is inevitable. General anesthesia being the preferred technique, the selection of appropriate postoperative pain management is a major concern in which superficial fascial plane chest wall blocks play a pivotal role. We aimed to prove the efficacy of peripheral nerve stimulator-guided pectoral nerve-1 (PEC 1) block and serratus anterior plane (SAP) block for postoperative analgesia in modified radical mastectomy. This prospective randomized controlled clinical study comprised 60 females undergoing modified radical mastectomy and was randomly allocated to two groups. Group A patients received general anesthesia while, in addition to general anesthesia, group B patients received PEC 1 and SAP blocks. Postoperatively the active and passive visual analog score (VAS), duration of analgesia, cumulative requirement of rescue analgesicsin the first 24 hours and associated perioperative complications were noted. All quantitative data were analyzed by student t-test and qualitative data by chi-square test using MedCalc software 12.5. VAS score for first24 hours in group B was lower at rest, on pressure over the surgical site as well as on movements compared with the patients in group A with the p-value being < 0.0001 at all time intervals. Time for receiving firstrescue analgesia was shorter (1.25±0.56hour vs 20.05±7.78hour, p<0.001) with the significantly higher requirement of cumulative doses of tramadol in the first24 hours in patients belonging to group A (233.33±47.95mg vs 110±31.62 mg, p<0.001). PEC 1 and SAP blocks given under peripheral nerve stimulator guidance have a high success rate and are reliable in providing adequate postoperative analgesiafor patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy.

Opioid-free anesthesia with ultrasound-guided quadratus lumborum block in the supine position for lower abdominal or pelvic surgery: a randomized controlled trial

In the past, quadratus lumborum block (QLB) was mostly used for postoperative analgesia in patients, and few anesthesiologists applied it during surgery with opioid-free anesthesia (OFA). Consequently, it is still unclear whether QLB in the supine position can provide perfect analgesia and inhibit anesthetic stress during surgery under the OFA strategy. To observe the clinical efficacy of ultrasound-guided quadratus lumborum block (US-QLB) in the supine position with OFA for lower abdominal and pelvic surgery. A total of 122 patients who underwent lower abdominal or pelvic surgery in People’s Hospital of Wanning between March 2021 and July 2022 were selected and divided into a quadratus lumborum block group (Q) (n = 62) and control group (C) (n = 60) according to the random number table method. Both groups underwent general anesthesia combined with QLB in the supine position. After sedation, unilateral or bilateral QLB was performed via the ultrasound guided anterior approach based on images resembling a “human eye” and “baby in a cradle” under local anesthesia according to the needs of the operative field. In group Q, 20 ml of 0.50% lidocaine and 0.20% ropivacaine diluted in normal saline (NS) were injected into each side. In group C, 20 ml of NS was injected into each side. The values of BP, HR, SPO2, SE, RE, SPI, NRS, Steward score, dosage of propofol, dexmedetomidine, and rocuronium, the number of patients who needed remifentanil, propofol, or diltiazem, puncture point, block plane, duration of anesthesia, catheter extraction, and wakefulness during the operation were monitored. There were no significant differences in the general data, number of cases requiring additional remifentanil, propofol, or diltiazem treatment, as well as puncture point and puncture plane between the two groups (P > 0.05). HR, SBP, and DBP values were higher in group Q than in group C at T1; HR, SPI, and SE, while RE values were lower in group Q than in group C at T3, SE, and RE; the Steward score was higher in group Q than in group C at T4 and T5, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The extubation and awake times were lower in group Q than in group C, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The SE, RE, and SPI values were lower at T1, T2, T3, and T4 than at T0. The Steward scores at T4 and T5 were higher in group Q than in group C, and were lower than at T0, with a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05). There were significant differences in the effectiveness of postoperative analgesia between the two groups at t1, t3 and t4 (P < 0.05). US-QLB in the supine position with OFA is effective in patients undergoing lower abdominal or pelvic surgery with stable intraoperative vital signs, complete recovery and better postoperative analgesia.

A Comparative Study of Postoperative Analgesic Efficacy of Suprainguinal versus Infrainguinal Approach of Ultrasound-guided Fascia Iliaca Compartment Block using 0.2% Ropivacaine in Patients Undergoing Surgery for Hip Fracture under Spinal Anesthesia

Abstract Context: Fascia iliaca compartment block (FICB) is a useful modality to provide postoperative analgesia in patients with hip fracture undergoing surgery. Aims: The aims of this study were to compare the analgesic efficacy of suprainguinal versus infrainguinal approach of ultrasound-guided FICB using 0.2% ropivacaine in patients undergoing surgery for hip fracture under spinal anesthesia. Settings and Design: It was a prospective, randomized, controlled study. Subject and Methods: Group A (n = 25) received ultrasound-guided FICB by suprainguinal approach and Group B (n = 25) received ultrasound-guided FICB by infrainguinal approach. The primary objective was to compare 24-h postoperative analgesic efficacy using Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) score. Statistical Analysis: For data analysis, t-test, Mann–Whitney test, and Chi-square test were applied. Results: NRS score after 30 min of FICB in Group A was 2.36 ± 1.11 which was lower in comparison to 3.28 ± 0.94 in Group B (P = 0.002). NRS score during positioning in Group A was 2.16 ± 0.90, which was lower than Group B 3.08 ± 0.81 (P = 0. 0004). Greater block coverage was achieved in obturator nerve distribution in Group A 0.76 ± 0.52 compared to 0.16 ± 0.37 in Group B (P &lt; 0.001). The total duration of analgesia was 493.40 ± 214.83 min, which was more in Group A than in Group B 367.48 ± 63.92 min (P = 0.007). Quality of recovery (QoR) score out of 150 in Group A was 120.60 ± 8.91 compared to 110.40 ± 7.59 in Group B (P &lt; 0.001). Conclusion: FICB by suprainguinal approach provides better analgesia, sensory block coverage, and conditions for positioning for spinal anesthesia and also has a higher time to first rescue analgesic requirement with better QoR compared to infrainguinal approach.

COMPARISON OF LEVOBUPIVACAINE WITH TWO DIFFERENT ADJUVANTS (DEXAMETHASONE VS. DEXMEDETOMIDINE) IN ULTRASONOGRAPHY-GUIDED TRANSVERSUS ABDOMINIS PLANE BLOCK FOR UNILATERAL INGUINAL HERNIORRHAPHY: A RANDOMIZED DOUBLE-BLINDED CONTROL TRIAL

Objectives: Ultrasonography (USG)-guided transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is an effective technique for postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing intraabdominal surgery. This study was aimed to compare the post-operative analgesia, hemodynamic variables, sedation, and adverse effects of levobupivacaine with two different adjuvants (dexamethasone and dexmedetomidine) in USG-guided TAP block for patients undergoing unilateral inguinal herniorrhaphy under subarachnoid block. Methods: A double-blind randomized control study, conducted on 96 patients, allocated in three groups of 32 each. Patients in group C received 0.25% levobupivacaine (20 mL) with normal saline (2 mL), group D1 received 0.25% levobupivacaine (20 mL) added with 0.1 mg/kg dexamethasone (2 mL) and group D2 received 0.25% levobupivacaine added with 0.5 mcg/kg dexmedetomidine diluted in NS (2 mL). Pain was assessed using Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The time for request of first analgesia (TFA), total number and total dose of rescue analgesic in 24 h were recorded. Statistical analysis was done using unpaired Student’s t-test and ANOVA. Results: At 12 and 24 h &gt;30% of patients had VAS ≥4 in control group while it was &lt;10% in groups D1 and D2 (p&lt;0.001). TFA was earliest in control group (6.10±0.96 h) as compared to group D1 (7.26±1.22 h) and group D2 (7.49±1.02 h) (p&lt;0.001). The total number and total dose of analgesic given were higher in the control group than other two groups (p&lt;0.001). However, it was comparable between groups D1 and D2 (p&lt;0.05). Conclusion: Dexamethasone and dexmedetomidine when added as an adjuvant to levobupivacaine for TAP significantly prolonged the duration of post-operative analgesia as compared to levobupivacaine alone, however, it was found to be comparable between adjuvant groups.

Comparison of the effects of opioid-free anesthesia (OFA) and opioid-based anesthesia (OBA) on postoperative analgesia and intraoperative hemodynamics in patients undergoing spine surgery: A prospective randomized double-blind controlled trial.

Opioids form the basis of perioperative pain management but are associated with multiple side effects. In opioid-free anesthesia (OFA), several non-opioid drugs or neuraxial/regional blocks are used as substitutes for opioids. Ketamine, a N-methyl-d-aspartate antagonist, provides intense analgesia. However, there is a shortage of literature on the effects of ketamine-based OFA on hemodynamics (HD) and postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing thoracolumbar spine surgery. This prospective randomized controlled trial included 60 adult patients. The patients in Group OFA (n = 30) received OFA with ketamine and ketofol (1:5) infusion, and those in Group OBA (n = 30) received opioid-based anesthesia (OBA) with fentanyl and propofol infusion. The postoperative pain-free period, pain scores, rescue analgesia, intraoperative HDs, and postoperative complications were assessed. The mean pain-free period in Group OFA (9.86 ± 1.43 hr) was significantly higher than that in Group OBA (6.93 ± 1.93 hr) (P = 0.002). During the postoperative 48 hours, the total requirement of fentanyl was considerably lower in Group OFA (P < 0.05). There was a significantly higher incidence of hypertension in Group OFA (46%) and hypotension (43%) in Group OBA (43%), respectively. Postoperative nausea vomiting (PONV) was more common in Group OBA at the 2nd and 6th hr (P = 0.046 and P = 0.038). OFA with ketamine and ketofol provided adequate postoperative analgesia with a lower incidence of PONV after spine surgery. However, hypertension in the ketamine group and hypotension in the propofol group required fine titration of the infusion rate of drugs during the intraoperative period.

Effects of Magnesium Sulphate, Dexmedetomidine and Lignocaine on Perioperative Haemodynamic and Postoperative Analgesia in Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Abdominal Surgeries: A Randomised Clinical Study

Introduction: Laparoscopic surgeries currently represent the mainstay of surgical modalities. Pneumoperitoneum imposes significant intraoperative haemodynamic alterations, which are more pronounced in elderly patients and those with co-morbid conditions. Inadequate pain relief in the perioperative period may result in various physiological and psychological traumas. Aim: To investigate the effects of magnesium sulphate, dexmedetomidine, and lignocaine on the haemodynamic responses and postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing laparoscopic abdominal surgeries. Materials and Methods: This double-blinded, randomised clinical study was conducted in the general surgery operation theatre, Post-anaesthetic Care Unit (PACU), and the male and female surgery ward of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata, West Bengal, India from March 1, 2021, to March 1, 2022. The study involved 105 subjects assigned to Group-L, who received an injection of lignocaine as a loading dose of 1.5 mg/kg intravenously over 2-4 minutes before induction, followed by a continuous infusion of 2 mg/kg/hour throughout the surgery. Group-M received a loading dose of MgSO4 at 30 mg/ kg over 15 minutes before induction, followed by 15 mg/kg/hour throughout the surgery, and Group-D received a loading dose of dexmedetomidine at 1 mcg/kg over 10 minutes before induction, followed by a continuous infusion of 0.5 mcg/kg/min throughout the surgery. Data on Heart Rate (HR), Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP), and the total dose of rescue analgesic administered in the postoperative 24 hours were recorded and analysed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s Honestly Significant Difference (HSD) test, as well as the Chi-square test where applicable. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The groups were comparable in terms of demographic variables and baseline haemodynamic status. The average age in Group-D was 39.13±9.48 years, in Group-M was 37.30±8.14 years, and in Group-L was 36.5±7.2 years (p=0.26). Group-D had 60% males, Group-M had 57% males, and Group-L had 60% males. The mean Body Mass Index (BMI) of Group-D was 25.9±2.03 (kg/m2 ), Group-L (Lignocaine) was 24.7±2.7, and Group-M (Magnesium Sulphate) was 23.8±3.2. Dexmedetomidine was found to be superior in maintaining haemodynamic stability throughout the perioperative period (Preinduction HR: Group-D=79.43, Group-L=79.06, Group-M=82.09; Postinduction HR: Group-D=86.49, Group-M=65.91, GroupL=72.69). There was a significant decrease in postintubation MAP, most pronounced in the Magnesium Sulphate and Dexmedetomidine groups. Post-pneumoperitoneum, the surge in MAP was most effectively prevented by Dexmedetomidine. The lowest amount of rescue analgesic (injection Diclofenac in mg) was used in the Dexmedetomidine group (55.86±5.05), followed by the Lignocaine group (126.43±17.69). Patients in the Magnesium group required the highest amount of rescue analgesic (156.43±7.91). The number of patients receiving rescue analgesia was significantly higher in the Lignocaine and Magnesium Sulphate groups (Group-D: 6.5±3.14565, Group-L: 14.75±7.36, Group-M: 18.25±8.057). Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine was more effective in maintaining haemodynamic stability throughout the perioperative period and exhibited superior postoperative analgesic properties. Magnesium Sulphate and lignocaine were more effective in preventing postintubation surges.

Effect of Sacral Erector Spinae Plane Block on Postoperative Analgesia in Perianal Surgeries: A Randomised Controlled Trial

Introduction: Sacral nerves emerge through sacral foramina and traverse below the multifidus muscle. Hence, blocking this myofascial plane can provide postoperative analgesia in the perianal region by blocking the sacral nerves supplying it. Aim: To study the effect of Sacral Erector Spinae Plane Block (SESPB) on postoperative pain and postoperative analgesic requirement in perianal surgeries. Materials and Methods: A randomised controlled trial was done with 60 patients who were randomly allocated into two groups (30 in each group). Group 1 patients received no intervention, whereas Group 2 received bilateral SESPB. The Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), opioid requirement, first analgesic demand, and additional analgesic requirement were compared between the two groups. The qualitative data was analysed by Student’s t-test, whereas the quantitative data was analysed using the Chi-square test. A p-value of &lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Around 18 (60%) of the participants in group 1 were males, whereas group 2 consisted of 15 (50%) males. The mean age in group 1 was 40.7±11.5 years, whereas it was 43.6±12.7 years in group 2. The means of BMI were similar in both groups. The mean VAS score of group 1 was 3.19±0.23, whereas it was 2.37±0.25 in group 2. The first analgesic requirement was significantly delayed, and total tramadol requirement was lower in group 2 compared to group 1. Four patients from group 1 (control group) required inj. diclofenac sodium additionally. Conclusion: Bilateral SESPB provided good postoperative analgesia in patients who underwent perianal surgery. The total analgesic requirement was also found to be lower with this block. Hence, it can be considered a modality for perianal surgeries.

Efficacy and safety of patient-controlled intravenous analgesia after APS team standardized postoperative pain management: A 6-year experience of an acute pain service in 107802 Chinese patients

There are few studies on the impact of postoperative pain management (such as Acute Pain Service, APS) on the prognosis of patients, especially the research on large samples, even less data on Chinese patients. It is reported that only 25.12 % of hospitals in China have established APS or similar teams, and less than 10 % of them are responsible for the whole process of postoperative analgesia services. Tongji Hospital affiliated to Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology has established a professional APS team led by anesthesiologists (TJ-APS), and has a standardized workflow and management system. Based on the TJ-APS standardized postoperative pain management, the incidence and adverse effects of postoperative pain in different types of surgical patients were analyzed. In total, 107,802 patients receiving intravenous PCA from the Tongji Hospital affiliated to Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology were selected between January 2016 and December 2021, which were under TJ-APS standardized postoperative analgesia process, postoperative analgesia strategy based on the principle of “low opioid, multimodal, specialization and individualization”, as well as regular ward rounds and 24-h on call on-duty system. We assessed the incidence and adverse effects of postoperative pain in different types of surgical patients. Based on the TJ-APS standardized postoperative pain management, the incidence of poor postoperative analgesia in patients with intravenous PCA is significantly lower than that reported in the current literature (20 %), and mainly occurs in biliary-pancreatic surgery, extrahepatic surgery and gastrointestinal surgery. The overall incidence of adverse effects was 5.52 %, of which nausea and vomiting was the highest, especially among gynecological tumors and gynecological patients, which were 10.75 % and 8.68 % respectively, but both were lower than the level reported in the current literature (20 %). This APS multimodal management and analgesia process can provide reference and guidance for PCA management of postoperative acute pain.

Effect of Personality and Pain Catastrophizing on Postoperative Analgesia Following Cesarean Section: A Prospective Cohort Study.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of different psychological personalities and pain catastrophizing levels on postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing cesarean section. Puerperas who underwent cesarean section at our hospital between January and August 2023 were recruited into the study and assessed using the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire-Revised Short Scale (EPQRSC) and Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS). Data on the numerical pain intensity at rest and during activity 24 h after surgery, number and dosage of analgesia pumps, and satisfaction with analgesia were recorded. According to the numerical pain score during activity 24 h post-operation, the patients were divided into the analgesia incomplete group (≥4) and control group (<4). Univariate analysis, Spearman correlation analysis, and binary logistic regression analysis were used to evaluate the influence of personality characteristics and PCS on postoperative analgesia. A total of 778 women were included in the study. The incidence of inadequate analgesia was 89.8%. The satisfaction rate of analgesia was 66.8%. Univariate analysis showed that extraversion; neuroticism; PCS; numbers of previous cesarean delivery; ASA; analgesic satisfaction; and 24-h analgesia pump compressions and dosage were associated with postoperative analgesia after cesarean section (P<0.05). Using binary logistic regression analysis, the first cesarean section (odds ratio [OR]=0.056, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.913-19.174), the number of 24-h analgesic pump compressions (OR=8.464, 95% CI=0.356-0.604), extraversion (OR=0.667, 95% CI=0.513-0.866), neuroticism (OR=1.427, 95% CI=1.104-1.844), and PCS (OR=7.718, 95% CI=0.657-0.783) were factors affecting postoperative analgesia. The incidence of inadequate analgesia after a cesarean section was high (89.8% on the first day after surgery). Formulating accurate analgesia programs for women undergoing cesarean section with extraversion, neuroticism personality characteristics, and pain catastrophizing behaviors is necessary for improving their postoperative analgesia effects and satisfaction and promoting postpartum comfort.

Postoperative Analgesic Effect of Dexamethasone Added To Ropivacaine for Fascia Iliaca Compartment Block Following Femoral Fracture Surgeries

Introduction: Pain is associated with higher perioperative morbidity in fracture patients. Fascia iliaca compartment block is a simple, inexpensive, and effective method of analgesia for femoral fracture surgeries. Many adjuvants have been used with local anaesthetics to prolong post-operative analgesia.&#x0D; Aims: To assess the effects of dexamethasone as an adjuvant to fascia iliaca compartment block on prolongation of post-operative analgesia in patients undergoing femoral fracture surgeries.&#x0D; Methods: Seventy patients aged, 18-65 years with American Society of Anaesthesiologist-Physical Status I and II, undergoing femoral fracture surgery, were randomly assigned to two groups, n=35 each, who received standard subarachnoid block. Ultrasound guided Fascia iliaca compartment block was given after completion of surgery with 20ml of 0.35% ropivacaine + 2ml normal saline to group one or 20ml of 0.35% ropivacaine + 2ml dexamethasone(4mg/ml) to group 2. Total duration of analgesia and total rescue analgesic requirement in the first post operative day were noted after successful block.&#x0D; Results:The demographic information for the two groups was comparable. The duration of postoperative analgesia was prolonged in patients receiving dexamethasone adjuvant (541 ± 167 vs. 638± 165 mins, p = 0.018; Mean difference -97). Patients receiving dexamethasone adjuvant required significantly less postoperative rescue analgesics for the first 24 hours (tramadol 88 ± 32 vs 65 ± 23 mg, p = 0.001; Mean difference 23).&#x0D; Conclusion: Dexamethasone, added to Fascia Iliaca Compartment Block, as an adjuvant, significantly prolongs the postoperative analgesic effect thereby, reducing the need for rescue analgesic in the first postoperative day.

Dexmedetomidine vs Dexamethasone as an Adjuvant to Levobupivacaine in Ultrasound-Guided Transversus Abdominis Plane Block for Postoperative Analgesia in Patients Undergoing Total Abdominal Hysterectomies.

In the postoperative period, open total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH) surgeries induce considerable pain. Multimodal strategies are being used to alleviate pain. This study aimed to examine the efficacy and safety of dexamethasone and dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to levobupivacaine in ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane (TAP) blocks for postoperative pain in TAH patients. A total of 72 patients with ASA grade I and grade II were randomly and equally assigned to two groups. After the completion of surgery with a subarachnoid block (SAB), patients in group 1 received a mixture of 20 mL of 0.25% levobupivacaine and 4 mg of dexamethasone on each side of the TAP block. Patients in group 2 received a mixture of 20 mL of 0.25% levobupivacaine and dexmedetomidine, with a total dose of 1 µg/kg body weight evenly distributed bilaterally in the TAP block. Patients were evaluated for pain using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), total tramadol consumption as rescue analgesia, time to first rescue analgesia, any adverse effects, and patient satisfaction. When comparing VAS scores for pain assessment, we observed that the mean VAS score was initially comparable between the two groups for the first hour. However, at 6, 9, and 12 h, VAS scores were significantly lower in group 2. The mean total tramadol consumption was higher in group 1 than in group 2 (213.33 ± 44.08 vs 161.11 ± 37.93 mg, P-value 0.027). The time to the first rescue analgesia after the TAP block in the postoperative period was significantly longer in group 2 (47.5 ± 62.76 vs 77.22 ± 56.14 min, P-value 0.002). No significant side effects were noted, and a greater proportion of patients in group 2 expressed satisfaction with their overall pain treatment. The addition of dexmedetomidine to levobupivacaine is superior to the addition of dexamethasone, as it prolongs the duration of the block in the dexmedetomidine group. However, the use of dexamethasone as an adjuvant is a good alternative option, particularly due to its lower cost and reduced incidence of adverse effects such as postoperative nausea and vomiting.

Effect of ultrasound-guided femoral nerve block with dexmedetomidine and ropivacaine on postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial

Background: Dexmedetomidine, a potent and highly selective α2-adrenoreceptor agonist, has become a popular adjuvant to local anesthetics. This study was designed to investigate the effect of dexmedetomidine with ropivacaine for femoral nerve block on postoperative analgesia after total knee arthroplasty. Methods: Forty-six patients after total knee arthroplasty received ultrasound-guided femoral nerve block with either 0.3% ropivacaine alone (group R) or 0.3% ropivacaine with 0.5 μg/kg dexmedetomidine (group RD). Total 24-h sufentanil consumption, visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores, frequency of patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pressed, Ramsay sedation score, the incidence of bradycardia and hypotension, and incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) were recorded. Results: Compared to group R, the total 24-h sufentanil consumption was significantly reduced (110.76 ± 11.56 vs. 99.09 ± 13.31; P&lt;0.05), the VAS scores were lower at 10 and 12 h postoperatively [3(2–3) vs. 2(1–2) and 3(2–3) vs. 2(1–3), respectively; P&lt;0.05], the frequency of PCA pressed was lower at 8–12 and 12–16-h time intervals [(5(3–6) vs. 2(1–3) and 4(3–4) vs. 2(1–3), respectively; P&lt;0.05]. However, there were no differences in Ramsay’s sedation score and the incidence of PONV. Also, no patient experienced bradycardia and hypotension. Conclusions: 0.5 μg/kg dexmedetomidine with 0.3% ropivacaine for femoral nerve block significantly decreased the total 24-h sufentanil consumption, prolonged and enhanced the analgesic efficacy of ropivacaine, without clinically relevant cardiovascular depression or over-sedation in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty.