Regional Anesthesia Techniques Research Articles

Analgesic efficacy of ultrasound-guided bilateral sphenopalatine ganglion block as a sole analgesic in fess surgeries and reconstructive nasal surgeries

: Severe postoperative pain is the most common complaint following Functional endoscopic sinus surgeries (FESS) and reconstructive nasal surgeries. Sensory, autonomic nerves supplying paranasal sinuses, nasal cavity, and palate relay in sphenopalatine ganglion. Bilateral Sphenopalatine ganglion block can be an effective regional anaesthetic technique for post-operative analgesia. We conducted a study with ultrasound-guided bilateral sphenopalatine ganglion block as the sole analgesic compared to Fentanyl in patients undergoing FESS & reconstructive nasal surgeries performed under general anaesthesia. The primary objective of our study was to assess the analgesic effect, quality, and duration of analgesia of ultrasound guided bilateral sphenopalatine ganglion block as a sole analgesic. In addition, the secondary aim was to further evaluate the adverse effects.With Institutional ethical committee approval and written informed consent, we conducted this study with two groups of 30 patients each. The surgical procedure was performed under general anaesthesia. At the end of the surgery and before the reversal of neuromuscular blockade, bilateral sphenopalatine plexus block was performed under ultrasound guidance in interventional Group (A) with a mixture of 0.25% Ropivacaine, Dexamethasone 4mg 7.5ml each side, whereas the control Group (B) received fentanyl 2ug/kg intraoperatively. Visual analogue scale (VAS) scores were evaluated soon after extubating (0hrs) and up to 48 hrs postoperatively in all patients.There was no significant difference in VAS scores at 0hrs, 2hrs between both groups. Interventional group(A) had statistically significant lower scores (P <0.00) 4hrs onwards till 48hrs than in control group(B). No adverse events were noted with minimal postoperative analgesic requirement in group(A) (P <0.000).: We conclude, that ultrasound-guided bilateral sphenopalatine block is a safe and effective procedure that provides sustained and superior quality of analgesia when compared to fentanyl

Liposomal Bupivacaine via an Adductor Canal Block Compared to a Peripheral Nerve Catheter and No Block After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Retrospective Analysis.

Background As total knee arthroplasty is one of the most common surgeries in the United States, it is important to identify regional anesthesia methods that optimize patient recovery. This study evaluates the effectiveness of adductor canal (AC) blocks with liposomal bupivacaine (LB) compared to other regional anesthesia techniques. We hypothesized that patients receiving single-shot (SS) AC blocks with LB would have lower postoperative opioid consumption compared to other groups. Methods A retrospective cohort analysis was conducted on patients from a single institution between January 2014 and December 2021. The primary outcome assessed was postoperative opioid use, with secondary outcomes including postoperative pain scores and hospital length of stay. Results The final analysis included 280 patients: 41 received an SS AC block with plain local anesthetic, 76 received a peripheral nerve catheter (PNC) with continuous ropivacaine, 79 received an SS AC block with LB, and 84 received no block. In fully adjusted models, postoperative opioid consumption on day one was significantly lower in the SS AC block with LB group compared to the no block group (b = 23.2, SE = 5.7, p < 0.0001), the PNC group (b = 15.5, SE = 5.7, p = 0.01), and the SS AC block with plain local anesthetic group (b = 18.9, SE = 6.9, p = 0.01). Additionally, hospital length of stay was significantly reduced in the LB group compared to the no block group (b = 1.5, SE = 0.3, p < 0.0001), the PNC group (b = 1.1, SE = 0.3, p < 0.0001), and the SS AC block with plain local anesthetic group (b = 1.5, SE = 0.3, p < 0.0001). Conclusions Patients who received an AC block with LB had higher pain scores on postoperative day 0 (POD0) but required less opioid medication on postoperative day 1 (POD1) and had a shorter hospital stay compared to patients who received other types of AC blocks or no block.

Critical care innovations: navigating pain relief in intensive care: the role of regional anesthesia.

The purpose of this article is to provide an update of regional anesthesia and its applications in the critical care patient population. Regional anesthesia including blocks of the abdomen and thorax, head and neck, as well as upper and lower extremities can be used to alleviate pain and assist in managing life-threatening conditions such as cerebral vasospasm and ventricular storm in the ICU population. There have been many advances in these techniques including ultrasound-guidance with innovative approaches that allow for more superficial procedures that are safer for critically ill patients. Regional anesthesia can decrease hospital length of stay (LOS), prevent ICU admission, shorten ICU LOS, and increase ventilator free days and may have mortality benefits. Pain management in the ICU is an important and sometimes challenging aspect of patient care. Regional anesthetic techniques have more indications and are safe, versatile tools that should be incorporated into care of critically ill patients.

Regional Anesthesia Techniques for Breast Cancer Surgeries—A Narrative Review

Regional Anesthesia Techniques for Breast Cancer Surgeries—A Narrative Review

Comparative Review of Postoperative Analgesic Use After Total Hip Replacement: Opioids Versus Non-opioids.

Total hip replacement (THR) is a common surgical procedure aimed at alleviating pain and improving function in patients with hip joint pathology. Effective postoperative pain management is crucial for patient recovery, satisfaction, and overall outcomes. This narrative review examines the comparative efficacy, safety, and implications of using opioids versus non-opioid analgesics in managing postoperative pain following THR. Opioids, while effective for severe pain, pose significant risks such as addiction, tolerance, and adverse effects. Non-opioid analgesics, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), acetaminophen, and regional anesthesia techniques, offer alternatives with potentially fewer side effects. This review synthesizes current evidence from clinical trials, observational studies, and expert guidelines to provide a comprehensive understanding of the benefits and drawbacks of each analgesic approach. The goal is to inform clinical decision-making and optimize pain management strategies for THR patients, balancing efficacy and safety.

Ultrasound-Guided Fascia Iliaca Block Versus Pericapsular Nerve Group Block Before Positioning for Spinal Anesthesia in Patients Undergoing Surgery for Neck of Femur Fracture: A Comparative Study.

Introduction Positioning patients with femur fractures for spinal anesthesia can be challenging due to pain. Regional anesthesia techniques, such as the fascia iliaca compartment block (FICB) and pericapsular nerve group block (PENG), have facilitated patient positioning and improved analgesia. This study compared the efficacy of ultrasound-guided FICB and PENG for pain management during the positioning of the patient for spinal anesthesia in neck of femur fracture surgeries. Aim of the study Ultrasound-guided fascia iliaca compartment block versus pericapsular nerve group block before positioning for spinal anesthesia in the neck of femur fracture surgeries. Materials and methods This prospective, randomized, single-blinded, and comparative study was conducted at Dr. DY Patil Hospital, Pune, from November 2022 to January 2024 and included 60 patients with neck and femur fractures scheduled for surgery under spinal anesthesia. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either ultrasound-guided FICB (n = 30) or PENG (n = 30) with 0.25% 20 ml of bupivacaine before positioning for spinal anesthesia. The primary outcome was to assess the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score for pain before and after the block. Secondary outcomes included assessment of hemodynamic parameters, patient satisfaction, and adverse effects. Results The number of days since fracture in FICB was 2.73±0.98 and in PENG was 3.37±1.9 was comparable with no significant difference between them (p-value =0.11). The mean VAS score after the block was significantly lower in the PENG group compared to the FICB group (3.33±1.73 vs. 4.43±1.3, p = 0.007), indicating better pain relief with PENG. Both techniques were comparable in terms of hemodynamic stability. Patient satisfaction was high and similar in both groups. No significant adverse effects were reported. Conclusion This study observed that the ultrasound-guided pericapsular nerve group block was superior to the fascia iliaca block in providing better analgesia, good patient satisfaction, and hemodynamic stability during positioning for spinal anesthesia.

Efficacy and Safety of Obturator Nerve Block in Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumors: A Comprehensive Review.

Transurethral resection of bladder tumors (TURBT) is a pivotal procedure in the management of bladder cancer, essential for both diagnosis and treatment. Effective anesthesia is crucial in TURBT to ensure a stable and pain-free operative field, facilitate precise tumor resection, and minimize complications such as the obturator reflex, which can lead to involuntary leg movement and bladder injury. The obturator nerve block (ONB) is a regional anesthesia technique designed to prevent the obturator reflex by blocking the obturator nerve, which innervates the adductor muscles of the thigh. This comprehensive review evaluates the efficacy and safety of ONB in TURBT. It begins by discussing the anatomical and physiological aspects of the obturator nerve, followed by a detailed examination of various ONB techniques, including ultrasound-guided and landmark-based methods. The review assesses the impact of ONB on pain management, reduction of adductor muscle spasms, and overall improvement in surgical conditions and patient satisfaction. Additionally, it explores the incidence and types of complications associated with ONB, such as hematoma, nerve injury, and local anesthetic systemic toxicity (LAST). It compares ONB with other anesthesia techniques used in TURBT, such as general, spinal, and epidural anesthesia. A critical analysis of key clinical studies and meta-analyses is presented to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current evidence on ONB efficacy and safety. Future directions and innovations in ONB techniques, including advances in imaging and nerve localization, are also discussed. Practical recommendations for implementing ONB in clinical practice, including guidelines for clinician training and patient selection criteria, are provided. This review aims to inform clinicians about the benefits and risks of ONB in TURBT, guide clinical practice, and identify areas for future research to optimize anesthesia management in bladder cancer surgery.

Expert's tips on regional blocks in neonates and infants.

Pediatric regional anesthesia (RA) has emerged as a rapidly advancing dimension within pediatric anesthesia, demanding a continual commitment to knowledge acquisition. This review underscores the contemporary significance of this specialty, focusing on its application in neonates and infants. The primary objective of RA is to address perioperative pain effectively while preserving the delicate physiological balance, thereby enhancing overall patient care. This review explores the advantages offered by RA in this age group. Furthermore, conventional, and recently introduced techniques of RA are examined by exploring the advantages and disadvantages of these methods. The aim is to provide clinicians with a nuanced understanding of their applicability in different clinical scenarios. Additionally, the review elucidates the unique considerations associated with pediatric RA, acknowledging pediatric patients' distinctive anatomical and physiological characteristics. The exceptional cases of congenital anomalies and their implications for the choice of RA are considered. An aspect of the review is its focus on dosages of local anesthetics and the volumes required for various blocks in neonates and infants. The dosages for continuous infusion and practical issues with infusions are considered. Complications due to RA are described with their prevention and treatment. The review offers pragmatic insights into the selection criteria for various regional blocks, aiding anesthesiologists in making informed decisions tailored to individual patient needs.

Bupivacaine/Dexmedetomidine versus Bupivacaine Alone in Caudal Block for Toddlers Undergoing Unilateral Open Inguinal Hernia Repair

Abstract Background Unilateral open inguinal hernia repair surgeries are one of the most frequently performed operations in the pediatric population. Regional anesthetic techniques are commonly used for better control of pain in pediatrics. the most widely used technique of regional anaesthesia in pediatrics is the caudal block. Objective To evaluate the analgesic and sedative effect of dexmedetomedine when given caudally as an adjuvant to bupivacaine in caudal block vs bupivacaine alone in toddlers undergoing unilateral Open inguinal hernia repair surgeries. Patients and Methods The study was conducted on 50 randomly chosen patients in Ain Shams University Hospitals after approval of the medical ethical committee. Patients were divided randomly into two groups; each group consisted of 25 patients. After preoperative assessment and obtaining baseline vital data, all patients received general anesthesia. Results The result of the study reveals that the addition of dexmedetomedine at 1μg/kg to bupivacaine 0.25% in caudal blocks can effectively prolong the duration of postoperative analgesia and causes better sedation than using bupivacaine alone in caudal blocks at similar doses in pediatrics. Conclusion From our study we can conclude that the addition of dexmedetomedine at 1μg/kg to bupivacaine 0.25% in caudal blocks can effectively prolong the duration of postoperative analgesia and causes better sedation in the toddlers undergoing unilateral open inguinal hernia repair surgeries. It is better than using bupivacaine alone in caudal blocks at similar doses.

A Comparative Study between Ultrasound Guided Pectoral Nerve Block Type II versus Intravenous Patient Controlled Analgesia for Intra-Operative and Post-Operative Analgesia in Patients Undergoing Modified Radical Mastectomy

Abstract Background Breast surgery is becoming more and more common. Patients are often middle-aged women and with high public awareness around issues of breast cancer. The numbers are increasing. Breast surgery is an exceedingly common procedure and associated with an increased incidence of acute and chronic pain. Regional anaesthesia techniques may improve post-operative analgesia for patients undergoing breast surgery. Aim of the Work The primary aim of this study is to compare the efficacy of PECS block versus PCA with iv morphine to provide prolonged post-operative analgesia. The secondary objective is to identify the side effects of both techniques as post-operative analgesic techniques. Patients and Methods This study is a randomized clinical trial study conducted in Ain-shams University Hospitals, Cairo, Egypt for 6 months after medical ethical committee approval. The participants were allocated randomly into two groups of 25 patients each: group A: Patients received general anaesthesia followed by PECS block at the end of the operation before extubation, group B: Patients received general anaesthesia followed by the PCA at the end of surgery after extubation. Results The VAS score in the PECS group was statistically significantly lower at the 1st, 2nd and 4th hours. In this case, the use of PECS for postoperative analgesia is as effective as intravenous Morphine PCA in pain treatment, but with less systemic side effect as the nausea and vomiting is significantly higher in the PCA group than the PECS group at the 6th hour, however, the need of intra operative opioids in PCA group is significant. Conclusion In modified radical mastectomy, PECS block is as effective as intravenous Morphine PCA in pain treatment. Compared with intravenous PCA, PECS block can be considered as a more preferable method because it can avoid the systemic actions of morphine used for PCA, and can decrease the need of analgesia intra-operative, however PCA analgesic effect last longer, less invasive technique and easier to be used while PECS block require hand skills and limited to 24 hours analgesia only.

Safety and Efficacy of Combined Dexmedetomidine and Bupivacaine versus Bupivacaine Alone in Caudal Block in Pediatric Patients Undergoing Lower Abdominal Surgery

Abstract Background Lower abdominal surgeries are one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures in the pediatric population. Using optimal analgesic regimen provide safe and effective analgesia, reduce postoperative stress response and accelerate recovery from surgery. Regional anesthetic techniques are commonly used to facilitate pain control in pediatric surgical procedures. The most commonly used techniques in pediatrics is caudal block. Objective To evaluate the analgesic effect of dexmedetomidine when given caudally as an adjuvant to caudal block vs bupivacaine alone in caudal block for children undergoing lower abdominal surgeries. Methods The study was conducted on 88 randomly chosen patients in Ain Shams University Hospitals after approval of the medical ethical committee. Patients were divided randomly into two groups; each group consisted of 44 patients. After preoperative assessment and obtaining baseline vital data, all patients received general anesthesia. Group BD who would receive caudal dexmedetomidine and Group B who would receive caudal block with Bupivacaine. Results There was a highly statically significance between groups according to time to first analgesic requirement (hrs). This table show statically significance difference between groups according to number of paracetamol doses in first 24h. While a statically significant difference between the two groups according to PACERO score. The sedation score was higher in group BD compared to group B. Also a statically significance difference between two groups according to FLACC scale at 8h and 12h. The duration of adequate analgesia (FLACC pain score 4 or less) was significantly higher in group BD compare to group B. Conclusion Dexmedetomidine 1 mcg/kg, when used as an adjuvant to caudal anesthesia, can significantly prolong the duration of postoperative analgesia. It is better than bupivacaine alone in caudal block at similar doses in controlling postoperative pain.

Scientific Contributions of Prof. Valentin Felixovich Voyno-Yasenetsky (Saint Luke of Simferopol; 1877-1961) to Surgical Operations of the Nervous System.

Valentin Felixovich Voyno-Yasenetsky (VFVY; also known as Saint Luke of Simferopol) was a famous professor of anatomy and surgery of the previous century. He was a particularly skilled surgeon, proficient in various surgical subspecialties, with main interest in regional anesthesia and pyogenic infections. The primary aim of this article is to explore his scientific contributions to surgical operations of the nervous system. His contributions are in three primary fields, namely, neuroanatomy, neurosurgery, and regional anesthesia. His work is characterized by meticulous descriptions of various anatomical structures of the brain and skull and of the intraoperative findings of his neurosurgical procedures. He clarified neurosurgical terms and described neurosurgical techniques. He also provided advice regarding the safety of neurosurgical procedures. Furthermore, he pioneered in techniques for regional anesthesia of the sciatic and trigeminal nerves. His exceptional talent as a scientist and surgeon, as well as his contributions to the neurosciences, makes him an exemplary doctor for modern neurosurgeons.

Comparitive Study between the Analgesic Effect of Erector Spinae Plane Block and Transversus Abdominis Plane Block After inguinal hernia repair

Abstract Background Multimodal analgesia is used to control postoperative pain in inguinal hernia repair. Transversus Abdominis plane block is an effective regional anesthesia technique for postoperative analgesia in inguinal hernia repairs. The Erector Spinae plane block applied to the low thoracic region was also reported to provide effective analgesia in these surgeries. Aim and Objectives To assess and compare the analgesic efficacy of Erector Spinae plane block with that of Transversus Abdominis plane block after inguinal hernia surgeries. Subjects and Methods A prospective randomized clinical study, conducted at Ain Shams University hospitals, Cairo, Egypt on 56 patients divided into 2 groups: (Group 1) (ESP group); 28 patients received unilateral ultrasound guided ESP block, (Group2) (TAP group); 28 patients received unilateral ultrasound guided TAP block during a period of 6 months. Result There was high statistically significant difference between the studied groups as regard first analgesic request and total analgesic consumption. Conclusion ESPB is a more effective regional block technique for postoperative pain relief in patients undergoing inguinal hernia repair than TAPB. In which The ESP block has a longer duration of analgesia, delays the time to first requirement for analgesia, and reduces analgesic consumption when compared with the TAP block and can be used in multimodal analgesia and opioid-sparing regimens

A Comparative Study between Continuous Epidural Analgesia versus Ultrasound Guided Continuous Femoral Nerve Block (CFNB) versus Ultrasound Guided Continuous Adductor Canal Block (ACB) for Post-Operative Pain Management after Total Knee Replacement (TKR)

Abstract Background Total knee replacement (TKR) is considered a prevailing cause of severe postoperative pain and discomfort among orthopedic surgeries, limiting postoperative ambulation that is important for regaining joint function. Despite being the gold standard, epidural analgesia can be accompanied by diverse complications delaying postoperative ambulation and discharge from hospital. Continuous femoral nerve block (CFNB) and continuous adductor canal block (ACB) are reliable and efficacious regional anaesthesia techniques allowing better control of postoperative pain. This study purposed to compare epidural analgesia, continuous femoral nerve block &amp; continuous adductor canal block regarding postoperative analgesia &amp; incidence of postoperative complications. The aim of this study is to estimate the efficacy of epidural analgesia, continuous femoral nerve block &amp; continuous adductor canal block regarding postoperative pain control following total knee replacement and the rate of incidence of associated postoperative complications. This is a prospective randomized controlled study where sixty patients were randomized into three equal groups, patients in group A received epidural analgesia, patients in group B received continuous femoral nerve block while patients in group C received continuous adductor canal block with postoperative continuous infusion of 0.125% bupivacaine with fentanyl 2μg/ml in the three groups at a rate of 5 ml/hr. VAS score was assessed for 48 hours post-operatively and complications were recorded. Results Epidural analgesia was superior to CFNB and ACB regarding postoperative pain control using visual analogue scale and postoperative pain control. CFNB and ACB are superior to epidural analgesia regarding postoperative ambulation and postoperative complications. Conclusions Continuous epidural analgesia provides superior analgesia following total knee replacement than femoral nerve block and adductor canal block, with relatively more adverse effects like pruritus, post operative nausea, and vomiting (PONV). Both CFNB and ADB are good alternatives with fewer systemic side effects.

Comparison of the effects of single injection and continuous infusion popliteal nerve block on pain and hemodynamics in diabetic foot surgery; prospective randomized clinical trial

ObjectivesIn patients undergoing surgery due to diabetic foot complications from uncontrolled diabetes may lead to neuraxial or general anesthesia-related issues. Regional anesthesia techniques can be preferred to prevent these complications. This study aimed to compare the hemodynamic effects and outcomes in terms of pain of continuous infusion and single injection methods of popliteal nerve block in patients undergoing surgery due to diabetic foot. Materials and methodsSixty-three patients in ASA II-IV risk group scheduled for diabetic foot surgery were randomized into two groups for popliteal nerve block as the anesthesia method. Group 1 (n:32), 30 mL of local anesthetic was administered around the popliteal nerve under ultrasound guidance and nerve stimulator. Group 2 (n:31) had a catheter placed beyond the needle tip by 4–5 cm. An elastomeric pump was prepared for the infusion of 2 mL/h of 0.25 % bupivacaine through the catheter. Hemodynamic parameters before and after the block, onset, block duration times, postoperative pain scores, time to analgesic requirement, patient satisfaction, and discharge time were recorded. ResultsPain scores were higher in Group 1 after 12 h postoperatively and in Group 2 after 60 h postoperatively (p = 0.006, p < 0.01, respectively). The time to the first analgesic requirement was not statistically different between Group 1 (mean 804.64 ± 1020.8 min) and Group 2 (mean 2012.78 ± 1424 min) (p = 0.072). There was no significant difference in systolic, diastolic, mean arterial blood pressure, and heart rate between groups before and after successful blockade (p > 0.05). ConclusionsContinuous infusion method of popliteal nerve block provides a longer pain-free period. Both methods showed similar hemodynamic data and low pain scores. Although continuous infusion method provides better analgesia, its procedural cost, technical difficulties, and adverse effects on patient comfort should also be considered.

1204 Efficacy of Novel Regional Anaesthetic Techniques in Day-Case Hip and Knee Arthroplasty

1204 Efficacy of Novel Regional Anaesthetic Techniques in Day-Case Hip and Knee Arthroplasty

Pericapsular Nerve Group Block Did Not Reduce Postoperative Pain or Opioid Use After Total Hip Arthroplasty

BackgroundThe pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block is a newly developed regional anesthesia technique designed to manage postoperative hip pain following a fracture or surgery while also maintaining quadriceps strength and mobility. The goal of our study was to compare postoperative pain scores and opioid usage during the postoperative period before discharge following total hip arthroplasty (THA) using the posterior approach between patients who received a PENG block and those who did not. MethodsWe conducted a retrospective study on patients undergoing elective, posterior approach THA at a single tertiary-care academic center. The 2 groups included a study group (THA with PENG block in 2021; n = 66) and a control group (THA before PENG block implementation in 2019; n = 70). ResultsThere were no significant differences in pain scores during postoperative minutes 0 to 59 (study group 6.8; control group 6.6; P = .81) or during postoperative minutes 60 to 119 (study group 6.2; control group 5.6; P = .40). There were no significant differences in total postoperative in-hospital morphine milliequivalent opioid consumption (study group 55.8 morphine milligram equivalents; control group 75.0 morphine milligram equivalents; P = .14). The study group was found to have a shorter length of stay (study group 17.0 hours; control group 32.6 hours; P < .0001) and faster mobilization (study group 3.0 hours; control group 4.9 hours; P < .0001) than the control group. ConclusionsOur results show that use of the PENG block did not result in lower postoperative pain scores or opioid consumption after THA using the posterior surgical approach. The study group had a shorter length of stay and time to mobilization than the control group, though this was likely due to standard hospital procedure shifting to same-day discharge for THA between 2019 and 2021 due to COVID-19.

Regional Anaesthesia, Contemporary Techniques, and Associated Advancements: A Narrative Review.

In particular, the application of regional anaesthesia techniques in existing medicine can be characterized as experiencing regular changes in recent decades. It is useful for obtaining accurate and efficient pain management solutions, from the basic spinal and epidural blocks to the novel ultrasound nerve blocks and constant catheter procedures. These advancements do enhance not only the value of the perioperative period but also the patient's rated optimization as enhancing satisfaction, better precision, and the safety of nerve block placement. The use of ultrasound technology makes it even easier to determine the proper positioning of the needle and to monitor nerve block placement. Moreover, the duration and efficiency of regional anaesthesia are being enhanced by state-of-the-art approaches, which come in the form of liposomal bupivacaine, and better recovery plans and protocols, which shorten recovery time and decrease the number of hospital days. As these methods develop further, more improvements in the safety, efficacy, and applicability of regional anaesthesia in contemporary medicine are anticipated through continued research and innovation.

Challenges of the Regional Anesthetic Techniques in Intensive Care Units - A Narrative Review.

Effective pain management is vital for critically ill patients, particularly post-surgery or trauma, as it can mitigate the stress response and positively influence morbidity and mortality rates. The suboptimal treatment of pain in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients is often due to a lack of education, apprehensions about side effects, and improper use of medications. Hence, the engagement of pain management and anesthesiology experts is often necessary. While opioids have been traditionally used in pain management, their side effects make them less appealing. Local anesthetics, typically used for anesthesia and analgesia in surgical procedures, have carved out a unique and crucial role in managing pain and other conditions in critically ill patients. This work aims to offer a comprehensive overview of the role, advantages, challenges, and evolving practices related to the use of local anesthetics in ICUs. The ability to administer local anesthetics continuously makes them a suitable choice for controlling pain in the upper and lower extremities, with fewer side effects. Epidural analgesia is likely the most used regional analgesic technique in the ICU setting. It is primarily indicated for major abdominal and thoracic surgeries, trauma, and oncology patients. However, it has contraindications and complications, so its use must be carefully weighed. Numerous challenges exist regarding critically ill patients, including renal and hepatic failure, sepsis, uremia, and the use of anticoagulation therapy, which affect the use of regional anesthesia for pain management. Appropriate timing and indication are crucial to maximizing the benefits of these methods. The advent of new technologies, such as ultrasonography, has improved the safety and effectiveness of neuraxial and peripheral nerve blocks, making them feasible options even for heavily sedated patients in ICUs.

CHOICE OF ANESTHESIA TECHNIQUE FOR MINE-EXPLOSIVE OR GUNSHOT INJURIES TO THE LIMBS

Introduction. Despite the overall advancement of medicine, the issue of adequate pain management for patients with combat injuries remains relevant today at all stages of providing care to the wounded. Limb injuries dominate the structure of traumatic damage due to combat trauma, accounting for 44-52 % of cases. Adequate control of pain syndromes in the postoperative period allows reducing the incidence of complications, shortening the patient's stay in the hospital and intensive care unit, accelerating the start of rehabilitation for the injured. Regional pain management methods are becoming more widespread; however, they often require a more specialized approach and specific training for anesthesiologists to conduct multimodal analgesia effectively. At the same time, the use of regional pain management methods is associated with fewer anesthesia complications, significant economic advantages compared to general anesthesia. Objective. To improve the treatment outcomes of patients with blast and gunshot limb injuries by determining the optimal method of anesthesiological support. Materials and methods. This study includes data on 61 patients hospitalized at the Municipal Clinical Hospital № 17 in Kyiv with a diagnosis of blast and/or gunshot limb injuries and treated at the mentioned hospital from February 2022 to October 2023. Discussion of research results. The study results convincingly demonstrate the significant benefits of using regional anesthesia methods during primary and staged surgical interventions in patients with blast and gunshot limb injuries compared to the use of general anesthesia. Regarding anesthesiological support using regional anesthesia techniques, they have significant advantages over general anesthesia in patients with blast and gunshot limb injuries. Conclusion. The application of regional pain management methods enables better control of pain syndromes and a substantial reduction in the use of narcotic analgesics in the postoperative period for patients with blast and gunshot limb injuries, promoting faster recovery and early rehabilitation for this patient group.