Significant Difference In Pain Scores Research Articles

Analgesia for the Change of Dressing in Burn Victims: A Comparison Between Oral Ketamine and Oral Dexmedetomidine

Objective: To compare the efficacy of oral ketamine with oral dexmedetomidine for providing adequate analgesia for change of dressing in burn patients in burn dressing room. Methods: This randomized controlled trial was carried out in Jinnah Burn and Reconstructive Surgery Center, Lahore, from April 2019 to September 2019 after getting the approval from the Ethical Committee of Jinnah Hospital / Allama Iqbal Medical College, Lahore. 80 patients between 20 to 50 years, with 1st and 2nd degree burns and 20 to 40% of total body surface area involved were allocated in two groups A and B. The patients in group A received oral ketamine at a dose of 5mg/kg in 15 ml of water 30 mins while those in group B received dexmedetomidine, 4 ug/kg orally, in 15 ml of water 30 mins before the start of dressing change. The change of dressing was carried out with continuous vital monitoring. Pain was assessed via visual analogue scale (VAS) and sedation via Ramsay sedation score. All the observations were recorded on the predesigned proforma. SPSS version 21 was used for data analysis. Result: The baseline mean VAS score of patients in group A was 7.67 + 0.55 and in group B was 7.70 + 0.57 (p value = 0.799). Significant decrease in pain score in both groups was noted after 30 mins of drugs administration (p=0.000). Also a significant difference in pain scores was seen between the two groups (p< 0.05), with the patients in group A having lower pain scores as compared to patients in group B. Conclusion: both ketamine and dexmedetomidine provide adequate analgesia for the change of burn dressing when administered orally with ketamine providing better analgesic state as compared to dexmedetomidine. Key Words: Burn, ketamine, dexmedetomidine, analgesia. How to cite: Sohail F., Bangash R.L., Azim W., Arshad F, Anwar A., Niazi K.A. Analgesia for the Change of Dressing in Burn Victims: A Comparison between Oral Ketamine and Oral Dexmedetomidine. Esulapio 2021;17(01):39-44

Fascia Iliaca Block for Postoperative Pain Control After Hip Arthroscopy: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background: Various analgesic modalities have been used to improve postoperative pain in patients undergoing hip arthroscopy. Purpose: To systematically review the literature to compare the efficacy of the fascia iliaca block (FIB) with that of other analgesic modalities after hip arthroscopy in terms of postoperative pain scores and analgesic consumption. Study Design: Systematic review. Methods: A systematic review was performed by searching PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Embase up to April 2020 to identify randomized controlled trials that compared postoperative pain and analgesic consumption in patients after hip arthroscopy with FIB versus other pain control modalities. The search phrase used was “hip arthroscopy fascia iliaca randomized.” Patients were evaluated based on postoperative pain scores and total postoperative analgesic consumption. Results: Five studies (3 level 1, 2 level 2) were identified that met inclusion criteria, including 157 patients undergoing hip arthroscopy with FIB (mean age, 38.3 years; 44.6% men) and 159 patients among the following comparison groups: lumbar plexus block (LPB), intra-articular ropivacaine (IAR), local anesthetic infiltration (LAI), saline placebo, and a no-block control group (overall mean age, 36.2 years; 36.5% men). No significant differences in pain scores were reported in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) between the FIB and LPB (3.4 vs 2.9; P = .054), IAR (7.7 vs 7.9; P = .72), control group (no FIB: 4.1 vs 3.8; P = .76); or saline placebo (difference, –0.2 [95% CI, –1.1 to 0.7]). One study reported significantly higher pain scores at 1 hour postoperation in the FIB group compared with the LAI group (5.5 vs 3.4; P = .02). Another study reported significantly greater total analgesic consumption (in morphine equivalent dosing) in the PACU among the FIB group compared with the LPB group (20.8 vs 17.0; P = .02). No significant differences were observed in total PACU analgesic consumption between FIB and other analgesic modalities. Conclusion: In patients undergoing hip arthroscopy, the FIB does not appear to demonstrate superiority to other forms of analgesics in the immediate postoperative period. Therefore, it is not recommended as a routine form of pain control for these procedures.

Topical pain control for corneal abrasions: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Corneal abrasions are common ophthalmic presentations to emergency departments. Among emergency physicians and ophthalmologists, there are highly variable practice patterns with regard to management of resultant pain and discomfort. The goal of this study was to review and analyze the efficacy and safety of topical pain therapies for corneal abrasions, including topical anesthetics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), cycloplegics, steroids, pressure patching, and the use of a bandage contact lens (BCL). The review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. The protocol was established a priori and published on PROSPERO (CRD42020201288). MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and Web of Science were searched until December 31, 2020. Primary studies comparing topical pain therapies to another therapy or control were included. Primary outcomes included percentage of corneal abrasions healed at 24, 48, and 72 hours, as well as pain control at 24 and 48 hours. Secondary outcomes included use of oral analgesia and incidence of complications. Risk of bias was assessed using validated tools. Quality of evidence was assessed using the GRADE methodology. Overall, 33 studies (31 randomized controlled trials [RCTs], two cohort studies) comprising 4,167 patients with corneal abrasions were analyzed. Only the data for topical NSAIDs were of adequate evidence from which to draw conclusions; topical NSAIDs demonstrated significantly reduced pain scores at 24 hours (standardized mean differences [SMD] -0.69, 95% CI= -0.98 to -0.41) and 48 hours (SMD= -0.56, 95% CI= -1.02 to -0.10) as well as 53% (95% CI= 34% to 67%) lower oral analgesia use compared to control. Based on available data, topical anesthetics, cycloplegics, patching, and the use of a BCL did not result in any significant difference in pain scores or use of oral analgesia, while no studies examined topical steroids. No interventions resulted in healing delays or significantly higher rates of complications compared to controls. There was strong evidence to support that topical NSAIDs reduce pain associated with corneal abrasions in the first 48 hours and the need for oral analgesia. The existing evidence was insufficient to support or refute the use of topical anesthetics, cycloplegics, steroids, or BCL for pain control in corneal abrasions. Pressure patching was ineffective at pain reduction and may increase the risk of complications. Delays in healing or other complications were not significantly different between any intervention or control for simple, uncomplicated corneal abrasions; however, larger RCTs are required to identify any differences in rare complications.

Utilizing multimodal analgesia to evaluate postoperative analgesic requirements in kidney transplant recipients.

The use of non-opioid analgesics following surgery has proven beneficial in managing pain and decreasing adverse outcomes following surgery. Data assessing outcomes related to opioid use is limited in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). We evaluated the effectiveness of implementing a reduced to no opioid use protocol in KTRs. This retrospective cohort study included adult KTRs between January 2017 and July 2019 with a multimodal analgesic protocol (MAP), focused on limiting opioids, implemented in August 2018. We compared analgesic requirements in morphine milligram equivalents (MME) during transplant admissions between the MAP cohort and traditional cohort. There were 217 KTRs who met the criteria. Inpatient opioid use was significantly reduced in the MAP cohort (16.5±19.2 MME/day vs 24.7±19.7 MME/day; P<.05) with no significant difference in pain scores. No use of opioids within six months of discharge was significantly increased in the MAP cohort (50% vs 7%; P<.001), and there were no reported deaths at six months in either cohort. The use of multimodal analgesia is beneficial in KTRs to provide adequate pain control with limited to no exposure of opioids during admission or at discharge.

Combination of 5-Aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy and isotretinoin to treat moderate-to-severe acne.

In China, photodynamic therapy(PDT) has been widely accepted in the treatment of acne. However, there are few studies on PDT combined with isotretinoin of moderate to severe acne. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of PDT combined with isotretinoin in the treatment of moderate to severe acne. 70 cases of moderate and severe acne patients were randomly divided into PDT group and combination group. In combination group, patients were treated with PDT, once/2weeks, for 3 times; and oral isotretinoin, 10 mg twice a day for 3 months. The PDT group was treated with PDT alone. The skin lesions were counted before treatment and in the 4th, 6th, 8th, and 12th weeks to evaluate the clinical efficacy. Adverse reactions during the treatment were recorded. We monitored the liver function of the combination group once a month. The recurrence rate was recorded 6 months after treatment. A total of 67 patients completed the study. The effective rates of combination group in the 4th, 6th, 8th, and 12th weeks of treatment were 28.6 %, 71.4 %, 91.4 %, and 94.1 %, respectively; the effective rates of PDT group in the 4th, 6th, 8th, and 12th weeks of treatment were 22.9 %, 54.3 %, 74.3 %, and 78.8 %, respectively; the effective rates of two groups were statistically significant in the 6th, 8th, and 12th weeks of treatment (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in pain score between two groups during the photodynamic therapy(P＞0.05). Adverse reactions, such as erythema and pustule during photodynamic therapy in both groups were tolerable. The pigmentation subsided in about 3 months. The recurrence rate of combination group was significantly lower than that of PDT group(7% VS 24 %,P＜0.05). PDT combined with isotretinoin has higher effective rate and lower recurrence rate than single PDT, and is a choice for the treatment of moderate to severe acne.

Effects of Cannabidiol Chewing Gum on Perceived Pain and Well-Being of Irritable Bowel Syndrome Patients: A Placebo-Controlled Crossover Exploratory Intervention Study with Symptom-Driven Dosing.

Background: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders. Its pathophysiology is diverse and variable, involving disturbed gut-brain interactions, altered motility and secretion, visceral hypersensitivity, increased intestinal permeability, immune activation, and changes in gut microbiota. Complaints experienced by patients suffering from IBS and its co-morbidities strongly impair quality of life (QoL), and available treatments are often unsatisfactory. Anecdotal reports and preclinical data suggest that the endocannabinoid system and functionally related mechanisms could offer treatment targets. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a candidate agent of interest with a broad molecular target profile and the absence of psychoactive properties. Materials and Methods: In 32 female IBS patients, we explored the effect of a chewing gum formulation containing 50 mg CBD on abdominal pain and perceived well-being in a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled cross-over trial. Chewing gums were used on-demand guided by pain symptoms with a maximum of six per day. Pain intensity was assessed by a visual analogue scale (scale 0.0-10.0), and QoL was evaluated with the IBS-36 questionnaire. Results: There was no statistically significant difference in pain scores between CBD and placebo at a group level. Subgroup and individual analyses showed a highly variable picture. No indications were found for symptom-driven intake, which also remained lower than expected overall. Conclusions: With the current design, based on the assumption that IBS patients would adjust their intake to their perceived symptom relief, no differences at the group level were found between CBD and placebo gum in pain scores and the number of gums used. The low use of the gums also indicates that the benefits experienced by these patients generally did not outweigh practical disadvantages such as prolonged chewing throughout the day. The very high intra- and inter-individual variation in IBS symptoms warrant future trials that are more personalized, for example by applying an N-of-1 (rotating) design with individualized dose titration.

Cyanoacrylate Glue Versus Absorbable Tacks in Mesh Fixation for Laparoscopic Extraperitoneal Inguinal Hernia Repair: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Cyanoacrylate glue (Glubran 2) is a synthetic adhesive mesh fixation material. Its utility is being evaluated in laparoscopic total extraperitoneal (TEP) inguinal hernia repair (IHR). A multicentre randomized controlled trial was performed comparing Glubran 2 to standard of care absorbable tacks, particularly assessing chronic postoperative inguinal pain and its effects. Patients undergoing elective TEP IHR at 2 centers from 2017 to 2019 were randomly assigned to Glubran 2 or absorbable tack mesh fixation, and followed for 6 months. All other aspects of surgery and aftercare remained the same. Surgeons documented operative and fixation time, and the placement of fixation on standardized diagrams. Via a questionnaire, aspects of inguinal pain were evaluated before surgery, and at various time-points postoperatively over 6 months. Postoperative clinical factors were also collected. A total of 106 operative sides were randomized to either glue (51) or tack (55) mesh fixation over a 14-month period. Similar median operative times between tack (83.0 min) and glue fixation (75.0 min) were observed. There were no significant surgical complications or observed hernia recurrences in either group. There was no significant difference in pain scores between the 2 groups at all time-points after analysis through mixed effects modeling. Temporal pain profiles over time were also similar. Totally, 55% of patients in the glue group had returned to work within 2 weeks of surgery. There was no increase in complications or pain scores despite regular lateral fixation of glue in these patients. Adding to known data, we observed no significant difference in postoperative pain, demonstrating that cyanoacrylate glue is a viable and safe alternative fixation method to absorbable tacks in laparoscopic TEP IHR. As secondary outcomes, cyanoacrylate glue permits some patients to return to work early, and we observed regular lateral mesh glue fixation without increased pain or complications.

Dry Mopping vs. Saline Irrigation of Gallbladder Fossa After Bile Spillage During Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Randomized Control Trial.

IntroductionThe laparoscopic approach, as compared to open cholecystectomy, is still considered the gold standard, despite a higher incidence of micro insults. The most common approach to treat spilled biliary contents and lost stones in laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the retrieval of the stone through an open approach, or laparoscopically, ending with a peritoneal wash and aspiration.Material and methodsWe conducted a double-blinded randomized controlled trial. In the study group, patients with bile spillage during cholecystectomy underwent suction of all spilled bile and evacuation of all visible stones followed by dry mopping of the gallbladder fossa with gauze swab through an epigastric port. In the control group, after suction of all bile and visible stones, the gallbladder fossa was washed with 250 ml of saline, and fluid was aspirated through the epigastric port.ResultsSixty patients were included (30 patients in each group), 71.6% were female and the rest were male. There was a statistically significant difference in pain scores between the two groups (p=0.001). The dry mopping group had lower pain scores as compared to the other group postoperatively. The incidence of the intraabdominal collection in both groups are statistically insignificant, however, port site infection and intraabdominal collection are higher in the control group (irrigation group).ConclusionAlthough there is not much literature on the best approach to biliary spillage in laparoscopic cholecystectomy. We believe that dry mopping had better postoperative patient outcome as compared to the saline wash.

24 Maternal Psychosocial Factors associated with Postpartum Pain

The experience of pain is shaped by a host of psychological, cultural, and social factors. Our objective was to examine the relationship between self-reported postpartum (PP) pain and psychosocial factors including relationship status, pregnancy intendedness, employment, education, and mood disorder. This was a prospective observational study of PP patients at one institution (5/2017-7/2019) who utilized an oral opioid at least once during their PP hospitalization. Enrolled participants completed a survey which included questions regarding their social situation (including relationship status), psychiatric diagnoses, and perceptions of pain control during their PP hospitalization. The primary outcome for this analysis was self-reported overall pain during the PP hospitalization (score of 0-100). Multivariable analyses accounted for age, BMI, nulliparity and mode of delivery. Self-identified race and insurance status were not included given their collinearity with other exposures. In this cohort of 428 PP patients, the majority (84.0%) underwent cesarean delivery and 42.0% were nulliparous. Participants reported a median pain score of 40 out of 100 (IQR 30-60). On bivariable analyses, there was no significant difference in pain score between patients with and without an unplanned pregnancy or a mood disorder. Patients who were un-partnered, those without a college education, and those who were unemployed reported significantly higher pain scores (57.5 vs. 44.8, p<0.001; 52.6 vs 44.6, p<0.001; and 53.6 vs. 44.6; p<0.001, respectively). On multivariable analyses, patients who were un-partnered (aβ 8.3, 95% CI 2.0-14.7) and unemployed (aβ 7.5, 95% CI 2.5-12.6) remained significantly more likely to report a higher pain score (Table). Psychosocial factors such as relationship and employment status, which are indicators of social support, may contribute to the experience of pain PP. These findings suggest that addressing social support –such as via enhanced support from the health care team–warrants exploration as a non-pharmacologic means of improving PP pain experience.

Multi-Modal Analgesic Strategy for Trauma: A Pragmatic Randomized Clinical Trial

An effective strategy to manage acute pain and minimize opioid exposure is needed for injured patients. In this trial, we aimed to compare 2 multimodal pain regimens (MMPRs) for minimizing opioid exposure and relieving acute pain in a busy, urban trauma center. This was an unblinded, pragmatic, randomized, comparative effectiveness trial of all adult trauma admissions except vulnerable patient populations and readmissions. The original MMPR (IV administration, followed by oral, acetaminophen, 48 hours of celecoxib and pregabalin, followed by naproxen and gabapentin, scheduled tramadol, and as-needed oxycodone) was compared with an MMPR of generic medications, termed the Multi-Modal Analgesic Strategies for Trauma (MAST) MMPR (ie oral acetaminophen, naproxen, gabapentin, lidocaine patches, and as-needed opioids). The primary endpoint was oral morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs) per day and secondary outcomes included total MMEs during hospitalization, opioid prescribing at discharge, and pain scores. During the trial, 1,561 patients were randomized, 787 to receive the original MMPR and 774 to receive the MAST MMPR. There were no differences in demographic characteristics, injury characteristics, or operations performed. Patients randomized to receive the MAST MMPR had lower MMEs per day (34 MMEs/d; interquartile range 15 to 61 MMEs/d vs 48 MMEs/d; interquartile range 22 to 74 MMEs/d; p < 0.001) and fewer were prescribed opioids at discharge (62% vs 67%; p= 0.029; relative risk 0.92; 95% credible interval, 0.86 to 0.99; posterior probability relative risk <1= 0.99). No clinically significant difference in pain scores were seen. The MAST MMPR was a generalizable and widely available approach that reduced opioid exposure after trauma and achieved adequate acute pain control.

Evaluating the risks and benefits of ketorolac in transoral robotic surgery.

Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS) is increasingly used for oropharyngeal neoplasms and obstructive sleep apnea. Post-operative pain and bleeding remain concerns. Ketorolac has proved to be a safe alternative or addition to narcotics in other operations, but has not been thoroughly evaluated in TORS. A retrospective review was carried out on all TORS cases at our institution between April 2012 and March 2019, with the vast majority of cases performed starting in 2017. Post-operative bleed rates were compared between those who received Ketorolac and those who did not. Secondary outcomes evaluated included post-operative pain scores and need for feeding tube upon discharge. A total of 81 TORS cases were evaluated, with 37 patients receiving Ketorolac. Six (7.4%) patients reported post-operative bleeding, with one major and five minor bleeds. The patient with major bleeding requiring operative intervention did not receive Ketorolac. All five patients with minor bleeding received Ketorolac, but no bleeds occurred in the immediate post-operative setting while receiving Ketorolac. The average time of bleeding was 8days post-operative. There were no significant differences in pain scores or time to feeding tube removal. This preliminary study shows that Ketorolac use in the postoperative pain management after TORS does not increase major bleeding risk without benefits in pain management. There was increased risk of minor bleeding not requiring intervention, but this was not significant. Future prospective studies are needed to determine if it improves pain and swallowing and decreases narcotic requirements following TORS.

A single dose of tranexamic acid reduces blood loss after reverse and anatomic shoulder arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial

Hematoma formation and the need for blood transfusions are commonly reported complications after shoulder arthroplasty. Tranexamic acid (TXA) has been widely used in hip and knee arthroplasty to decrease perioperative blood loss. The role of TXA is still being established in shoulder arthroplasty. We conducted a double-blind randomized controlled trial comparing intravenous TXA vs. placebo in 60 patients undergoing primary anatomic or reverse shoulder arthroplasty. Of these patients, 29 received a placebo whereas 31 received a single dose of 2 g of intravenous TXA. Patient demographic characteristics, as well as drain tube output, blood loss, hematoma formation, transfusion requirement, length of hospital stay, and pain score, were recorded. Patients were followed up for 12 weeks to assess for complications. Patients who received TXA had a lower drain tube output at all time points: 41 mL vs. 133 mL at 6 hours, 75 mL vs. 179 mL at 12 hours, and 94 mL vs. 226 mL at 24 hours (P < .001 for all). They also had a higher postoperative hemoglobin (Hb) level (12.3 g/dL vs. 11.4 g/dL, P = .009), lower change in Hb level (1.7 g/dL vs. 2.3 g/dL, P = .011), lower total Hb loss (0.078 g vs. 0.103 g, P = .042), lower blood volume loss (0.55 L vs. 0.74 L, P = .021), higher postoperative hematocrit level (36.7% vs. 34.6%, P = .020), and lower hematocrit change (5.4% vs. 7.6%, P = .022). There was no significant difference in pain score or length of hospital stay, and no patients required a transfusion. A single dose of 2 g of intravenous TXA decreases blood loss and drain tube output in primary anatomic and reverse arthroplasty of the shoulder. No differences were detected in the occurrence of complications, need for transfusion, pain score, or length of hospital stay. With the mounting evidence now available, patients undergoing elective primary shoulder arthroplasty should be given intravenous TXA to decrease perioperative blood loss.

Keeping tabs: Reducing postoperative opioid prescriptions for patients after breast surgical procedures

BackgroundAs the opioid crisis continues, it is critical that health care providers ensure they are not overprescribing opioid medications. At our institution (Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD), postoperative patients after breast surgeries are discharged with variable amounts of opioid medications. However, many patients report minimal opioid use. The objectives of this study were to characterize postoperative opioid usage and prescribing practices for patients undergoing various breast surgeries and to recommend the number of opioid pills for discharge for each procedure. MethodsThis was a prospective, single-institution study of all patients undergoing breast surgery from October 2018 to 2019. All patients were enrolled in our institution’s enhanced recovery after surgery protocol. Patients were given questionnaires at their 2-week postoperative clinic appointment that evaluated perioperative pain and use of pain medications. The electronic medical record was reviewed to obtain additional information. Appropriate parametric and nonparametric tests were used for analysis. ResultsA total of 190 breast surgery patients completed the survey. We observed no significant differences in pain scores except between re-excision and mastectomy. Of these patients, 99% were prescribed opioids; however, only 53% of patients used them. Of those patients who were prescribed opioids, on average, all were prescribed more pills than were used. ConclusionOur study demonstrates that it is possible to discharge all breast surgery patients with fewer than 10 opioid pills, except for special circumstances. This is the first study to provide a set of specific recommended discharge medications. Utilization of an enhanced recovery after surgery protocol with standardized discharge opioids can be used successfully to reduce the number of opioids prescribed to patients.

Intraperitoneal ropivacaine for post-operative pain following laparoscopic tubal ligation: a randomised double-blind placebo-controlled trial

Background: Female sterilisation is the most common method of contraception worldwide and laparoscopic tubal sterilisation is increasingly considered as a day-surgery procedure. Therefore, pain following this procedure should be seriously addressed. Instillation of 200 to 300 mg of ropivacaine intraperitoneally has been proven effective in controlling pain after laparoscopic tubal ligation (LTL). However, extreme caution must be taken as potential serum toxicity has been reported with the instillation of 150 mg of intraperitoneal ropivacaine. In search of the lowest, most effective dose, this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of 112.5 mg of ropivacaine intraperitoneally in reducing post-operative pain after LTL. Methods: This double-blind, placebo-controlled randomised trial was conducted in an ambulatory care centre in Malaysia. Sixty-two patients scheduled for LTL were recruited. Two patients were excluded from the trial because of intraoperative complications. Sixty patients were randomised to either the placebo group (intraperitoneal normal saline, n = 30) or the ropivacaine group (intraperitoneal ropivacaine, n = 30). Pain scores (using a visual analogue score), and the need for additional analgesia were assessed at 15, 60, 120, and 240 minutes post-LTL. Results: We observed no significant differences in pain scores or the need for additional analgesia between the groups. Conclusion: 112.5 mg of ropivacaine administered intraperitoneally is not more effective than normal saline in decreasing post-operative pain after LTL.

Cold Therapy and Respiratory Relaxation Exercise on Pain and Anxiety Related to Chest Tube Removal: A Clinical Trial.

Background:Current strategies to control pain and anxiety of chest tube removal are not efficacious. The aim of this study is to determine the effects of cold therapy and respiratory relaxation exercise on pain and anxiety of chest tube removal.Materials and Methods:A parallel single-blind clinical trial study was conducted in Imam Khomeini Hospital, Iran, on 120 patients. Participants were randomized into 4 groups of 30. Numeric Rating Scale was used to assess pain and anxiety. One-way ANOVA test and Fisher's exact test were used to analyze demographic data. The Kruskal–Wallis test was used to compare the severity of pain and anxiety between groups; the Friedman and Mann–Whitney test were used to compare the severity of pain and anxiety within groups with a significance level of 0.05.Results:Pain intensity was weak before chest tube removal and there was no significant difference in basal pain. Pain immediately after chest tube removal was significantly higher than other times in each group (χ2 = 57.16, χ2 = 63.70, χ2 = 46.49, χ2 = 59.04, df = 3, p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in pain score immediately (p = 0.052) and 15 min (p = 0.329) after Echest tube removal in experimental groups compared to the control group. No significant difference was found between control and experimental groups in anxiety score immediately (p = 0.995) and 15 min (p = 0.976) before chest tube removal.Conclusions:Mentioned methods were not effective in reducing pain and anxiety. It is suggested to investigate effects of different methods of removing chest tubes and applying cold with a larger sample size.

The additional analgesic effects of transverse abdominis plane block in patients receiving low-dose intrathecal morphine for minimally invasive colorectal surgery: a randomized, single-blinded study.

PurposeIntrathecal analgesia (ITA) and transverse abdominis plane block (TAPB) are effective pain control methods in abdominal surgery. However, there is still no gold standard for postoperative pain control in minimally invasive colorectal surgery. This study aimed to investigate whether the analgesic effect could be increased when TAPB, which can further reduce wound somatic pain, was administered in low-dose morphine ITA patients.MethodsPatients undergoing elective colorectal surgery were randomized into an ITA with TAPB group or an ITA group. Patients were evaluated for pain 0, 8, 16, 24, and 48 hours after surgery. The primary outcome was the total morphine milligram equivalents administered 24 hours after surgery. The secondary outcomes were pain scores, ambulatory variables, inflammation markers, hospital stay duration, and complications within 48 hours after surgery.ResultsA total of 64 patients were recruited, and 55 were compared. There was no significant difference in morphine use over the 24 hours after surgery in the 2 groups (ITA with TAPB, 15.3 mg vs. ITA, 10.2 mg; P = 0.270). Also, there was no significant difference in pain scores. In both groups, the average pain score at 24 and 48 hours was 2 points or less, showing effective pain control.ConclusionITA for pain control in patients with colorectal surgery is an effective pain method, and additional TAPB was not effective.

Evaluation of Coconut Oil Pulling vs. Whitening Mouthwash as Home Teeth Whitening Methods

Purpose: This study was aimed to evaluate whitening efficacy, tooth sensitivity, and soft tissue irritation of coconut oil pulling as a home whitening method compared to an over-the-counter whitening mouthwash. Material and Methods: A randomized controlled clinical study was done on 60 females at Umm Al-Qura University, Faculty of Dentistry. The participants were divided into two main groups (n=30), to test two whitening agents; Study Group “Coconut Oil Swish” and Control Group “Crest 3D White”. Color measurement was done using the VITA Easyshade® Advance device at three times; the baseline, after one week and after two weeks of whitening. Pain assessment “ tooth sensitivity & soft tissue irritation” was done by utilizing the Pain Rating Scale “Wong-Baker FACES”. Results: The results in this study revealed no significant difference between lightness of the both group but the color differences (ΔE1 & ΔE2) in the Crest 3D White (control group) were scientifically higher than in the Coconut Oil Swish (study group). Regarding the pain assessment, a significant difference in pain scores was found between the two groups as Coconut Oil Swich (study group) recorded lower pain score than Crest 3D White (control group). Conclusion: Although the Coconut oil pulling revealed a whitening efficacy after two weeks of use; the whitening mouthwash that contains 1.5% hydrogen peroxide recorded higher color change at one- or two-weeks use. Coconut oil pulling causes less tooth sensitivity and/or soft tissue irritation during regular use when compared to the whitening mouthwash that contains 1.5% hydrogen peroxide.

Ultrasound Guided Adductor Canal Block vs Intra Articular Analgesia for Post-operative Pain Relief after Arthroscopic Knee Surgeries: A Comparative Evaluation.

Context and Aims:Our aim was to assess the postoperative analgesia after ultrasound-guided “Adductor canal block” (ACB) and “Intraarticular Analgesia” (IAA) in arthroscopic knee surgeries postoperatively.Settings and Design:This experimental, randomized prospective study was conducted in the Department of Anesthesia, Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences, Dehradun.Subjects and Methods:Sixty patients, who underwent arthroscopic knee surgeries were divided into two groups, with 30 patients each. Each group was given spinal anesthesia using 3 ml of 0.5% hyperbaric Bupivacaine. After completion of surgery, Group I patients were given ultrasound-guided ACB, Group II patients were given IAA. Postoperatively, pain was assessed using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS). Time of first analgesic requirement and total postoperative tramadol consumption in the 1st 24 h were recorded.Results:No significant difference was seen between both groups pertaining to patient's demographic data, type, and duration of surgery. The difference in the median NRS score between both the groups at different time intervals was statistically insignificant (P > 0.05). Total tramadol consumption in Group I (172.85 ± 82.59) mg was more than Group II (157.85 ± 33.83) mg. The duration of first analgesic requirement was 351.43 min, 342.86 min for Group I and II, respectively.Conclusion:To conclude, both ACB and IAA provide good postoperative pain control in arthroscopic knee surgeries with no significant difference in pain scores and postoperative analgesic requirement.

Comparison of percutaneous nephrolithotomy under epidural anesthesia versus general anesthesia: A randomized prospective study.

Introduction:PCNL has revolutionized the treatment of renal calculi putting almost an end to the era of open stone surgery. The procedure can safely be carried out under general anesthesia (GA) or regional anesthesia viz. spinal anesthesia (SA), epidural anesthesia (EA) or combined spinal and epidural anesthesia (CSE).Aims and Objectives:We evaluated the surgical outcome after PCNL in two groups of patients randomly divided to undergo procedure under GA or EA.Patients and Methods:Two hundred and thirty patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score <3 were randomly divided into two groups according to the type of anesthesia: i.e. GA (n=110) or EA (n=120). All patients underwent PCNL in prone position. Puncture was done using Bulls eye technique under fluoroscopic guidance and tract dilated using serial dilators up to 24Fr-28 Fr. Demographics, perioperative and postoperative parameters were noted and data analysed.Results:The two groups were comparable in terms of mean age, distribution of stone location, and stone burden. The stone free rate was 90.9% in GA group and 89.2% in EA group and the difference was statistically insignificant (P= 0.659). The requirement for auxiliary procedures was similar between the two groups. A significant difference in pain score was seen in favor of EA group during early post-operative period (P< 0.05).Conclusion:It seems that PCNL can be performed safely and effectively under regional epidural anesthesia with results comparable to general anesthesia with the added advantage of less immediate postoperative pain and analgesic requirement.

Continuous Epidural Analgesia and Continuous Femoral Nerve Block for Postoperative Pain after Unilateral Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective Cohort Study

Introduction: Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) surgeries are associated with moderate to severe postoperative pain. Inadequate analgesia leads to patient distress, suboptimal knee mobilisation and complications due to delayed rehabilitation. Peripheral nerve blocks and central neuraxial techniques are in the vanguard of various analgesic strategies to minimise pain after TKA. Aim: To compare the effects of Continuous Epidural Analgesia (CEA) and Continuous Femoral Nerve Block (CFNB) on postoperative analgesia, knee rehabilitation and adverse effects after TKA surgeries. Materials and Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted among 90 patients undergoing unilateral TKA at the Government Medical College, Kozhikode, Kerala, India. They were divided into two groups of 45 each. CEA (Group E) and CFNB (Group F) were given for postoperative pain management. Effectiveness of postoperative analgesia was measured by Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) scores at 6, 12, 24, 48 and 72 hours and also by need for rescue analgesics during the first 48 hours. Postoperative knee rehabilitation indices were measured on 1st, 2nd and 3rd Postoperative Days (POD). Incidence of adverse effects in each group was also noted. Continuous variables were analysed using students t-test, categorical variables using Chi-square test and NRS scores using Mann Whitney U test. Results: NRS scores were similar in both CEA (E) and CFNB (F) groups. On POD 1, 75.6% of group E and 71.1% of group F (p=0.630), on POD 2, 71.1% of group E and 68.9% of group F (p=0.818) and on POD 3, 62.2% of group E and 66.7% of group F (p=0.66) achieved specific rehabilitation indices. There was no statistically significant difference in pain scores, rescue analgesic requirement and rehabilitation indices between the two groups. No significant adverse effects were noted in either group. Conclusion: CFNB is as effective as continuous epidural block for postoperative analgesia and knee rehabilitation after TKA without any significant side-effects.