Thoracic Epidural Anesthesia Group Research Articles

Ultrasound-guided bilateral anterior quadratus lumborum block at the lateral supra-arcuate ligament in patients undergoing laparoscopic radical gastrectomy: A randomised controlled study

Objective: Ultrasound-guided bilateral anterior quadratus lumborum block at the lateral supra-arcuate ligament has recently been proposed as an effective analgesia for abdominal surgery. To test the hypothesis that this novel technique was a viable alternative approach of conventional thoracic epidural analgesia for laparoscopic radical gastrectomy. Methods: Three hundred patients scheduled for laparoscopic radical gastrectomy were randomised 1:1 into the anterior quadratus lumborum block group: receiving the novel regional analgesia, and the thoracic epidural analgesia group: receiving thoracic epidural anaesthesia. The primary endpoint was intraoperative consumption of propofol and remifentanil. Intention-to-treat analysis was performed for all variables. Results: At five and ten minutes after block, anterior quadratus lumborum block group achieved more dermatomes coverage of the sensory block with both p < 0.001. Intraoperative consumption of propofol and remifentanil was comparable between two groups (1116.21 ± 199.76 versus 1166.45 ± 125.31µg, p = 0.245 and remifentanil 1.83 ± 0.41 versus 1.81 ± 0.37ng, p = 0.988). However, anterior quadratus lumborum block group was associated with less intraoperative consumption of norepinephrine and atropine, shorter time to urinary catheter removal and out-of-bed activity than the thoracic epidural anaesthesia group. No significant difference in extubation time, pain scores at rest and exercising at all time points following surgery was observed between the two groups. Conclusions: Compared with conventional thoracic epidural anaesthesia, the novel technique was an equivalent effective component of multimodal analgesic protocol for laparoscopic radical gastrectomy. There were some advantages, including shorter procedure time, more reliable dermatomal coverage, shorter duration of urinary catheterisation and earlier time of out-of-bed activity to enhance recovery after surgery. Trial registration: The study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry on 2 November 2022 (ChiCTR2200065325).

Stress Response and Analgesia During and after Robotic-Assisted Pelvic Exenteration

Introduction. Thoracic epidural analgesia or thoracic epidural anaesthesia (TEA) and opioid-based intravenous multimodal analgesia (MMA) provide adequate control of perioperative pain, however, comparative data are still to be gathered. Aim. To compare both anesthesia techniques in terms of stress response during and after robotic-assisted pelvic exenteration (PE). Materials and methods. 112 patients were divided into 2 equal groups A level of serum cortisol was measured at induction of anesthesia and in 2, 24, and 48 hours. The efficacy of analgesia was compared using a 10-point numeric pain scale. Analgesic administration and side effects were reported for 1–3 postoperative days. Results. Cortisol levels increased 2 hours after skin incision in the MMA group and only in 24 hours in the TEA group (p < 0.050). Postoperative cortisol levels were significantly lower in the TEA group (p = 0.001). Numeric pain scores were significantly lower in the TEA group (1.7 [1.0–3.2] vs. 2.7 [2.1–4.2]; 1.9 [1.0–3.3] vs. 3.5 [3.5–5.0]; 3.7 [3.0–4.8] vs. 4.2 [3.7–4.7], respectively; p < 0.050). Patients in the TEA group received less opioid administration (4.3 mg vs. 13.9 mg; 7.0 mg vs. 19.9 mg; 10.9 mg vs. 16.5 mg, respectively; p < 0.050). The two groups of patients were detected with no significant difference in the incidence of respiratory depression. Discussion. According to the study results, perioperative stress response was reduced with TEA being added to the anesthesia protocol. Patients in the TEA group received lower doses of analgesics. Both groups produced similar short-term postoperative outcomes. Conclusion. As compared to opioid-based MMA, TEA provided more effective analgesia and similar side effect profiles. Therefore, TEA appears to be an acceptable method for stress response suppression and pain management in patients undergoing robotic-assisted PE.

Efficacy of Methylene Blue Thoracic Paravertebral Block in Postoperative Pain After VATS Lobectomy

BackgroundParavertebral block (PVB) is effective in controlling postoperative pain after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) lobectomy but is subject to a high rate of failure because of incorrect site of injection. We compared methylene blue PVB with thoracic epidural anesthesia (TEA) for postoperative pain after VATS lobectomy. MethodsWe conducted a prospective randomized trial of patients undergoing VATS lobectomy; 120 patients were randomly assigned to the PVB or TEA group. The end points were postoperative pain at 1 hour, 12 hours, 24 hours, and 48 hours; time to perform TEA and PVB; opioid consumption; and postoperative outcomes. ResultsPVB was associated with reduction of local anesthesia time (P < .0001). In 2 cases, methylene blue showed that the block was not well performed; thus, it was repeated. No significant differences were found in postoperative pain, opioid consumption, and postoperative outcomes. ConclusionsPVB with methylene blue is as effective as TEA for controlling postoperative pain. Methylene blue use could help reduce PVB failure.

Abstract 16745: Continuous Stellate Ganglion Block for Ventricular Arrhythmias: Case Series, Systematic Review and Comparison With Epidural Anesthesia

Background: Percutaneous single bolus injection left stellate ganglion block (PLSGB) and thoracic epidural anesthesia (TEA) have been proposed for the acute management of refractory ventricular arrhythmias (VAs). Data on continuous PLSGB (C-PLSGB) are scant. Objectives: to report our single center experience with C-PLSGB and perform a systematic review on C-PLSGB and TEA to preliminary compare these 2 techniques. Methods: consecutive patients receiving C-PLSGB were enrolled. The systematic literature review was performed following the latest PRISMA criteria. Results: our single-center case series (8 pts, 88% male, 60 ±16 years, all with structural heart disease) supports that C-PLSGB is feasible and safe, even on fully anticoagulated patients and leads to a complete VAs suppression in half and to an overall clinical benefit in all patients. Overall, considering previously published data, 34 patients received C-PLSGB, and 18 TEA for refractory VAs. Most (61%) in the TEA group were on general anesthesia, as opposed to 24% in the C-PLSGB group (p=0.01); 52% of patients were on full anticoagulation at C-PLSGB, none at TEA (p&lt;0.01). C-PLSGB and TEA efficacy was not significantly different (31/34 versus 13/18 had a complete or at least partial response, p=0.1). No major complications occurred, yet the discontinuation rate was significantly higher in the TEA compared to C-PLSGB (22% versus 3%, p=0.037). Conclusions: C-PLSGB seems feasible, safe and effective for the acute management of refractory VAs. C-PLSGB efficacy seems to be not significantly different to that of TEA and may be accomplished with less concerns of anticoagulation, and lower discontinuation rate.

FTP3.14 Comparing thoracic epidural anaesthesia to rectus sheath catheter induced analgesia in reducing postoperative pain following major abdominal surgery. A systematic review

Abstract Aims Effective analgesia is mandatory for achieving optimum post operative recovery. The aim of this study is to compare between thoracic epidural analgesia and rectus sheath catheter analgesia in reducing pain score after open major abdominal surgery. Methods Standard medical electronic databases were searched with the support of a local librarian. Relevant published randomised controlled trials (RCT) comparing thoracic epidural analgesia and rectus sheath catheter analgesia after open major abdominal surgery, were shortlisted according to the inclusion criteria. Result Four RCTs on 351 patients undergoing major abdominal surgery were included in this meta-analysis. There were 176 patients in the thoracic epidural group (TEA) and 175 patients in the rectus sheath catheter group (RSC). In the random effect model analysis, there was no significant difference in VAS pain score in 24 hours at rest [SMD -0.46; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) -1.21 to 0.29; z =1.20 P=0.23] and movement [SMD -0.64; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) -1.69 to -0.14; z = 1.19 P= 0.23] between TEA and RSC. Similarly, there was no significant difference in pain score in 48 hours at rest [SMD -0.14; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) -0.36 to 0.08; z = 1.29 P= 0.20] and movement [SMD -0.69; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) -2.03 to 0.64; z = 1.02 P= 0.31]. Conclusion There was no significant difference in pain score between TEA and RSC following major abdominal surgery and both approaches can be used safely according to the choice and expertise available. Acknowledgement This work was previously presented.

Comparison of effects of transversus abdominis plane block and thoracic epidural anesthesia mediated activation of inflammasome on postoperative medication, pain, and recovery in patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal surgery.

This work was developed to compare the effects of transversus abdominis plane block (TAPB) and thoracic epidural anesthesia (TEA) mediated activation of inflammasome on postoperative medication, pain, and recovery in patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal surgery. Then, the effects of two anesthesia methods on postoperative analgesia of patients were investigated and compared, aiming to provide reference for the selection of postoperative analgesia methods of laparoscopy. In this work, patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal surgery were rolled into a TAPB group (30 patients) and a TEA group (30 patients). The blood pressure and stress indexes of the patients at different time points were observed and compared, and the doses of anesthetic drugs were recorded. Postoperative pain scores were evaluated, and postoperative recovery of the two groups was compared. Meanwhile, the peripheral venous bloods were extracted from the two groups before and after surgery for the determination of inflammasome proteins, and the detection results were compared. Data showed that the dose of sufentanil in TEA group was notably inferior to that in TAPB group (p<0.05). The blood pressure indexes in the TEA group decreased remarkably (p<0.05), while their changes in the TAPB group were stable. The slower point heart rate (HR), lower mean arterial pressure (MAP), and lower levels of cortisol (Cor) and norepinephrine (NE) in the TEA group were found when compared with the TAPB group during the period from pneumoperitoneum establishment to post-ventilation. After pneumoperitoneum establishment, blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) in the TEA group was lower than that in the TAPB group at the same time point (p<0.05). The postoperative visual analog scales (VAS) score and numerical rating scale (NRS) score in TEA group were lower than those in TAPB group (p<0.05). After surgery, the protein level in TEA group was significantly lower than that in TAPB group (p<0.05). In short, the activation of inflammasome mediated by TEA could reduce the anesthetic agents used after laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery and reduce the surgical stress response. In addition, TEA exerted a little effect on early immunity, which was safe and feasible, contributing to postoperative analgesia and recovery. In addition, its application value in laparoscopic postoperative analgesia was higher than TAPB.

A comparative study between Thoracic Epidural Anesthesia in non-intubated video-assisted thoracoscopes and the conventional general anesthesia with one lung ventilation

ABSTRACT Background Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) refers to the minimally invasive thoracic surgeries performed by video cameras to avoid the invasive conventional open thoracotomy. The majority necessitate one-lung ventilation. Regional anesthesia is involved to avoid the risks of general anesthesia(GA) and one-lung ventilation and promote efficient recovery of these vulnerable populations. Objective To assess the feasibility of non-intubated VATS with Thoracic Epidural Anesthesia (TEA) compared to the conventional GA in terms of hemodynamic and ventilatory parameters, postoperative pain control, opiate consumption, ambulation, and length of hospital stay. Patients and Methods This study is a prospective randomized clinical study conducted in Ain Shams University Hospitals over 2 years, with a sample size of 40 patients in 2 groups. The GA group, after induction of anesthesia, double-lumen endotracheal tube was inserted to facilitate one-lung ventilation. The TEA group, an epidural catheter was inserted between T3 and T4 orT4 and T5 intervertebral space, local anesthetic dose titrated aiming to achieve sensory and motor block between C7-T7 levels. Results The findings revealed no statistically significant difference between groups throughout the perioperative period (p >0.05) regarding ventilatory and circulatory parameters besides opiate consumption. Conversely, in terms of postoperative ambulation and length of hospital stay (LOS), p-value=0.013 and 0.001 respectively for each favoring the TEA group. Similar results were denoted for postoperative pain control, there was statistically significant difference between groups in VAS score at 3 hours (P =0.004). Conclusion The feasibility of nonintubated VATS with TEA was tested with respect to safety and efficiency compared to the conventional GA. The results of both groups are comparable in terms of hemodynamics and ventilatory parameters. Despite similar overall opiate consumption in both groups, the TEA group demonstrated promising results regarding the enhanced recovery parameters in terms of better early postoperative pain control, earlier ambulation, and decreased length of hospital stay.

Cost and outcomes of intercostal nerve cryoablation versus thoracic epidural following the Nuss procedure

Pectus excavatum is the most common congenital chest wall abnormality, with the Nuss procedure being the most commonly performed repair. Pain control is the predominant factor in the postoperative treatment of these patients. This study aims to compare the cost and outcomes of intercostal nerve cryoablation (INC) and thoracic epidural (TE) in patients undergoing the Nuss procedure. A retrospective chart review was conducted at our institution for all patients who underwent the Nuss procedure for pectus excavatum from 2002 to 2020. Patients were stratified by pain management strategy, INC vs. TE. Chi-square and Fisher's exact were used to compare categorical variables. Wilcoxon tests were used to evaluate continuous variables and costs. A total of 158 patients were identified. Of these, 80.4% (N=127) were treated with epidural, while 19.6% (N=31) were treated with intercostal nerve cryoablation. The INC group had lower rates of PCA use (35.5% vs. 93.7%, p<0.001), lower total morphine milligram equivalent requirement (27.0 vs. 290.8, p<0.001), and shorter length of stay (3.2 days vs. 5.3 days, p<0.001) compared to the TE group. INC was also associated with longer operative times (153.0min vs. 89.0min, p<0.001). The total hospitalization cost for the INC group was higher compared to the TE group ($24,742.5 vs $21,621.9, p=0.001). In patients undergoing the Nuss procedure, compared to thoracic epidural, INC was associated with lower opioid use and shorter length of stay but at the cost of longer operative time and increased hospitalization cost. Treatment Study, Level III.

Anesthetic management and post-operative anesthesia for patients who underwent extended liver resection: the role of intravenous lidocaine

Aim. To examine effectiveness of intraoperative lidocaine administration in the intraoperative period as a component of combined anesthesia and in the early postoperative period in patients after extended liver resection. Materials and methods. There were 86 patients with various pathologies enrolled after hepatic resection with 30–60 % of parenchymal preservation. The patients were divided into three groups depending on the complex anesthesia used. The control group (ІІІ) consisted of 10 patients who received standard complex anesthesia and pain management including opioid and non-opioid analgesics in the post-operative period. The main group (ІІ) comprised 9 patients who received the method developed, and there was the additional comparison group (І) composed of 67 patients who received standard complex anesthesia with thoracic epidural anesthesia (TEA). Results. Having elaborated the fentanyl mean cumulation dose during the operation, we herewith declare that patients of group I received in general 1005.2 ± 417.8 µgr, group II – 1771.1 ± 735.5 µgr and III group – 2090.0 ± 636.7 µgr of fentanyl. When detailing and comparing the groups with each other, we see significantly lower usage of fentanyl intraoperatively in TEA group in comparison to both other groups (I vs II, 76 % greater need in group II, and I vs III, 108 % greater need in group ІІI). At the same time, the difference in the need for intraoperative fentanyl between patients of the intravenous lidocaine group and the control group was only 18 % – there was a tendency to a decrease in the dose when using intravenous lidocaine. Based on the data comparison results between groups, it could be asserted that between patients of groups I and II, the difference in the VAS score on day one after surgery was only 10 %. On the first day postoperatively, patients in group I noted maximum daily value of 4.5 ± 2.0 points on the VAS scale, in group II – 5.0 ± 2.3 and in group III – 7.6 ± 1.0 points. In contrast, there was a significantly higher level of pain in group III patients compared to both groups I and II. The intergroup difference in the time of the first dose of analgesics administration after surgery was insignificant: in group I – after 313.5 ± 128.9 minutes, in group II – 287.7 ± 101.6 minutes, and in group III – 217.0 ± 120.3 minutes. The provided data confirm the efficacy of the pain management method in patients after hepatic resection. Conclusions. Both the use of TEA and intravenous lidocaine are safe methods of pain management in patients after liver resection. In the postoperative period, intravenous use of lidocaine is not inferior in its effectiveness to TEA and can be recommended for use. TEA has a greater efficiency in intraoperative analgesia, however, if it is contraindicated for administration, intraoperative use of lidocaine is a potentially effective alternative. Further studies in a larger group of patients are needed to confirm or disprove this trend.

Thoracic epidural anaesthesia vs intrathecal morphine in dogs undergoing major thoracic and abdominal surgery: clinical study

BackgroundThere is scant clinical research on neuraxial analgesia in dogs undergoing major surgery. With this study we compared the perioperative analgesic effects of thoracic epidural anaesthesia (TEA) and intrathecal morphine (ITM) in dogs scheduled for thoracic or cranial abdominal surgery. The dogs received methadone and dexmedetomidine, were anaesthetized with propofol maintained with sevoflurane, and randomly assigned to receive either TEA (ropivacaine 0.5% at 0.2 mg/kg and morphine 0.1 mg/kg administered at T12-T13) or ITM (morphine 30 μg/kg administered at L6-L7). Intraoperative rescue analgesia (iRA) was fentanyl 1 μg/kg administered if heart rate or mean arterial pressure increased by 30% above the pre-stimulation level. Glasgow Pain Composite Scale score (GPCS) dictated the use of postoperative rescue analgesia (pRA) with methadone 0.2 mg/kg.ResultsThere was a statistically significant difference in iRA, median time to first fentanyl bolus, median fentanyl dose after surgical opening, and median GPCS score at 30 minutes (min), 1 ,2, 4, 6, and 8 hours (h) between the two groups (p<0.001; p<0.001; p<0.001; p<0.01; p<0.01; p<0.001; p<0.01; p=0.01; p=0.01, respectively). Fewer TEA than ITM group dogs required iRA during surgical opening and pRA: 5% (1/18) and 2/18 (11%), respectively, in the TEA and 83% (16/18) and 10/18 (55%), respectively, in the ITM group. Side effects were urinary retention in 3/18 (16%) TEA group dogs and 2/18 (11%) ITM group dogs and prolonged sedation in 2/18 (11%) in ITM group dogs.TEA and ITM were effective in managing perioperative pain in dogs undergoing thoracic or cranial abdominal surgery.

Cryoablation is associated with shorter length-of-stay and reduced opioid use after the Ravitch procedure

PurposeThe use of intercostal nerve cryoablation (INC) is becoming increasingly common in patients undergoing pectus repair. This study sought to evaluate the use of INC compared to traditional use of thoracic epidural (TE) in patients undergoing the modified Ravitch procedure. MethodsA retrospective review of 37 patients undergoing the modified Ravitch repair with either INC or TE from March 2009 to July 2021 was conducted. The operations were performed by four surgeons who worked together at four different hospitals and have the same standardized practice. The primary outcome measure was hospital length of stay (LOS). Secondary variables included surgical time, total operating room time, operating room time cost, total hospital cost, inpatient opioid use, long term opioid use after discharge, and post-operative complications. ResultsLOS decreased to 2.8 days in the INC group compared to 6 days in the TE group (p<0.0001). Surgical time and total OR time was increased in the INC group. The INC group experienced significantly lower hospital costs (p<0.01). Total hospital opioid administration was significantly lower in INC group, and there was a significant decrease in long term opioid use in the INC group (p<0.0001). ConclusionsINC is a newer modality that decreases LOS, controls pain, and results in overall cost savings for patients undergoing the modified Ravitch procedure. We recommend that INC be included in the current practice for postoperative pain control in pectus disorder patients undergoing the modified Ravitch procedure.

Opioid free multimodal analgesia versus opioid based analgesia in bariatric surgery outcome

Background: Combined Opioid-free analgesia (OFA) and thoracic epidural (TE) by ultrasound is the technique that may have an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS), decrease perioperative opioid consumption and more improved positive outcomes than balanced general anesthesia with use of opioid after bariatric surgery. The Opioid free analgesia includes local anesthetics (Na channel blocker), alpha-2 receptor agonists (dexmetedomidine), NMDA antagonists (ketamine, lidocaine, magnesium sulfate), anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) and dexamethasone. Aim: evaluation the effect of opioid free analgesia with thoracic epidural as a multimodal analgesia versus balanced general analgesia on outcome of bariatric surgery on total opioid requirements, pain scores, and complications. Patients and Methods: The current study recruited sixty patients aged 20-50 years, ASA I, II, under bariatric surgery. 30 patients received OFA with Ultrasonic guided thoracic epidural with pre-induction by precedex, ketamine, xylocaine, esmolol, dexamethasone, paracetamol and magnesium. Then propofol, and atracurium to insert (ETT), 30 patients received balanced general anesthesia (BGA), patients received fentanyl, propofol, atracurium. Results: There was significant decrease in pain scores within 24-hour postoperative p- value < 0.05 and there was a clinically significant reduction in time for outcome from the recovery room for OFA & TE group. The number of satisfied was higher in the OFA& TE group (60%) than BGA group (30%) (p=0.037). Conclusions: Ultrasonic-guided TE block combined with Opioid free analgesia (OFA) is an option with a better ERAS pathway for pariatric surgery to decrease consumption of opioid perioperativly with no effect on recovery or pain control, better efficiency and patient satisfaction.

Comparison of transversus abdominis plane catheters with thoracic epidurals for cost and length of stay in open colorectal surgeries: a cohort study

BackgroundThoracic epidural analgesia has long been a common method of postoperative analgesia for major open abdominal surgeries and is frequently used within enhanced recovery after surgery programs. An alternative postoperative analgesia method is the single shot transversus abdominis plane block, which has shown promising outcomes with respect to total length of stay, cost, pain scores, and decreased opioid usage. However, far less is known regarding continuous transversus abdominis plane analgesia using catheters. We evaluated the total cost-effectiveness of transversus abdominis plane catheter analgesia compared to thoracic epidural analgesia for patients undergoing open colorectal surgeries within the enhanced recovery after surgery program at our institution.MethodsThis cohort study included patients booked under the colorectal surgery enhanced recovery after surgery program from November 2016 through March 2018 who received either bilateral transversus abdominis plane catheters (n = 52) or thoracic epidural analgesia (n = 24).ResultsThere was no difference in total direct cost (p = 0.660) and indirect cost (p = 0.220), and median length of stay (p = 0.664) in the transversus abdominis plane catheter group compared to the thoracic epidural group. Additionally, the transversus abdominis plane catheter group received significantly less morphine equivalents compared to the thoracic epidural group (p = 0.008) and had a lower mean body mass index (p = 0.019). There was no significant difference between the two groups for age (p = 0.820), or sex (p = 0.330).ConclusionsTransversus abdominis plane catheter analgesia is not associated with increased cost or longer hospital stays when compared to thoracic epidural analgesia in patients undergoing open colorectal surgery within an enhanced recovery after surgery program. Furthermore, transversus abdominis plane catheter analgesia led to decreased opioid consumption while maintaining similar pain scores, suggesting similar pain control between the two modalities.

The Analgesic Effects of Thoracic Paravertebral Block versus Thoracic Epidural Anesthesia After Thoracoscopic Surgery: A Meta-Analysis.

BackgroundTo date, there is no definitive evidence for the analgesic effects and side effects of thoracic epidural anesthesia (TEA) versus thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB) after thoracoscopic surgery. In this study, we conducted a meta-analysis of published randomized clinical trials (RCTs) to analyze the analgesic effects of TEA versus TPVB after thoracoscopic surgery.MethodsWe systematically searched RCTs published by October 26, 2020, in PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane library and conducted a meta-analysis to analyze the analgesic effects of TEA versus TPVB after thoracoscopic surgery. The primary measure was postoperative pain score, and the secondary measures were postoperative 24-hour usage of opioids, hypotension, postoperative nausea, and vomiting.ResultsA total of 458 patients from five RCTs were included in this study. After thoracoscopic surgery, the numerical rating scale (NRS) score for resting pain was higher in the TPVB group than in the TEA group at 1–2 hours and 4–6 hours after surgery (MD = 0.44, 95% CI = 0.24 to 0.64, P < 0.0001, I2 = 0%; MD = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.23 to 0.70, P < 0.0001, I2 = 0%). The postoperative 24-hour usage of morphine was higher in the TPVB group than in the TEA group (SMD = 0.67; 95% CI = 0.03 to 1.31; P = 0.04; I2 = 84%). The incidence of hypotension was significantly lower in the TPVB group than in the TEA group (OR = 4.52; 95% CI = 2.03 to 10.10; P = 0.0002; I2 = 0%). No significant between-group difference was observed in postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV).ConclusionCompared with TPVB, TEA provides statistically significant but clinically unimportant short-term benefits following thoracoscopic surgery.

Cryoablation is associated with shorter length of stay and reduced opioid use in pectus excavatum repair.

The use of intercostal nerve cryoablation (INC) is becoming increasingly common in patients undergoing pectus excavatum (PE) repair. This study sought to evaluate the use of INC compared to traditional use of thoracic epidural (TE). A retrospective review of 79 patients undergoing PE repair with either INC or TE from May 2009 to December 2019 was conducted. The operations were performed by four surgeons who worked together at four different hospitals and have the same standardized practice. The primary outcome measure was hospital length of stay (LOS). Secondary variables included surgical time, total operating room time, operating room time cost, total hospital cost, inpatient opioid use, long-term opioid use after discharge, and postoperative complications. LOS decreased to 2.5days in the INC group compared to 5days in the TE group (p < 0.0001). Surgical time was increased in the INC group, but there was no difference in total OR time. The INC group experienced significantly lower hospital costs. Total hospital opioid administration was significantly lower in INC group, and there was a significant decrease in long-term opioid use in the INC group. INC is a newer modality that decreases LOS, controls pain, and results in overall cost savings. We recommend that INC be included in the current practice for postoperative pain control in PE patients undergoing Nuss procedure.

Randomized Prospective Study Evaluating Single-Injection Paravertebral Block, Paravertebral Catheter, and Thoracic Epidural Catheter for Postoperative Regional Analgesia After Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery

Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) has improved patient outcomes; however, postoperative pain remains potentially severe. The objective of this study was to compare adjunct analgesic modalities for VATS, including paravertebral nerve blockade (PVB) and thoracic epidural anesthesia (TEA). Prospective, randomized trial. Large academic hospital, single institution. Adult patients undergoing VATS. Ultrasound-guided PVB catheter, ultrasound-guided single-injection PVB, or TEA. Postoperative visual analog scale pain scores (at rest and with knee flexion) and opioid usage were recorded. Pain scores (with movement) for the TEA group were lower than those for either PVB group at 24 hours (p ≤ 0.008) and for the PVB catheter group at 48 hours (p = 0.002). Opioid use in TEA group was lower than that for either PVB group at 24 and 48 hours (p < 0.001) and 72 hours (p < 0.05). Single-injection PVB was faster compared with PVB catheter placement (6 min v 12 min; p < 0.001) but similar to TEA (5 min). Patient satisfaction, nausea, sedation, and 6-month postsurgical pain did not differ between groups. TEA led to lower pain scores and opioid requirement for VATS procedures compared with PVB techniques. Single-injection PVB was faster and equally as effective as PVB catheter, and it led to similar patient satisfaction as TEA; therefore, it should be considered in patients who are not ideal candidates for TEA.

A Comparative Study on Safety and Efficacy of Caudal, Thoracic Epidural and Intra Venous Analgesia in Paediatric Cardiac Surgery: A Double Blind Randomised Trial

Introduction:Regional anaesthesia combined with general anaesthesia reduces stress response to surgery, duration of ventilation, intensive care unit (ICU) stay and promotes early recovery. Studies on thoracic epidural, caudal analgesia along with general anaesthesia (GA) in paediatric cardiac surgery are limited hence we aimed to compare efficacy and safety of caudal, thoracic epidural and intravenous analgesia in paediatric cardiac surgery. Methodology: This study was conducted in the Department of Anaesthesiology in a tertiary care teaching hospital in southern India from February 2019 to December 2019. 90 children were randomised into group A, group B, group C. Children in group A received caudal analgesia along with GA. Group B children received thoracic epidural along with GA. Group C patients received intravenous analgesia along with GA. Rescue analgesia 1 mcg/kg fentanyl given in all 3 groups if pain score is more than 4. Primary outcome assessed was post-op pain scores. Secondary outcome assessed was duration of ventilation, duration of intensive care unit stay. Results: All patients were comparable in terms of age, sex, weight, mean RACHS score, baseline heart rate and blood pressure. Pain scores were significantly lower in thoracic epidural group compared to other two grou ps. Duration of ventilation was lower in thoracic epidural group (91.17± 43.85) minutes and caudal (199.6 ± 723.59) minutes compared to intravenous analgesia groups (436.37 ± 705.51) minutes. Duration of ICU stay was significantly low in thoracic epidural group (2.73 ± 0.69) days compared to caudal (3.7 ± 2.8) and intravenous analgesia groups (4.33 ± 0.920). We didn’t have any complications like hematoma, transient or permanent neurological sequelae in regional anesthesia groups. Conclusion: Regional anaesthesia along with general anaesthesia was more effective in pain relief than intravenous analgesia with general anaesthesia in paediatric cardiac surgery.

Comparative study of mid-thoracic spinal versus epidural anesthesia for open nephrectomy in patients with obstructive/restrictive lung disease: A randomized controlled study.

Background:The aim of this randomized controlled study is to compare the safety and efficacy of thoracic spinal versus thoracic epidural anesthesia for open nephrectomy in patients with obstructive/restrictive lung disease.Methods:Sixty patients with mild to moderate chronic obstructive/restrictive lung disease undergoing open nephrectomy were randomized into two groups, 30 patients each. The thoracic spinal group (TSA) group received ultrasound guided mid-thoracic spinal anesthesia, and the thoracic epidural group (TEA) group received thoracic epidural anesthesia. All blocks were performed at the T7-T8. Hemodynamics, visual analogue scale score, sensory and motor block profile as well as any adverse events, and patient satisfaction were all reported.Results:Both blocks were successfully performed and were effective for surgery in all patients, with the exception of only one patient in TSA group who needed to receive general anesthesia even after IV midazolam because of extreme anxiety and was excluded from the study analysis. The sensory block ranges were quiet close, with T2-T5 for the TSA group and T3-T6 for the TEA group as the upper level and L3-L5 as the same lower level. The values for the onset time and the duration of sensory and motor blocks were lower in TSA group. There were no statistically significant differences existed in intraoperative VAS, and hemodynamics between the two groups. Postoperative adverse effects were negligible and insignificant, with no case reporting any neurological sequel.Conclusion:Ultrasound guided thoracic spinal anesthesia can be performed safely and effectively for open nephrectomy in patients with obstructive/restrictive lung disease with the potential for an early ambulation and great patient satisfaction.

Comparative study between thoracic epidural and ultrasound-guided thoracic paravertebral block in perioperative pain management for mastectomy

Objectives To compare between ultrasound-guided thoracic paravertebral block (PVB) and thoracic epidural block in patients undergoing mastectomy for pain control, intraoperative hemodynamics, and postoperative patient satisfaction. Background Thoracic PVB and thoracic epidural appears promising when combined with general anesthesia in reduction of postoperative pain. Patients and methods Between mid-2016 and December 2017, this prospective clinical study included 60 female patients scheduled for a unilateral mastectomy in Menoufia University Hospitals and divided into two groups, 30 each. Patients in group A were given single shot ultrasound-guided PVB at T4 level using 0.3 ml/kg of 0.5% bupivacaine. Patients in group B were given single shot epidural block at T4 level using 2 ml/segment of 0.5% bupivacaine. Results A total of 60 patients were included, of them, 30 patients received PVB and 30 received thoracic epidural. Heart rate was significantly higher in paravertebral group than in thoracic epidural group (P Conclusion Ultrasound-guided PVB is an effective technique showing greater hemodynamics stability and pain control compared with epidural analgesia for mastectomy.

The Effects of Thoracic Epidural Analgesia during Percutaneous Radiofrequency Ablation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

Background Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (PRFA) is a useful and safe treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Pain management, during and after PRFA, is a critical component of patient care. Objectives This study reviewed the efficacy of thoracic epidural analgesia, during and after PRFA, for patients with HCC. Study Design A retrospective, observational chart review. Setting Tertiary medical center/teaching hospital. Methods Patients who had undergone PRFA for HCC in the past 5 years were divided into two groups, based on the type of anesthesia administered: thoracic epidural anesthesia group (Group E) and local anesthesia with monitored anesthesia care group (Group C). We retrospectively reviewed changes in the numeric rating scale (NRS) score during and after PRFA, opioid consumption, length of the procedure, length of hospital stay, changes in blood pressure during PRFA, and the incidence of adverse events. Results The NRS score in Group E was significantly lower than that in Group C (P < 0.05). The opioid consumption in Group E was lower than that in Group C after PRFA (P < 0.05). The procedure time was shorter in Group E (P < 0.05). Neither of the groups showed significant difference with respect to the length of hospital stay and the incidence of respiratory depression, fever, and blood pressure elevation. The incidence of nausea, vomiting, and voiding difficulty was higher in Group E. Limitations This study is limited by its retrospective design. Conclusions Thoracic epidural analgesia was associated with shorter procedure times, lower postprocedural pain, and lower opioid consumption during and after PRFA for HCC.