Effect of Nutritional Support Containing Arginine, Glutamine and ß-hydroxy-ß-methylbutyrate on the Protein Balance in Patients with Major Burns.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of a supplementary nutritional product containing arginine, glutamine and ß-hydroxy-ß-methylbutyrate (HMB) on the nutritional parameters of patients with major burns. METHODS: In a total of 40 patients with major burns treated in the Burns Unit, standard nutritional support was administered to 20 patients, and the study product was added to the standard nutritional support of the remaining 20 patients. The biochemical laboratory test results and burn severity were recorded on the first day of treatment and on Days 14 and 28. The 40 patients were divided as the study and the control group, and their results were compared. RESULTS: An increase in the albumin, prealbumin and total protein values in the group administered with the study product was found to be statistically significant compared to the control group (p=0.021, p=0.02, p<0.001, respectively). The decreases in haemoglobin and C-reactive protein (CRP) were at the levels expected in burn trauma. CONCLUSION: The results obtained in this study demonstrated that the addition of arginine, glutamine and HMB to the nutrition of patients with burns had a positive effect on the protein balance.

Comparison of ultrasound and ultrasound plus nerve stimulator guidance axillary plexus block.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the characteristics of axillary plexus blockade applied using ultrasound only and using ultrasound together with nerve stimulator in patients undergoing planned forearm, wrist or hand surgery. METHODS: This randomised, prospective, double-blinded, single-centre study was conducted at Ankara Numune Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey, from November 2014 to August 2015, and comprised patients undergoing forearm, wrist or hand surgery. Participants were separated into 2 groups. In Group 1, the nerve roots required for the surgical site were located one by one and local anaesthetic was applied separately to each nerve for the block. In Group 2, the vascular nerve bundle was located under ultrasound guidance and a total block was achieved by administering all the local anaesthetic within the nerve sheath. In the operating room, standard monitorisation was applied. Following preparation of the skin, the axillary region nerve roots and branches and vascular structures were observed by examination with a high-frequency ultrasound probe. In both groups, a 22-gauge, 5cm block needle was entered to the axillary region with visualisation of the whole needle on ultrasound and 20ml local anaesthetic of 0.5% bupivacaine was injected. SPSS 19 was used for data analysis. RESULTS: Of the 60 participants, there were 30(50%) in each group. The mean age was 39.1±15 years in the group 1 which was the ultrasound nerve stimulation group, and 41.5±14.3 years in group 2. The duration of the procedure was longer in group I than in group 2 (p<0.05). Patient satisfaction values during the procedure were higher in group 2(p<0.05). In the ulnar sensory examination, the values of the patients in group 1were higher at 10, 15, 20 and 25 minutes (p<0.05). In the median, radial and ulnar motor examination, the values of the patients in group 1were higher at 15 and 20 minutes (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Brachial plexus blockade via axillary approach guided by ultrasound offered excellent quality of sensory and motor block equivalent to that of the nerve stimulator-guided technique.

Post-thoracotomy pain relief with subpleural analgesia or thoracic epidural analgesia: randomized clinical trial / Alívio da dor pós-toracotomia com analgesia subpleural ou analgesia epidural torácica: ensaio clínico randomizado

ABSTRACT CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Post-thoracotomy pain is a severe and intense pain caused by trauma to ribs, muscles and peripheral nerves. The current study aimed to compare subpleural analgesia (SPA) with thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA) in patients undergoing thoracotomy. DESIGN AND SETTING: Randomized study at Ankara Numune Education and Research Hospital, in Turkey. METHODS: Thirty patients presenting American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I-III were scheduled for elective diagnostic thoracotomy. The patients were randomized to receive either patient-controlled SPA or patient-controlled TEA for post-thoracotomy pain control over a 24-hour period. The two groups received a mixture of 3 µg/ml fentanyl along with 0.05% bupivacaine solution through a patient-controlled analgesia pump. Rescue analgesia was administered intravenously, consisting of 100 mg tramadol in both groups. A visual analogue scale was used to assess pain at rest and during coughing over the course of 24 hours postoperatively. RESULTS: In the SPA group, all the patients required rescue analgesia, and five patients (33%) required rescue analgesia in the TEA group (P < 0.05). Patients who received subpleural analgesia exhibited higher visual analogue scores at rest and on coughing than patients who received thoracic epidural analgesia. None of the patients had any side-effects postoperatively, such as hypotension or respiratory depression. CONCLUSION: Thoracic epidural analgesia is superior to subpleural analgesia for relieving post-thoracotomy pain. We suggest that studies on effective drug dosages for providing subpleural analgesia are necessary.

RESUMO CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: Dor pós-toracotomia é severa e intensa, causada por trauma de nervos periféricos, músculos e costelas. O objetivo foi comparar analgesia subpleural (SPA) com analgesia epidural torácica (TEA) em pacientes submetidos à toracotomia. TIPO DE ESTUDO E LOCAL: Estudo randomizado no Hospital Educação e Pesquisa de Numune, em Ancara, Turquia. MÉTODOS: Trinta pacientes com o estado físico I-III da Sociedade Americana de Anestesiologistas foram agendados para toracotomia diagnóstica eletiva e escolhidos aleatoriamente para receber, num período de 24 horas, SPA ou TEA, ambas controladas pelo próprio paciente, para controle da dor pós-toracotomia. Os dois grupos receberam mistura de 3 ug/ml de fentanil com solução de 0,05% de bupivacaína por meio de bomba de analgesia controlada pelo paciente. Foi administrada analgesia de resgate por via intravenosa, com 100 mg de tramadol, nos dois grupos. No pós-operatório, a escala visual analógica foi utilizada para medir presença de dor durante a tosse ou em repouso, ao longo de 24 horas. RESULTADOS: No grupo SPA, todos os pacientes necessitaram de analgesia de resgate. Cinco pacientes (33%) necessitaram de analgesia de resgate no grupo TEA (P < 0,05). Os pacientes com SPA exibiram pontuações superiores na escala visual analógica, em repouso e ao tossir, em comparação aos que receberam TEA. Nenhum dos pacientes teve quaisquer efeitos secundários no pós-operatório, como hipotensão ou depressão respiratória. CONCLUSÃO: A analgesia peridural torácica é superior à analgesia subpleural no alívio da dor pós-toracotomia. Consideramos que estudos sobre a dosagem de drogas eficazes para proporcionar analgesia subpleural são necessários.

Effects of Low-Flow Sevoflurane Anesthesia on Pulmonary Functions in Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Abdominal Surgery.

Objective. The aim of this prospective, randomized study was to investigate the effects of low-flow sevoflurane anesthesia on the pulmonary functions in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Methods. Sixty American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classes I and II patients scheduled for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy were included in the study. Patients were randomly allocated to two study groups: high-flow sevoflurane anesthesia group (Group H, n = 30) and low-flow sevoflurane anesthesia group (Group L, n = 30). The fresh gas flow rate was of 4 L/min in high-flow sevoflurane anesthesia group and 1 L/min in low-flow sevoflurane anesthesia group. Heart rate (HR), mean arterial blood pressure (MABP), peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2), and end-tidal carbon dioxide concentration (ETCO2) were recorded. Pulmonary function tests were performed before and 2, 8, and 24 hours after surgery. Results. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of HR, MABP, SpO2, and ETCO2. Pulmonary function test results were similar in both groups at all measurement times. Conclusions. The effects of low-flow sevoflurane anesthesia on pulmonary functions are comparable to high-flow sevoflurane anesthesia in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

The Effect of Systemic and Regional Use of Magnesium Sulfate on Postoperative Tramadol Consumption in Lumbar Disc Surgery.

AIM: To investigate the effect of magnesium administered to the operative region muscle and administered systemically on postoperative analgesia consumption after lumbar disc surgery. MATERIAL AND METHOD: The study included a total of 75 ASA I-II patients aged 18-65 years. The patients were randomly allocated into 1 of 3 groups of 25: the Intravenous (IV) Group, the Intramuscular (IM) Group, and the Control (C) Group. At the stage of suturing the surgical incision site, the IV Group received 50 mg/kg MgSO4 intravenously in 150 mL saline within 30 mins. In the IM Group, 50 mg/kg MgSO4 in 30 mL saline was injected intramuscularly into the paraspinal muscles. In Group C, 30 mL saline was injected intramuscularly into the paraspinal muscles. After operation patients in all 3 groups were given 100 mg tramadol and 10 mg metoclopramide and tramadol solution was started intravenously through a patient-controlled analgesia device. Hemodynamic changes, demographic data, duration of anesthesia and surgery, pain scores (NRS), the Ramsay sedation score (RSS), the amount of analgesia consumed, nausea- vomiting, and potential side effects were recorded. RESULTS: No difference was observed between the groups. Nausea and vomiting side effects occurred at a rate of 36% in Group C, which was a significantly higher rate compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). Tramadol consumption in the IM Group was found to be significantly lower than in the other groups (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Magnesium applied to the operative region was found to be more effective on postoperative analgesia than systemically administered magnesium.

Post-thoracotomy pain relief with subpleural analgesia or thoracic epidural analgesia: randomized clinical trial.

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Post-thoracotomy pain is a severe and intense pain caused by trauma to ribs, muscles and peripheral nerves. The current study aimed to compare subpleural analgesia (SPA) with thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA) in patients undergoing thoracotomy. DESIGN AND SETTING: Randomized study at Ankara Numune Education and Research Hospital, in Turkey. METHODS: Thirty patients presenting American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I-III were scheduled for elective diagnostic thoracotomy. The patients were randomized to receive either patient-controlled SPA or patient-controlled TEA for post-thoracotomy pain control over a 24-hour period. The two groups received a mixture of 3 µg/ml fentanyl along with 0.05% bupivacaine solution through a patient-controlled analgesia pump. Rescue analgesia was administered intravenously, consisting of 100 mg tramadol in both groups. A visual analogue scale was used to assess pain at rest and during coughing over the course of 24 hours postoperatively. RESULTS: In the SPA group, all the patients required rescue analgesia, and five patients (33%) required rescue analgesia in the TEA group (P < 0.05). Patients who received subpleural analgesia exhibited higher visual analogue scores at rest and on coughing than patients who received thoracic epidural analgesia. None of the patients had any side-effects postoperatively, such as hypotension or respiratory depression. CONCLUSION: Thoracic epidural analgesia is superior to subpleural analgesia for relieving post-thoracotomy pain. We suggest that studies on effective drug dosages for providing subpleural analgesia are necessary.

[Plasma levels of interleukin-10 and nitric oxide in response to two different desflurane anesthesia flow rates]. / Níveis plasmáticos de interleucina-10 e óxido nítrico em resposta a duas taxas de fluxo em anestesia com desflurano.

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated interleukin-10 and nitric oxide plasma levels following surgery to determine whether there is a correlation between these two variables and if different desflurane anesthesia flow rates influence nitric oxide and interleukin-10 concentrations in circulation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty patients between 18 and 70 years and ASA I-II physical status who were scheduled to undergo thyroidectomy were enrolled in the study. INTERVENTIONS: Patients were allocated into two groups to receive two different desflurane anesthesia flow rates: high flow (Group HF) and low flow (Group LF). MEASUREMENTS: Blood samples were drawn at the beginning (t0) and end (t1) of the operation and after 24h (t2). Plasma interleukin-10 and nitric oxide levels were measured using an enzyme-linked-immunosorbent assay and a Griess reagents kit, respectively. Hemodynamic and respiratory parameters were assessed. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups with regard to interleukin-10 levels at the times of measurement. Interleukin-10 levels were increased equally in both groups at times t1 and t2 compared with preoperative concentrations. For both groups, nitric oxide circulating concentrations were significantly reduced at times t1 and t2 compared with preoperative concentrations. However, the nitric oxide value was lower for Group HF compared to Group LF at t2. No correlation was found between the IL-10 and nitric oxide levels. CONCLUSION: Clinical usage of two different flow anesthesia forms with desflurane may increase interleukin-10 levels both in Group HF and Group LF; nitric oxide levels circulating concentrations were significantly reduced at times t1 and t2 compared with preoperative concentrations; however, at 24h postoperatively they were higher in Group LF compared to Group HF. No correlation was detected between interleukin-10 and nitric oxide levels.

Plasma levels of interleukin-10 and nitric oxide in response to two different desflurane anesthesia flow rates.

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated interleukin-10 and nitric oxide plasma levels following surgery to determine whether there is a correlation between these two variables and if different desflurane anesthesia flow rates influence nitric oxide and interleukin-10 concentrations in circulation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty patients between 18 and 70 years and ASA I-II physical status who were scheduled to undergo thyroidectomy were enrolled in the study. INTERVENTIONS: Patients were allocated into two groups to receive two different desflurane anesthesia flow rates: high flow (Group HF) and low flow (Group LF). MEASUREMENTS: Blood samples were drawn at the beginning (t0) and end (t1) of the operation and after 24h (t2). Plasma interleukin-10 and nitric oxide levels were measured using an enzyme-linked-immunosorbent assay and a Griess reagents kit, respectively. Hemodynamic and respiratory parameters were assessed. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups with regard to interleukin-10 levels at the times of measurement. Interleukin-10 levels were increased equally in both groups at times t1 and t2 compared with preoperative concentrations. For both groups, nitric oxide circulating concentrations were significantly reduced at times t1 and t2 compared with preoperative concentrations. However, the nitric oxide value was lower for Group HF compared to Group LF at t2. No correlation was found between the IL-10 and nitric oxide levels. CONCLUSION: Clinical usage of two different flow anesthesia forms with desflurane may increase interleukin-10 levels both in Group HF and Group LF; nitric oxide levels circulating concentrations were significantly reduced at times t1 and t2 compared with preoperative concentrations; however, at 24h postoperatively they were higher in Group LF compared to Group HF. No correlation was detected between interleukin-10 and nitric oxide levels.

Perioperative outcome and cost-effectiveness of spinal versus general anesthesia for lumbar spine surgery.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: General anesthesia (GA) is the most commonly used anesthetic technique for spinal surgery. This study aimed to compare spinal anesthesia (SA) and GA in patients undergoing spinal surgery, in terms of perioperative outcome and cost effectiveness. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 80 patients with ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) physical status I-II. The patients were randomized to receive SA (n = 40) or GA (n = 40). Heart rate (HR), mean arterial blood pressure (MABP), blood loss, duration of surgery, duration of anesthesia, surgeon satisfaction, and duration in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) were recorded. Postoperative analgesic requirement, nausea and vomiting (PONV), perioperative hemodynamic variables, and anesthetic costs were determined. RESULTS: HR and MABP were significantly higher in the GA group than in the SA group at the end of surgery and at PACU admission. Duration of anesthesia, surgeon satisfaction, postoperative analgesic requirement, and anesthetic costs were significantly higher in the GA group. Mean blood loss was lower in the SA group than in the GA group, but the difference was not significant. Duration of surgery, duration in the PACU, perioperative hemodynamic variables, and complications were similar in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: SA could be considered a reliable alternative to GA in patients undergoing lumber spine surgery, as it is clinically as effective as GA, but more cost effective.

Plasma levels of interleukin-10 and nitric oxide in response to two different desflurane anesthesia flow rates / Níveis plasmáticos de interleucina-10 e óxido nítrico em resposta a duas taxas de fluxo em anestesia com desflurano / Niveles plasmáticos de interleucina-10 y óxido nítrico en respuesta a 2 tasas de flujo en anestesia con desflurano

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated interleukin-10 and nitric oxide plasma levels following surgery to determine whether there is a correlation between these two variables and if different desflurane anesthesia flow rates influence nitric oxide and interleukin-10 concentrations in circulation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty patients between 18 and 70 years and ASA I-II physical status who were scheduled to undergo thyroidectomy were enrolled in the study. INTERVENTIONS: Patients were allocated into two groups to receive two different desflurane anesthesia flow rates: high flow (Group HF) and low flow (Group LF). MEASUREMENTS: Blood samples were drawn at the beginning (t 0) and end (t 1) of the operation and after 24 h (t 2). Plasma interleukin-10 and nitric oxide levels were measured using an enzyme-linked-immunosorbent assay and a Griess reagents kit, respectively. Hemodynamic and respiratory parameters were assessed. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups with regard to interleukin-10 levels at the times of measurement. Interleukin-10 levels were increased equally in both groups at times t 1 and t 2 compared with preoperative concentrations. For both groups, nitric oxide circulating concentrations were significantly reduced at times t 1 and t 2 compared with preoperative concentrations. However, the nitric oxide value was lower for Group HF compared to Group LF at t 2. No correlation was found between the IL-10 and nitric oxide levels. CONCLUSION: Clinical usage of two different flow anesthesia forms with desflurane may increase interleukin-10 levels both in Group HF and Group LF; nitric oxide levels circulating concentrations were significantly reduced at times t 1 and t 2 compared with preoperative concentrations; however, at 24 h postoperatively they were higher in Group LF compared to Group HF. No correlation was detected between interleukin-10 and nitric oxide levels. .

OBJETIVO: este estudo investigou os níveis plasmáticos de interleucina-10 e óxido nítrico após cirurgia para determinar se há correlação entre essas duas variáveis e se diferentes taxas de fluxo de anestesia com desflurano influenciam as concentrações de interleucina-10 e óxido nítrico na circulação. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: quarenta pacientes, entre 18 e 70 anos de idade, estado físico ASA I-II, programados para tireoidectomia foram incluídos no estudo. INTERVENÇÕES: os pacientes foram divididos em dois grupos para receber dois fluxos diferentes de anestesia com desflurano: fluxo alto (Grupo FA) e fluxo baixo (Grupo FB). MENSURAÇÕES: amostras de sangue foram colhidas no início (t 0 ) e final (t 1 ) da cirurgia e após 24 h (t 2 ). Os níveis plasmáticos de interleucina-10 e óxido nítrico foram medidos usando um ensaio imunossorvente ligado à enzima um estojo de reagentes de Griess, respectivamente. Os parâmetros hemodinâmicos e respiratórios foram avaliados. RESULTADOS: não houve diferença estatisticamente significante entre os dois grupos em relação aos níveis de interleucina-10 níveis nos tempos de medição. Os níveis de interleucina-10 aumentaram igualmente em ambos os grupos nos tempos t 1 e t 2 em comparação com as concentrações no pré-operatório. Em ambos os grupos, as concentrações circulantes de óxido nítrico estavam significativamente reduzidas nos tempos t 1 e t 2 em comparação com as concentrações no pré-operatório. No entanto, o valor de óxido nítrico foi menor no Grupo FA que no Grupo FB no t 2 . Não houve correlação entre os níveis de IL-10 e óxido nítrico. CONCLUSÃO: o ...

OBJETIVO: este estudio investigó los niveles plasmáticos de interleucina-10 y óxido nítrico después de la cirugía para determinar si hay alguna correlación entre esas 2 variables y si diferentes tasas de flujo de anestesia con desflurano influyen en las concentraciones de interleucina-10 y óxido nítrico en la circulación. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: cuarenta pacientes, entre 18 y 70 años de edad, estado físico ASA I-II, programados para tiroidectomía se incluyeron en el estudio. INTERVENCIONES: los pacientes se dividieron en 2 grupos para recibir 2 flujos diferentes de anestesia con desflurano: flujo alto (grupo FA) y flujo bajo (grupo FB). MEDICIONES: se extrajeron muestras de sangre al inicio (t 0 ) y al final (t 1 ) de la cirugía y después de 24 h (t 2 ). Los niveles plasmáticos de interleucina-10 y óxido nítrico fueron medidos usando un ensayo de inmunoabsorción conectando un kit de reactivos de Griess, respectivamente. Se evaluaron los parámetros hemodinámicos y respiratorios. RESULTADOS: no hubo diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre los 2 grupos con relación a los niveles de interleucina-10 en los tiempos de medición. Los niveles de interleucina-10 aumentaron igualmente en ambos grupos en los tiempos t 1 y t 2 en comparación con las concentraciones en el preoperatorio. En ambos grupos, las concentraciones circulantes de óxido nítrico estaban significativamente reducidas en los tiempos t 1 y t 2 en comparación con las concentraciones en el preoperatorio. Sin embargo, el valor de óxido nítrico fue menor en el grupo FA que en el grupo FB en el t 2 . No hubo correlación entre los niveles de interleucina-10 y óxido nítrico. CONCLUSIÓN: el uso clínico de 2 flujos diferentes en anestesia con desflurano puede aumentar los ...

Abuse potential assessment of propofol by its subjective effects after sedation.

OBJECTIVE: In this study, we examined the euphoric effect of propofol and its high satisfaction ratio regarding its liability to be abused, particularly in painless procedures, such as colonoscopy. METHODS: Fifty subjects aged between 18 and 65 years who fulfilled the criteria for ASA 1-2 and were prepared for colonoscopy were enrolled into this study. For intravenous sedation induction, 2 mg/kg propofol was used, and additional injections were administered according to BIS values. After colonoscopy, the subjects were taken to a recovery room and observed for 30 minutes. Patients were interviewed with the modified Brice questionnare regarding the incidence and the content of dreams. A 5-point Likert scale was used to classify their dreams, and the content of the dreams was also recorded. To assess the subjective effects of propofol, the patients were asked to use the Hall and Van der Castle emotion scale; their biological states were also assessed. The patients' feelings regarding propofol were each rated as absent or present. We used the Morphine-Benzedrine Group scale to measure the euphoric effects of propofol. At the end of the study, subjects scored their satisfaction on a five-point scale. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences in sex age, weight, propofol dose, or satisfaction ratio (p>0.05) in the groups, although male patients received a higher dose of propofol and had higher satisfaction ratio. Patients reported no residual after-effects. The incidence of dreaming was 42%. There was no statistically significant difference in dreaming between the sexes, but male patients had a higher dreaming ratio. Dreamers received higher propofol doses and had a higher satisfaction ratio (p>0.05). All dreamers reported happy dreams regarding daily life, and their mean MBG score was 10.5. There was no correlation between MBG scores and propofol doses (r= -0.044, p= 0.761). CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that propofol functions as a reward; that patients enjoy its acute effects; and that no residual after-effects should arise. We suggest that propofol may carry potential for abuse, and further abuse liability testing is indicated.

The effects of nitrous oxide on controlled hypotension during low flow anesthesia.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: We investigated the effect of Nitrous Oxide (N2O) on controlled hypotension in low-flow isoflurane-dexmedetomidine anesthesia in terms of hemodynamics, anesthetic consumption, and costs. METHODS: We allocated forty patients randomly into two equal groups. We then maintained dexmedetomidine infusion (0.1 µg.kg(-1).min(-1)) for 10 minutes. Next, we continued it until the last 30 minutes of the operation at a dose of 0.7 µg.kg(-1).hour(-1). We administered thiopental (4-6 mg. kg(-1)) and 0.08-0.12 mg.kg(-1) vecuronium bromide at induction for both groups. We used isoflurane (2%) for anesthesia maintenance. Group N received a 50% O2-N2O mixture and Group A received 50% O2-air mixture as carrier gas. We started low-flow anesthesia (1L.min(-1)) after a 10-minute period of initial high flow (4.4L.min(-1)). We recorded values for blood pressure, heart rate, peripheral O2 saturation, inspiratory isoflurane, expiratory isoflurane, inspiratory O2, expiratory O2, inspiratory N2O, expiratory N2O, inspiratory CO2, CO2 concentration after expiration, Minimum Alveolar Concentration. In addition, we determined the total consumption rate of fentanyl, dexmedetomidine and isoflurane as well as bleeding. RESULTS: In each group the heart rate decreased after dexmedetomidine loading. After intubation, values were higher for Group A at one, three, five, 10, and 15 minutes. After intubation, the patients reached desired hypotension values at minute five for Group N and at minute 20 for group A. MAC values were higher for Group N at minute one, three, five, 10, and 15 (p<0.05). FiO2 values were high between minute five and 60 for Group A, while at minute 90 Group N values were higher (p<0.05). FiIso (inspiratuvar isofluran) values were lower in Group N at minute 15 and 30 (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: By using dexmedetomidine instead of nitrous oxide in low flow isoflurane anesthesia, we attained desired MAP levels, sufficient anesthesia depth, hemodynamic stability and safe inspiration parameters. Dexmedetomidine infusion with medical air-oxygen as a carrier gas represents an alternative anesthetic technique.

Efeitos do óxido nitroso em hipotensão controlada durante anestesia com baixo fluxo / The effects of nitrous oxide on controlled hypotension during low flow anesthesia / Efectos del óxido nitroso en la hipotensión controlada durante la anestesia con bajo flujo

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Investigamos o efeito do óxido nitroso (N2O) em hipotensão controlada durante anestesia com baixo fluxo (isoflurano-dexmedetomidina) em termos de hemodinâmica, consumo de anestésico e custos. MÉTODOS: Quarenta pacientes foram randomicamente alocados em dois grupos. Infusão de dexmedetomidina (0,1 µg.kg-1.min-1) foi mantida por 10 minutos. Subsequentemente, essa infusão foi mantida até os últimos 30 minutos de operação a uma dose de 0,7 µg.kg-1.hora-1. Tiopental (4-6 mg.kg-1) e brometo de vecurônio (0,08 0,12 mg.kg-1) foram administrados na indução de ambos os grupos. Isoflurano (2%) foi administrado para manutenção da anestesia. O Grupo N recebeu uma mistura de 50% de O2-N2O e o Grupo A recebeu uma mistura de 50% de O2-ar como gás de transporte. Anestesia com baixo fluxo (1 L.min-1) foi iniciada após um período de 10 minutos de alto fluxo inicial (4,4 L.min-1). Os valores de pressão arterial, frequência cardíaca, saturação periférica de O2, isoflurano inspiratório e expiratório, O2 inspiratório e expiratório, N2O inspiratório e expiratório, CO2 inspiratório, concentração de CO2 após expiração e concentração alveolar mínima foram registrados. Além disso, as taxas de consumo total de fentanil, dexmedetomidina e isoflurano, bem como de hemorragia, foram determinadas. RESULTADOS: A frequência cardíaca diminuiu em ambos os grupos após a carga de dexmedetomidina. Após a intubação, os valores do Grupo A foram maiores nos minutos um, três, cinco, 10 e 15. Após a intubação, os valores de hipotensão desejados foram alcançados em 5 minutos no Grupo N e em 20 minutos no grupo A. Os valores da CAM foram mais altos no Grupo N nos minutos um, três, cinco, 10 e 15 (p < 0,05). Os valores da FiO2 foram mais altos entre 5 e 60 minutos no Grupo A, enquanto foram mais altos no Grupo N aos 90 minutos (p < 0,05). Os valores de Fi Iso (isoflurano inspiratório) foram menores no Grupo N nos minutos 15 e 30 (p < 0,05). CONCLUSÃO: O uso de dexmedetomidina em vez de óxido nitroso em anestesia com isoflurano pela técnica de baixo fluxo atingiu os níveis desejados de pressão arterial média (PAM), profundidade suficiente da anestesia, estabilidade hemodinâmica e parâmetros de inspiração seguros. A infusão de dexmedetomidina com oxigênio-ar medicinal como gás de transporte é uma técnica anestésica opcional.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: We investigated the effect of Nitrous Oxide (N2O) on controlled hypotension in low-flow isoflurane-dexmedetomidine anesthesia in terms of hemodynamics, anesthetic consumption, and costs. METHODS: We allocated forty patients randomly into two equal groups. We then maintained dexmedetomidine infusion (0.1 µg.kg-1.min-1) for 10 minutes. Next, we continued it until the last 30 minutes of the operation at a dose of 0.7 µg.kg-1.hour-1. We administered thiopental (4-6 mg. kg-1) and 0.08-0.12 mg.kg-1 vecuronium bromide at induction for both groups. We used isoflurane (2%) for anesthesia maintenance. Group N received a 50% O2-N2O mixture and Group A received 50% O2-air mixture as carrier gas. We started low-flow anesthesia (1 L.min-1) after a 10-minute period of initial high flow (4.4 L.min-1). We recorded values for blood pressure, heart rate, peripheral O2 saturation, inspiratory isoflurane, expiratory isoflurane, inspiratory O2, expiratory O2, inspiratory N2O, expiratory N2O, inspiratory CO2, CO2 concentration after expiration, Minimum Alveolar Concentration. In addition, we determined the total consumption rate of fentanyl, dexmedetomidine and isoflurane as well as bleeding. RESULTS: In each group the heart rate decreased after dexmedetomidine loading. After intubation, values were higher for Group A at one, three, five, 10, and 15 minutes. After intubation, the patients reached desired hypotension values at minute five for Group N and at minute 20 for group A. MAC values were higher for Group N at minute one, three, five, 10, and 15 (p < 0.05). FiO2 values were high between minute five and 60 for Group A, while at minute 90 Group N values were higher (p < 0.05). Fi Iso (inspiratuvar isofluran) values were lower in Group N at minute 15 and 30 (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: By using dexmedetomidine instead of nitrous oxide in low flow isoflurane anesthesia, we attained desired MAP levels, sufficient anesthesia depth, hemodynamic stability and safe inspiration parameters. Dexmedetomidine infusion with medical air-oxygen as a carrier gas represents an alternative anesthetic technique.

JUSTIFICATIVA Y OBJETIVOS: Investigamos el efecto del óxido nitroso (N2O) en hipotensión controlada durante anestesia con bajo flujo (isoflurano-dexmedetomidina) en términos de hemodinámica, consumo de anestésico y costes. MÉTODOS: Cuarenta pacientes fueron aleatoriamente divididos en dos grupos iguales. La infusión de dexmedetomidina (0,1 µg.kg-1.min-1) se mantuvo entonces por 10 minutos. En secuencia, esa infusión se mantuvo hasta los últimos 30 minutos de operación en una dosis de 0,7 µg.kg-1.hour-1. El tiopental (4-6 mg.kg-1) y el bromuro de vecuronio (0,08 0,12 mg.kg-1) fueron administrados en la inducción de ambos grupos. El Isofluorano (2%) fue administrado para el mantenimiento de la anestesia. El Grupo N recibió una mezcla de un 50% de O2-N2O y el Grupo A recibió una mezcla de un 50% de O2-ar como gas de transporte. La anestesia con bajo flujo (1 L.min-1) fue iniciada después de un período de 10 minutos de alto flujo inicial (4,4 L.min-1). Se registraron los valores de la presión arterial, frecuencia cardíaca, saturación periférica de O2, isoflurano inspiratorio, isoflurano espiratorio, O2 inspiratorio, O2 espiratorio, N2O inspiratorio, N2O espiratorio, CO2 inspiratorio, concentración de CO2 después de la espiración y concentración alveolar mínima. Además, de determinaron las tasas de consumo total de fentanil, dexmedetomidina e isoflurano, como también la de hemorragia. RESULTADOS: La frecuencia cardíaca disminuyó en ambos grupos después de la carga de dexmedetomidina. Después de la intubación, los valores del Grupo A fueron mayores en los minutos 1, 3, 5, 10 y 15. Después de la intubación, los valores de hipotensión deseados se alcanzaron en 5 minutos en el Grupo N y en 20 minutos en el grupo A. Los valores de la CAM fueron más altos en el Grupo N en los minutos 1, 3, 5, 10 y 15 (p < 0,05). Los valores de la FiO2 fueron más altos entre 5 y 60 minutos en el Grupo A, mientras que fueron más altos en el Grupo N a los 90 minutos (p < 0,05). Los valores de Fi Iso (isoflurano espiratorio) fueron menores en el Grupo N en los minutos 15 y 30 (p < 0,05). CONCLUSIONES: El uso de la dexmedetomidina en vez del óxido nitroso en la anestesia con el isoflurano por la técnica de bajo flujo, alcanzó los niveles deseados de presión arterial promedio (PAP), profundidad suficiente de la anestesia, estabilidad hemodinámica y parámetros de inspiración seguros. La infusión de dexmedetomidina con oxígeno / aire medicinal como gas de transporte es una técnica anestésica opcional.

Neurotoxic effects of intrathecal magnesium sulphate.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To assess the potential neurotoxic effects at the ultrastructural level of magnesium sulfate administered intrathecally as a single or multi-dose. METHODS: Our study was conducted with 24 Sprague-Dawley rats that weighed 250-300 g. After a 4-hour fast, the rats were given 10 mg.kg(-1) xylazine chloride intraperitoneal and then randomly allocated into three groups. Group I (n=8) received 0.9% normal saline, Group II (n = 8) was given one intrathecal injection of 0.02 mL of 15% magnesium sulphate, and Group III (n = 8) was given 0.02 mL of 15% magnesium sulphate once a day for seven days. The injections were given within 0.40 × 50 mm from the lumbar area. After seven days, the animals were sacrificed under anesthesia with an aortic injection of 10% formaldehyde and their tissues were fixed. The medulla spinalis was then examined and histopathologically evaluated under an electron microscope. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used for statistical evaluation. A value of p < .05 was considered to be statistically significant. RESULTS: Significant neurodegeneration was detected in rats given single or repeated magnesium sulphate injections compared to the control group. The histopathological evaluation score of this group was also high. CONCLUSIONS: Based on electron microscopic examination, we found that intrathecal magnesium sulphate administration induced neurodegeneration.

Rocuronium-sugammadex decreases the severity of post-electroconvulsive therapy agitation.

A 51-year-old male patient with a diagnosis of refractory major depressive disorder and unresponsive to antidepressants underwent 8 sessions of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) every 48 hours. Succinylcholine was used for muscle relaxation until the sixth ECT session, and midazolam was administered for severe emergence agitation that recurred after each session. In the sixth ECT session, rocuronium, 0.4 mg/kg, was used for muscle relaxation and sugammadex, 2 mg/kg, for reversal of muscle paralysis. Subsequently, a clear decrease in post-ECT agitation was observed. We suggest that this combination might be a safe and effective alternative to succinylcholine for post-ECT agitation.

Efeitos neurotóxicos de sulfato de magnésio intratecal / Neurotoxic effects of intrathecal magnesium sulphate / Efectos neurotóxicos de sulfuro de magnesio intratecal

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Avaliar os potenciais efeitos neurotóxicos em nível ultraestrutural desulfato de magnésio administrado por via intratecal em dose única ou múltipla. MÉTODOS: Estudo realizado com 24 ratos Sprague-Dawley, peso médio entre 250 e 300 g. Apósjejum de 4 horas, os ratos receberam 10 mg.kg-1 de cloreto de xilazina por via intraperitoneale, em seguida, foram divididos aleatoriamente em três grupos. Grupo I (n = 8) recebeu 0,9% desoro fisiológico normal, Grupo II (n = 8) recebeu uma injeção de 0,02 mL de sulfato de magnésioa 15% por via intratecal e Grupo III (n = 8) recebeu 0,02 mL de sulfato de magnésio a 15% umavez por dia durante sete dias. As injeções foram aplicadas dentro de 0,40x50 milímetros daárea lombar. Após sete dias, os animais foram sacrificados sob anestesia com uma injeção deformaldeído a 10% na aorta e os tecidos foram fixados. A medula espinal foi, então, examinadae histopatologicamente avaliada sob microscópio eletrônico. O teste de Kruskal-Wallis foi usadopara avaliação estatística. Um valor de p < 0,05 foi considerado estatisticamente significativo. RESULTADOS: Neurodegeneração significativa foi detectada nos ratos que receberam uma únicainjeção ou injeções repetidas de sulfato de magnésio, em comparação com o grupo controle. O escore na avaliação histopatológica desse grupo também foi alto. CONCLUSÃO: Com base no exame de microscopia eletrônica, descobrimos que a administraçãointratecal de sulfato de magnésio induziu neurodegeneração.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To assess the potential neurotoxic effects at the ultrastructural level of magnesium sulfate administered intrathecally as a single or multi-dose. METHODS: Our study was conducted with 24 Sprague-Dawley rats that weighed 250-300 g. After a 4-hour fast, the rats were given 10 mg.kg-1 xylazine chloride intraperitoneal and then randomly allocated into three groups. Group I (n = 8) received 0.9% normal saline, Group II (n = 8) was given one intrathecal injection of 0.02 mL of 15% magnesium sulphate, and Group III (n = 8) was given 0.02 mL of 15% magnesium sulphate once a day for seven days. The injections were given within 0.40x50 mm from the lumbar area. After seven days, the animals were sacrificed under anesthesia with an aortic injection of 10% formaldehyde and their tissues were fixed. The medulla spinalis was then examined and histopathologically evaluated under an electron microscope. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used for statistical evaluation. A value of p < .05 was considered to be statistically significant. RESULTS: Significant neurodegeneration was detected in rats given single or repeated magnesium sulphate injections compared to the control group. The histopathological evaluation score of this group was also high. CONCLUSIONS: Based on electron microscopic examination, we found that intrathecal magnesium sulphate administration induced neurodegeneration.

JUSTIFICATIVA Y OBJETIVOS: Evaluar los potenciales efectos neurotóxicos en nivel ultraestructural de sulfuro de magnesio administrado por vía intratecal en dosis única o múltiple. MÉTODOS: Estudio realizado con 24 ratones Spraque-Dawley, con un peso promedio entre los 250 y los 300 g. Después del ayuno de 4 horas, los ratones recibieron 10 mg.kg-1 de cloruro de xilazina por vía intraperitoneal y enseguida fueron divididos aleatoriamente en tres grupos. El grupo I (n = 8) recibió 0,9% de suero fisiológico normal, Grupo II (n = 8) recibió una inyección de 0,02 mL de sulfuro de magnesio al 15% por vía intratecal y Grupo III (n = 8) recibió 0,02 mL de sulfuro de magnesio al 15% una vez por día durante siete días. Las inyecciones fueron aplicadas dentro de 0,40x50 milímetros del área lumbar. Después de siete días, los animales fueron sacrificados con anestesia con una inyección de formaldehido al 10% en la aorta y los tejidos fueron pegados. La médula espinal se examinó y fue histopatológicamente evaluada bajo microscopio electrónico. El test de Kruskal-Wallis fue usado para la evaluación estadística. Un valor de p < 0,05 fue considerado estadísticamente significativo. RESULTADOS: La neurodegeneración significativa fue detectada en los ratones que recibieron una sola inyección o inyecciones repetidas de sulfuro de magnesio, en comparación con el grupo control. El puntaje en la evaluación histopatológica de ese grupo también fue alto. CONCLUSIONES: Basándonos en el examen de microscopía electrónica, descubrimos que la administración intratecal de sulfuro de magnesio indujo a la neurodegeneración.

Neurotoxic effects of intrathecal magnesium sulphate.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To assess the potential neurotoxic effects at the ultrastructural level of magnesium sulfate administered intrathecally as a single or multi-dose. METHODS: Our study was conducted with 24 Sprague-Dawley rats that weighed 250-300 g. After a 4-hour fast, the rats were given 10 mg.kg(-1) xylazine chloride intraperitoneal and then randomly allocated into three groups. Group I (n = 8) received 0.9% normal saline, Group II (n = 8) was given one intrathecal injection of 0.02 mL of 15% magnesium sulphate, and Group III (n = 8) was given 0.02 mL of 15% magnesium sulphate once a day for seven days. The injections were given within 0.40x50 mm from the lumbar area. After seven days, the animals were sacrificed under anesthesia with an aortic injection of 10% formaldehyde and their tissues were fixed. The medulla spinalis was then examined and histopathologically evaluated under an electron microscope. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used for statistical evaluation. A value of p < .05 was considered to be statistically significant. RESULTS: Significant neurodegeneration was detected in rats given single or repeated magnesium sulphate injections compared to the control group. The histopathological evaluation score of this group was also high. CONCLUSIONS: Based on electron microscopic examination, we found that intrathecal magnesium sulphate administration induced neurodegeneration.

The effects of nitrous oxide on controlled hypotension during low flow anesthesia.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: We investigated the effect of Nitrous Oxide (N2O) on controlled hypotension in low-flow isoflurane-dexmedetomidine anesthesia in terms of hemodynamics, anesthetic consumption, and costs. METHODS: We allocated forty patients randomly into two equal groups. We then maintained dexmedetomidine infusion (0.1 µg.kg-1.min-1) for 10 minutes. Next, we continued it until the last 30 minutes of the operation at a dose of 0.7 µg.kg(-1).hour(-1). We administered thiopental (4-6 mg. kg(-1)) and 0.08-0.12 mg.kg(-1) vecuronium bromide at induction for both groups. We used isoflurane (2%) for anesthesia maintenance. Group N received a 50% O2-N2O mixture and Group A received 50% O -air mixture as carrier gas. We started low-flow anesthesia (1 L.min(-1)) after a 10-minute period of initial high flow (4.4 L.min(-1)). We recorded values for blood pressure, heart rate, peripheral O2 saturation, inspiratory isoflurane, expiratory isoflurane, inspiratory O2, expiratory O2, inspiratory N2O, expiratory N2O, inspiratory CO2, CO2 concentration after expiration, Minimum Alveolar Concentration. In addition, we determined the total consumption rate of fentanyl, dexmedetomidine and isoflurane as well as bleeding. RESULTS: In each group the heart rate decreased after dexmedetomidine loading. After intubation, values were higher for Group A at one, three, five, 10, and 15 minutes. After intubation, the patients reached desired hypotension values at minute five for Group N and at minute 20 for group A. MAC values were higher for Group N at minute one, three, five, 10, and 15 (p < 0.05). FiO2 values were high between minute five and 60 for Group A, while at minute 90 Group N values were higher (p < 0.05). Fi Iso (inspiratuvar isofluran) values were lower in Group N at minute 15 and 30 (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: By using dexmedetomidine instead of nitrous oxide in low flow isoflurane anesthesia, we attained desired MAP levels, sufficient anesthesia depth, hemodynamic stability and safe inspiration parameters. Dexmedetomidine infusion with medical air-oxygen as a carrier gas represents an alternative anesthetic technique.

Avaliação da eficácia de bupivacaína embebida em Gelfoam® no local do enxerto ósseo de crista ilíaca / Evaluation of the efficacy of bupivacaine soaked in Gelfoam® at the iliac crest bone graft site / Evaluación de la eficacia de la bupivacaina empapada en Gelfoam® en la región del injerto óseo de la cresta ilíaca

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Um número considerável de pacientes relata dor após coleta de enxerto da crista ilíaca anterior. Este estudo avaliou a eficácia da aplicação de bupivacaína embebida em uma esponja de gelatina absorvível (Gelfoam®) no local doador de osso e do uso parenteral de opioides no controle da dor pós-operatória. MÉTODO: Estudo prospectivo, duplo-cego, randomizado e controlado por placebo comparando a infiltração no período intraoperatório de 20 mL de bupivacaína (tratamento, grupo B) versus soro fisiológico (placebo) com Gelfoam embebida no local de coleta óssea da crista ilíaca em pacientes submetidos à cirurgia eletiva de coluna cervical. No período pós-operatório, a administração de cloridrato de hidromorfona (na sala de recuperação pós-anestésica e analgesia controlada pelo paciente) foi padronizada. Um escore de dor com base em escala visual analógica (EVA) com pontuação de zero a 10 foi usado para avaliar a intensidade da dor associada ao local doador. Os escores de dor e uso/frequência de narcóticos foram registrados 24 e 48 horas após a operação. Os médicos, pacientes, a equipe de enfermagem e os estatísticos desconheciam o tratamento usado. RESULTADOS: Os grupos eram semelhantes em idade, gênero e comorbidades. Não houve diferença significativa entre os grupos nos escores da EVA. As doses de narcótico foram significativamente menores no grupo B nos tempos de 24 e 48 horas (p < 0,05). CONCLUSÃO: Este estudo demonstrou que bupivacaína embebida em esponja de gelatina absorvível no local de coleta do enxerto ósseo de crista ilíaca (EOCI) reduziu o uso parenteral de opioides no pós-operatório.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: A substantial number of patients report pain after graft harvest from the anterior iliac crest. This study examined the efficacy of local application of bupivacaine soaked in a Gelfoam® at the bone donor site in controlling postoperative pain and parenteral opioid use. METHOD: We performed a prospective, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study comparing intraoperative infiltration of 20 mililiters of bupivacaine (treatment, group B) versus saline (placebo), with Gelfoam® soaked into the iliac crest harvest site for patients undergoing elective cervical spinal surgery. Postoperative administration of dihydromorphinone hydrochloride (post anesthesia care unit and patient-controlled analgesia) was standardized. A pain score based on a 10-point visual analog scale (VAS). was used to assess the severity of pain associated with donor site. Pain scores and narcotic use/frequency were recorded at the twenty-four and forty-eighth hour after the operation. Physicians, patients, nursing staff, and statisticians were blinded to the treatment. RESULTS: The groups were similar in baseline age, gender, and comorbidities. There was no significant difference between groups in VAS scores. Narcotic dosage, were significantly less in the Group B at 24 and 48 hours (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: This study has demonstrated that bupivacaine soaked in gelfoam at the iliac bone graft harvest site reduced postoperative parenteral opioid usage.

JUSTIFICATIVA Y OBJETIVOS: Un número considerable de pacientes relata sentir dolor después de la recolección del injerto de la cresta ilíaca anterior. Este estudio evaluó la eficacia de la aplicación de bupivacaina empapada en una esponja de gelatina absorbible (Gelfoam®) en la región donadora del hueso y el uso parenteral de opioides en el control del dolor postoperatorio. MÉTODO: Realizamos un estudio prospectivo, doble ciego, aleatorio y controlado por placebo, comparando la infiltración en el período intraoperatorio de 20 mL de bupivacaina (tratamiento, grupo B) versus suero fisiológico (placebo) con Gelfoam empapado dentro de la región de la recolección ósea de la cresta ilíaca, en pacientes sometidos a la cirugía electiva de la columna cervical. En el período postoperatorio, la administración de clorhidrato de hidromorfona (unidad de recuperación y analgesia controlada por el paciente) se estandarizó. Un puntaje de dolor con base en la escala visual analógica (EVA) y un puntaje de 0 a 10 fueron usados para evaluar la intensidad del dolor asociada con la región donadora. Los puntajes de dolor y el uso/frecuencia de narcóticos se registraron 24 y 48 horas después de la operación. Los médicos, pacientes, el equipo de enfermería y los estadísticos no conocían el tratamiento usado. RESULTADOS: Los grupos eran similares en edad, sexo y comorbilidades. No hubo diferencia significativa entre los grupos en los puntajes de la EVA. Las dosis de narcótico fueron significativamente menores en el grupo B en los tiempos de 24 y 48 horas (p < 0,05). CONCLUSIONES: Este estudio demostró que la bupivacaina empapada en esponja de gelatina absorbible en la región de recolección del injerto óseo de la cresta ilíaca (EOCI) redujo el uso parenteral de opioides en el postoperatorio.

Efeitos da inclinação de agulha peridural e diferentes velocidades de injeção na distribuição de anestesia peridural / Effects of epidural needle rotation and different speeds of injection on the distribution of epidural block / Efectos de la inclinación de la aguja epidural y diferentes velocidades en la distribución de la anestesia epidural

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Este estudo prospectivo e randomizado avaliou o efeito das velocidades da injeção na anestesia peridural unilateral sobre as características do bloqueio, parâmetros hemodinâmicos e critérios de alta hospitalar em 60 pacientes. Levobupivacaína a 5% foi administrada nos pacientes (n = 30) do Grupo F durante 1 minuto (rápido) e durante 3 minutos nos pacientes (n = 30) do Grupo S (lento), com agulha em ângulo de 5º-10º a partir da linha média. O sucesso da anestesia peridural unilateral foi mais significante no Grupo S do que no Grupo F (70,3% vs 16%, p < 0,001). Nos pacientes do Grupo S, o tempo necessário para o nível máximo de bloqueio sensitivo nos lados não operados foi mais curto e o tempo de regressão para dois segmentos, mais longo (p < 0,05). O tempo para walk-out foi mais longo no Grupo F (p < 0,05). Consideramos que a administração lenta de anestésico local em anestesia peridural unilateral é mais eficaz do que a administração rápida.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This prospective, randomised study examined the effect of injection speeds for unilateral epidural anesthesia on block characteristics, hemodynamic parameters, and discharge criteria in 60 patients. Levobupivacaine 5% was administered to Group F over 1 min (fast) and to Group S over 3 min (slow) (n = 30 each) with the needle angulated at 5º-10º from the midline. Unilateral epidural block was significantly more successful in Group S than in Group F (70.3% vs. 16%; p < 0.001). On the non-operated sides in group S, the maximal sensorial block time was shorter and the regression time for 2 segments was longer (p < 0.05). And the walk-out time was longer in group F (p < 0.05). We consider that the slow administration of local anesthetic in unilateral epidural anesthesia is more effective than rapid administration.

JUSTIFICATIVA Y OBJETIVOS: Este estudio prospectivo y aleatorio ha evaluado el efecto de las velocidades de la inyección para la anestesia epidural unilateral sobre las características del bloqueo, parámetros hemodinámicos y criterios del alta hospitalaria en 60 pacientes. La levobupivacaína al 5% se administró en los pacientes (n = 30) del Grupo F durante 1 minuto (rápido) y durante 3 minutos en los pacientes (n = 30) del grupo S (lento), con una aguja en ángulo de 5º-10º a partir de la línea media. El éxito de la anestesia epidural unilateral fue más significativo en el Grupo S que en el Grupo F (70,3% vs 16%, p < 0,001). En los pacientes del Grupo S, el tiempo necesario para el nivel máximo de bloqueo sensitivo en los lados no operados fue más corto y el tiempo de regresión para los dos segmentos, más largo (p < 0,05). El tiempo para walk-out fue más largo en el Grupo F (p < 0,05). Consideramos que la administración lenta de anestésico local en la anestesia epidural unilateral es más eficaz que la administración rápida.