RESUMEN
Background and Aims: Stagnara wake-up test is a simple reproducible neuromonitoring method during spinal surgery which replaces the evoked potential monitoring in the absence of neuromonitoring facilities. Dexmedetomidine (DEX) effect on the intraoperative wake-up test is still unclear. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of DEX on the quality of wake-up test during spinal correction surgery. Methods: A randomized controlled study was carried out over 62 patients randomized into two equal groups planned for elective minimally invasive corrective spine surgery. Instead of atracurium administration in the control group, patients in the experimental group were administered titrated continuous intravenous infusion of DEX at a dose of 0.2-0.7 µg/kg/hour. Lidocaine 2% spray around the vocal cords was done in both the groups to facilitate toleration of the endotracheal tube. Results: The DEX group showed statistically significant longer duration and better quality of the wake-up test. Statistically significant better haemodynamic state, a lower amount of intraoperative sedatives and higher amount of intraoperative analgesics were also evident in the DEX group. The postoperative Ramsay sedation scale was significantly lower in the DEX group just after extubation. Conclusion: The DEX use has shown an improving effect on the wake-up test quality, with slightly prolonged wake-up time. The present work supports the use of DEX as an adjuvant drug alleviating the need for the neuromuscular blockade, inducing a better haemodynamic profile, exhibiting better sedation and improving the awakening condition.
RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Psoas sciatic block (Pso/Sci) is a modern anesthetic technique for lower extremities surgery. The use of this technique can avoid the adverse effects of the general anesthesia or the central neuroaxial blockade, especially in patients with multiple comorbidities. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to compare the efficacy of combined Pso/sci as a sole anesthetic technique with conventional combined spinal epidural (CSE) anesthesia for patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty. METHODS: Eighty patients scheduled for total knee replacement were included in the study. Patients were divided into two equal groups: Pso/sci group received ultrasound guided with the use of nerve locator continuous Pso/sci and the second group (CSE) received CSE anesthesia. Onset of sensory and motor block time, hemodynamic changes, contralateral spread, first-time need for analgesia, incidence of complications, and patient and surgeon satisfactions were recorded. RESULTS: The block time was significantly higher in the (Pso/Sci) group. Two patients in (Pso/Sci) had contralateral spread. Sensory and motor block onsets were delayed significantly in (Pso/Sci). Hemodynamic changes occurred in the CSE; however, it was insignificant compared to Pso/sci group. The first analgesic request was significantly later in (Pso/Sci) compared to the CSE group. There were no differences found in both groups as regard complications, early mobilization, and patients and surgeons satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS: Psoas sciatic block is an alternative safe and successful anesthetic technique, which can provide an adequate anesthesia for total knee surgery with less hemodynamic changes.
