Comparison of intraoperative and post-operative effects of serratus anterior plane block performed with ultrasound and infiltration block in patients undergoing video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery.

OBJECTIVES: We aimed to compare the intraoperative and post-operative analgesic activities of the preventive applied serratus anterior plane (SAP) block and infiltration block in patients undergoing video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). METHODS: The study was carried out in 60 patients aged between 18 and 80 who were eligible for elective VATS, with the American Society of Anesthesiologists classification I-II, following ethical committee approval and written informed consent form. Patients were divided into two groups as SAP (group serratus anterior plane block [SAPB]) and group infiltration block after routine monitoring and general anesthesia induction by recording demographic data after randomization. Hemodynamic data of all patients were recorded before, after induction and within intraoperative 30 min period. Patient controlled analgesia (PCA) prepared with morphine was applied to all patients postoperatively. Intraoperative hemodynamic data and opioid consumption of patients, resting time, and coughing visual analog scale, time to first PCA dose, post-operative opioid consumption, rescue analgesic requirement, mobilization times, opioid side effects, and patient and surgical team's satisfaction were evaluated. RESULTS: Intraoperative hemodynamic data and opioid consumption were similar between the two groups. Post-operative pain scores (0 and 30 min, 1, 2, 4, 8, and 12 h) were lower in the SAPB group (p<0.005) and time to use the first PCA (p=0.002) was longer in the SAPB group. Post-operative PCA and rescue analgesic requirement were lower in the SAPB group (p=0.002, p=0.00). It was found that the first mobilization time was shorter in the SAPB group (p=0.003), and opioid-related side effects were similar in both groups (p=0.067). Patient and surgical team satisfaction was high in the SAPB group (p=0.004, p=0.000). CONCLUSION: As a result, more effective post-operative analgesia was provided with preventively SAPB, compared to infiltration block in patients undergoing VATS.

Comparison of postoperative analgesic efficacy of intraoperative single-dose intravenous administration of dexketoprofen trometamol and diclofenac sodium in laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to compare the effects of intravenous single-dose dexketoprofen trometamol and diclofenac sodium 30 minutes before the end of the surgery on relief of postoperative pain in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. DESIGN: A randomized fashion. SETTING AND PATIENTS: Sixty (American Society of Anesthesiologist class I-II) patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy were divided into 2 groups INTERVENTION: Patients in group DT received 50 mg dexketoprofen trometamol, whereas patients in group DS received 75 mg diclofenac sodium, intravenously 30 minutes before the end of surgery. MEASUREMENTS: Postoperative pain intensity, morphine consumption with patient-controlled analgesia, time to first analgesic requirement, complications, rescue analgesic (intravenous tenoxicam 20 mg) requirement, and duration of hospital stay were recorded. MAIN RESULTS: Postoperative pain visual analog scale scores were similar in the follow-up periods (P > .05). Patient-controlled analgesia morphine consumption was significantly less in group DT compared with group DS in all postoperative follow-up periods (2 and 4 hours: P < .01; 8, 12, 18, and 24 hours: P < .001). In the postoperative period, the first analgesic requirement time was significantly longer in group DT compared with group DS (P < .01). In addition, the number of patients requiring rescue analgesic was higher in group DS compared with group DT (P < .01). Other follow-up parameters were similar. CONCLUSION: In our study, administration of intravenous single-dose dexketoprofen trometamol 30 minutes before the end of surgery provided effective analgesia with reduced consumption of opioids and requirement for rescue analgesic compared with diclofenac sodium in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. For this reason, we believe that, as a part of multimodal analgesia, dexketoprofen trometamol provides more effective analgesia than diclofenac sodium in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

The effects of the Trendelenburg position and the Valsalva manoeuvre on internal jugular vein diameter and placement in children.

INTRODUCTION: We compared the effects of various surgical positions, with and without the Valsalva manoeuvre, on the diameter of the right internal jugular vein (RIJV). METHODS: We recruited 100 American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status class I patients aged 2-12 years. The patients' heart rate, blood pressure, peripheral oxygen saturation and end-tidal CO2 pressure were monitored. Induction of anaesthesia was done using 1% propofol 10 mg/mL and fentanyl 2 µg/kg, while maintenance was achieved with 2% sevoflurane in a mixture of 50/50 oxygen and air (administered via a laryngeal mask airway). The RIJV diameter was measured using ultrasonography when the patient was in the supine position. Thereafter, it was measured when the patient was in the supine position + Valsalva, followed by the Trendelenburg, Trendelenburg + Valsalva, reverse Trendelenburg, and reverse Trendelenburg + Valsalva positions. A 15° depression or elevation was applied for the Trendelenburg position, and an airway pressure of 20 cmH2O was applied in the Valsalva manoeuvre. During ultrasonography, the patient's head was tilted 20° to the left. RESULTS: When compared to the mean RIJV diameter in the supine position, the mean RIJV diameter was significantly greater in all positions (p < 0.001) except for the reverse Trendelenburg position. The greatest increase in diameter was observed in the Trendelenburg position with the Valsalva manoeuvre (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: In paediatric patients, the application of the Trendelenburg position with the Valsalva manoeuvre gave the greatest increase in RIJV diameter. The reverse Trendelenburg position had no significant effect on RIJV diameter.

Iliohypogastric/ilioinguinal nerve block in inguinal hernia repair for postoperative pain management: comparison of the anatomical landmark and ultrasound guided techniques / Bloqueio dos nervos ílio-hipogástrico/ilioinguinal em correção de hérnia inguinal para tratamento da dor no pós-operatório: comparação entre a técnica de marcos anatômicos e a guiada por ultrassom / Bloqueo de los nervios ileohipogástrico/ilioinguinal en corrección de hernia inguinal para el tratamiento del dolor en el postoperatorio: comparación entre la técnica de marcas anatómicas y la guiada por ultrasonido

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to compare the efficacy of iliohypogastric/ilioinguinal nerve blocks performed with the ultrasound guided and the anatomical landmark techniques for postoperative pain management in cases of adult inguinal herniorrhaphy. Methods: 40 patients, ASA I-II status were randomized into two groups equally: in Group AN (anatomical landmark technique) and in Group ultrasound (ultrasound guided technique), iliohypogastric/ilioinguinal nerve block was performed with 20 ml of 0.5% levobupivacaine prior to surgery with the specified techniques. Pain score in postoperative assessment, first mobilization time, duration of hospital stay, score of postoperative analgesia satisfaction, opioid induced side effects and complications related to block were assessed for 24 h postoperatively. Results: VAS scores at rest in the recovery room and all the clinical follow-up points were found significantly less in Group ultrasound (p < 0.01 or p < 0.001). VAS scores at movement in the recovery room and all the clinical follow-up points were found significantly less in Group ultrasound (p < 0.001 in all time points). While duration of hospital stay and the first mobilization time were being found significantly shorter, analgesia satisfaction scores were found significantly higher in ultrasound Group (p < 0.05, p < 0.001, p < 0.001 respectively). Conclusion: According to our study, US guided iliohypogastric/ilioinguinal nerve block in adult inguinal herniorrhaphies provides a more effective analgesia and higher satisfaction of analgesia than iliohypogastric/ilioinguinal nerve block with the anatomical landmark technique. Moreover, it may be suggested that the observation of anatomical structures with the US may increase the success of the block, and minimize the block-related complications. .

Objetivo: Comparar a eficácia de bloqueios dos nervos ílio-hipogástrico/ilioinguinal feitos com a técnica guiada por ultrassom e a de marcos anatômicos para o manejo da dor no pós-operatório em casos de herniorrafia inguinal em adultos. Métodos: Foram randomicamente divididos 40 pacientes, estado físico ASA I-II, em dois grupos iguais: nos grupos AN (técnica de marcos anatômicos) e US (técnica guiada por ultrassom), o bloqueio dos nervos ílio-hipogástrico/ilioinguinal foi feito com 20 mL de levobupivacaína a 0,5% antes da cirurgia com as técnicas especificadas. Escore de dor na avaliação pós-operatória, tempo de primeira mobilização, tempo de internação hospitalar, escore de satisfação com a analgesia no pós-operatório, efeitos colaterais induzidos por opiáceos e complicações relacionadas ao bloqueio foram avaliados durante 24 horas de pós-operatório. Resultados: Escores EVAem repouso na sala de recuperação e todos os valores clínicos durante o acompanhamento foram significativamente menores no grupo ultrassom (p < 0,01 ou p < 0,001). Escores EVA em movimento na sala de recuperação e todos os valores clínicos durante o acompanhamento foram significativamente menores no grupo ultrassom (p < 0,001 em todos os tempos avaliados). Enquanto os tempos de internação e da primeira mobilização foram significativa-mente menores, os índices de satisfação com a analgesia foram significativamente maiores no grupo ultrasom (p<0,05, p< 0,001, p< 0,001, respectivamente). Conclusão: De acordo com o nosso estudo, o bloqueio dos nervos ílio-hipogástrico/ilioinguinal guiado por US em herniorrafias inguinais em adultos proporciona uma analgesia mais eficaz e maior satisfação com a analgesia ...

Objetivo: El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar la eficacia de bloqueos de los nervios ileohipogástrico/ilioinguinal realizados con la técnica guiada por ultrasonido y la de marca anatómicas para el manejo del dolor en el postoperatorio en casos de herniorrafia inguinal en adultos. Métodos: 40 pacientes, estado físico ASA I-II, fueron aleatoriamente divididos en 2 grupos iguales: grupos con técnica de marcas anatómicas) y grupo con técnica guiada por ultrasonido. El bloqueo de los nervios iliohipogástrico/ilioinguinal fue realizado con 20 mL de levobupivacaína al 0,5% antes de la cirugía con las técnicas especificadas. La puntuación de dolor en la evaluación postoperatoria, tiempo de primera movilización, tiempo de ingreso hospitalario, puntuación de satisfacción con la analgesia en el postoperatorio, efectos colaterales inducidos por opiáceos y complicaciones relacionadas con el bloqueo fueron evaluados durante 24 h de postoperatorio. Resultados: Las puntuaciones EVA en reposo en la sala de recuperación y todos los valores clínicos durante el seguimiento fueron significativamente menores en el grupo con técnica guiada por ultrasonido (p < 0,01 o p < 0,001). Las puntuaciones EVA en movimiento en la sala de recuperación y todos los valores clínicos durante el seguimiento fueron significativamente menores en el grupo con técnica guiada por ultrasonido (p < 0,001 en todos los tiempos calculados). Mientras que los tiempos de ingreso y de la primera movilización fueron significativamente menores, los índices de satisfacción con la analgesia fueron significativamente mayores en el grupo ultrasonido (p < 0,05; p < 0,001; p < 0,001 respectivamente). Conclusión: De acuerdo con nuestro estudio, el bloqueo de los nervios iliohipogástrico/ilioinguinal guiado por ultrasonido en herniorrafias ...

[Iliohypogastric/ilioinguinal nerve block in inguinal hernia repair for postoperative pain management: comparison of the anatomical landmark and ultrasound guided techniques]. / Bloqueio dos nervos ílio-hipogástrico/ilioinguinal em correção de hérnia inguinal para tratamento da dor no pós-operatório: comparação entre a técnica de marcos anatômicos e a guiada por ultrassom.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study is to compare the efficacy of iliohypogastric/ilioinguinal nerve blocks performed with the ultrasound guided and the anatomical landmark techniques for postoperative pain management in cases of adult inguinal herniorrhaphy. METHODS: 40 patients, ASA I-II status were randomized into two groups equally: in Group AN (anatomical landmark technique) and in Group ultrasound (ultrasound guided technique), iliohypogastric/ilioinguinal nerve block was performed with 20ml of 0.5% levobupivacaine prior to surgery with the specified techniques. Pain score in postoperative assessment, first mobilization time, duration of hospital stay, score of postoperative analgesia satisfaction, opioid induced side effects and complications related to block were assessed for 24h postoperatively. RESULTS: VAS scores at rest in the recovery room and all the clinical follow-up points were found significantly less in Group ultrasound (p<0.01 or p<0.001). VAS scores at movement in the recovery room and all the clinical follow-up points were found significantly less in Group ultrasound (p<0.001 in all time points). While duration of hospital stay and the first mobilization time were being found significantly shorter, analgesia satisfaction scores were found significantly higher in ultrasound Group (p<0.05, p<0.001, p<0.001 respectively). CONCLUSION: According to our study, US guided iliohypogastric/ilioinguinal nerve block in adult inguinal herniorrhaphies provides a more effective analgesia and higher satisfaction of analgesia than iliohypogastric/ilioinguinal nerve block with the anatomical landmark technique. Moreover, it may be suggested that the observation of anatomical structures with the US may increase the success of the block, and minimize the block-related complications.

Do metoclopramide and ondansetrone alter mivacurium-induced neuromuscular blockade? - a randomised trial.

BACKGROUND: We aimed to investigate the effects of metoclopramide and ondansetrone on mivacurium neuromuscular blockade. METHODS: Seventy five, ASA I-II patients, aged 18-65 and scheduled for elective surgery requiring tracheal intubation were included in the study. The patients received metoclopramide 10 mg, ondansetrone 4 mg or normal saline 5 mL; group M, group O, group NS (n=25), respectively. Before anesthesia study drugs were administered in a volume of 5 mL. The level of plasma cholinesterase were obtained before and 5 minutes after the administration of study drugs and 5 minutes after the administration of mivacurium. Onset time, T25, T75, T25-75, T90 levels were compared with each other and differences between each patients were investigated. After recording T90, the study was terminated and surgery was started. RESULTS: Onset time was significantly shorter in group M, than the other two groups. Onset time in group O was significantly shorter than in group NS. In Group M T25, T75, T90 and recovery indices were significantly greater than in Group NS (p<0.001). In Group O T25, T75 were greater than Group NS (p<0.01 and p<0.05, respectively). In Group M T75, T90 and emergence indices were significantly higher than Group O (p<0.001, p<0.01, p<0.001, respectively). In Groups M and O, plasma cholinesterase levels decreased significantly (p<0.001) after administration of study drugs and mivacurium. Plasma cholinesterase also was reduced in Group NS 5 minutes after the administration of mivacurium (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Ondansetrone is believed to be more reliable agent than metoclopramide when used with mivacurium.

Metoclopramida e ondansetrona alteram o bloqueio neuromuscular induzido por mivacurio? - um estudo randomizado / Do metoclopramide and ondansetrone alter mivacurium-induced neuromuscular blockade? - a randomised trial / La metoclopramida y la ondansetrona alteran el bloqueo neuromuscular inducido por mivacurio? - un estudio aleatorizado

Experiência: Objetivamos investigar os efeitos de metoclopramida e ondansetrona no bloqueio neuromuscular por mivacúrio. Métodos: Foram incluídos no estudo 75 pacientes ASA I-II, com idades entre 18 e 65 anos e agendados para cirurgia eletiva necessitando de intubação traqueal. Os pacientes receberam metoclopramida 10 mg, ondansetrona 4 mg ou salina normal 5 mL; grupo M, grupo O e grupo SN (n = 25) respectivamente. Antes da anestesia, os medicamentos em estudo foram administrados em um volume de 5 mL. O nível de colinesterase plasmática foram obtidos antes e 5 minutos depois da administração dos medicamentos em estudo e 5 minutos depois da administração de mivacúrio. Os tempos até o início e os níveis T25, T75, T25-75 e T90 foram comparados entre si, tendo sido investigadas as diferenças entre cada paciente. Depois de registrar T90, o estudo foi terminado, tendo início a cirurgia. Resultados: O tempo até o início foi significativamente mais breve no Grupo M versus os outros dois grupos. O tempo até o início no Grupo O foi significativamente mais breve versus grupo SN. No grupo M, T25, T75, T90 e os índices de recuperação foram significativamente maiores versus Grupo NS (p < 0,001). No Grupo O, T25 e T75 foram maiores versus Grupo NS (p < 0,01 e p < 0,05,respectivamente). No Grupo M, T75, T90 e índices de retorno da anestesia foram significativamente maiores versus Grupo O (p < 0,001, p < 0,01, p < 0,001, respectivamente). Nos Grupos M e O, os níveis plasmáticos de colinesterase diminuíram significativamente (p < 0,001). Depois da administração dos medicamentos em estudo e de mivacúrio. Houve também redução na colinesterase plasmática no Grupo NS 5 minutos após a administração de mivacúrio (p < 0,001). ...

Background: We aimed to investigate the effects of metoclopramide and ondansetrone on mivacurium neuromuscular blockade. Methods: Seventy five, ASA I-II patients, aged 18-65 and scheduled for elective surgery requiring tracheal intubation were included in the study. The patients received metoclopramide 10 mg, ondansetrone 4 mg or normal saline 5 mL; group M, group O, group NS (n = 25), respectively. Before anesthesia study drugs were administered in a volume of 5 mL. The level of plasma cholinesterase were obtained before and 5 minutes after the administration of study drugs and5 minutes after the administration of mivacurium. Onset time, T25, T75, T25-75, T90 levelswere compared with each other and differences between each patients were investigated. After recording T90, the study was terminated and surgery was started. Results: Onset time was significantly shorter in group M, than the other two groups. Onset time in group O was significantly shorter than in group NS. In Group M T25, T75, T90 and recovery indices were significantly greater than in Group NS (p < 0.001). In Group O T25, T75 were greater than Group NS (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively). In Group M T75, T90 and emergence indices were significantly higher than Group O (p < 0.001, p < 0.01, p < 0.001, respectively). In Groups M and O, plasma cholinesterase levels decreased significantly (p < 0.001) after administration of study drugs and mivacurium. Plasma cholinesterase also was reduced in Group NS 5 minutes after the administration of mivacurium (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Ondansetrone is believed to be more reliable agent than metoclopramide when used with mivacurium. .

Comparison of intraarticular bupivacaine and levobupivacaine with morphine and epinephrine for knee arthroscopy.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy of intraarticularly injected bupivacaine with levobupivacaine when administered in combination with morphine and adrenaline for post-operative analgesia and functional recovery after knee surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I-II patients were randomized into three groups: Group B was administered 30 mL isobaric 0.5% bupivacaine, 2 mg morphine and 100 µg adrenaline, Group L was administered 30 mL 0.5% levobupivacaine, 2 mg morphine and 100 µg adrenaline, and Group C was administered 30 mL 0.9% NaCl solution into the knee joint by the surgeon at the end of surgery. The morphine usage and visual analog pain scores were recorded regularly afterwards. We also recorded the time that elapsed before each patients' first mobilization, positive response to straight leg raising, tolerance to 30-50° knee flexion, recovery of quadriceps reflexes and discharge from the hospital. We also recorded patient and surgeon satisfaction. RESULTS: The pain scale values were lower in Groups B and L than in Group C at 2, 4, 6, 8, 12 and 24 hours post-operatively (all p<0.001). In Groups B and L, the time for first analgesic request was longer (p<0.01), the morphine consumption was lower (p<0.001), and the duration of morphine usage was shorter (p<0.001). The times to positive response to straight leg raising, tolerance to 30-50° knee flexion and the first mobilization were shorter in Groups B and L (p<0.001 for all). CONCLUSION: After arthroscopic knee surgery, intraarticular levobupivacaine combined with morphine and adrenaline decreases analgesic requirements, shortens the postoperative duration of analgesic use and hastens mobilization as effectively as bupivacaine.

The effects of levobupivacaine infiltration on post-tonsillectomy pain relief in adults: a single-blinded, randomized, and controlled clinical study.

The aim of this prospective single-blinded and controlled study is to evaluate the efficacy of levobupivacaine infiltration on post-tonsillectomy pain relief in adults. The study was conducted with 40 adult patients who underwent tonsillectomy. These patients were randomized in either study group (SG) who received levobupivacaine infiltration to peritonsillary fossae prior to surgery or control group (CG) with no medication. After surgery, all the patients were queried for pain scores by visual analog scale. In addition, the volume of intraoperative bleeding, the duration of operation, the severity of postoperative complications, and the amount of analgesic requirement were the other outcome measures of this study. There were significant differences between groups regarding pain scores for the first 24 h in favor of SG. The analgesic requirement was also significantly lower in SG (p = 0.009). Although there was a sustained decrement at pain score during first 24 h for SG, however, the change from baseline score (immediate score) for each time interval revealed no significance compared to CG. In addition, the duration of operation and the volume of intraoperative bleeding were similar (p = 0.64 and p = 0.165). In conclusion, preincisional infiltration of levobupivacaine is a safe and reliable method for post-tonsillectomy pain reduction in adults. However, more in-depth, double-blinded and placebo controlled studies are required to elucidate its long term benefits.

Comparison of esmolol to nitroglycerine in controlling hypotension during nasal surgery.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare esmolol to nitroglycerine in terms of effectiveness in controlling hypotension during nasal surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: After approval by our institutional Ethics Committee, 40 patients were recruited and randomized into two drug groups: esmolol (Group E) and nitroglycerine (Group N). In group E, a bolus dose of 500 µg/kg esmolol was administered over 30 sec followed by continuous administration at a dose of 25-300 µg/ kg/min to maintain systolic arterial pressure at 80 mmHg. In group N, nitroglycerine was administered at a dose of 0.5-2 µg/kg/min. RESULTS: During the hypotensive period, systolic arterial pressure, diastolic arterial pressure, mean arterial pressure, and heart rate were decreased 24%, 33%, 27% and 35%, respectively, in group E (p<0.001, p<0.001, p<0.001, p<0.001) and were decreased 30%, 33%, 34% and 23%, respectively, in group N (p<0.001, p<0.001, p<0.001, p<0.001). The decrease in heart rate was higher in group E during the hypotensive period (p=0.048). During the recovery period, diastolic arterial pressure and heart rate were decreased 9% and 18%, respectively, in group E (p=0.044, p<0.001). Systolic arterial pressure, diastolic arterial pressure, and mean arterial pressure were decreased 7%, 3% and 7%, respectively, in group N (p=0.049, p=0.451, p=0.045). CONCLUSION: Esmolol provides hemodynamic stability and good surgical field visibility and should be considered as an alternative to nitroglycerine.

Thoracic paravertebral block for video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery: single injection versus multiple injections.

OBJECTIVE: Thoracic paravertebral blocks (PVBs) have been shown to be effective for analgesia after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) with single- and multiple-injection techniques. The efficacy of single-injection PVB was compared with multiple-injection PVB on postoperative analgesia in VATS was studied. DESIGN: Prospective, randomized study. SETTING: Single university hospital. PARTICIPANTS: Fifty patients undergoing VATS. INTERVENTIONS: A nerve stimulator-guided PVB was performed in the sitting position before surgery using a solution of 20 mL 0.5% bupivacaine with 1:200,000 epinephrine by a single injection at T6 (group S, n = 25) or by 5 injections of 4 mL each at T4 to T8 (group M, n = 25). MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: A successful PVB was achieved in all patients. The times to perform the blocks were 6.8 ± 1.9 minutes in the S group and 17.9 ± 3.0 minutes in the M group (p < 0.001). The times to block onset were 8.3 ± 1.8 minutes in the S group and 7.2 ± 0.9 minutes in the M group (p = 0.014). The numbers of anesthetized dermatomes were 5.8 ± 0.8 for the S group and 6.6 ± 1.1 for the M group (p = 0.009). The postoperative pain scores and morphine consumption with patient-controlled analgesia were comparable in the two groups. There were no significant differences in times to the first mobilization and hospital discharge for two groups. Patient satisfaction with the analgesic procedure was greater in the S group (p < 0.05). No complications were attributed to the blocks. CONCLUSIONS: The two techniques provided comparable postoperative analgesia. However, single-injection PVB may represent an advantage over multiple-injection PVB in patients undergoing VATS, with greater patient satisfaction associated with a shorter procedure and the likelihood of decreased complications.

Comparison of peritonsillar levobupivacaine and bupivacaine infiltration for post-tonsillectomy pain relief in children: placebo-controlled clinical study.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the effects of preincisional peritonsillar infiltration of levobupivacaine and bupivacaine on post-tonsillectomy pain in children. METHODS: Sixty children undergoing elective tonsillectomy or adenotonsillectomy were randomly allocated into three groups before tonsillectomy: peritonsillar infiltrations with 0.25% levobupivacaine with 1:200,000 epinephrine (group levobupivacaine, n=20), 0.25% bupivacaine with 1:200,000 epinephrine (group bupivacaine, n=20), and normal saline (group saline, n=20) were applied. Pain was evaluated by using a modified Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Pain Scale (mCHEOPS). Choice of additional analgesic was acetaminophen for all patients. RESULTS: mCHEOPS values at 0th (immediately) and 30th minute after arrival the PACU were lower in both the local anesthetics groups than the saline group (p<0.001, p<0.01 for the group levobupivacaine; p<0.001, p<0.05 for the group bupivacaine, respectively). In addition, mCHEOPS values at 1st hour in the ward was lower in the group bupivacaine when compared to the group saline (p<0.05). Analgesic requirements and the time to first analgesia required, were also significantly different between the local anesthetic and saline groups (p<0.05 for both local anesthetics groups). Time to first mobilization was shorter in both local anesthetic groups when compared to the saline group (p<0.05 for both local anesthetic groups). CONCLUSION: Preincisional peritonsillar infiltration with levobupivacaine or bupivacaine before tonsillectomy, are effective than saline, in reducing early post-tonsillectomy pain, where as bupivacaine had slightly longer effect. Compared to saline, with both anesthetic infiltrations, lesser medication for analgesia is required. The clinical trial registration number (Research Ethics Committee of Medical Faculty, Uludag University): 2008-4/36, 19 February 2008.

Rib approximation without intercostal nerve compression reduces post-thoracotomy pain: a prospective randomized study.

OBJECTIVE: One of the most important considerations in the care of thoracic surgery patients is the control of pain, which leads to increased morbidity and relevant mortality. METHODS: Between February and May 2009, 60 patients undergoing full muscle-sparing posterior minithoracotomy were prospectively randomized into two groups, according to the thoracotomy closure techniques. In the first group (group A), two holes were drilled into the sixth rib using a hand perforator, and sutures were passed through the holes in the sixth rib and were circled from the upper edge of the fifth rib, thereby compressing the intercostal nerve underneath the fifth rib. In the second group (group B), the intercostal muscle underneath the fifth rib was partially dissected along with the intercostal nerve, corresponding to the holes on the sixth rib. Two 1/0 polyglactin (Vicyrl) sutures were passed through the holes in the sixth rib and above the intercostal nerve. RESULTS: There were 30 patients in each group. The visual analog score, observer verbal ranking scale (OVRS) scores for pain, and Ramsay sedation scores were used to follow-up on postoperative analgesia and sedation. The von Frey hair test was used to evaluate hyperalgesia of the patients. The patients in group B had lower visual analog scores at rest and during coughing. The patients in group B had lower OVRS scores than group A patients. The groups were not statistically different in terms of the Ramsay sedation scores and von Frey hair tests. CONCLUSIONS: Thoracotomy closure by a technique that avoids intercostal nerve compression significantly decreases post-thoracotomy pain.

Induction of anesthesia in coronary artery bypass graft surgery: the hemodynamic and analgesic effects of ketamine.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this prospective, randomized study was to evaluate the hemodynamic and analgesic effects of ketamine by comparing it with propofol starting at the induction of anesthesia until the end of sternotomy in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting surgery. INTRODUCTION: Anesthetic induction and maintenance may induce myocardial ischemia in patients with coronary artery disease. A primary goal in the anesthesia of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting surgery is both the attenuation of sympathetic responses to noxious stimuli and the prevention of hypotension. METHODS: Thirty patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting surgery were randomized to receive either ketamine 2 mg.kg(-1) (Group K) or propofol 0.5 mg.kg(-1) (Group P) during induction of anesthesia. Patients also received standardized doses of midazolam, fentanyl, and rocuronium in the induction sequence. The duration of anesthesia from induction to skin incision and sternotomy, as well as the supplemental doses of fentanyl and sevoflurane, were recorded. Heart rate, mean arterial pressure, central venous pressure, pulmonary arterial pressure, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, cardiac index, systemic and pulmonary vascular resistance indices, stroke work index, and left and right ventricular stroke work indices were obtained before induction of anesthesia; one minute after induction; one, three, five, and ten minutes after intubation; one minute after skin incision; and at one minute after sternotomy. RESULTS: There were significant changes in the measured and calculated hemodynamic variables when compared to their values before induction. One minute after induction, mean arterial pressure and the systemic vascular resistance index decreased significantly in group P (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: There were no differences between groups in the consumption of sevoflurane or in the use of additional fentanyl. The combination of ketamine, midazolam, and fentanyl for the induction of anesthesia provided better hemodynamic stability during induction and until the end of sternotomy in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting surgery.

Intravenous dexmedetomidine, but not midazolam, prolongs bupivacaine spinal anesthesia.

PURPOSE: Midazolam has only sedative properties. However, dexmedetomidine has both analgesic and sedative properties that may prolong the duration of sensory and motor block obtained with spinal anesthesia. This study was designed to compare intravenous dexmedetomidine with midazolam and placebo on spinal block duration, analgesia, and sedation in patients undergoing transurethral resection of the prostate. METHODS: In this double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial, 75 American Society of Anesthesiologists' I and II patients received dexmedetomidine 0.5 microg . kg(-1), midazolam 0.05 mg . kg(-1), or saline intravenously before spinal anesthesia with bupivacaine 0.5% 15 mg (n = 25 per group). The maximum upper level of sensory block and sensory and motor regression times were recorded. Postoperative analgesic requirements and sedation were also recorded. RESULTS: Sensory block was higher with dexmedetomidine (T 4.6 +/- 0.6) than with midazolam (T 6.4 +/- 0.9; P < 0.001) or saline (T 6.4 +/- 0.8; P < 0.001). Time for sensory regression of two dermatomes was 145 +/- 26 min in the dexmedetomidine group, longer (P < 0.001) than in the midazolam (106 +/- 39 min) or the saline (97 +/- 27 min) groups. Duration of motor block was similar in all groups. Dexmedetomidine also increased the time to first request for postoperative analgesia (P < 0.01 compared with midazolam and saline) and decreased analgesic requirements (P < 0.05). The maximum Ramsay sedation score was greater in the dexmedetomidine and midazolam groups than in the saline group (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Intravenous dexmedetomidine, but not midazolam, prolonged spinal bupivacaine sensory blockade. It also provided sedation and additional analgesia.

Induction of anesthesia in coronary artery bypass graft surgery: the hemodynamic and analgesic effects of ketamine

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this prospective, randomized study was to evaluate the hemodynamic and analgesic effects of ketamine by comparing it with propofol starting at the induction of anesthesia until the end of sternotomy in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting surgery. INTRODUCTION: Anesthetic induction and maintenance may induce myocardial ischemia in patients with coronary artery disease. A primary goal in the anesthesia of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting surgery is both the attenuation of sympathetic responses to noxious stimuli and the prevention of hypotension. METHODS: Thirty patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting surgery were randomized to receive either ketamine 2 mg.kg-1 (Group K) or propofol 0.5 mg.kg-1 (Group P) during induction of anesthesia. Patients also received standardized doses of midazolam, fentanyl, and rocuronium in the induction sequence. The duration of anesthesia from induction to skin incision and sternotomy, as well as the supplemental doses of fentanyl and sevoflurane, were recorded. Heart rate, mean arterial pressure, central venous pressure, pulmonary arterial pressure, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, cardiac index, systemic and pulmonary vascular resistance indices, stroke work index, and left and right ventricular stroke work indices were obtained before induction of anesthesia; one minute after induction; one, three, five, and ten minutes after intubation; one minute after skin incision; and at one minute after sternotomy. RESULTS: There were significant changes in the measured and calculated hemodynamic variables when compared to their values before induction. One minute after induction, mean arterial pressure and the systemic vascular resistance index decreased significantly in group P (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: There were no differences between groups in the consumption of sevoflurane or in the use of additional fentanyl. The combination of ketamine, midazolam, ...

Internal jugular vein cannulation: an ultrasound-guided technique versus a landmark-guided technique.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the landmark-guided technique versus the ultrasound-guided technique for internal jugular vein cannulation in spontaneously breathing patients. METHODS: A total of 380 patients who required internal jugular vein cannulation were randomly assigned to receive internal jugular vein cannulation using either the landmark- or ultrasound-guided technique in Bursa, Uludag University Faculty of Medicine, between April and November, 2008. Failed catheter placement, risk of complications from placement, risk of failure on first attempt at placement, number of attempts until successful catheterization, time to successful catheterization and the demographics of each patient were recorded. RESULTS: The overall complication rate was higher in the landmark group than in the ultrasound-guided group (p < 0.01). Carotid puncture rate and hematoma were more frequent in the landmark group than in the ultrasound-guided group (p < 0.05). The number of attempts for successful placement was significantly higher in the landmark group than in the ultrasound-guided group, which was accompanied by a significantly increased access time observed in the landmark group (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively). Although there were a higher number of attempts, longer access time, and a more frequent complication rate in the landmark group, the success rate was found to be comparable between the two groups. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study indicate that internal jugular vein catheterization guided by real-time ultrasound results in a lower access time and a lower rate of immediate complications.

Internal jugular vein cannulation: an ultrasound-guided technique versus a landmark-guided technique

OBJECTIVES: To compare the landmark-guided technique versus the ultrasound-guided technique for internal jugular vein cannulation in spontaneously breathing patients. METHODS: A total of 380 patients who required internal jugular vein cannulation were randomly assigned to receive internal jugular vein cannulation using either the landmark- or ultrasound-guided technique in Bursa, Uludag University Faculty of Medicine, between April and November, 2008. Failed catheter placement, risk of complications from placement, risk of failure on first attempt at placement, number of attempts until successful catheterization, time to successful catheterization and the demographics of each patient were recorded. RESULTS: The overall complication rate was higher in the landmark group than in the ultrasound-guided group (p < 0.01). Carotid puncture rate and hematoma were more frequent in the landmark group than in the ultrasound-guided group (p < 0.05). The number of attempts for successful placement was significantly higher in the landmark group than in the ultrasound-guided group, which was accompanied by a significantly increased access time observed in the landmark group (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively). Although there were a higher number of attempts, longer access time, and a more frequent complication rate in the landmark group, the success rate was found to be comparable between the two groups. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study indicate that internal jugular vein catheterization guided by real-time ultrasound results in a lower access time and a lower rate of immediate complications.

[Thoracoscopic bullectomy and pleural abrasion in the treatment of primary spontaneous pneumothorax]. / Primer spontan pnömotoraks tedavisinde torakoskopik büllektomi ve plevral abrazyon.

Although spontaneous pneumothorax is the most common problem seen by the thoracic surgeon, there is no universal agreement in its management. Thoracoscopic bullectomy is preferred to open bullectomy because of minimal trauma, less pain, early recovery and discharge with comparable results. Seventy thoracoscopic bullectomy and apical pleural abrasion in 65 patients with spontaneous pneumothorax were retrospectively reviewed. All but 8 (13%) patients were male with a mean age of 24 years (range 17-55). Only the patients who had a prolonged air leak (> 4 days), reccurence/bilateral pneumothorax occupational reasons and bilateral pneumothorax were the indications for surgical treatment. The patients who had conversion to open thoracotomy were not included in the study. Computerized tomography was performed in all cases prior to the surgery. Endo-GIA 45-60 mm (4.8) staplers (Auto Suture, Tyco, USA) were used for bullectomy using three port access. The apical pleural abrasion following thoracoscopic bullectomy was performed in all cases. One patient developed haematoma on the first postoperative day and underwent open thoracotomy and evacuation of the haematoma. The median hospital stay was 3 (1-11) days. Recurrent pneumothorax was observed in 5 (7.1%) patients. Although thoracoscopic bullectomy is an expensive procedure that requires experience, however reduced pain, shorter hospital stay and early recovery makes it preferred method in such cases.

Comparison of SPECT findings and neuropsychological sequelae in carbon monoxide and organophosphate poisoning.

Abnormal regional cerebral blood flow in patients with acute carbon monoxide (CO) and organophosphate (OP) poisoning was examined using (99m)Tc-hexamethylpropylene amine oxime (HMPAO) brain single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) in fourteen patients. We evaluated the predictive significance of acute phase brain SPECT findings for long-term neuropsychological sequelae. Changes were found in the frontal, temporal, parietal lobes within the first week after both types of poisoning. The distribution of the hypoperfused cerebral areas as demonstrated by (99m)Tc-HMPAO imaging was similar in the two groups during the acute phase. Neuropsychological sequelae developed in five patients poisoned with OP and six with CO. Patients who had SPECT findings heterogeneously or in the temporal or frontal lobes displayed disorientation. Those with fronto-parietal and frontal lobe changes displayed mental confusion. Parkinsonism also was observed in patients with parieto-occipital, parietal and frontal lobe lesions. The distribution of these lesions appears to predict the long term sequelae of these poisonings, though additional studies with larger numbers of patients are needed to confirm the role of SPECT imaging in both OP and CO poisonings.