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. .

Early graft dysfunction and mortality rate in marginal donor liver transplantation.

BACKGROUND/AIM: To determine the effect of marginal donor livers on mortality and graft survival in liver transplantation (LT) recipients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Donors with any 1 of following were considered marginal donors: age ≥65 years, sodium level ≥ 165 mmol/L and cold ischemia time ≥ 12 h. Donors were classified according to the donor risk index (DRI) < 1.7 and ≥ 1.7. The transplant recipients' model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) scores were considered low if < 20 and high if ≥ 20. Early graft dysfunction (EGD) and mortality rate were evaluated. RESULTS: During the study period 47 patients underwent cadaveric LT. The mean age of the donors and recipients was 45 years (range: 5-72 years) and 46 years (range: 4-66 years), respectively. In all, there were 15 marginal donors and 18 donors with a DRI > 1.7. In total, 4 LT patients that received livers from marginal donors and 5 that received livers from donors with a DRI ≥ 1.7 had EGD. Among the recipients of marginal livers, 5 died, versus 4 of the recipients of standard livers. There was no significant difference in EGD or mortality rate between the patients that received livers from marginal donors or those with a DRI ≥ 1.7 and patients that received standard donor livers. CONCLUSION: Marginal and DRI ≥ 1.7 donors negatively affected LT outcomes, but not significantly.

A comparison of spinal anesthesia characteristics following intrathecal bupivacaine or levobupivacaine in lumbar disc surgery.

PURPOSE: While bupivacaine is the most frequently used local anesthetic for spinal anesthesia, use of levobupivacaine in clinical practice has advanced recently. The aim of our study was to compare the clinical and anesthetic effects of isobaric bupivacaine and isobaric levobupivacaine when administered intrathecally in patients undergoing lumbar disc surgery. METHODS: ASA I-III, 60 patients were enrolled in this study. Only patients with unilateral single-level (L4-5) lumbar disc hernia were selected and operated in each group and all were operated by the same surgeon. Patients were randomized into two groups, as group B (n = 30): 15 mg 0.5% isobaric bupivacaine, or group L (n = 30): 15 mg 0.5% isobaric levobupivacaine received intrathecally. The level of sensory block dermatome, degree of motor block, intraoperative sensory and motor block characteristics, and postoperative recovery times of spinal anesthesia were evaluated. The satisfaction scores of the surgeon and patients, intraoperative hemodynamic changes, intraoperative and postoperative complications were recorded. RESULTS: The maximum level of sensory blockade was significantly higher in the levobupivacaine group (group L 7 ± 1.63, group B 8.6 ± 1.76 thoracic dermatome, p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the onset time of sensory (group L 6 ± 3 min, group B 9 ± 4 min) and motor (in group L 7 ± 3 min, in group B 10 ± 4 min) blockade (p > 0.05). There was no significant difference between the groups regarding duration of operation (group L 49 ± 7.3 min, group B 52 ± 8.1, p > 0.05). Recovery times of sensory (175 ± 57 min) and motor (216 ± 59 min) blockade were significantly shorter in the levobupivacaine group (p < 0.05). Mobilization was also earlier in the levobupivacaine group (339 ± 90 min, p < 0.05). Patients' satisfaction and intraoperative, postoperative complications were similar between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: Our results showed that block recovery time was shorter in the levobupivacaine group, this may be a disadvantage for longer operative procedures. But with proper patient selection this can be eliminated. Recovery time was shorter in levobupivacaine group. Therefore, postoperative neurological examination can be done earlier. In addition, early mobilization can be an advantage for postoperative recovery.

Comparison of blunt and sharp needles for transforaminal epidural steroid injections.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to compare the sharp and blunt needles in order to determine the incidence of complications during transforaminal anterior epidural steroid injections. METHODS: In this retrospective study, 185 cases that undergo transforaminal epidural steroid injection with sharp or blunt needles were evaluated between June 2004 and December 2008. Patients age, sex, diagnosis, needle type (sharp or blunt), volume of local anesthetic and steroid injected, complications (paresthesia, dural puncture, bleeding, paralysis, intravascular penetration, headache, local back pain, temporary motor loss in lower extremities) was recorded. RESULTS: 3 cases in blunt needle group and 8 cases in sharp needle group showed paresthesia during the procedure. The difference was not found to be significant among the groups. Vascular penetration was observed in 2 cases in blunt and 13 cases in sharp needle group and the difference between groups was statistically significant (p<0.001). Dural puncture and headache incidence were not significant when the two groups are compared. The local back pain at the injection site had a higher incidence in the blunt needle group. CONCLUSION: When using the blunt needles, vascular penetration and paresthesia were less during transforaminal epidural steroid injections. Therefore blunt needles seem to be more advantageous.

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.

Conscious sedation for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: dexmedetomidine versus midazolam.

OBJECTIVE: Midazolam and dexmedetomidine, which are used for sedation during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, were compared to evaluate the differences in efficacy, hemodynamics, and side effects. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty patients aged between 18 and 80 were randomly assigned to two groups according to American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification: Group M received midazolam with an initial bolus infusion of 0.04 mg/kg intravenously (i.v.), followed by additional doses of 0.5 mg i.v. midazolam, titrated to achieve a Ramsay sedation scale score of 3-4. Group D received dexmedetomidine with an initial bolus infusion of 1 mcg/kg/hr i.v. over 10 minutes, followed by a continuous infusion of 0.2-0.7 mcg/kg/hr, titrated to achieve an RSS of 3-4. A Mini Mental Status Examination (MMSE) was performed prior to sedation and in the recovery room once the Modified Aldrete Score (MAS) reached 9-10. Patient heart rates, arterial pressure and pain were evaluated. RESULTS: Patients in Group D had lower heart rates at 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 minutes following the initiation of sedation (p<0.05). There was no statistical difference in arterial pressure, RSS, MMSE or respiratory rate between the two groups. Coughing, nausea and vomiting occurred in 3 patients in Group M (12%), whereas no patient in Group D experienced these symptoms. The procedure elicited a gag response in 7 patients in Group M (28%) and in 4 patients in Group D (16%), with no significant difference between groups (p>0.05). When patient and surgeon satisfaction was compared between the two groups, Group D showed higher surgeon satisfaction scores (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: The use of dexmedetomidine for conscious sedation during short, invasive procedures, such as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, could be a superior alternative to the use of midazolam.

Comparison of two different doses of intrathecal levobupivacaine for transurethral endoscopic surgery.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of two different spinal isobaric levobupivacaine doses on spinal anesthesia characteristics and to find the minimum effective dose for surgery in patients undergoing transurethral resection (TUR) surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty male patients undergoing TUR surgery were included in the study and were randomized into two equal groups: Group LB10 (n=25): 10 mg 0.5% isobaric levobupivacaine (2 ml) and Group LB15 (n=25): 15 mg 0.75% isobaric levobupivacaine (2 ml). Spinal anesthesia was administered via a 25G Quincke spinal needle through the L3-4 intervertebral space. Sensorial block levels were evaluated using the 'pin-prick test', and motor block levels were evaluated using the 'Bromage scale'. The sensorial and motor block characteristics of patients during intraoperative and postoperative periods and recovery time from spinal anesthesia were evaluated. RESULTS: In three cases in the Group LB10, sensorial block did not reach the T10 level. Complete motor block (Bromage=3) did not occur in eight cases in the Group LB10 and in five cases in the Group LB15. The highest sensorial dermatomal level detected was higher in Group LB15. In Group LB15, sensorial block initial time and the time of complete motor block occurrence were significantly shorter than Group LB10. Hypotension was observed in one case in Group LB15. No significant difference between groups was detected in two segments of regression times: the time to S2 regression and complete sensorial block regression time. Complete motor block regression time was significantly longer in Group LB15 than in Group LB10 (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: Our findings showed that the minimum effective spinal isobaric levobupivacaine dose was 10 mg for TUR surgery.

Efficacy of levobupivacaine infiltration to nephrosthomy tract in combination with intravenous paracetamol on postoperative analgesia in percutaneous nephrolithotomy patients.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy of intraoperative local anesthetic infiltration in combination with intravenous paracetamol infusion on postoperative pain management in patients who underwent percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Sixty adult patients were randomized into three groups with 20 cases in each: Group SP, 20 mL saline was infiltrated through the whole nephrostomy tract intraoperatively and this was followed by intravenous paracetamol (4 × 1 g) infusion postoperatively; group LP, 20 mL of 0.25% levobupivacaine infiltration to the nephrostomy tract followed by intravenous paracetamol infusion; Group LS, 20 mL of 0.25% levobupivacaine infiltration to the nephrostomy tract followed by intravenous saline infusion. In the postoperative period, the pain status of patients was evaluated at postoperative 6 and 24 hours by using the visual analogue scale (VAS). In patients who did not completely respond, meperidine (1 mg/kg intramuscularly) was administered as an additional "rescue" analgesic. Patient satisfaction from the postoperative analgesia management was assessed by a 5 point scale. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference between the three groups regarding the demographic characteristics, surgical complications, and postoperative hospital stay. Our findings revealed that in group LP, the amount and frequency of opioid used and related side effects was lesser, VAS score was lower, time to full mobilization was shorter, and the patient satisfaction score was higher when compared with the other two groups. CONCLUSION: Levobupivacaine infiltration through the nephrostomy tract in combination with intravenous paracetamol infusion was shown to be safe and efficacious as an analgesia method after PCNL.

Functional results of conservative therapy accompanied by interscalane brachial plexus block and patient-controlled analgesia in cases with frozen shoulder.

OBJECTIVES: We evaluated the efficacy of simultaneous interscalene block and catheter analgesia applied as an aid to conservative treatment in improving shoulder functions in patients with frozen shoulder. METHODS: Three patients (2 women, 1 man; mean age 47 years) with frozen shoulder underwent conservative treatment including manipulation under interscalene brachial plexus block and subsequent rehabilitation under catheter analgesia to improve shoulder range of motion and function. Following manipulation under interscalene block, the patients were hospitalized for 15 to 28 days (mean 21 days) for an exercise program performed by a physiotherapist and orthopedist at least twice a day under interscalene catheter analgesia. Thirty minutes before each rehabilitation session, patient-controlled analgesia was administered via a pain relief pump. Active and passive range of motion (ROM) were measured and the severity of pain was rated using a visual analog scale (VAS) prior to and following interscalene block, during the exercise program, and at the end of the treatment. Functional assessments were made before and after treatment using the University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA) Shoulder Scale. The exercise program under interscalene analgesia was performed until pain-free and sufficient active movements were obtained, with at least 80% improvement in active and passive motion, a VAS score of 0-2, and an UCLA score of >27. RESULTS: Compared to pretreatment values, the ROM values showed remarkable increases at the end of the treatment. Active ROM reached at least 30 degrees external rotation, 40 degrees internal rotation, 150 degrees flexion, 45 degrees extension, and 100 degrees abduction in all cases. On presentation, the VAS scores of all cases were 10 for both active and passive movements, whereas they ranged from 0 to 2 on discharge. The mean UCLA score increased from 12.3 to 30.3 after treatment. Immediately after the interscalene block, two patients exhibited signs of Horner's syndrome which resolved spontaneously within an hour without the need for treatment. No complications or catheter-related problems such as infection, break-off, or displacement developed throughout the treatment period. There was no requirement for additional analgesia. CONCLUSION: In patients with frozen shoulder, interscalene block and continuous patient-controlled analgesia via an interscalene catheter provided sufficient analgesia and contributed to the recovery of shoulder functions through an effective and safe exercise program, with no side effects or complications. However, further studies are needed to assess the feasibility of home applications of interscalene patient-controlled analgesia to increase cost-effectiveness and patient satisfaction.

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.