Anaesthetic management of an infant with cleft palate lateral synechiae syndrome.

An infant with restricted mouth opening from birth had presented for cleft lip repair. He had an interalveolar gap of 6 mm and was diagnosed as a case of cleft palate lateral synechiae syndrome. Fibreoptic bronchoscope of appropriate size was not available at the time of the procedure, and we had to device an alternative plan. The case describes the common challenges that can arise while anaesthetising infants with this syndrome in a resource-limited setting and highlights the importance of adapting the protocol to the demands.

Evaluation of the Efficacy of Magnesium Sulfate in Reducing Blood Loss in Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: A Randomized Double-Blinded Controlled Trial.

Objectives  The primary concern in functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is maintaining a clear and unobstructed surgical field. Achieving this objective necessitates controlled hypotension, which can aid in the surgical dissection process and reduce the overall duration of the operation. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of a sole bolus injection of intravenous magnesium sulfate in FESS. The outcomes measured include blood loss, surgical field grading, the additional intraoperative requirement of fentanyl, stress attenuation during laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation, and extubation time. Methods In this prospective, double-blinded, randomized control trial (CTRI/2021/04/033052), 50 patients scheduled for FESS were randomly divided into two groups: Group M received 50 mg/kg MgSO4 in 100 ml normal saline, and Group N received 100 ml plain normal saline 15 min before induction. The study assessed total blood loss, measured by blood collected from the surgical field and weighing gauze. The surgical field grading was assessed by a six-point Fromme and Boezaart scale. We also observed stress attenuation during laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation, additional intraoperative fentanyl requirements, and time taken for extubation. The sample size was estimated using the G power calculator 3.1.9.2 (http://www.gpower.hhu.de/). Data were entered in Microsoft Excel (Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, WA) and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). Results The demographic data and duration of the surgery were comparable in both groups. The total blood loss in Group M was 100.40 ml ±60.71 ml, which is lower than Group N (133.80 ml ±59.7 ml) with a p-value of 0.016. In addition, the surgical field grading was also better in Group M. The total vecuronium consumption was significantly lower in Group M, which was (7.23±0.84 mg); in Group N, it was (10.64±1.74 mg) with a p-value of 0.0001, respectively. The dosage of additional fentanyl in Group N was 38.46 mcg ± 8.99 mcg, more than in Group M (33.64 mcg ± 11.20 mcg). The time required for extubation was similar in both groups. The duration of the surgery was significantly more significant in Group M (150.0 ±31.36) than in Group N (205.0 ±32.79), with a p-value of 0.0001, respectively. Furthermore, the mean arterial pressure after induction, at 2 min and 4 min after laryngoscopy, was less in Group M, with p=0.001, p=0.003, and p<0.0001, respectively, when compared with Group N. The heart rate after induction, at 2 min and 4 min after laryngoscopy, was also less in Group M, with p=0.016, p=0.003, and p=0.003, respectively, when compared with Group N. The Ramsay Sedation Score was higher in Group M than in Group N's fourth, eighth, and sixteenth hour, with p=0.001, p=0.021, and p=0.001, respectively, in the postoperative period. The sedation score was statistically insignificant after that. No complications were encountered during the study. Conclusion We conclude that a single bolus dose of MgSO4 reduced surgical blood loss more effectively than in the control group. The surgical field grading was also better in Group M, as was the stress attenuation during laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation. The intraoperative fentanyl requirement was not statistically significant. The time for extubation was similar between the groups. No other adverse effects were encountered during the study.

A Comparison of the Effects of Epidural Levobupivacaine and Morphine for Postoperative Analgesia Following Major Abdominal Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Objectives Epidural analgesia remains the cornerstone of pain management following laparotomy. Local anesthetics used in epidural analgesia provide good analgesia but may result in hypotension and/or motor blockade. Morphine, a long-acting opioid, can also be used epidurally to provide analgesia. Morphine used epidurally will cause fewer hemodynamic disturbances and no motor blockade. Hence, we compared the efficacy, hemodynamic parameters, and motor blockade between epidural levobupivacaine and morphine for postoperative analgesia following laparotomy. Materials and methods This is a prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled study registered in the Clinical Trials Registry of India (CTRI/2021/04/033102). Ninety patients undergoing elective major abdominal surgery were randomly divided into two groups: levobupivacaine (0.125%/mL) and morphine (0.032 mg/mL) group. All patients received epidural infusion at 6 mL/hour. The visual analog scale (VAS) score at rest and during cough was observed for 24 hours. Heart rate and blood pressure were monitored continuously for 24 hours postoperatively. Additional analgesic requirements, postoperative sedation score, and motor blockade were also compared between the two groups. Statistical analysis was done using the chi-square test, unpaired T-test, and Mann-Whitney test. The sample size estimation was based on a pilot study. Results The demographic data and duration of the procedure were comparable in both groups. The initial median VAS score at rest in the levobupivacaine group was high (interquartile range (IQR): 2-4) when compared to the morphine group (IQR: 1-3) at the fourth, sixth, and eighth hour with a P value of <0.05. The initial median VAS score at coughing in the levobupivacaine group was 4 (IQR: 3-5) and in the morphine group was 3 (IQR: 3-4). The VAS score at rest and at coughing was significantly higher in the levobupivacaine group. Heart rate was stable in both groups, and a significant fall in mean arterial blood pressure was observed in the levobupivacaine group. The sedation score was significantly higher in the morphine group (IQR: 2-2) when compared to the levobupivacaine group (IQR: 1-2) at the fourth hour postoperatively with a P value of <0.05. Motor blockade was found to be stronger in the levobupivacaine group (IQR: 0-2) when compared to the morphine group (IQR: 0-0) at the fourth, sixth, and eighth hour postoperatively with a P value of <0.05. An additional dose of fentanyl was required by 6.7% of the patients in the levobupivacaine group and 8.9% of the patients in the morphine group. In the levobupivacaine group, 11.1% reported headaches, 2.2% reported vomiting, and 4.4% reported hypotension, and no pruritus was reported. In the morphine group, 11.1% reported tachycardia, 6.7% reported nausea and vomiting, 6.4% reported pruritus, and 2.2% reported hypotension. Conclusion We conclude that patients receiving epidural morphine had better pain scores with better hemodynamic stability than the epidural levobupivacaine group following laparotomy. The morphine group had less motor blockade. Sedation was observed in the morphine group. Additional analgesics were required in both groups. The adverse effects observed in the epidural morphine group were tachycardia, nausea, pruritus, and itching. The epidural levobupivacaine group reported headache, vomiting and fever, and hypotension.

Comparison of Different Carbon Dioxide Insufflation Rates on Hemodynamic Changes in Laparoscopic Surgeries: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Introduction The injury and detrimental effects of carbon dioxide (CO2) insufflation during laparoscopic surgeries may be due to the higher flow rates used during insufflation. The aim of our study was to study the effects of different CO2 insufflation flow rates on hemodynamic parameters in laparoscopic surgeries. The secondary objectives were to compare the patient and surgeon satisfaction scores, postoperative shoulder scores, and surgical site pain scores. Methods This prospective, randomized, double-blinded trial was commenced after institutional ethical committee approval and The Clinical Trials Registry- India (CTRI) registration (CTRI 2021/10/037595). Ninety patients scheduled for laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomly divided into three groups based on CO2 insufflation flow rate by computer-generated random numbers and the sealed envelope method: Group-A: 5 L/min; Group-B: 10 L/min; and Group-C: 15 L/min. General anesthesia was standardized in all three groups. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate were recorded at different timelines, which included the arrival in the operating room (T0), just before the induction of anesthesia (T1), at the beginning of pneumoperitoneum (T2), 10 minutes (T3), 20 minutes (T4), 30 minutes (T5), and 60 minutes (T6) after the pneumoperitoneum, at the end of the operation (T7), five minutes (T8), and 15 minutes (T9) after arriving at the recovery room. The patient and surgeon satisfaction scores were assessed on a 5-point Likert scale. The visual analog score (VAS) was used to assess the surgical site pain and shoulder pain every four hours for 24 hours. The continuous data were assessed by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and the categorical data were assessed by the Chi-square test. The sample size was estimated based on a pilot study and using the G Power 3.1.9.2 Program (Universitat Kiel, Germany) calculator. Results There was an increase in the mean arterial pressure (MAP) between the groups 60 min after pneumoperitoneum creation with higher flow rates. The baseline MAP was 85.76± 10.11 in group A, 86.03± 9.79 in group B, and 88.13± 8.46 in group C. At 60 min from the creation of the pneumoperitoneum, the MAP increased significantly from 99.17 ± 9.35 in group A, 102.43 ± 8.24 in group B, to 106.83 ± 8.31 in group C. This was statistically significant with a p-value of 0.004. There was a statistically significant difference in heart rate between the groups 10 minutes after pneumoperitoneum creation. No complications were reported in any of the groups. The postoperative shoulder pain was more severe when higher flows were used at 20 and 24 hours. The surgical site pain was also significantly more for up to 12 hours following surgery with higher flows. Conclusion We conclude that low-flow CO2 insufflation during laparoscopic surgeries is associated with fewer hemodynamic changes, better patient satisfaction scores, and lower postoperative pain scores.

Role of diaphragm ultrasound in weaning mechanically ventilated patients: A prospective observational study.

Background and Aims: Weaning from mechanical ventilation based on clinical parameters and rapid shallow breathing index (RSBI) is associated with a higher weaning failure. Bedside ultrasound of the diaphragm is gaining popularity to assess the diaphragm function. The aim of our study was to determine the use of diaphragm ultrasound in weaning ventilated patients. Methods: This prospective study was done on 200 adult patients on mechanical ventilation for more than 24 h. After meeting the clinical weaning criteria, a spontaneous breathing trial (SBT) was performed. RSBI was recorded and a bedside ultrasound of the diaphragm was performed to measure diaphragmatic excursion (DE) and diaphragm thickening fraction (DTF) before extubation. We assessed the predictability of weaning success of RSBI, DE and DTF by determining the area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve and Youden's index. The requirement of non-invasive ventilation or re-intubation within 48 h was considered a weaning failure. Results: Out of the 200 patients studied, 171 were successfully weaned. The AUROC values for RSBI, DTF, DE, RSBI-DTF and RSBI-DE for successful weaning prediction were 0.422, 0.654, 0.809, 0.656 and 0.807, respectively. The predictability using cut-off values were DE >1.21 cm (sensitivity 94%, specificity 71%, Youden's index 0.65), DTF >37% (sensitivity 80%, specificity 52%, Youden's index 0.31) and RSBI <82 (sensitivity 94%, specificity 31%, Youden's index 0.25). Conclusion: Diaphragm ultrasound helps in predicting successful weaning in mechanically ventilated patients. Both DE and DTF showed a higher specificity than RSBI and a combination of RSBI-DE and RSBI-DTF was better than using RSBI alone.

Comparison of low dose intravenous fentanyl and morphine infusion for postoperative analgesia in spine fusion surgeries - a randomized control trial.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Post-operative analgesia for Spine surgeries is difficult without patient control analgesia (PCA) and inadequate monitoring facilities. The objective was to study the effectiveness of analgesia of intravenous administration of low dose fentanyl and morphine for postoperative analgesia following spine fusion surgeries. METHODS: One hundred adult patients undergoing spine instrumentation surgeries were randomly allotted into two groups: Group M (morphine) or Group F (fentanyl). The patients received either 0.02 mg.kg-1.h-1 of morphine or 0.3 mcg.kg-1.h-1 of fentanyl infusion postoperatively. If the patient had pain, additional bolus dose of 0.04 mg.kg-1 and 0.6 mcg. kg-1 bolus for morphine and fentanyl respectively were given and noted. The additional analgesic consumption was recorded. The Ramsay sedation score (RSS), visual analogue score (VAS), vital parameters and complications were observed. RESULTS: The demographic characteristics did not reveal significant difference among the two groups. In morphine group, 32 patients did not require any additional bolus dose, 15 patients needed one bolus dose and one patient each required two and three boluses. In fentanyl group, two, 24, 20 and four patients required 0, 1, 2 and 3 bolus doses respectively. There were no statistically significant variations in hemodynamic features like heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen saturation, RSS and VAS. The complication rate was not significant among the groups. CONCLUSION: Low dose continuous infusion of morphine is more effective than fentanyl with fewer requirements of rescue analgesics for postoperative analgesia. Both drugs are safe without any serious complications.

Comparison of Ultrasound-Guided Modified BRILMA Block with Subcostal Transversus Abdominis Plane Block for Postoperative Analgesia in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy - A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Subcostal Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) block is the standard practice for postoperative analgesia following laparoscopic cholecystectomy. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of modified BRILMA Block (blocking the BRanches of Intercostal nerves at the Level of Mid-Axillary line) with Subcostal TAP block for pain relief following laparoscopic cholecystectomy. METHODS: Sixty cases scheduled for laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomly divided into two groups: modified BRILMA block (Group B) and Subcostal TAP block (Group T). General anesthesia was standardized for both groups. Blocks were performed with 20 mL of 0.2% Ropivacaine under ultrasound guidance after induction of anesthesia. Patients were administered morphine through patient controlled analgesia (PCA) pump with a bolus dose of 1 mg, 10 min lockout interval, and a basal infusion rate of 0.1 mg/h. The pain was assessed by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores of one to ten. The total morphine consumption, time to first request for rescue analgesia, and VAS scores at rest and with movement, and complications, if any, were recorded. RESULTS: The morphine consumption in Group B was 5.67 ± 1.98 mg and in Group T was 5.17 ± 1.85 mg, which was found to be statistically insignificant (p-value = 0.317). The time to first request for rescue analgesia was 759.33 ± 80.29 min in Group B which was comparable to 854 ± 93.01 min in Group T and statistically insignificant (p-value = 0.295). The average VAS scores at rest as well as on movement were comparable in both the groups during the entire 24 h postoperative period. No complications were encountered in our study. CONCLUSION: Ultrasound-guided modified BRILMA block is equally efficacious as subcostal TAP block in providing postoperative analgesia with similar morphine consumption and no significant difference in VAS scores at rest and movement following laparoscopic cholecystectomy. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: CTRI/2020/02/023457.

Comparison of morphine, dexmedetomidine and dexamethasone as an adjuvant to ropivacaine in ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block for postoperative analgesia-a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: An ideal adjuvant to local anesthetic in a nerve block should prolong the duration of analgesia, and hasten the onset of sensory and motor blockade without significant adverse effects. The aim of this study was to compare morphine, dexmedetomidine, and dexamethasone as an additive to ropivacaine in ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block (SBPB) for postoperative analgesia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this randomized, double-blinded study, 150 patients undergoing upper extremity surgery were randomly divided into three groups: group A (morphine 5 mg), group B (dexmedetomidine 50 µg), and group C (dexamethasone 8 mg). The additives were added to 30 ml of 0.5% ropivacaine solution and administered in SBPB. The duration of postoperative analgesia, onset of sensory and motor blockade, sedation, and adverse effects were observed. The pain was assessed by visual analog scale (VAS) and sedation by Ramsay sedation score. The duration of postoperative analgesia was taken as time consumed from block completion to administration of rescue analgesia (VAS >3). RESULTS: The demographic profile was similar in both groups. The duration of analgesia was significantly longer in dexamethasone (867.2 ± 217.6 min) than morphine (739. 2 ± 162.5 min) and dexmedetomidine (654.2 ± 179.9 min) (P < 0.001). The onset of sensory and motor blockade was quicker with dexmedetomidine than dexamethasone and morphine. Three cases of block failure were reported with morphine. No major adverse effects were reported. CONCLUSION: Dexamethasone is an ideal adjuvant to ropivacaine in brachial plexus block to prolong postoperative analgesia and devoid of adverse effects. Dexmedetomidine has a quicker onset of sensory and motor blockade.

A Randomized Observer-Blinded Controlled Trial to Compare Pre-Emptive with Postoperative Ultrasound-Guided Mandibular Nerve Block for Postoperative Analgesia in Mandibular Fracture Surgeries.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Ultrasound-guided (UG) mandibular nerve block is effective for providing postoperative analgesia in mandibular fracture surgeries. The pre-emptive nerve blockade prolongs the duration of postoperative analgesia and reduces the consumption of intraoperative opioids. The aim of this prospective, randomized, single-blinded study was to compare the efficacy of pre-emptive and postoperative UG mandibular nerve block for postoperative analgesia in mandibular fracture surgeries. METHODS: Sixty patients scheduled for unilateral mandibular fracture surgeries were randomly divided into two groups by computer-generated random numbers and sealed envelope method: Group A received UG mandibular nerve block before surgical incision and group B received after surgery with ropivacaine 0.5% 10mL. The second anesthesiologist, who was blinded to the group involved, monitored the patient. The patients as well as the statistician were also blinded. The patients were started on patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) morphine with bolus 1mg and a lockout interval of 10min. The morphine consumption for 24h was recorded. The pain was assessed by the VAS score. The additional intraoperative fentanyl consumption and time for a request for rescue analgesic were recorded. RESULTS: The total morphine consumption was reduced in group A (4.566±0.717mg) than group B (5.93±0.876mg) with a p-value of <0.0001. The time for a request for rescue analgesic was also prolonged in group A (794.08±89.561min) than group B (505.333±3.159min). In group A, only four patients required an additional dose of fentanyl as against 11 patients in group B. The heart rate was also lower in group A 30min after the administration of the block and persisted for two hours intraoperatively. CONCLUSION: Pre-emptive ultrasound-guided mandibular nerve block reduces morphine consumption, prolongs the time for a request for rescue analgesic, reduces intraoperative fentanyl consumption, provides better control of intraoperative heart rate, and better pain scores postoperatively when compared to the postoperative mandibular nerve block.

[Efficacy of different doses and timing of tranexamic acid in major orthopedic surgeries: a randomized trial]. / Eficácia de diferentes doses e esquemas de administração de ácido tranexâmico em cirurgias ortopédicas de grande porte: estudo randomizado.

BACKGROUND: Tranexamic acid was studied in four different dosage regimens and their efficacy was compared for perioperative blood loss reduction, blood transfusion requirements and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) complication. METHODS: Two hundred patients undergoing major orthopedic procedures were divided into five groups containing 40 each: placebo, low dose (bolus 10mg.kg-1), low dose+maintenance (bolus 10mg.kg-1+maintenance 1mg.kg-1.hr-1), high dose (bolus 30mg.kg-1) and high dose+maintenance (bolus 30mg.kg-1+maintenance 3mg.kg-1.hr-1). Surgical blood loss was measured intraoperatively and drains collection in the first 24 hours postoperative period. Blood transfusion was done when hematocrit falls less than 25%. DVT screening was done in the postoperative period. RESULTS: The intraoperative blood loss was 440±207.54mL in the placebo group, 412.5±208.21mL in the low dose group, 290±149.6ml in the low dose plus maintenance group, 332.5±162.33mL in the high dose group and 240.7±88.15mL in the high dose maintenance group (p <0.001). The reduction in postoperative blood loss in the drain for the first 24hours was 80±44.44mL in the placebo group, 89.88±44.87mL in the low dose group, 56.7±29.12mL in the low dose plus maintenance group, 77.9±35.74mL in the high dose group and 46.7±19.9mL in the high dose maintenance group (p <0.001). DVT was not encountered in any patient. CONCLUSION: Tranexamic acid was most effective in reducing surgical blood loss and blood transfusion requirements in a low dose+maintenance group.

Efficacy of different doses and timing of tranexamic acid in major orthopedic surgeries: a randomized trial / Eficácia de diferentes doses e esquemas de administração de ácido tranexâmico em cirurgias ortopédicas de grande porte: estudo randomizado

Abstract Background: Tranexamic acid was studied in four different dosage regimens and their efficacy was compared for perioperative blood loss reduction, blood transfusion requirements and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) complication. Methods: Two hundred patients undergoing major orthopedic procedures were divided into five groups containing 40 patients each: Placebo, low dose (bolus 10 mg kg-1), low dose + maintenance (bolus 10 mg kg-1 + maintenance 1 mg kg-1 hr-1), high dose (bolus 30 mg kg-1) and high dose + maintenance (bolus 30 mg kg-1 + maintenance 3 mg kg-1 hr-1). Surgical blood loss was measured intraoperatively and drains collection in the first 24 hours postoperatively. Blood transfusion was done when hematocrit falls less than 25%. DVT screening was done in the postoperative period. Results: The intraoperative blood loss was 440 ± 207.54 mL in the placebo group, 412.5 ± 208.21 mL in the low dose group, 290 ± 149.6 ml in the low dose plus maintenance group, 332.5 ± 162.33 mL in the high dose group and 240.7 ± 88.15 mL in the high dose maintenance group (p < 0.001). The reduction in postoperative blood loss in the drain for first 24 hours was 80 ± 44.44 mL in the placebo group, 89.88 ± 44.87 mL in the low dose group, 56.7 ± 29.12 mL in the low dose plus maintenance group, 77.9 ± 35.74 mL in the high dose group and 46.7 ± 19.9 mL in the high dose maintenance group (p < 0.001). DVT was not encountered in any patient. Conclusion: Tranexamic acid was most effective in reducing surgical blood loss and blood transfusion requirements in a low dose + maintenance group.

Resumo Justificativa: O ácido tranexâmico foi avaliado em quatro esquemas com diferentes posologias, comparando-se a eficácia de cada esquema quanto a redução na perda sanguínea perioperatória, necessidade de transfusão sanguínea e ocorrência de Trombose Venosa Profunda (TVP). Método: Duzentos pacientes submetidos a procedimentos ortopédicos de grande porte foram divididos em cinco grupos de 40 pacientes de acordo com o esquema de administração de ácido tranexâmico: grupo placebo, grupo baixa dose (bolus de 10 mg.kg-1, grupo baixa dose e manutenção (bolus de 10 mg.kg-1 + manutenção de 1 mg.kg-1.h-1), grupo alta dose (bolus de 30 mg.kg-1), e grupo alta dose e manutenção (bolus de 30 mg.kg-1 + manutenção de 3 mg.kg-1.h-1). A perda sanguínea cirúrgica foi medida no intraoperatório. Além disso, nas primeiras 24 horas pós-operatórias, foi medido o volume de sangue coletado no dreno. Era realizada transfusão de sangue se o valor do hematócrito fosse inferior a 25%. Foi realizada avaliação quanto à ocorrência de TVP no pós-operatório. Resultados: A perda sanguínea intraoperatória foi de 440 ± 207,54 mL no grupo placebo, 412,5 ± 208,21 mL no grupo baixa dose, 290 ± 149,6 mL no grupo baixa dose e manutenção, 332,5 ± 162,33 mL no grupo alta dose, e 240,7 ± 88,15 mL no grupo alta dose e manutenção (p < 0,001). A redução na perda sanguínea pós-operatória pelo dreno nas primeiras 24 horas foi de 80 ± 44,44 mL no grupo placebo; 89,88 ± 44,87 mL no grupo baixa dose, 56,7 ± 29,12 mL no grupo baixa dose e dose de manutenção, 77,9 ± 35,74 mL no grupo alta dose e 46,7 ± 19,9 mL no grupo alta dose e manutenção (p < 0,001). TVP não foi observada em nenhum paciente. Conclusão: O ácido tranexâmico administrado em baixa dose combinado à manutenção foi mais eficaz em reduzir a perda sanguínea cirúrgica e a necessidade de transfusão de sangue.

Evaluation of ultrasound-guided quadratus lumborum block for post-operative analgesia in unilateral laparoscopic renal surgeries - A randomised controlled trial.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Quadratus lumborum block (QLB) is a novel anaesthetic technique for abdominal wall block providing excellent post-operative analgesia. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the duration of post-operative analgesia with QLB in unilateral laparoscopic renal surgeries. The secondary objectives were to assess total morphine consumption during the first 24 h postoperatively and observe for complications. METHODS: Sixty patients undergoing unilateral laparoscopic renal surgeries were randomly divided into two groups, with patients receiving QLB (Group A) or no block (Group B) at the end of surgery. General anaesthesia was standardised in both the groups. The pain was assessed by a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) of 1-10. The duration of analgesia was taken as time from extubation to VAS of ≥3. Morphine was administered in patient-controlled analgesia pump with a bolus of 1 mg and a lockout interval of 10 min (min). The total morphine consumption was recorded. The statistical analysis was performed with the Student's t-test and Chi-square test. RESULTS: The duration of post-operative analgesia was significantly prolonged in Group A (1288 ± 288.92 min) than Group B (138 ± 54.92 min). Morphine consumption was also less in Group A (3.1 ± 0.87 mg) than Group B (10.46 ± 1.8 mg). There was a significant difference in the VAS score from 16 to 20 h. No complications were recorded. CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasound-guided QLB after laparoscopic renal surgery is safer to perform, effective with an increased post-operative duration of analgesia, reduces the consumption of opioids and is associated with fewer side effects.

Comparison of laparoscopy-guided with ultrasound-guided subcostal transversus abdominis plane block in laparoscopic cholecystectomy - A prospective, randomised study.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Subcostal transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is usually done under ultrasound guidance in laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Laparoscopic-guided subcostal TAP block is an alternate technique where ultrasound is not available. Our primary objective was to compare the success rate of ultrasound and laparoscopic approaches to the subcostal TAP block. The secondary objectives were to assess the duration of postoperative analgesia and morphine consumption postoperatively for 24 h. METHODS: Eighty patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomly divided into two groups with patients receiving ultrasound-guided (group U) or laparoscopy-guided (group L) subcostal TAP block at the end of surgery. The success rate was assessed by a sensory blockade of T7 and T8 dermatomes 30 min after extubation. The duration of analgesia was taken as time from block administration to the visual analogue scale of ≥3. Morphine was administered in patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pump with a bolus of 1 mg and a lock-out interval of 10 min. The total morphine consumption was recorded. The statistical analysis was performed with student t-test and Chi-square test. RESULTS: The success rate of group U (100%) was higher than group L (88%) but it was not statistically significant (P = 0.054). The duration of postoperative analgesia was significantly prolonged in group U (867.24 ± 135.83 min) than group L (751.31 ± 311.22 min) (P = 0.033). Morphine consumption was also less in group U (4.72 ± 0.94 mg) than group L (5.57 ± 2.53 mg) (P = 0.049). There was no significant difference in the VAS scores after 4 h postoperatively. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopy-guided subcostal TAP block is a suitable alternative to ultrasound-guided block and can be utilised in places where an ultrasound machine is not available.

A prospective, randomized, double-blinded control study on comparison of tramadol, clonidine and dexmedetomidine for post spinal anesthesia shivering / Estudo prospectivo randômico, duplo-cego e controlado comparando tramadol, clonidina e dexmedetomidina para tremores pós-raquianestesia

Abstract Introduction Shivering, a common intraoperative problem under spinal anesthesia increases the oxygen consumption considerably and is uncomfortable and distressing to the patient, anesthesiologist as well as surgeon. The present study was designed to explore the effectiveness of tramadol, clonidine and dexmedetomidine in the treatment of post spinal anesthesia shivering and to look for their adverse effects. Methods This prospective, randomized, double blinded control study was done on 90 patients who developed shivering under spinal anesthesia. They were randomly allocated into three groups with Group T receiving tramadol 1 mg.kg-1, Group C getting clonidine 1 mcg.kg-1 and Group D patients receiving dexmedetomidine 0.5 mcg.kg-1. The time taken to control shivering, recurrence rate, hemodynamic variables, sedation score and adverse effects were observed. Results Dexmedetomidine was faster in the control of shivering in 5.7 ± 0.79 minutes (min) whereas tramadol took 6.76 ± 0.93 min and clonidine was slower with 9.43 ± 0.93 min. The recurrence rate was much lower in the dexmedetomidine group with 3.3% than for clonidine (10%) and tramadol (23.3%) group. The sedation achieved with dexmedetomidine was better than clonidine and tramadol. The tramadol group had more cases of vomiting (four) and dexmedetomidine group had six cases of hypotension and two cases of bradycardia. Two of the clonidine patients encountered bradycardia and hypotension. Conclusion Dexmedetomidine is better than tramadol and clonidine in the control of shivering because of its faster onset and less recurrence rate. Though complications are encountered in the dexmedetomidine group, they are treatable.

Resumo Introdução O tremor, problema comum no período intraoperatório sob raquianestesia, aumenta consideravelmente o consumo de oxigênio, além de ser desconfortável e angustiante para o paciente, o anestesiologista e o cirurgião. O presente estudo foi concebido para explorar a eficácia de tramadol, clonidina e dexmedetomidina no tratamento de tremores pós-raquianestesia e observar seus efeitos adversos. Métodos Este estudo prospectivo, randômico, controlado e duplo-cego foi feito com 90 pacientes que desenvolveram tremores sob raquianestesia. Os pacientes foram randomicamente alocados em três grupos para receber 1 mg.kg-1 de tramadol (Grupo T), 1 mcg.kg-1 de clonidina (Grupo C) e 0,5 mcg.kg-1 de dexmedetomidina (Grupo D). O tempo necessário para controlar os tremores, a taxa de recorrência, as variáveis hemodinâmicas, os níveis de sedação e os efeitos adversos foram registrados. Resultados Dexmedetomidina foi mais rápida para controlar os tremores, com tempo de 5,7 ± 0,79 minutos (min); o tempo de tramadol foi de 6,76 ± 0,93 min; clonidina foi mais lenta, com tempo de 9,43 ± 0,93 min. A taxa de recorrência foi muito menor no grupo dexmedetomidina (3,3%) do que nos grupos clonidina (10%) e tramadol (23,3%). A sedação obtida com dexmedetomidina foi melhor do que a obtida com clonidina e tramadol. O grupo tramadol teve mais casos de vômito (quatro); o grupo dexmedetomidina teve seis casos de hipotensão e dois casos de bradicardia. Dois pacientes do grupo clonidina apresentaram bradicardia e hipotensão. Conclusão Dexmedetomidina foi melhor do que tramadol e clonidina para o controle de tremores devido ao seu início de ação mais rápido e à taxa de recorrência mais baixa. Embora complicações tenham sido observadas no grupo dexmedetomidina, elas foram tratáveis.

[A prospective, randomized, double-blinded control study on comparison of tramadol, clonidine and dexmedetomidine for post spinal anesthesia shivering]. / Estudo prospectivo randômico, duplo­cego e controlado comparando tramadol, clonidina e dexmedetomidina para tremores pós­raquianestesia.

INTRODUCTION: Shivering, a common intraoperative problem under spinal anesthesia increases the oxygen consumption considerably and is uncomfortable and distressing to the patient, anesthesiologist as well as surgeon. The present study was designed to explore the effectiveness of tramadol, clonidine and dexmedetomidine in the treatment of post spinal anesthesia shivering and to look for their adverse effects. METHODS: This prospective, randomized, double blinded control study was done on 90 patients who developed shivering under spinal anesthesia. They were randomly allocated into three groups with Group T receiving tramadol 1mg.kg-1, Group C getting clonidine 1mcg.kg-1 and Group D patients receiving dexmedetomidine 0.5mcg.kg-1. The time taken to control shivering, recurrence rate, hemodynamic variables, sedation score and adverse effects were observed. RESULTS: Dexmedetomidine was faster in the control of shivering in 5.7±0.79minutes (min) whereas tramadol took 6.76±0.93min and clonidine was slower with 9.43±0.93min. The recurrence rate was much lower in the dexmedetomidine group with 3.3% than for clonidine (10%) and tramadol (23.3%) group. The sedation achieved with dexmedetomidine was better than clonidine and tramadol. The tramadol group had more cases of vomiting (four) and dexmedetomidine group had six cases of hypotension and two cases of bradycardia. Two of the clonidine patients encountered bradycardia and hypotension. CONCLUSION: Dexmedetomidine is better than tramadol and clonidine in the control of shivering because of its faster onset and less recurrence rate. Though complications are encountered in the dexmedetomidine group, they are treatable.

A randomised comparative evaluation of supraclavicular and infraclavicular approaches to brachial plexus block for upper limb surgeries using both ultrasound and nerve stimulator.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: The supraclavicular and infraclavicular brachial plexus blocks have a similar distribution of anaesthesia, and both can be used effectively for surgeries of the upper limb. This study aimed to compare the supraclavicular and infraclavicular approaches of brachial plexus blocks, guided by ultrasound and neurostimulation. METHODS: Sixty adult patients scheduled for elective upper limb surgery of the elbow and/or below were randomly divided into two groups: infraclavicular Group (I) and supraclavicular Group (S). All the blocks were performed with the aid of ultrasound-guided nerve stimulator confirmation. The two groups were compared with respect to block performance time, onset of sensory and motor blockade, readiness for surgery, success rate and complications. The statistical analysis was performed with Student t-test and Chi-square test. RESULTS: The block performance time for the infraclavicular group was 9.57 ± 3.19 min, whereas for supraclavicular group, it was 11.53 ± 2.90 min with similar success rates (93.3%). Onset of sensory blockade was achieved earlier (6.43 ± 2.61 min) in Group I than Group S (8.45 ± 2.87 min, P = 0.006). The onset of motor blockade was similar in Group I (7.32 ± 2.90 min) and Group S (8.68 ± 3.50 min, P = 0.121). The patient satisfaction was similar in both the groups. One patient had a pneumothorax, three patients developed Horner syndrome and another had clinically symptomatic diaphragmatic paresis in Group S. CONCLUSION: The infraclavicular block is more rapidly executed compared to supraclavicular block with similar success rates and fewer complications in the presence of ultrasound and nerve stimulator and hence should be preferred.

Efficacy of ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane block for postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing inguinal hernia repair.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Transversus abdominis plane block (TAP block) is a novel procedure to provide postoperative analgesia following inguinal hernia surgery. The utilization of ultrasound has greatly augmented the success rate of this block and additionally avoiding complications. The aim of our study was to gauge the analgesic efficacy of ultrasound-guided TAP block in patients undergoing unilateral inguinal hernia repair. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty patients scheduled for elective inguinal hernia repair were selected for the study. At the end of the surgical procedure, they were randomly divided into two groups. Ultrasound-guided TAP block was performed with 20 mL of ropivacaine 0.2% (group A) or normal saline (group B). Visual analog scale (VAS) scores were used to assess pain. Paracetamol was given if VAS > 3 and tramadol was used when VAS > 6. Patients were monitored for VAS scores and total analgesic consumption for the 24-hour period. RESULTS: The TAP block with ropivacaine (group A) reduced VAS scores at 4, 6, and 12 hours. There was no distinction in VAS scores at 0, 2, and 24 hours between the two groups. The duration of analgesia for TAP block with ropivacaine lasted for 390 minutes. Total analgesics consumption was also significantly reduced in group A than group B. No complication was reported to TAP block in both the groups. CONCLUSION: The ultrasound-guided TAP block provides good postoperative analgesia, reduces analgesic requirements, and provides good VAS scores with fewer complications following inguinal hernia surgery.

Comparative Evaluation of Bolus Administration of Dexmedetomidine and Fentanyl for Stress Attenuation During Laryngoscopy and Endotracheal Intubation.

BACKGROUND: Laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation can cause hypertension and tachycardia which can result in myocardial ischemia or stroke in vulnerable people. The objective of our study was to compare the efficacy of bolus dose of dexmedetomidine and fentanyl in attenuating haemodynamic stress responses following laryngoscopy and intubation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty patients who were fixed to undergo elective surgeries under general anaesthesia were randomly divided into 2 groups. Group 1 received 1 mcg/kg of dexmedetomidine over 10 minutes and group 2 received fentanyl 2mcg/kg before induction. Anaesthesia was standardized in both the groups and vital parameters were recorded for up to 10 minutes after intubation. RESULTS: Dexmedetomidine in a dose of 1mcg/kg prevented an increase in heart rate following laryngoscopy when compared to fentanyl group. This effect lasted for 10 minutes after intubation is performed. Though dexmedetomidine prevented an increase in blood pressure, this effect was statistically significant only for 2 minutes after intubation when compared to fentanyl group. CONCLUSION: Attenuation of rise in heart rate and blood pressure following laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation was better with 1mcg/kg of dexmedetomidine when compared to fentanyl.