The analgesic efficacy of intravenous dexamethasone for post-caesarean pain: A systematic review with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis.

BACKGROUND: Analgesic efficacy of intravenous dexamethasone has not been well defined after caesarean delivery. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the impact of peri-operative dexamethasone administration on postoperative pain after caesarean delivery. OBJECTIVES: We investigated the impact of perioperative intravenous dexamethasone on postoperative pain after caesarean delivery. The two primary outcomes of interest were early (4 to 6 h) resting pain scores and time to first rescue analgesia. DESIGN: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs). DATA SOURCES: PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus and the Cochrane central registers of controlled trials were searched to identify RCTs from inception to April 2021. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: Prospective RCTs comparing the role of intravenous dexamethasone with non-active control were eligible for inclusion. Exclusion criteria included trials comparing various doses of dexamethasone without any control treatment arm, dexamethasone with other active drugs and trials comparing different routes of dexamethasone, for example, wound infiltration. RESULTS: Thirteen RCTs constituting of 988 parturients undergoing caesarean delivery were included. Patients receiving dexamethasone had lower pain scores at rest at 4 to 6 h after surgery, mean difference -1.29 [95% confidence interval (CI), -1.85 to -0.73], P < 0.0001, with low quality of evidence (I2 = 94%). Moderate quality of evidence (I2 = 17%) suggested that the time to first rescue analgesia in the dexamethasone group was significantly longer, mean difference 2.64 h (95% CI, 1.85 to 3.42), P  < 0.0001. Trial sequential analysis for pain scores suggested the benefit of dexamethasone; however, the requisite information size (RIS) could not be reached, whereas RIS was adequate for time to rescue analgesia. Significant reduction in pain scores at all times and opioid consumption at 24 h with dexamethasone were observed with sparse reporting on adverse effects. CONCLUSION: Peri-operative intravenous dexamethasone was associated with a significant decrease in postoperative pain scores at rest and a longer time to first rescue analgesia, along with a small but statistically significantly reduced opioid consumption after caesarean delivery compared with nonactive control.

The analgesic efficacy of quadratus lumborum block in caesarean delivery: a meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis.

PURPOSE: Quadratus lumborum block (QLB) has recently gained popularity for postoperative analgesia after cesarean delivery (CD) as it provides both visceral and somato-sensory blockade of the abdomen. Aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the analgesic potential of QLB after CD. METHODS: Electronic database from inception to December 2019 was searched systematically for randomized-controlled trials comparing QLB with injection of inactive solution in women undergoing CD. Primary outcome was consumption of morphine at 24 h. Morphine consumption at 48 h, dynamic and static pain scores at various time intervals were the secondary outcomes studied. RESULTS: Seven trials met the inclusion criteria. Morphine consumption was reduced significantly with QLB in comparison to sham or no block at 24 h (mean difference [MD] - 9.84 mg; 95% confidence interval [CI] - 18.16, - 0.50; p = 0.04; I2 = zero). Adequate "information size" for above outcome was confirmed with trial sequential analysis, ruling out any possibility of a false-positive result. QLB significantly reduced pain scores at rest (MD - 1.13; 95% CI - 1.75, - 0.56; p = 0.00) and on movement (MD - 1.48; 95% CI - 2.5, - 0.46; p = 0.01) at 6 h. However, statistically significant difference in pain scores persisted only for dynamic pain at 24 h (MD - 0.55; 95% CI - 1.04, - 0.06; p = 0.03). QLB does not provide any additional analgesic benefit to the parturient receiving intrathecal morphine. CONCLUSION: QLB significantly reduces opioid requirements in CD and may have analgesic effects lasting 24 h.

Optimizing Prophylactic CPAP in Patients Without Obstructive Sleep Apnoea for High-Risk Abdominal Surgeries: A Meta-regression Analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Prophylactic continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) can prevent pulmonary adverse events following upper abdominal surgeries. The present meta-regression evaluates and quantifies the effect of degree/duration of (CPAP) on the incidence of postoperative pulmonary events. METHODS: Medical databases were searched for randomized controlled trials involving adult patients, comparing the outcome in those receiving prophylactic postoperative CPAP versus no CPAP, undergoing high-risk abdominal surgeries. Our meta-analysis evaluated the relationship between the postoperative pulmonary complications and the use of CPAP. Furthermore, meta-regression was used to quantify the effect of cumulative duration and degree of CPAP on the measured outcomes. RESULTS: Seventy-three potentially relevant studies were identified, of which 11 had appropriate data, allowing us to compare a total of 362 and 363 patients in CPAP and control groups, respectively. Qualitatively, Odds ratio for CPAP showed protective effect for pneumonia [0.39 (0.19-0.78)], atelectasis [0.51 (0.32-0.80)] and pulmonary complications [0.37 (0.24-0.56)] with zero heterogeneity. For prevention of pulmonary complications, odds ratio was better for continuous than intermittent CPAP. Meta-regression demonstrated a positive correlation between the degree of CPAP and the incidence of pneumonia with a regression coefficient of +0.61 (95 % CI 0.02-1.21, P = 0.048, τ (2) = 0.078, r (2) = 7.87 %). Overall, adverse effects were similar with or without the use of CPAP. CONCLUSIONS: Prophylactic postoperative use of continuous CPAP significantly reduces the incidence of postoperative pneumonia, atelectasis and pulmonary complications in patients undergoing high-risk abdominal surgeries. Quantitatively, increasing the CPAP levels does not necessarily enhance the protective effect against pneumonia. Instead, protective effect diminishes with increasing degree of CPAP.

Safety of Non-anesthesia Provider-Administered Propofol (NAAP) Sedation in Advanced Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Procedures: Comparative Meta-Analysis of Pooled Results.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: The aim of the study was to evaluate the safety of non-anesthesia provider (NAAP)-administered propofol sedation for advanced endoscopic procedures with those of anesthesia provider (AAP). METHODS: PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched for prospective observational trials involving advanced endoscopic procedures. From a total of 519 publications, 26 were identified to meet inclusion criteria (10 AAPs and 16 NAAPs) and were analyzed. Data were analyzed for hypoxia rate, airway intervention rates, endoscopist, and patient satisfaction scores and total propofol administered. RESULTS: Total number of procedures in NAAP and AAP groups was 3018 and 2374, respectively. Pooled hypoxia (oxygen saturation less than 90 %) rates were 0.133 (95 % CI 0.117-0.152) and 0.143 (95 % CI 0.128-0.159) in NAAP and AAP, respectively. Similarly, pooled airway intervention rates were 0.035 (95 % CI 0.026-0.047) and 0.133 (95 % CI 0.118-0.150), respectively. Pooled patient satisfaction rate, pooled endoscopist satisfaction rate, and mean propofol administered dose for NAAP were 7.22 (95 % CI 7.17-7.27), 6.03 (95 % CI 5.94-6.11), and 251.44 mg (95 % CI 244.39-258.49) in that order compared with 9.82 (95 % CI 9.76-9.88), 9.06 (95 % CI 8.91-9.21), and 340.32 mg (95 % CI 327.30-353.33) for AAP. CONCLUSIONS: The safety of NAAP sedation compared favorably with AAP sedation in patients undergoing advanced endoscopic procedures. However, it came at the cost of decreased patient and endoscopist satisfaction.

Effect of Gum Chewing on the Volume and pH of Gastric Contents: A Prospective Randomized Study.

BACKGROUND: Insufficient fasting prior to endoscopic procedures performed under sedation may result in potential aspiration of gastric contents. Fasting as per ASA guidelines is recommended prior to these procedures. However, the effect of chewing gum on fasting status has been a subject of debate and often leads to procedural delays. OBJECTIVE: Evaluation of the effect of chewing gum on the gastric volume and pH. METHODS: In this randomized controlled prospective observer blinded trail, ASA I-III patients aged more than 18 years scheduled for esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) or a combined EGD and colonoscopy under conscious sedation were studied. Patients randomized to the chewing gum group (Group-C) were allowed to chew gum until just before the start of their procedure; the remaining patients were included into Group-NC. After sedation and endoscope insertion, stomach contents were aspirated under vision of a gastroenterologist (blinded to groups). RESULTS: Volume and pH of gastric contents aspirated from 67 patients (34 in Group-C and 33 in Group-NC) were analyzed. The demographic parameters of the groups were comparable. Gastric volume (median-interquartile range) was statistically higher in Group-C (13 ml (7.75-40.75) vs Group-NC 6 ml (1.00-14.00) (P < 0.001)]. The mean pH in both groups was comparable: 2.84 ± 2.11 in Group-C and 3.79 ± 2.53 in Group-NC (P = 0.141). CONCLUSION: Although our results show gastric volume in patients chewing gum was statistically higher, clinical relevance of such a small difference is questionable. Thus patients who chewed gum inadvertently prior to procedure should not be denied or delayed administration of sedative and anesthetic medications.

Evaluation of Etomidate for Seizure Duration in Electroconvulsive Therapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

UNLABELLED: The optimum induction agent for anesthesia for electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has been long debated. Ideal agent should be short acting with minimal suppression of seizure potentials. Recent studies have suggested longer seizure duration with etomidate in comparison to propofol, thiopental, and methohexital. The aim of the present meta-analysis was to pool data available from studies comparing systematically the efficacy of etomidate against other induction agents in terms of seizure duration (both electroencephalography (EEG) and motor). METHODS: We searched the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane registry for trials evaluating etomidate against methohexital, propofol, or thiopental for duration of EEG or motor seizure in patients undergoing ECT. Specific adverse effects reported were also identified. RESULTS: Seventeen trials were identified involving 704, 84, 2491, and 258 setting of ECT using etomidate, methohexital, thiopental, and propofol, respectively. In the etomidate group, pooled EEG seizure duration was longer by 2.23 seconds (95% confidence interval [CI], -3.62 to 8.01; P = 0.456) than methohexital, longer by 17.65 seconds (95% CI, 9.72-25.57; P < 0.001) than propofol, and longer by 11.81 seconds (95% CI, 4.26-19.35; P = 0.003) than thiopental. Pooled motor seizure duration was longer in etomidate group by 1.45 seconds (95% CI, -4.79 to 7.69; P = 0.649) than methohexital, longer by 11.13 seconds (95% CI, 6.64-15.62; P < 0.001) than propofol, and longer by 3.60 seconds (95% CI, 2.15-5.06; P < 0.001) than thiopental. Myoclonus (6 trials) and painful injection (4 trials) were commonest adverse effects with etomidate. CONCLUSIONS: Etomidate is clearly better in terms of seizure duration potential (both motor and EEG) than propofol and thiopental. Superiority/inferiority over methohexital could not be demonstrated with the presently available literature.

SEDASYS(®), airway, oxygenation, and ventilation: anticipating and managing the challenges.

In May 2013, the FDA (Federal Drug Administration) approved SEDASYS(®), a device that enables non-anesthesia physicians to provide mild-to-moderate sedation to patients undergoing colonoscopy and esophagogastroduodenoscopy. SEDASYS(®) is the first among the devices being built to provide computer-assisted personalized sedation. Although the intention of this approval is to cut the anesthesia related expenses, it is likely to create new challenges to the users-both clinical and administrative-that might even increase the cost. Deep sedation is required frequently for a successful completion of the procedure, which poses unforeseen challenges. The present review aims to provide clear information to the users regarding pre-procedure assessment, possible sedation related complications and management options.

Significantly reduced hypoxemic events in morbidly obese patients undergoing gastrointestinal endoscopy: Predictors and practice effect.

BACKGROUND: Providing anesthesia for gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy procedures in morbidly obese patients is a challenge for a variety of reasons. The negative impact of obesity on the respiratory system combined with a need to share the upper airway and necessity to preserve the spontaneous ventilation, together add to difficulties. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included patients with a body mass index (BMI) >40 kg/m(2) that underwent out-patient GI endoscopy between September 2010 and February 2011. Patient data was analyzed for procedure, airway management technique as well as hypoxemic and cardiovascular events. RESULTS: A total of 119 patients met the inclusion criteria. Our innovative airway management technique resulted in a lower rate of intraoperative hypoxemic events compared with any published data available. Frequency of desaturation episodes showed statistically significant relation to previous history of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). These desaturation episodes were found to be statistically independent of increasing BMI of patients. CONCLUSION: Pre-operative history of OSA irrespective of associated BMI values can be potentially used as a predictor of intra-procedural desaturation. With suitable modification of anesthesia technique, it is possible to reduce the incidence of adverse respiratory events in morbidly obese patients undergoing GI endoscopy procedures, thereby avoiding the need for endotracheal intubation.

Fontan's circulation with dextrocardia, recent pulmonary embolism, and inferior vena cava filter: Anesthetic challenges for urgent hysterectomy.

Fontan's circulation is a unique challenge for the anesthesiologist. Venous pressure is the only source of blood flow for the pulmonary circulation. Patients with such circulation are extremely sensitive to progression of cyanosis (decreased pulmonary blood flow) or circulatory failure. Any major venous compression can compromise the pulmonary blood flow worsening cyanosis; simultaneously, an increased afterload can precipitate circulatory failure. We present a rare patient of surgically corrected Ivemark syndrome with Fontan's physiology with dextrocardia who developed a large uterine fibroid compressing inferior vena cava (IVC). As a result of compression, not only the pulmonary circulation was compromised but she also developed stasis-induced venous thrombosis in the lower limbs that lead to pulmonary embolism (PE) (increased afterload). In addition to oral anticoagulation an IVC filter was inserted to prevent ongoing recurrent PE. Further, to prevent both circulatory compromise and deep venous thrombosis an urgent myomectomy/hysterectomy was planned. In the present case, we discuss the issues involved in the anesthetic management of such patients and highlight the lacunae in the present guidelines for managing perioperative anticoagulation these situations.

Propofol alternatives in gastrointestinal endoscopy anesthesia.

Although propofol has been the backbone for sedation in gastrointestinal endoscopy, both anesthesiologists and endoscopists are faced with situations where an alternative is needed. Recent national shortages forced many physicians to explore these options. A midazolam and fentanyl combination is the mainstay in this area. However, there are other options. The aim of this review is to explore these options. The future would be, invariably, to move away from propofol. The reason is not in any way related to the drawbacks of propofol as a sedative. The mandate that requires an anesthesia provider to administer propofol has been a setback in many countries. New sedative drugs like Remimazolam might fill this void in the future. In the meantime, it is important to keep an open eye to the existing alternatives.

Remimazolam: The future of its sedative potential.

Remimazolam (CNS 7056) is a new drug innovation in anesthesia. It combines the properties of two unique drugs already established in anesthesia - Midazolam and remifentanil. It acts on GABA receptors like midazolam and has organ-independent metabolism like remifentanil. It is likely to be the sedative of the future, as preliminary phase II trials have shown minimal residual effects on prolonged infusions. It has potential to be used as a sedative in ICU and as a novel agent for procedural sedation. Unlike most rapidly acting intravenous sedatives available presently, the propensity to cause apnea is very low. Availability of a specific antagonist (flumazenil) adds to its safety even in cases of overdose. The present review discusses remimazolam's potential as a new drug in anesthesia along with the presently available literary evidence.

Effect of site selection on pain of intravenous cannula insertion: A prospective randomised study.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Pain on intravenous (IV) cannulation continues to cause considerable anxiety among the patients visiting the hospital for elective surgery. Often, it is the only unpleasant experience, especially in ambulatory surgical settings. Although, anecdotal evidence suggests that antecubital fossa (ACF) might be less painful site for venous cannulation, no scientific study exists to validate the same. METHODS: In this prospective randomised study, effect of site selection on pain of venous cannulation was studied. Fifty-five consecutive adults, scheduled to undergo elective surgery, were randomly allocated to get IV cannulation first on ACF (28 patients) or on dorsum of hand (DOH) (27 patients) followed by cannulation on the contralateral arm on the alternative site (DOH or ACF). Five patients were excluded due to multiple cannulation attempts. Pain scores on cannulation related to both sites were recorded and compared. RESULTS: Non-parametric data and frequency data analysis, using the Wilcoxon signed rank test or the Chi-square test as appropriate, showed that ACF approach was significantly less painful in comparison to the DOH when using a 20-gauge cannula for venous cannulation (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: We recommend that in the absence of any contraindications, ACF should be the cannulation site of choice. However, considerations like increased chance of kinking and obstruction might preclude such practice.

Goudra ventilating bite block to reduce hypoxemia during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography.

We describe the airway management of a patient presenting for ERCP with a bite block that allows positive pressure ventilation.

Effectiveness of high dose remifentanil in preventing coughing and laryngospasm in non-paralyzed patients for advanced bronchoscopic procedures.

BACKGROUND: Anesthesia for bronchoscopy presents unique challenges, as constant stimulus due to bronchoscope needs to be obtunded using drugs with a minimal post-procedure residual effect. Remifentanil for maintenance is an ideal choice, but optimal doses are yet to be determined. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Bronchoscopic procedures were prospectively evaluated for 4 months studying the frequency of complications and anesthesia techniques. Anesthesia was maintained on remifentanil/propofol infusion avoiding neuromuscular blockers. Laryngeal mask airway was used for the controlled ventilation (with high oxygen concentration) that also served as a conduit for bronchoscope insertions. Anesthesiologists were blinded to the study (avoiding performance bias) and the Pulmonologist was blinded to the anesthesia technique (to document unbiased procedural satisfaction scores). Procedures were divided into 2 groups based on the dose of remifentanil used for maintenance: Group-H (high dose -0.26 to 0.5 µg/kg/min and Group-NH (non-high dose ≤0.25 µg/kg/min). RESULTS: Observed 75 procedures were divided into Group-H (42) and Group-NH (33). Number of statistical difference was found in demography, procedural profile, hemodynamic parameters and total phenylephrine used. Chi-square test showed Group-NH had significantly higher frequency of laryngospasm (P = 0.047) and coughing (P = 0.002). The likelihood ratio of patient coughing and developing laryngospasm in Group-NH was found to be 4.56 and 10.97 times respectively. Minimum pulse-oximeter saturation was statistically higher in Group-H (98.80% vs. 96.50% P = 0.009). Pulmonologist satisfaction scores were significantly better in Group-H. CONCLUSIONS: High dose of remifentanil infusion is associated with a lower incidence of coughing and laryngospasms during bronchoscopy. Simultaneously, it improves Pulmonologist's satisfaction and procedural conditions.