Analgesic Effects of Intraperitoneal Lidocaine in Adults Undergoing Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis with Trial Sequential Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The administration of local anaesthesia in intraperitoneal space as part of the multi-modal analgesic regimen has shown to be effective in reducing postoperative pain. Recent studies demonstrated that intraperitoneal lidocaine may provide analgesic effects. Primary objective was to determine the impact of intraperitoneal lidocaine on postoperative pain scores at rest. DESIGN: We carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). METHODS: Databases of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL were searched from their inception date until May 2023. Randomized clinical trials (RCT) comparing intraperitoneal lidocaine and placebo in adults undergoing surgery were included. RESULTS: Our systematic review included 24 RCTs (n = 1,824). The intraperitoneal lidocaine group was significantly associated with lower postoperative pain scores at rest (MD: -0.87, 95% CI: -1.04 to -0.69) and at movement (MD: -0.50, 95% Cl: -0.93 to -0.08) among adult patients after surgery. Its administration also significantly decreased morphine consumption (MD: -6.42 mg, 95% Cl: -11.56 to -1.27), lowered the incidence of needing analgesia (OR: 0.22, 95% Cl: 0.14 to 0.35). Intraperitoneal lidocaine statistically reduced time to resume regular diet (MD: 0.16 days; 95% Cl: -0.31 to -0.01), and lowered postoperative incidence of nausea and vomiting (OR: 0.54, 95% Cl: 0.39 to 0.75). CONCLUSIONS: In this review, our findings should be interpreted with caution. Future studies are warranted to determine the optimal dose of administering intraperitoneal lidocaine among adult patients undergoing surgery.

Paramedian versus midline approach of spinal anesthesia: a systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis.

PURPOSE: Midline approach of spinal anesthesia has been widely used for patients undergoing surgical procedures. However, it might not be effective for obstetric patients and elderly with degenerative spine changes. Primary objective was to examine the success rate at the first attempt between the paramedian and midline spinal anesthesia in adults undergoing surgery. METHODS: Databases of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL were searched from their starting date until February 2023. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing the paramedian versus midline approach of spinal anesthesia were included. The primary outcome was the success rate at the first attempt of spinal anesthesia. RESULTS: Our review included 36 RCTs (n = 5379). Compared to the midline approach, paramedian approach may increase success rate at the first attempt but the evidence is very uncertain (OR: 0.47, 95% CI 0.27-0.82, ρ = 0.007, level of evidence:very low). Our pooled data indicates that the paramedian approach likely reduced incidence of post-spinal headache (OR: 2.07, 95% CI 1.51-2.84, ρ < 0.00001, level of evidence:moderate). The evidence suggests that the paramedian approach may result in a reduction in the occurrence of paresthesia (OR: 1.61, 95% CI 1.06-2.45, ρ = 0.03, level of evidence:low). CONCLUSIONS: Our meta-analysis of 36 RCTs showed that paramedian approach may result in little to no difference in success rate at the first attempt owing to its very low level of evidence. However, given the low level of evidence and studies with small sample sizes, these findings need to be interpreted with caveat. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42023397781.

The diuretic effect of adding aminophylline or theophylline to furosemide in pediatric populations: a systematic review.

The diuretic effect of the combined furosemide and aminophylline/theophylline among pediatric patients remains unclear. The primary aim of this systematic review was to examine the clinical diuretic effects (urine output and fluid balance) of co-administration of furosemide and aminophylline/theophylline as compared to furosemide alone in pediatric population. Ovid MEDLINE, CENTRAL, and EMBASE were searched from its inception until March 2022 for observational studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the administration of furosemide versus furosemide and aminophylline/theophylline in pediatric population. Case reports, case series, commentaries, letters to editors, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses were excluded. Five articles with a total sample population of 187 patients were included in this systematic review. As compared to the furosemide alone, our pooled data demonstrated that co-administration of furosemide and aminophylline/theophylline was associated with higher urine output (mean difference: 2.91 [90% CI 1.54 to 4.27], p < 0.0001, I2 = 90%) and a more negative fluid balance (mean difference - 28.27 [95% CI: - 46.21 to - 10.33], p = 0.002, I2 = 56%) than those who received furosemide alone. CONCLUSION: This is the first paper summarizing the evidence of combined use of furosemide with aminophylline/theophylline in pediatric population. Our systematic review demonstrated that the co-administration of furosemide and aminophylline/theophylline could potentially yield better diuretic effects of urine output and negative fluid balance than furosemide alone in pediatric patients with fluid overload. Given the substantial degree of heterogeneity and low level of evidence, future adequately powered trials are warranted to provide evidence regarding the combined use of aminophylline/theophylline and furosemide as diuretic in the pediatric population. WHAT IS KNOWN: • Fluid overload is associated with poor prognosis for children in the intensive care unit. • The ineffective result of furosemide alone, even at high dose, as diuretic agent for children with diuretic resistant fluid overload in the intensive care unit. WHAT IS NEW: • This is the first systematic review that compares furosemide alone and co-administration of furosemide and aminophylline/theophylline. • This paper showed potential benefit of co-administration of furosemide and aminophylline/theophylline promoting urine output and negative fluid balance compared to furosemide alone.

Bispectral Index (BIS) Monitoring and Postoperative Delirium in Elderly Patients Undergoing Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis With Trial Sequential Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the effect of bispectral index (BIS)-guided anesthesia on the incidence of postoperative delirium (POD) in elderly patients undergoing surgery. DESIGN: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and trial sequential analysis (TSA). SETTING: In the operating room, postoperative anesthesia care units (PACU), and ward. PARTICIPANTS: Elderly patients (>60 years old) undergoing surgery. INTERVENTIONS: The EMBASE, MEDLINE, and CENTRAL databases were searched systematically from their inception until December 2020 for randomized controlled trials comparing BIS and usual care or blinded BIS. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Ten trials (N = 3,891) were included for quantitative meta-analysis. In comparison to the control group, there was no significant difference in the incidence of POD in elderly patients randomized to BIS-guided anesthesia (odds ratio [OR] 0.71, 95% CI 0.47-1.08, I2 = 76%, p = 0.11, level of evidence = very low, TSA = inconclusive). The authors' review demonstrated that elderly patients with BIS-guided anesthesia were significantly associated with a lower incidence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.46-0.88, p = 0.006), extubation time (mean difference [MD] -3.38 minutes, 95% CI -4.38 to -2.39, p < 0.00001), time to eye opening (MD -2.17 minutes, 95% CI -4.21 to -0.14, p = 0.04), and time to discharge from the PACU (MD -10.77 minutes, 95% CI -11.31 to - 10.23, p < 0.00001). CONCLUSION: The authors' meta-analysis demonstrated that BIS-guided anesthesia was not associated with a reduced incidence of POD, but it was associated with a reduced incidence of POCD and improved recovery parameters.

High-Dose versus Low-Dose Corticosteroids in COVID-19 Patients: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: The clinical efficacy of corticosteroids remains unclear. The primary aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the use of high-dose versus low- dose corticosteroids on the mortality rate of COVID-19 patients. DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis. SETTING: Electronic search for randomized controlled trials and observational studies (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL). PARTICIPANTS: Hospitalized adults ≥ 18 years old who were SARS-CoV-2 PCR positive. INTERVENTIONS: High-dose and low-dose corticosteroids. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: A total of twelve studies (n=2759 patients) were included in this review. The pooled analysis demonstrated no significant difference in mortality rate between the high-dose and low-dose corticosteroids groups (n=2632; OR: 1.07 [95%CI 0.67, 1.72], p=0.77, I2=76%, trial sequential analysis=inconclusive). No significant differences were observed in the incidence of intensive care unit (ICU) admission rate (n=1544; OR: 0.77[95%CI 0.43, 1.37], p=0.37, I2= 72%), duration of hospital stay (n=1615; MD: 0.53[95%CI -1.36, 2.41], p=0.58, I2=87%), respiratory support (n=1694; OR: 1.51[95%CI 0.77, 2.96], p=0.23, I2=84%), duration of mechanical ventilation (n=419; MD: -1.44[95%CI -4.27, 1.40], p=0.32, I2=93%), incidence of hyperglycemia (n=516, OR: 0.91[95%CI 0.58, 1.43], p=0.68, I2=0%) and infection rate (n=1485, OR: 0.86[95%CI 0.64, 1.16], p=0.33, I2=29%). CONCLUSION: The meta-analysis demonstrated high-dose corticosteroids did not reduce mortality rate. However, high-dose corticosteroids did not pose higher risk of hyperglycemia and infection rate for COVID-19 patients. Due to the inconclusive trial sequential analysis, substantial heterogeneity and low level of evidence, future large-scale randomized clinical trials are warranted to improve the certainty of evidence for the use of high-dose compared to low-dose corticosteroids in COVID-19 patients.

The Use of Cerebral Oximetry in Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

OBJECTIVE: The evidence on the use of cerebral oximetry during surgery to minimize postoperative neurologic complications remains uncertain in the literature. The present authors aimed to assess the value of cerebral oximetry in the prevention of postoperative cognitive dysfunction, postoperative delirium, and postoperative stroke in adults undergoing surgery. DESIGN: A systematic review and meta-analysis. SETTING: The surgery room. PARTICIPANTS: Adult patients (ages ≥18 years) undergoing surgery. INTERVENTIONS: Cerebral oximetry monitoring. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Databases of Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, and CENTRAL were systematically searched from their inception until December 2020 for randomized controlled trials comparing cerebral oximetry monitoring with either blinded or no cerebral oximetry monitoring in adults undergoing surgery. Observational studies, case reports, and case series were excluded. Seventeen studies (n = 2,120 patients) were included for quantitative meta-analysis. Patients who were randomized to cerebral oximetry monitoring had a lower incidence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (studies = seven, n = 969, odds ratio [OR] 0.23, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.11-0.48, p = 0.0001; evidence = very low). However, no significant differences were observed in the incidence of postoperative delirium (studies = five, n = 716, OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.53-1.25, p = 0.35; evidence = high), and postoperative stroke (studies = seven, n = 1,087, OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.30-1.69, p = 0.45; evidence = moderate). CONCLUSION: Adult patients with cerebral oximetry monitoring were associated with a significant reduction of postoperative cognitive dysfunction. However, given the low certainty of evidence and substantial heterogeneity, more randomized controlled trials using standardized assessment tools for postoperative cognitive dysfunction and interventions of correcting cerebral desaturation are warranted to improve the certainty of evidence and homogeneity.

Prophylactic Topical Tranexamic Acid Versus Placebo in Surgical Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis∗.

OBJECTIVES: Perioperative bleeding remains a major concern to all clinicians caring for perioperative patients. Due to the theoretical risk of thromboembolic events associated with tranexamic acid (TXA) when administered intravenously, topical route of TXA has been extensively studied, but its safety and efficacy profile remain unclear in the literature. The primary aim of this review was to assess the effect of topical TXA on incidence of blood transfusion and mortality in adults undergoing surgery. DATA SOURCES: EMBASE, MEDLINE, CENTRAL, and ISI Web of Science were systematically searched from their inception until May 31, 2019. REVIEW METHODS: Parallel-arm randomized controlled trials were included. RESULTS: Seventy-one trials (7539 participants: orthopedics 5450 vs nonorthopedics 1909) were included for quantitative meta-analysis. In comparison to placebo, topical TXA significantly reduced intraoperative blood loss [mean difference (MD) -36.83 mL, 95% confidence interval (CI) -54.77 to -18.88, P < 0.001], total blood loss (MD -319.55 mL, 95% CI -387.42 to -251.69, P < 0.001), and incidence of blood transfusion [odds ratio (OR) 0.30, 95% CI 0.26-0.34, P < 0.001]. Patients who received topical TXA were associated with a shorter length of hospital stay (MD -0.28 days, 95% CI -0.47 to -0.08, P = 0.006). No adverse events associated with the use of topical TXA were observed, namely mortality (OR 0.78, 95% CI 0.45-1.36, P = 0.39), pulmonary embolism (OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.27-1.93, P = 0.52), deep vein thrombosis (OR 1.07, 95% CI 0.65-1.77, P = 0.79), myocardial infarction (OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.21-2.99, P = 0.73), and stroke (OR 0.85, 95% CI 0.28-2.57, P = 0.77). Of all included studies, the risk of bias assessment was "low" for 20 studies, "unclear" for 26 studies and "high" for 25 studies. CONCLUSIONS: In the meta-analysis of 71 trials (7539 patients), topical TXA reduced the incidence of blood transfusion without any notable adverse events associated with TXA in adults undergoing surgery. PROSPERO: CRD 42018111762.

Robotic Versus Conventional Laparoscopic Surgery for Colorectal Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis with Trial Sequential Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Minimally invasive surgery has been considered as an alternative to open surgery by surgeons for colorectal cancer. However, the efficacy and safety profiles of robotic and conventional laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer remain unclear in the literature. The primary aim of this review was to determine whether robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery (RAS) has better clinical outcomes for colorectal cancer patients than conventional laparoscopic surgery (CLS). METHODS: All randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and observational studies were systematically searched in the databases of CENTRAL, EMBASE and PubMed from their inception until January 2018. Case reports, case series and non-systematic reviews were excluded. RESULTS: Seventy-three studies (6 RCTs and 67 observational studies) were eligible (n = 169,236) for inclusion in the data synthesis. In comparison with the CLS arm, RAS cohort was associated with a significant reduction in the incidence of conversion to open surgery (ρ < 0.001, I2 = 65%; REM: OR 0.40; 95% CI 0.30,0.53), all-cause mortality (ρ < 0.001, I2 = 7%; FEM: OR 0.48; 95% CI 0.36,0.64) and wound infection (ρ < 0.001, I2 = 0%; FEM: OR 1.24; 95% CI 1.11,1.39). Patients who received RAS had a significantly shorter duration of hospitalization (ρ < 0.001, I2 = 94%; REM: MD - 0.77; 95% CI 1.12, - 0.41; day), time to oral diet (ρ < 0.001, I2 = 60%; REM: MD - 0.43; 95% CI - 0.64, - 0.21; day) and lesser intraoperative blood loss (ρ = 0.01, I2 = 88%; REM: MD - 18.05; 95% CI - 32.24, - 3.85; ml). However, RAS cohort was noted to require a significant longer duration of operative time (ρ < 0.001, I2 = 93%; REM: MD 38.19; 95% CI 28.78,47.60; min). CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis suggests that RAS provides better clinical outcomes for colorectal cancer patients as compared to the CLS at the expense of longer duration of operative time. However, the inconclusive trial sequential analysis and an overall low level of evidence in this review warrant future adequately powered RCTs to draw firm conclusion.

The effect of ketamine on emergence agitation in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Ketamine is believed to reduce the incidence of emergence agitation in children undergoing surgery or procedure. However, recent randomized controlled trials reported conflicting findings. AIMS: To investigate the effect of ketamine on emergence agitation in children. METHODS: Databases of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL were systematically searched from their start date until February 2019. Randomized controlled trials comparing intravenous ketamine and placebo in children were sought. The primary outcome was the incidence of emergence agitation. Secondary outcomes included postoperative pain score, duration of discharge time, and the adverse effects associated with the use of ketamine, namely postoperative nausea and vomiting, desaturation, and laryngospasm. RESULTS: Thirteen studies (1125 patients) were included in the quantitative meta-analysis. The incidence of emergence agitation was 14.7% in the ketamine group and 33.3% in the placebo group. Children receiving ketamine had a lower incidence of emergence agitation, with an odds ratio being 0.23 (95% confidence interval: 0.11 to 0.46), certainty of evidence: low. In comparison with the placebo, ketamine group achieved a lower postoperative pain score (odds ratio: -2.42, 95% confidence interval: -4.23 to -0.62, certainty of evidence: very low) and lower pediatric anesthesia emergence delirium scale at 5 minutes after operation (odds ratio: -3.99, 95% confidence interval: -5.03 to -2.95; certainty of evidence: moderate). However, no evidence was observed in terms of incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting, desaturation, and laryngospasm. CONCLUSION: In this meta-analysis of 13 randomized controlled trials, high degree of heterogeneity and low certainty of evidence limit the recommendations of ketamine for the prevention of emergence agitation in children undergoing surgery or imaging procedures. However, the use of ketamine is well-tolerated without any notable adverse effects across all the included trials. PROSPERO REGISTRATION: CRD42019131865.

Continuous Infusion versus Intermittent Bolus Injection of Furosemide in Critically Ill Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Fluid overload is a common phenomenon seen in intensive care units (ICUs). However, there is no general consensus on whether continuous or bolus furosemide is safer or more effective in these hemodynamically unstable ICU patients. The aim of this meta-analysis was to examine the clinical outcomes of continuous versus bolus furosemide in a critically ill population in ICUs. DATA SOURCES: MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic reviews were searched from their inception until June 2017. REVIEW METHODS: All randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and case-control studies were included. Case reports, case series, nonsystematic reviews, and studies that involved children were excluded. RESULTS: Nine studies (n = 464) were eligible in the data synthesis. Both continuous and bolus furosemide resulted in no difference in all-cause mortality (7 studies; n = 396; I2 = 0%; fixed-effect model [FEM]: odds ratio [OR] 1.15 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.67-1.96]; p = 0.64). Continuous furosemide was associated with significant greater total urine output (n = 132; I2 = 70%; random-effect model: OR 811.19 [95% CI 99.84-1,522.53]; p = 0.03), but longer length of hospital stay (n = 290; I2 = 40%; FEM: OR 2.84 [95% CI 1.74-3.94]; p < 0.01) in comparison to the bolus group. No statistical significance was found in the changes of creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate between both groups. CONCLUSIONS: In this meta-analysis, continuous furosemide was associated with greater diuretic effect in total urine output as compared with bolus. Neither had any differences in mortality and changes of renal function tests. However, a large adequately powered randomized clinical trial is required to fill this knowledge gap.

Assessing the depth of isoflurane anaesthesia during cardiopulmonary bypass.

INTRODUCTION: Bispectral index (BIS) and monitoring of end-tidal concentration may be associated with a reduction in the incidence of awareness during volatile-based general anaesthesia. An analogue of end-tidal concentration during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is measuring exhausted isoflurane concentration from the oxygenator as an estimate to blood and, so, brain concentration. The aim of this study was to determine the relationships between oxygenator exhaust and blood concentrations of isoflurane and the BIS score during CPB when administering isoflurane into the sweep gas supply to the oxygenator. METHODS: Seventeen patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery using CPB and isoflurane with BIS monitoring were recruited in a single-centre university hospital. Isoflurane gas was delivered via a calibrated vaporiser at the beginning of anaesthetic induction. Radial arterial blood samples were collected after the initiation of CPB and before aortic cross-clamping, which were analysed for isoflurane by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. The BIS score and the concentration of exhausted isoflurane from the oxygenator membrane, as measured by an anaesthetic gas analyser, were recorded at the time of blood sampling. RESULTS: The mean duration of anaesthetic induction to arterial blood sampling was 90 min (95%CI: 80,100). On CPB, the median BIS was 39 (range, 7-43) and the mean oxygenator exhaust isoflurane concentration was 1.24 ± 0.21%. No significant correlation was demonstrated between BIS with arterial isoflurane concentration (r=-0.19, p=0.47) or oxygenator exhaust isoflurane concentration (r=0.07, p=0.80). Mixed-venous blood temperature was moderately correlated to BIS (r=0.50, p=0.04). Oxygenator exhaust isoflurane concentration was moderately, positively correlated with its arterial concentration (r=0.64, p<0.01). DISCUSSION: In conclusion, in patients undergoing heart surgery with CPB, the findings of this study indicate that, whilst oxygenator exhaust concentrations were significantly associated with arterial concentrations of isoflurane, neither had any association with the BIS scores, whereas body temperature has moderate positive correlation.

Coronary Sinus Isoflurane Concentration in Cardiac Surgery.

OBJECTIVE: Volatile anesthetic agents such as isoflurane may be associated with fewer adverse myocardial events compared with total intravenous anesthesia in cardiac surgery. The authors aimed to determine whether reasonable isoflurane concentrations at tissue level were being achieved to protect the myocardium using this agent. The isoflurane concentration in myocardium has never been measured. The primary aim was to sample coronary sinus (CS) blood and measure its isoflurane concentration. Secondary aims were to determine whether the CS blood concentration would equilibrate with the arterial blood concentration and the relationship of CS blood concentration with oxygenator exhaust isoflurane concentrations during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). DESIGN: Prospective, observational study. SETTING: Single-center university hospital. PARTICIPANTS: The study comprised 23 patients undergoing cardiac surgery using CPB and isoflurane. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Shortly after initiation of CPB and insertion of a CS retrograde cardioplegia catheter but before aortic cross-clamping, CS blood was aspirated, followed by radial artery blood, which then were analyzed for isoflurane with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. The oxygenator exhaust isoflurane level was measured with an anesthetic gas analyzer. The mean arterial and CS isoflurane concentrations were 87.7 ± 50.1 and 73.0 ± 42.9 µg/mL, respectively. There was a significant mean difference of 14.7 µg/mL (95% confidence interval 6.7-22.8) between CS and arterial isoflurane concentrations. Oxygenator exhaust isoflurane levels were correlated positively with those in the CS blood (r = 0.68, p < 0.001) and arterial blood (r = 0.72, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: This was the first study in which CS blood was sampled and measured for isoflurane concentration. The CS isoflurane concentration could be estimated from the isoflurane concentration in the oxygenator exhaust gas. However, the value of this relationship is limited because the CS isoflurane concentration does not accurately represent its myocardial levels during CPB.

Immunosuppression for adult steroid-dependent or frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: There is limited evidence on which immunosuppressive agents produce the best outcomes for adult patients with steroid-dependent or frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome (SDNS/FRNS). This review compares the remission rate and adverse effects of various immunosuppressants used. METHODS: Studies of adult patients with biopsy-proven SDNS/FRNS, administered any immunosuppressive agents and reported complete remission results as one of the clinical outcomes were included. Articles were independently screened by two researchers. ROBINS-I was used for risk of bias assessment. Random-effects model was used for statistical analysis and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. RESULTS: 574 patients across 28 studies were included in the analysis. Patients receiving rituximab have a complete remission rate of 89% (95% CI = 83% to 94%; τ2 = 0.0070; I2 = 62%; overall p < 0.01, low certainty) and adverse event rate of 0.26, cyclosporine (CR 40%; 95% CI = 21% to 59%; τ2 = 0.0205; I2 = 55%; overall p = 0.08, low certainty), tacrolimus (CR 84%; 95% CI = 70% to 98%; τ2 = 0.0060; I2 = 33%; overall p = 0.21, moderate certainty), mycophenolate mofetil (CR 82%; 95% CI = 74% to 90%; τ2 < 0.0001; I2 = 15%; overall p = 0.32, moderate certainty) and cyclophosphamide (CR 79%; 95% CI = 69% to 89%; τ2 = 0; I2 = 0%; overall p = 0.52, moderate certainty). CONCLUSION: Among the commonly used immunosuppressive agents, only rituximab has a statistically significant effect in achieving complete remission among patients with SDNS/FRNS and has a relatively good safety profile, but this is limited by low quality of evidence with high degree of heterogeneity causing a lack of statistical power.

The effect of nalbuphine on prevention of emergence delirium in children: a systematic review with meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Emergence delirium remains a major postoperative concern for children undergoing surgery. Nalbuphine is a synthetic mixed agonist-antagonist opioid, which is believed to reduce the incidence of emergence delirium in children. The primary objective was to examine the effect of nalbuphine on emergence delirium in children undergoing surgery. METHODS: Databases of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL were searched from their starting dates until April 2023. Randomized Clinical Trials (RCT) and observational studies comparing nalbuphine and control in children undergoing surgery were included. RESULTS: Eight studies (n = 1466 patients) were eligible for inclusion of data analysis. Compared to the control, our pooled data showed that the nalbuphine group was associated with lower incidence of emergence delirium (RR = 0.38, 95% CI [0.30, 0.47], p < 0.001) and reduced postoperative pain scores (MD = -0.98, 95% CI [-1.92, -0.04], p = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: This review showed the administration of nalbuphine is associated with significant decrease in the incidence of emergence delirium and postoperative pain scores among children undergoing surgery. However, due to limited sample size, high degree of heterogeneity and low level of evidence, future adequately powered trials are warranted to explore the efficacy of nalbuphine on emergence delirium among the pediatric population.

Effects of perioperative dexmedetomidine on delayed graft function following renal transplant: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Dexmedetomidine, a highly selective alpha-2 adrenoceptor agonist with sedative and analgesic effects, has been suggested in recent studies to possess renoprotective properties. Dexmedetomidine may reduce the incidence of delayed graft function and contribute to effective pain control post-renal transplantation. The primary objective of this systematic review was to assess whether dexmedetomidine decreases the occurrence of delayed graft function in renal transplant patients. METHODS: Databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL were comprehensively searched from their inception until March 2023. The inclusion criteria covered all Randomized Clinical Trials (RCTs) and observational studies comparing dexmedetomidine to control in adult patients undergoing renal transplant surgery. Exclusions comprised case series and case reports. RESULTS: Ten RCTs involving a total of 1358 patients met the eligibility criteria for data synthesis. Compared to the control group, the dexmedetomidine group demonstrated a significantly lower incidence of delayed graft function (OR = 0.71, 95% CI 0.52-0.97, p = 0.03, GRADE: Very low, I2 = 0%). Dexmedetomidine also significantly prolonged time to initiation of rescue analgesia (MD = 6.73, 95% CI 2.32-11.14, p = 0.003, GRADE: Very low, I2 = 93%) and reduced overall morphine consumption after renal transplant (MD = -5.43, 95% CI -7.95 to -2.91, p < 0.0001, GRADE: Very low, I2 = 0%). The dexmedetomidine group exhibited a significant decrease in heart rate (MD = -8.15, 95% CI -11.45 to -4.86, p < 0.00001, GRADE: Very low, I2 = 84%) and mean arterial pressure compared to the control group (MD = -6.66, 95% CI -11.27 to -2.04, p = 0.005, GRADE: Very low, I2 = 87%). CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis suggests that dexmedetomidine may potentially reduce the incidence of delayed graft function and offers a superior analgesia profile as compared to control in adults undergoing renal transplants. However, the high degree of heterogeneity and inadequate sample size underscore the need for future adequately powered trials to confirm these findings.

The use of cerebral oximetry in cardiac surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

High prevalence of cerebral desaturation is associated with postoperative neurological complications in cardiac surgery. However, the evidence use of cerebral oximetry by correcting cerebral desaturation in the reduction of postoperative complications remains uncertain in the literature. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine the effect of cerebral oximetry on the incidence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction in cardiac surgery. Databases of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL were searched from their inception until April 2021. All randomized controlled trials comparing cerebral oximetry and blinded/no cerebral oximetry in adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery were included. Observational studies, case series, and case reports were excluded. A total of 14 trials (n = 2,033) were included in this review. Our pooled data demonstrated that patients with cerebral oximetry were associated with a lower incidence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction than the control group (studies = 4, n = 609, odds ratio [OR]: 0.15, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.04 to 0.54, P = 0.003, I2 = 88%; certainty of evidence = very low). In terms of postoperative delirium (OR: 0.75, 95%CI: 0.50-1.14, P = 0.18, I2 = 0%; certainty of evidence = low) and postoperative stroke (OR: 0.81 95%CI: 0.37-1.80, P = 0.61, I2 = 0%; certainty of evidence = high), no significant differences (P > 0.05) were reported between the cerebral oximetry and control groups. In this meta-analysis, the use of cerebral oximetry monitoring in cardiac surgery demonstrated a lower incidence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction. However, this finding must be interpreted with caution due to the low level of evidence, high degree of heterogeneity, lack of standardized cognitive assessments, and cerebral desaturation interventions.

Effect of adding midazolam to intrathecal bupivacaine in children undergoing lower abdominal surgeries: A randomised controlled trial.

Background and Aims: Avoidance of general anaesthesia for short-duration surgeries is a prerequisite, especially for children. Spinal anaesthesia is established as an appropriate anaesthetic procedure for this target. Midazolam has been proven to be safe for children as premedication. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of adding midazolam to intrathecal bupivacaine on intraoperative quality, duration of spinal anaesthesia and postoperative (PO) analgesia for children undergoing lower abdominal surgeries. Methods: A prospective, comparative interventional study included 120 paediatric patients who were randomly divided into two groups that received intrathecal bupivacaine plus normal saline (B/S) or intrathecal bupivacaine plus midazolam (B/M). The efficacy of PO analgesia was assessed using the observational pain-discomfort scale (OPS). Duration of PO analgesia was measured, and recovery of motor block was assessed every 30 min till the Bromage scale reached 0. The level of PO sedation was assessed using the modified Wilson Sedation Score (WSS). Results were analysed using the one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test, Mann-Whitney test and Chi-square test. Results: Onset of sensory and motor blocks was significantly faster, and the frequency of patients having Bromage score of 3 within ≤10 min was significantly higher in group B/M than group B/S. Durations till sensory and motor recovery were significantly longer, the number of requests for PO analgesia was significantly lower and the mean of WSS was significantly higher at 30 and 120 min in group B/M than group B/S. Conclusion: Intrathecal bupivacaine-midazolam combination significantly prolonged the duration of spinal anaesthesia and provided prolonged PO analgesia.

Point-of-care platelet function testing for guided transfusion in neurosurgical management of intracranial hemorrhage: a systematic review.

Given the rising prevalence of antiplatelet therapy, rapid preoperative identification of patients with bleeding diathesis is necessary for the guidance of blood product administration. This is especially relevant in neurosurgery for intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), where indiscriminate transfusions may lead to further hemorrhagic or thromboembolic injury. Point-of-care (POC) testing of platelet function is a promising solution to this dilemma, as it has been proven effective in cardiac surgery. However, to date, POC platelet function testing in neurosurgery has not been extensively evaluated. This systematic review appraises the use of POC platelet function test (PFT) in emergency neurosurgery in terms of its impact on patient outcomes.A comprehensive search was conducted on four electronic databases (Pubmed, MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane) for relevant English language articles from their respective inceptions until 1 June 2022. We included all randomized controlled trials and cohort studies that met the following inclusion criteria: (i) involved adult patients undergoing neurosurgery for ICH; (ii) evaluated platelet function via POC PFT; (iii) reported a change in perioperative blood loss; and/or (iv) reported data on treatment-related adverse events and mortality. Assessment of study quality was conducted using the Newcastle Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale for Cohort Studies and Case-Control Studies, and the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Case Series.The search yielded 2,835 studies, of which seven observational studies comprising 849 patients met the inclusion criteria for this review. Overall, there is evidence that the use of POC PFT to assess bleeding risk reduced bleeding events, thromboembolic adverse outcomes, and the length of hospitalization. However, there is currently insufficient evidence to suggest that using POC PFT improves blood product use, functional outcomes or mortality.

Prone ventilation in intubated COVID-19 patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The efficacy and safety profiles of prone ventilation among intubated Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients remain unclear. The primary objective was to examine the effect of prone ventilation on the ratio of arterial partial pressure of oxygen to fraction of inspired oxygen (PaO2/FiO2) in intubated COVID-19 patients. METHODS: Databases of MEDLINE, EMBASE and CENTRAL were systematically searched from inception until March 2021. Case reports and case series were excluded. RESULTS: Eleven studies (n = 606 patients) were eligible. Prone ventilation significantly improved PaO2/FiO2 ratio (studies: 8, n = 579, mean difference 46.75, 95% CI 33.35‒60.15, p < 0.00001; evidence: very low) and peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) (studies: 3, n = 432, mean difference 1.67, 95% CI 1.08‒2.26, p < 0.00001; evidence: ow), but not the arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) (studies: 5, n = 396, mean difference 2.45, 95% CI 2.39‒7.30, p = 0.32; evidence: very low), mortality rate (studies: 1, n = 215, Odds Ratio 0.66, 95% CI 0.32‒1.33, p = 0.24; evidence: very low), or number of patients discharged alive (studies: 1, n = 43, Odds Ratio 1.49, 95% CI 0.72‒3.08, p = 0.28; evidence: very low). CONCLUSION: Prone ventilation improved PaO2/FiO2 ratio and SpO2 in intubated COVID-19 patients. Given the substantial heterogeneity and low level of evidence, more randomized- controlled trials are warranted to improve the certainty of evidence, and to examine the adverse events of prone ventilation.

Effect of tranexamic acid in arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament repair: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials.

PURPOSE: Perioperative blood loss remains a major challenge to surgeons in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) surgery, despite of the introduction of minimally invasive approach. Tranexamic acid (TXA) is believed to reduce blood loss, which may minimise the complication of postoperative haemarthrosis with insufficient evidence on its effectiveness in ACLR. The primary aim of this study was to examine the effect of TXA on postoperative blood loss and other secondary outcomes in patients undergoing arthroscopic ACLR surgery. METHOD: PUBMED, EMBASE, MEDLINE and CENTRAL database were systematically searched from its inception until November 2020. All randomised clinical trials (RCTs) comparing TXA (intravenous or intra-articular) versus placebo in the arthroscopic ACLR surgery were included. Case series, case report and editorials were excluded. RESULTS: Five RCTs comprising of a total of 580 patients (291 in TXA group, 289 in control group) were included for qualitative and quantitative meta-analysis. In comparison to placebo, TXA group was significantly associated with lower postoperative blood loss (mean difference (MD): -81.93 ml; 95% CI -141.80 to -22.05) and lower incidence of needing knee aspiration (odd ratio (OR): 0.19; 95% CI 0.08 to 0.44). Patients who randomised to TXA were also reported to have better range of movement (MD: 2.86; 95% CI 0.54 to 5.18), lower VAS Pain Score (MD: -1.39; 95% CI -2.54 to -0.25) and higher Lysholm Score (MD: 7.38; 95% CI 2.75 to 12.01). CONCLUSION: In this meta-analysis, TXA reduced postoperative blood loss with lesser incidence of needing knee aspiration along with better range of knee movement and Lysholm score in patients undergoing arthroscopic ACLR surgery.