[Use of opioids in palliative care of children with advanced cancer]. / Uso de opiáceos en niños con cáncer avanzado en cuidados paliativos.

INTRODUCTION: Despite advances in the treatment of cancer in paediatric patients, 15% of children die from the illness progression in Chile, and pain is the most significant symptom in advanced stages. Although the World Health Organization guidelines demonstrate that opioids are fundamental in pain management, there is still resistance to their use. The main objective of this article was to describe the experience in the use of opioids for pain management in paediatric patients with advanced cancer in palliative care (PC). PATIENTS AND METHOD: Retrospective study of patients admitted into the PC Program at the Hospital Roberto del Río between 2002 and 2013. Analysis was carried out on demographic data; oncological diagnosis; pain intensity on admission and discharge, according to validated scales; use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; weak opioids; strong opioids; adjuvants drugs; the presence of secondary effects resulting from the use of morphine, and the need for palliative sedation. RESULTS: Of the 99 medical records analysed, the median age was 8 years, 64.6% were male, and there was a similar distribution in three oncological diagnosis groups. Upon admission, 43.4% presented intense to severe pain, and upon discharge there were four patients, but with a maximum VAS score of 7 in only one case. Of the 66 patients taking strong opioids, 89% required less than 0.5mg/kg/hr. Constipation was the most frequently observed secondary effect. CONCLUSIONS: Two thirds of the patients studied required strong opioids, with which adequate pain management was achieved, with no serious complications observed. The use of opioids in this group of patients, following a protocol, is considered effective and safe.

Effects of morphine on brain plasticity.

INTRODUCTION: Morphine shares with other opiates and drugs of abuse the ability to modify the plasticity of brain areas that regulate the morphology of dendrites and spines, which are the primary sites of excitatory synapses in regions of the brain involved in incentive motivation, rewards, and learning. OBJECTIVE: In this review we discuss the impact of morphine use during the prenatal period of brain development and its long-term consequences in murines, and then link those consequences to similar effects occurring in human neonates and adults. DEVELOPMENT: Repeated exposure to morphine as treatment for pain in terminally ill patients produces long-term changes in the density of postsynaptic sites (dendrites and spines) in sensitive areas of the brain, such as the prefrontal cortex, the limbic system (hippocampus, amygdala), and caudate nuclei and nucleus accumbens. This article reviews the cellular mechanisms and receptors involved, primarily dopaminergic and glutamatergic receptors, as well as synaptic plasticity brought about by changes in dendritic spines in these areas. CONCLUSIONS: The actions of morphine on both developing and adult brains produce alterations in the plasticity of excitatory postsynaptic sites of the brain areas involved in limbic system functions (reward and learning). Doctors need further studies on plasticity in dendrites and spines and on signaling molecules, such as calcium, in order to improve treatments for addiction.

Implications of different analgesic models on inflammatory markers after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

BACKGROUND: Despite its advantages, laparoscopic surgery causes significant shoulder and abdominal pain in 35%-80% of patients. The cause of post-laparoscopy pain is not fully understood, but it is assumed to be a multifactorial referred pain. AIM OF THE STUDY: To evaluate the effect of different analgesia techniques on post-laparoscopic pain and inflammatory markers. METHODS: Patients scheduled for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomly assigned to receive local hepatic and right subdiaphragmatic infiltration of one of the 4 study drug combinations: Group 1 (G1) received 20 ml bupivacaine 0.25%; Group 2 (G2) received 20 ml bupivacaine 0.25% +3 mg morphine sulphate; Group 3 (G3) received 20 ml bupivacaine 0.25% + 3 mg morphine sulphate +200 µg/kg ketamine; and Group 4 (G4) received 20 ml isotonic saline as the control group. RESULTS: In G3, both shoulder pain on the verbal numerical rating scale and inflammatory marker levels were lower compared with the other groups. The highest levels of inflammatory markers were observed in the control group; this difference was statistically significant. No side effects or complications were observed in the study groups. CONCLUSION: The addition of ketamine and morphine to bupivacaine for hepatic and subdiaphragmatic infiltration produced good analgesia and reduced inflammatory marker levels after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Dexmedetomidine, an α2 agonist, increases the morphine analgesic effect and decreases morphine tolerance development by suppressing oxidative stress and TNF/IL-1 signalling pathway in rats.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the present study is to examine the possible effect de dexmedetomidine on the development of morphine tolerance in rats including nociception, morphine analgesia, apoptosis, oxidative stress, and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)/ interleukin-1 (IL-1) pathways. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, 36 Wistar Albino (225-245 g) rats were used. Animals were divided into 6 groups: saline (S), 20 mcg/kg dexmedetomidine (D), 5 mg/kg morphine (M), M + D, morphine tolerance (MT), and MT + D. The analgesic effect was measured with hot plate and tail-flick analgesia tests. After the analgesia tests, the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) tissues were excised. Oxidative stress parameters [total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS)], TNF, IL-1 and apoptosis enzymes (Caspase-3, Caspase-9), were measured in DRG tissues. RESULTS: Dexmedetomidine showed an antinociceptive effect when given alone (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001). In addition, dexmedetomidine increased the analgesic effect of morphine (p < 0.001), and also decreased the tolerance to morphine at a significant level (p < 0.01 to p < 0.001). Moreover, it decreased oxidative stress (p < 0.001) and TNF/IL-1 levels when given as an additional drug of single-dose morphine and morphine tolerance group (p < 0.001). Furthermore, dexmedetomidine decreased Caspase-3 and Caspase-9 levels after tolerance development (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Dexmedetomidine has antinociceptive properties, and it increases the analgesic effect of morphine and also prevents tolerance development. These effects probably occur by the modulation of oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis.

Effects of midazolam vs morphine in patients with acute pulmonary edema with left ventricular systolic dysfunction: a secondary analysis of data from the MIMO trial. / Efectos del midazolam frente a la morfina en pacientes con edema agudo de pulmón con disfunción sistólica ventricular izquierda: un análisis secundario del ensayo MIMO.

OBJECTIVES: The midazolam vs morphine (MIMO) trial showed that patients treated with midazolam had fewer serious adverse events than those treated with morphine. In many patients with acute pulmonary edema, the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is preserved, at 50% or higher. We aimed to determine whether left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction (D), defined by an LVEF of less than 50%, modifies the protective effect of midazolam vs morphine. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The MIMO trial randomized 111 patients with acute pulmonary edema to receive intravenous midazolam in 1-mg doses to a maximum of 3 mg (n = 55) or morphine in 2- to 4-mg doses to a maximum of 8 mg (n= 56). We calculated the relative risk (RR) for a serious adverse event in patients with and without systolic LVD. RESULTS: LVEF was preserved in 84 (75.7%) of the patients with acute pulmonary edema. In patients with systolic LVD, 4 patients (26.9%) in the midazolam arm vs 6 (50%) in the morphine arm developed serious adverse events (RR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.2-1.4). In patients without systolic LVD, 6 patients (15%) in the midazolam arm vs 18 (40.9%) in the morphine arm experienced such events (RR, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.16-0.83). The presence of systolic LVD did not modify the protective effect of midazolam on serious adverse effects (P=.57). CONCLUSION: The effect of midazolam vs morphine in protecting against the development of serious adverse events or death is similar in patients with and without systolic LVD.

OBJETIVO: El ensayo clínico MIMO demostró que los pacientes con edema agudo de pulmón (EAP) tratados con midazolam tenían menos eventos adversos graves (EAG) que los tratados con morfina. Muchos pacientes con EAP tienen fracción de eyección del ventrículo izquierdo (FEVI) preservada ($ 50%). El objetivo fue conocer si la disfunción sistólica ventricular izquierda (DSVI) (fracción eyección ventrículo izquierdo 50%) modifica el efecto protector del midazolam frente a la morfina. METODO: El estudio MIMO asignó al azar 111 pacientes con EAP a tratamiento con midazolam (dosis de 1 mg intravenosa, hasta una dosis máxima de 3 mg, n = 55) o morfina (dosis de 2-4 mg, hasta una dosis máxima de 8 mg, n = 56). Se calculó el riesgo relativo (RR) de padecer un EAG en pacientes con y sin DSVI. RESULTADOS: La FEVI preservada estuvo presente en 84 (75,7%) pacientes con EAP. En el grupo con DSVI, 4 pacientes (26,9%) en el brazo midazolam frente a 6 (50%) en el brazo morfina presentaron EAG (RR = 0,53; IC 95: 0,2-1,4). En el grupo sin DSVI 6 pacientes (15%) del brazo midazolam frente a 18 (40,9%) del brazo morfina presentaron EAG (RR = 0,37; IC 95: 0,16-0,83). La DSVI no modificó el efecto protector del midazolam en la aparición de EAG con respecto a la morfina (p = 0,57). CONCLUSIONES: En pacientes con EAP el efecto protector del midazolam sobre la morfina en la aparición de EAG y EAG o muerte fue similar en pacientes con y sin DSVI.

[Impact of post-thoracotomy analgesia with dexmedetomidine and morphine on immunocytes: a randomized clinical trial]. / Impacto da analgesia pós­toracotomia com dexmedetomidina e morfina em imunócitos: estudo randomizado.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the impact of post-thoracotomy analgesia with dexmedetomidine and morphine on immunocytes. METHODS: A total of 118 patients with post-thoracotomy Patient-Controlled Intravenous Analgesia (PCIA) in our hospital from March 2016 to July 2018 were randomly selected and divided into the Composite (COM) Group (57 patients administered with dexmedetomidine [1.0 µg.kg-1 body weight] and morphine [0.48 mg.kg-1 body weight]) and the Morphine (MOR) Group (61 patients administered with morphine [0.48 mg.kg-1]). The values of lymphocyte subsets (CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+) and Natural Killer cells in the peripheral blood of these two groups were detected by FACSCalibur flow cytometry at different time points (before anesthesia induction [T0], immediately after tracheal extubation [T1], 12 hours after surgery [T2], 24 hours after surgery [T3], 48 hours after surgery [T4], 72 hours after surgery [T5], and 7 days after surgery [T6]). The doses of morphine at T3 to T5 and the adverse reactions between the two groups were also recorded and compared. RESULTS: The CD3+ level and the CD4+/CD8+ ratio at T2 to T5 and the CD4+ level and NK cells at T3 to T5 were significantly higher in the COM Group than in the MOR Group (p < 0.05). The postoperative morphine dose and the incidence of postoperative itching, nausea, and vomiting were significantly lower in the COM Group than in the MOR Group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Dexmedetomidine combined with morphine for post-thoracotomy PCIA can improve the function of immunocytes, reduce morphine consumption, and reduce the adverse reactions during analgesia induction.

Efectividad de la anestesia subaracnoidea con morfina como tratamiento del dolor postoperatorio en cesárea

Fundamento el dolor postoperatorio se considera un dolor con limitaciones de tiempo, a menudo mal controlado. Su manejo representa un gran desafío, ya que la analgesia postoperatoria debe brindar a la madre un control adecuado de este, y a su vez facilitar la atención del bebé. Objetivo evaluar la efectividad de la anestesia subaracnoidea con morfina como tratamiento del dolor postoperatorio en cesárea. Métodos estudio descriptivo y transversal, realizado en el Hospital General Docente Martín Chang Puga, del municipio de Nuevitas, provincia de Camagüey, entre enero de 2021 y diciembre de 2022. La muestra estuvo conformada por 36 pacientes a las cuales se aplicó anestesia subaracnoidea con lidocaína hiperbárica más morfina para la cesárea. Resultados predominó la edad comprendida entre 27-31 años. El 63,9 % de las cesareadas no refirió dolor postoperatorio. Casi la mitad de la población (47,2 %) estudiada presentó efectos secundarios con el uso de la morfina intratecal, principalmente el prurito. El 80,5 % expresó satisfacción con la analgesia postoperatoria. Conclusiones la mayoría de las pacientes encontraron satisfacción con el tratamiento analgésico, a pesar la presencia de efectos adversos, de modo que el uso de morfina intratecal es efectivo en el manejo del dolor poscesárea.

Foundation Postoperative pain is considered time-limited pain, often poorly controlled. Its management represents a great challenge, since postoperative analgesia must provide the mother with adequate control, and at the same time facilitate care for the baby. Objective to evaluate the effectiveness of subarachnoid anesthesia with morphine as a treatment for postoperative pain in cesarean section. Methods descriptive and cross-sectional study carried out at the Martín Chang Puga General Teaching Hospital, in the Nuevitas municipality, Camagüey province, between January 2021 and December 2022. 36 patients to whom subarachnoid anesthesia was applied with Hyperbaric lidocaine plus morphine for cesarean section were considered as the sample. Results the age between 27-31 years predominated. 63.9% of cesarean patients did not report postoperative pain. Almost half of the population (47.2%) studied presented side effects with the use of intrathecal morphine, mainly pruritus. 80.5% expressed satisfaction with postoperative analgesia. Conclusions the majority of patients were satisfied with the analgesic treatment, despite the presence of adverse effects, so that the use of intrathecal morphine is effective in the management of post-cesarean section pain.

[Effect of intravenous acetaminophen versus fentanyl on postoperative pain after transurethral lithotripsy]. / Efeito do acetaminofeno versus fentanil intravenosos na dor pós litotripsia transuretral.

BACKGROUND: Postoperative pain is the most common postoperative complication. This study was conducted to assess the effect of acetaminophen versus fentanyl on postoperative pain relief in patients who underwent urologic surgeries. METHODS: This clinical trial was conducted on patients aged 18-65 years. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either 2000mg acetaminophen (propacetamol) or 2mcg.kg-1 fentanyl intravenously, 15min before the end of surgery. The postoperative pain was evaluated every 6h for 24h using the Visual Analog Scale. Total morphine dose taken in 24h and hemodynamic status were evaluated. RESULTS: Eighty patients were enrolled into the trial. The mean score of pain in 6, 12, 18, and 24h after surgery was lower in the acetaminophen group than in the fentanyl group but the difference was not statistically significant except in 12 and 18h after surgery (p<0.05). The amount of administered morphine was higher in the fentanyl group than in the acetaminophen group, but the difference was not statistically significant. The hemodynamic status including systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rates were nearly the same in the two groups but the SpO2 mean was significantly higher in the acetaminophen group than the fentanyl group. CONCLUSIONS: This trial indicated that intravenous acetaminophen is as effective as intravenous fentanyl in pain relief after urologic surgeries (transurethral lithotripsy).

The effects of drainage tube on pain and functional recovery after unicompartmental knee arthroplasty / Efeitos do tubo de drenagem na dor e recuperação funcional após artroplastia unicompartimental do joelho

ABSTRACT Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of drainage tube placement on postoperative pain, recovery, and opioid consumption within a 72-hour period following unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA). Methods: Patients with medial knee osteoarthritis who underwent UKA from January 2019 to August 2020 were enrolled in the study and divided into two groups based on whether they received a drain postoperatively. Results: The drainage group had significantly lower VAS scores on day 1, day 2, and day 3, in addition to significantly smaller changes in the circumference of the knee joint within 3 days postoperatively (P <0.05). The ROM in the drainage group significantly increased at 3 days and 1 month post-surgery, with a statistically significant difference in morphine consumption between the two groups at 3 days (P<0.05). The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (5 cases) and wound bleeding (1 case) was lower in the drainage group compared to the non-drainage group (P<0.05). Conclusions: The placement of a drainage tube in UKA may reduce the swelling of knee joint and pain, which not only reduces the use of Opioid but also facilitates early functional activities of the knee joint. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective Comparative Study.

RESUMO Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o impacto da implantação do tubo de drenagem na dor pós-operatória, na recuperação e no consumo de opioides em um período de 72 horas após a artroplastia unicompartimental do joelho (UKA). Métodos: Pacientes com osteoartrite medial do joelho submetidos à UKA de janeiro de 2019 a agosto de 2020 foram incluídos no estudo e divididos em dois grupos com base no fato de terem ou não recebido um dreno no pós-operatório. Resultados: O grupo de drenagem apresentou escores EVA significativamente menores no dia 1, no dia 2 e no dia 3, além de alterações significativamente menores na circunferência da articulação do joelho em 3 dias de pós-operatório (P <0,05). A ADM no grupo de drenagem aumentou significativamente em 3 dias e 1 mês após a cirurgia, com uma diferença estatisticamente significativa no consumo de morfina entre os dois grupos em 3 dias (P<0,05). A incidência de náuseas e vômitos no pós-operatório(5 casos) e sangramento da ferida (1 caso) foi menor no grupo de drenagem em comparação com o grupo sem drenagem (P<0,05). Conclusão: A utilização de tubo de drenagem na UKA pode reduzir o edema articular do joelho e a dor, reduzindo o uso de opioides e facilitando as atividades funcionais iniciais da articulação do joelho. Nível de Evidência III; Estudo Comparativo Retrospectivo.

[Comparison of postoperative analgesia with methadone versus morphine in cardiac surgery]. / Comparação da analgesia pós­operatória com uso de metadona versus morfina em cirurgia cardíaca.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Pain is an aggravating factor of postoperative morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of methadone versus morphine using the numerical rating scale of pain and postoperative on-demand analgesia in patients undergoing myocardial revascularization. METHOD: A randomized, double-blind, parallel clinical trial was performed with patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. The subjects were randomly divided into two groups: Morphine Group (MoG) and Methadone Group (MeG). At the end of cardiac surgery, 0.1 mg.kg-1 adjusted body weight of methadone or morphine was administered intravenously. Patients were referred to the ICU, where the following was assessed: extubation time, time to first analgesic request, number of analgesic and antiemetic drug doses within 36 hours, numerical pain scale at 12, 24, and 36hours postoperatively, and occurrence of adverse effects. RESULTS: Each group comprised 50 patients. Methadone showed 22% higher efficacy than morphine as it yielded a number-needed-to-treat (NNT) score of 6 and number-needed-to-harm (NNH) score of 16. The MeG showed a mean score of 1.9 ±2.2 according to the numerical pain scale at 24hours after surgery, whereas as the MoG showed a mean score of 2.9 ±2.6 (p =0.029). The MeG required less morphine (29%) than the MoG (43%) (p =0.002). However, the time to first analgesic request in the postoperative period was 145.9 ±178.5 minutes in the MeG, and 269.4 ±252.9 in the MoG (p =0.005). CONCLUSIONS: Methadone was effective for analgesia in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting without extracorporeal circulation.

Morfina/ketamina versus morfina en el control del dolor postoperatorio de cirugía renal electiva / Morphine/ketamine versus morphine in postoperative pain control for elective renal surgery

Resumen: Introducción: el dolor agudo postoperatorio demora la recuperación funcional del paciente. Objetivo: evaluar utilidad de la ketamina asociada a morfina administrados en bolos intravenosos en el control del dolor agudo postoperatorio de pacientes sometidos a cirugía renal electiva. Material y métodos: realizamos estudio doble ciego en pacientes con dolor postoperatorio moderado-severo sometidos a cirugía renal electiva. Se conformaron dos grupos: grupo MK administramos morfina 0.05 mg/kg más ketamina 0.2 mg/kg y grupo M morfina 0.05 mg/kg más solución salina a 0.9%. Pacientes con dolor de intensidad moderada-severa según escala analógica visual recibieron dosis de morfina cada 20 minutos hasta lograr dolor ligero, registrándose el consumo total de morfina por paciente. La tensión arterial, frecuencia cardíaca y respiratoria, saturación de oxígeno y efectos adversos fueron evaluados con la misma periodicidad. Resultados: el grupo MK mostró menor intensidad del dolor con disminución significativa del consumo de morfina. Ambos grupos resultaron ser similares en cuanto a cifras de tensión arterial, frecuencia cardíaca, frecuencia respiratoria y saturación de oxígeno. Las náuseas y vómitos fueron los efectos adversos de mayor prevalencia, siendo superiores en el grupo morfina. Conclusiones: la asociación morfina-ketamina resultó útil en el control del dolor moderado-severo en pacientes sometidos a cirugía renal electiva.

Abstract: Introduction: acute postoperative pain delays the patient's functional recovery. Objective: to evaluate the utility of ketamine associated with morphine administered in intravenous boluses in the control of acute postoperative pain in patients undergoing elective renal surgery. Material and methods: we conducted a double-blind study in patients with moderate-severe postoperative pain undergoing elective renal surgery. Two groups were formed: group MK administered 0.05 mg/kg morphine plus 0.2 mg/kg ketamine and group M 0.05 mg/kg morphine plus 0.9% saline solution. Patients with pain of moderate-severe intensity according to the visual analogue scale received doses of morphine every 20 minutes until achieving light pain, recording the total consumption of morphine per patient. Blood pressure, heart and respiratory rates, oxygen saturation, and adverse effects were evaluated with the same periodicity. Results: MK group showed lower pain intensity with a significant decrease in morphine consumption. Both groups turned out to be similar in terms of blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate and oxygen saturation Figures. Nausea and vomiting were the most prevalent adverse effects, being higher in the morphine group. Conclusions: the morphine-ketamine association was useful in the control of moderate-severe pain in patients undergoing elective renal surgery.

Estudio cuasi experimental: analgesia intratecal Clonidina vs Morfina para manejo del dolor postoperatorio inmediato en cirugías de columna / QUASI-EXPERIMENTAL STUDY: CLONIDINE INTRATHECAL ANESTHESIA VS. MORPHINE FOR IMMEDIATE POSTOPERATIVE PAIN MANAGEMENT IN SPINE SURGERY

Introducción: El manejo inmediato del dolor postoperatorio es esencial para una comodidad y rehabilitación temprana del paciente Este estudio busca evaluar el efecto analgésico postoperatorio inmediato en cirugías de columna lumbosacra por vía posterior, como los efectos adversos con la administración de analgesia intratecal, usando Clonidina contra Morfina. Material y métodos: Es un estudio analítico de intervención, cuasi experimental, prospectivo, longitudinal, comparativo, doble ciego. Para comparar la eficacia de la analgesia intratecal post operatoria inmediata en cirugías de columna lumbosacra primarias por vía posterior y los efectos adversos. Los pacientes se distribuyeron en dos grupos previamente designados, a un grupo se le administro Clonidina 0.5 microgramos/kg/peso y a otro grupo Morfina 5 microgramos/Kg/Peso. intratecal, intraoperatorio. Resultados: Existió diferencia estadísticamente significativa con mejor manejo del dolor postoperatorio en las primeras horas y menor presencia de vómitos en el grupo de pacientes que se utilizó Clonidina intratecal. No existió diferencia estadísticamente significativa de ambas medicaciones intratecales en la valoración de otros efectos adversos. Discusión: El uso de la analgesia intratecal ha ido ganando relevancia en el tiempo y se fueron sumando estudios para ver la eficacia de diferentes medicamentos, diferentes dosis, menor presencia de efectos adversos. El estudio analiza estas variables buscando una mejor opción terapéutica. Tenemos a favor una muestra representativa a pesar de no ser aleatoria, estricto seguimiento, y análisis estadístico adecuado. Conclusión: La Clonidina intratecal es más efectiva para manejo del dolor post operatorio inmediato de cirugías de columna lumbosacra por vía posterior y con menor presencia de efectos adversos

Introduction: Immediate postoperative pain management is essential for the patient's greater comfort and early rehabilitation. Te goal of this study is to evaluate the immediate analgesic postoperative effect in posterior lumbosacral spine surgery, as well as the adverse effects of the administration of intrathecal analgesia, using Clonidine versus Morphine. Material and methods: An analytical, quasi-experimental, prospective, longitudinal, comparative, double-blinded intervention study was conducted to compare the efficacy of immediate postoperative intrathecal analgesia in primary posterior lumbosacral spine surgery, and the adverse effects. Te patients were divided into two previously designated groups. One group received Clonidine 0.5 microgramos/kg and the other group received Morphine 5 microgramos/kg. Intrathecal, intraoperative. Results: Tere was a statistically significant difference with better postoperative pain management in the first hours and less vomiting in the group of patients who received intrathecal Clonidine. Tere was no statistically significant difference between both intrathecal medications in the evaluation of other adverse effects. Discussion: Te use of intrathecal analgesia, has been on the rise over time and more studies have been conducted to see the efficacy of different drugs, different doses, with fewer adverse effects. Tis study to analyze these variables with a view to finding a better therapeutic option. Te advantage is having a representative if not random sample, strict follow-up, and appropriate statistical analysis Conclusion: Intrathecal Clonidine proved to be more effective in immediate postoperative pain management after posterior lumbosacral spine surgery and with fewer adverse effects

Single dose of intraoperative intravenous morphine for analgesia in children undergoing tonsillectomy: Randomized, double-blind clinical trial / Dose única de morfina endovenosa intraoperatória para analgesia de crianças submetidas à amigdalectomia: ensaio clínico randomizado duplo cego

Abstract Introduction Children undergoing tonsillectomy have severe pain in the postoperative period. One of the pharmacological options for analgesia is opioids, such as morphine. However, the risks of adverse effects, such as increased recovery time from anesthesia and respiratory depression, can limit its use. Objectives To evaluate the use of intraoperative intravenous morphine to reduce immediate postoperative pain in children undergoing tonsillectomy. Methods In this double-blind randomized study, children aged 3-10 years were submitted to tonsillectomy, with or without adenoidectomy, and divided into two groups. Children in group M received 0.1 mg/kg of intravenous morphine during anesthetic induction, while those in the control group received conventional anesthesia without morphine. Postoperative pain perceptions were assessed at 30, 60, 120, 180 and 240 min after recovery from anesthesia, by the children themselves and also by their parents or guardians, using a facial pain scale. Results A total of 57 children were included, 30 in the group with morphine and 27 in the group without morphine. According to the children themselves, the postoperative pain was less at the evaluations performed at 30 min after awakening from anesthesia (p= 0.023), while according to their parents/guardians, the pain was less intense in the evaluations performed at 30 (p= 0.002), 60 (p= 0.006) and 180 min (p= 0.007) after awakening. Moreover, postoperative analgesics were less requested by children in the morphine group. No observed side effects were associated with the use of morphine. Conclusion A single dose of intravenous morphine during anesthetic induction reduced the intensity of immediate postoperative pain in children undergoing tonsillectomy, without increasing the time of awakening from anesthesia and with lower consumption of rescue analgesics.

Resumo Introdução Crianças submetidas a amigdalectomias apresentam dor intensa no pós-operatório. Uma das opções farmacológicas de analgesia são os opioides, como a morfina. No entanto, os riscos de efeitos adversos, como aumento do tempo de recuperação da anestesia e depressão respiratória, podem limitar o seu uso. Objetivos Avaliar o uso de morfina endovenosa intraoperatória na redução da dor pós-operatória imediata de crianças submetidas a amigdalectomia. Método Neste estudo cego randomizado, crianças de 3 a 10 anos foram submetidas a amigdalectomia, com ou sem adenoidectomia, e divididas em dois grupos. As crianças do grupo M receberam 0,1 mg.kg-1 de morfina endovenosa na indução anestésica, enquanto as do grupo controle receberam anestesia convencional sem morfina. As percepções de dor no pós-operatório foram avaliadas aos 30, 60, 120, 180 e 240 min após a recuperação da anestesia, pelas próprias crianças e também pelos seus pais ou responsáveis, com uma escala de dor pela face. Resultados Foram incluídas 57 crianças, 30 no grupo com morfina e 27 no grupo sem morfina. De acordo com as próprias crianças, a dor pós-operatória foi menor durante as avaliações feitas aos 30 minutos após o despertar da anestesia (p = 0,023), enquanto segundo seus pais/responsáveis a dor foi menos intensa nas avaliações feitas aos 30 (p = 0,002), 60 (p = 0,006) e 180 minutos (p = 0,007) após o despertar. Além disto, analgésicos no pós-operatório foram menos solicitados pelas crianças do grupo da morfina. Não foram observados efeitos colaterais associados ao uso da morfina. Conclusão Uma dose única de morfina endovenosa durante a indução anestésica reduziu a intensidade da dor pós-operatória imediata de crianças submetidas a amigdalectomia, sem aumento do tempo de despertar da anestesia e com menor consumo de analgésicos de resgate.

Administración prolongada de morfina intratecal por bomba de infusión implantada, en un caso de dolor crónico no oncológico / Prolonged administration of intratecal morphine by infusion pump implanted in a case of non-oncological chronic pain / Administração prolongada de morfina intratecal por bomba de infusão implantada, em caso de dor crônica não oncológica

Introducción: Se describe la evolución de un paciente que recibe morfina intratecal mediante una bomba de infusión, que le fuera implantada hace 14 años para tratamiento de su dolor lumbar crónico post-laminectomía. Material y método: Requería la administración de 60 mg/día de morfina subcutánea que le provocaban efectos secundarios que no toleraba, y múltiples internaciones para control del dolor. Se le implantó una bomba de infusión continua (Isomed) conectada a un catéter subaracnoideo, que libera 1 ml/día, y requiere ser llenada cada 60 días. Resultados: Se observó una disminución del dolor promedio de 50% al año, y de 75% a los 6 y 14 años. Requirió un aumento progresivo de las dosis de llenado, que pasaron de 30 mg de morfina (0.5 mg/día) al inicio, a 40 mg de morfina (0.66 mg /día) al año, a 70 mg de morfina (1.16 mg/día) a los 6 años, a 140 mg (2.33 mg/día) a los 14 años. No se registraron complicaciones médicas graves. Mantuvo constipación y sudoración durante todo el período, e instaló un hipogonadismo secundario con trastornos de la libido y de la erección que fueron corregidos con la administración de testosterona. No requirió más internaciones por dolor. No se observaron complicaciones relacionadas con el funcionamiento o llenado de la bomba, ni vinculadas al catéter. El paciente manifestó estar satisfecho con el implante. Discusión: A pesar del aumento de las dosis de llenado, expresión del desarrollo de tolerancia, las dosis de morfina/día requeridas son francamente inferiores al límite recomendado. Conclusiones: El balance del riesgo-beneficio del implante resultó positivo, considerando el mejor control del dolor logrado, las menores dosis de morfina utilizadas, así como la ausencia de complicaciones graves y de internaciones para control del dolor.

Introduction: The evolution of a patient receiving intrathecal morphine through an infusion pump that was implanted 14 years ago for the treatment of chronic post-laminectomy low back pain is described. Material and method: It required the administration of 60 mg / day of subcutaneous morphine that caused side effects that did not tolerate, and multiple hospitalizations for pain control. He was implanted with a continuous infusion pump (Isomed) connected to a subarachnoid catheter, which releases 1 ml / day, and needs to be filled every 60 days. Results: An average pain decrease of 50% per year, and 75% at 6 and 12 years was observed. It required a progressive increase in filling doses, which went from 30 mg of morphine (0.5 mg / day) at the beginning, to 40 mg of morphine (0.66 mg / day at the first year, to 70 mg of morphine (1.16 mg / day) at the sixth year, at 140 mg (2.33 mg / day) at the fourteen year. No serious medical complications were recorded, he maintained constipation and sweating throughout the period, and installed secondary hypogonadism with libido and erection disorders, that were corrected with the administration of testosterone. No further hospitalizations were required due to pain. No complications were observed related to the operation or filling of the pump or linked to the catheter. The patient stated that he was satisfied with the implant. Discussion: Despite the increase in filling doses, expression of tolerance development, the required morphine / day doses are frankly below the recommended limit. Conclusions: The risk-benefit balance of the implant was positive, considering the best pain control, the lowest doses used, the absence of serious complications, and the lack of hospitalizations for pain control.

Introdução: Descreve-se a evolução de um paciente que recebeu morfina intratecal através de uma bomba de infusão, implantada há 14 anos para o tratamento de lombalgia crônica pós-laminectomia. Material e método: Necessitou de administração de 60 mg/dia de morfina por via subcutânea, que provocou efeitos colaterais intolerantes, e múltiplas internações para controle da dor. Foi implantada uma bomba de infusão contínua (Isomed) conectada a um cateter subaracnóideo, que libera 1 ml/dia, necessitando de reenchimento a cada 60 dias. Resultados: Observou-se redução média da dor de 50% em um ano e 75% em 6 e 14 anos. Foi necessário um aumento progressivo das doses de enchimento, que passaram de 30 mg de morfina (0,5 mg/dia) no início, para 40 mg de morfina (0,66 mg/dia) por ano, para 70 mg de morfina (1,16 mg/dia) dia) aos 6 anos, para 140 mg (2,33 mg/dia) aos 14 anos. Não foram registradas complicações médicas graves. Manteve constipação e sudorese durante todo o período e desenvolveu hipogonadismo secundário com distúrbios de libido e ereção que foram corrigidos com administração de testosterona. Ele não necessitou de mais hospitalizações por dor. Não foram observadas complicações relacionadas à operação ou enchimento da bomba, ou relacionadas ao cateter. O paciente afirmou estar satisfeito com o implante. Discussão: Apesar do aumento das doses de enchimento, expressão do desenvolvimento da tolerância, as doses necessárias de morfina/dia são francamente inferiores ao limite recomendado. Conclusões: A relação risco-benefício do implante foi positiva, considerando o melhor controle da dor alcançado, as menores doses de morfina utilizadas, bem como a ausência de complicações graves e internações para controle da dor.

Randomized Clinical Trial Comparing Quadratus Lumborum Block and Intrathecal Morphine for Postcesarean Analgesia / Ensaio Clínico Randomizado Comparando Bloqueio do Quadrado Lombar e Morfina Intratecal Para Analgesia Pós-cesariana

Abstract Objective To compare the efficacy of quadratus lumborum (QL) block and intrathecal morphine (M) for postcesarean delivery analgesia. Methods Thirty-one pregnant women with ≥ 37 weeks of gestation submitted to elective cesarean section were included in the study. They were randomly allocated to either the QL group (12.5 mg 0.5% bupivacaine for spinal anesthesia and 0.3 ml/kg 0.2% bupivacaine for QL block) or the M group (12.5 mg bupivacaine 0.5% and 100 mcg of morphine in spinal anesthesia). The visual analog scale of pain, consumption of morphine and tramadol for pain relief in 48 hours, and side effects were recorded. Results Median pain score and/or pain variation were higher in the morphine group than in the QL group (p = 0.02). There was no significant difference in the consumption of morphine or tramadol between groups over time. Side effects such as pruritus, nausea, and vomiting were observed only in the morphine group. Conclusion Quadratus lumborum block and intrathecal morphine are effective for analgesia after cesarean section. Patients undergoing QL block had lower postoperative pain scores without the undesirable side effects of opioids such as nausea, vomiting, and pruritus.

Resumo Objetivo Comparar a eficácia do bloqueio do quadrado lombar (QL) e da morfina intratecal (M) na analgesia pós-cesariana. Métodos Trinta e uma gestantes com ≥ 37 semanas de gestação submetidas a cesariana eletiva foram incluídas no estudo. Eles foram alocados aleatoriamente no grupo QL (12,5 mg de bupivacaína a 0,5% para raquianestesia e 0,3 ml/kg de bupivacaína a 0,2% para bloqueio de QL) ou no grupo M (12,5 mg de bupivacaína a 0,5% e 100 mcg de morfina na raquianestesia). A escala visual analógica de dor, consumo de morfina e tramadol para alívio da dor em 48 horas e efeitos colaterais foram registrados. Resultados A mediana do escore de dor e/ou variação da dor foi maior no grupo morfina do que no grupo QL (p = 0,02). Não houve diferença significativa no consumo de morfina ou tramadol entre os grupos ao longo do tempo. Efeitos colaterais como prurido, náuseas e vômitos foram observados apenas no grupo morfina. Conclusão O bloqueio QL e a morfina intratecal são eficazes para analgesia após cesariana. Os pacientes submetidos ao bloqueio do QL apresentaram menores escores de dor pós-operatória sem os efeitos colaterais indesejáveis dos opioides, como náuseas, vômitos e prurido.

Anestesia espinal con bupivacaína más morfina en cirugía de urgencia de fractura intertrocantérica de cadera / Spinal anesthesia with bupivacaine plus morphine in urgent intertrochanteric hip fracture surgery

Introducción: La fractura de cadera en el anciano es una entidad frecuente y tiene gran incidencia en el mundo y en Cuba por el envejecimiento. Objetivo: Evaluar la eficacia de la anestesia espinal con bupivacaína más morfina en la cirugía de fractura intertrocantérica de cadera. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio clínico, experimental, no aleatorizado, prospectivo y de corte longitudinal en el Hospital Universitario Faustino Pérez Hernández de Matanzas de octubre de 2017 a octubre de 2019. El universo estuvo conformado por todos los pacientes quirúrgicos con fractura de cadera del hospital. La muestra se realizó por muestreo intencional, por 120 pacientes elegidos a criterio de los investigadores. Grupo control (B): Anestesia subaracnoidea con bupivacaína 0,5 por ciento 10 mg. Grupo estudio (M): Anestesia subaracnoidea con bupivacaína 0,5 por ciento 7 mg más 0,2 mg de morfina. Cada grupo estuvo integrado por 60 pacientes. Las variables analizadas fueron las siguientes: grupos de edades, género, estado físico, nivel de punción, tiempo de inicio del bloqueo motor, hipotensión arterial, uso de vasopresores y complicaciones secundarias a la técnica anestésica. Resultados: Predominó grupo de 84 y 90 años, género femenino y ASA III. La punción lumbar se realizó entre L3-L4. El tiempo de inicio del bloqueo motor fue 1,3 veces menor en el grupo M. Prevaleció la hipotensión arterial en el grupo B; y uso de vasopresores en ambos grupos. Predominó el prurito, grupo M, y la bradicardia, grupo B como complicaciones. Conclusiones: La asociación bupivacaína/morfina en anestesia espinal en adulto mayor para fractura de cadera proporciona mejores resultados sin complicaciones mayores(AU),

Introduction: Hip fracture in the elderly patient is a frequent entity with a high incidence worldwide and in Cuba due to aging. Objective: To assess the efficacy of spinal anesthesia with bupivacaine plus morphine in intertrochanteric hip fracture surgery. Methods: A clinical, experimental, nonrandomized, prospective, prospective and longitudinal study was carried out in Faustino Pérez Hernández University Hospital of Matanzas, from October 2017 to October 2019. The universe consisted of all surgical patients with hip fracture attended in the hospital. The sample was made by purposive sampling, consisting of 120 patients chosen at the discretion of the researchers. The control group (B) was administered subarachnoid anesthesia with 10 mg of bupivacaine 0.5 percent. The study group (M) was administered subarachnoid anesthesia with 7 mg of bupivacaine 0.5 percent. plus 0.2 mg of morphine. Each group consisted of 60 patients. The following variables were analyzed: age groups, gender, physical condition, puncture level, motor block onset time, arterial hypotension, use of vasopressors, and complications secondary to the anesthetic technique. Results: The predominant age group was 84 and 90 years old, together with female gender and ASA III. Lumbar puncture was performed between L3 and L4. The motor block onset time was 1.3 times shorter in the M group. Arterial hypotension prevailed in the B group; apart from the use of vasopressors in both groups. As complications, there was a predominance of pruritus in the M group and bradycardia in the B group. Conclusions: The association bupivacaine/morphine in spinal anesthesia for hip fracture among elderly adults provides better outcomes without major complications(AU)

Epidural morphine for chronic pain in a patient with peripheral neuropathy and DRESS syndrome. Case report / Morfina peridural para tratamento de dor crônica em paciente com polineuropatia periférica e síndrome DRESS. Relato de caso

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Peripheral neuropathy is a rare condition with many etiologies. Common symptoms are numbness, paresthesia, weakness and neuropathic pain. Treatment consists in frst-line agents such as anticonvulsants and some antidepressants. Te aim of this study was to report a case of chronic pain refractory to several therapies in a patient with absolute contraindication to the use of all anticonvulsants and antidepressants drugs. CASE REPORT: Female patient, a 40-year-old treated for trigeminal neuralgia with decompression that developed chronic occipital pain refractory to radiofrequency and onset of transient and bilateral T4 sensory and motor polyneuropathy after viral meningitis. In addition, she showed a severe pharmacodermy (Drug Rash with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms- DRESS Syndrome) after using carbamazepine and other anticonvulsants, as well as allergy to all analgesics and opioids except morphine. Epidural puncture with insertion of a catheter was performed aiming at a 5-day test through intermittent epidural morphine bolus to assess the possibility of morphine pump implantation. CONCLUSION: The test was successful and the patient referred to the neurosurgery team. At the 6-month follow-up after the insertion of the morphine intrathecal pump, the strategy has proven to be efective in controlling pain secondary to polyneuropathy.

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Neuropatia periférica é uma condição rara, de etiologia multifatorial. Dormência, parestesia, redução de força muscular e dor neuropática são sintomas comuns. O tratamento consiste em uso de anticonvulsivantes e antidepressivos. O objetivo deste estudo foi relatar o caso de dor crônica refratária a diversas terapias de uma paciente com contraindicação absoluta para uso de todos os fármacos anticonvulsivantes e antidepressivos. RELATO DO CASO: Paciente do sexo feminino, 40 anos, com história de neuralgia do trigêmeo abordada previamente com cirurgia, com cefaleia occipital crônica refratária à radiofrequência e polineuropatia bilateral T4 sensorial e motora após meningite viral. No curso do tratamento, apresentou grave farmacodermia (Drug Rash with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms - Síndrome DRESS) após o uso de carbamazepina e outros anticonvulsivantes, além de reação alérgica a todos analgésicos e opioides, exceto morfina. Optou-se por analgesia teste por via peridural, durante 5 dias, com bolus intermitentes e diários de morfina para avaliação de possibilidade de implante de bomba de morfina. CONCLUSÃO: O teste foi considerado bem-sucedido e a paciente encaminhada para neurocirurgia. No seguimento de 6 meses após implante de bomba por via subaracnoidea, esta estratégia se mostrou eficaz no controle da dor secundária à polineuropatia.

A comparison of two different doses of morphine added to spinal bupivacaine for inguinal hernia repair.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of two different doses of intrathecal morphine on postoperative analgesia, postoperative first mobilization and urination times and the severity of side effects. METHODS: After Institutional Ethical Committee approval, 48 ASA I-II patients were enrolled in this randomized double-blinded study. Spinal anesthesia was performed with 0.1mg (Group I, n=22) or 0.4mg (Group II, n=26) ITM in addition to 7.5mg heavy bupivacaine. The first analgesic requirement, first mobilization and voiding times, and postoperative side effects were recorded. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 15.0 and p<0.05 was considered as statistically significant. The numeric data were analyzed by the t-test and presented as mean±SD. Categorical data were analyzed with the chi-square test and expressed as number of patients and percentage. RESULTS: Demographic data were similar among groups. There were no differences related to postoperative pain, first analgesic requirements, and first mobilization and first voiding times. The only difference between two groups was the vomiting incidence. In Group II 23% (n=6) of the patients had vomiting during the first postoperative 24h compared to 0% in Group I (p=0.025). CONCLUSION: For inguinal hernia repairs, the dose of 0.1mg of ITM provides comparable postoperative analgesia with a dose of 0.4mg, with significantly lower vomiting incidence when combined with low dose heavy bupivacaine.

[A comparison of two different doses of morphine added to spinal bupivacaine for inguinal hernia repair]. / Comparação de duas doses diferentes de morfina adicionadas à bupivacaína em raquianestesia para herniorrafia inguinal.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of two different doses of intrathecal morphine on postoperative analgesia, postoperative first mobilization and urination times and the severity of side effects. METHODS: After Institutional Ethical Committee approval, 48 ASA I-II patients were enrolled in this randomized double-blinded study. Spinal anesthesia was performed with 0.1mg (Group I, n=22) or 0.4mg (Group II, n=26) ITM in addition to 7.5mg heavy bupivacaine. The first analgesic requirement, first mobilization and voiding times, and postoperative side effects were recorded. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 15.0 and p<0.05 was considered as statistically significant. The numeric data were analyzed by the t-test and presented as mean±SD. Categorical data were analyzed with the chi-square test and expressed as number of patients and percentage. RESULTS: Demographic data were similar among groups. There were no differences related to postoperative pain, first analgesic requirements, and first mobilization and first voiding times. The only difference between two groups was the vomiting incidence. In Group II 23% (n=6) of the patients had vomiting during the first postoperative 24h compared to 0% in Group I (p=0.025). CONCLUSION: For inguinal hernia repairs, the dose of 0.1mg of ITM provides comparable postoperative analgesia with a dose of 0.4mg, with significantly lower vomiting incidence when combined with low dose heavy bupivacaine.

Riesgo de la prescripción de opioides para el manejo del dolor / Risk of Opioid Prescriptions for Management of Pain / Risco de prescrição de opioides para o tratamento da dor

actualmente existe una intensa prescripción de opioides para el manejo de todo tipo de dolor a nivel clínico, razón por la cual es importante considerar los posibles daños derivados de esta actividad, tales como tolerancia, adicción, dependencia y sobredosis. La medicación de opiáceos o sus derivados de manera irracional para el manejo del dolor agudo o crónico puede ser la puerta de entrada a las drogodependencias. Muchos adictos a opiáceos informaron haber estado expuestos por primera vez a los opioides a través de una prescripción médica para el tratamiento del dolor. Por ello, es importante evaluar por parte de los profesionales de la salud el uso a largo plazo de estos medicamentos para el manejo del dolor, porque estudios han evidenciado una relación entre el uso clínico y la dependencia de estos, sobre todo en adolescentes y adultos jóvenes sin experiencia en opiáceos que fueron sometidos a procedimientos quirúrgicos y dentales.

Currently, opioids for managing all types of pain are increasingly prescribed at the clinical level, which is why it is important to consider the potential harms derived from this practice, such as tolerance, addiction, dependence, and overdose. Irrational medication of opioids or opioid derivatives for acute or chronic pain management can be the gateway to drug dependence. Many opioid addicts reported first being exposed to opioids after receiving a physician's prescription for pain management. Therefore, health professionals need to evaluate the long-term use of these medications to manage pain because studies have shown a relationship between clinical use and opioid dependence, especially in adolescents and young adults who had never received opioid therapy and who underwent surgical and dental procedures

Atualmente existe uma intensa prescrição de opioides para o manejo de todos os tipos de dor em nível clínico, por isso é importante considerar os possíveis danos decorrentes dessa atividade, como tolerância, adição, dependência e overdose. A medicação de opiáceos ou seus derivados de forma irracional para o manejo da dor aguda ou crônica pode ser a porta de entrada para a adição a drogas. Muitos dependentes de opioides relataram ter sido expostos a opioides pela primeira vez por meio de uma receita médica para o tratamento da dor. Por esse motivo, é importante que os profissionais de saúde avaliem o uso prolongado desses medicamentos para o manejo da dor, pois estudos têm mostrado relação entre o uso clínico e a dependência dos mesmos, principalmente em adolescentes e adultos jovens sem experiência com opioides que foram submetidos a procedimentos cirúrgicos e odontológicos