Transmuscular quadratus lumborum block reduces opioid consumption and prolongs time to first opioid demand after laparoscopic nephrectomy

Efficacy of quadratus lumborum block type 3 on postoperative cell-mediated immunity and analgesia for laparoscopic radical gastrectomy: a prospective randomized controlled trial

PURPOSE

Various methods have been formulated to reduce pain and relieve immunosuppression in order to improve prognosis. The current study aimed to evaluate the effect of ultrasound-guided quadratus lumborum block (QLB) on the postoperative analgesia and perioperative cell-mediated immunity in patients underwent laparoscopic radical gastrectomy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 54 patients scheduled for laparoscopic radical gastrectomy were randomly evenly assigned into both groups. The participants in Group Q received US-guided QLB 3 bilaterally with ropivacaine (0.25%, 30 mL on each side) before surgery along with GA, and those in Group C received GA without any special treatment. Both groups were given patient-controlled intravenous analgesia postoperatively. The primary outcomes were the T-cell subsets and Natural killer (NK) cell level at 30 min before surgery (T0) and at 0, 12, 24, and 48 h postoperatively (T1, T2, T3, and T4) were measured. The secondary outcomes were as fellows: the visual analog scale (VAS) pain score (rest and movement) at T1, T2, T3, and T4. In addition, the opioid consumption, and the incidence of postoperative adverse reactions.

RESULTS

The level of CD3 + , CD4 + T, and natural killer (NK) cells, besides the CD4 + /CD8 + ratio showed less reduction at T1, T2, T3, and T4 in Group Q (P < 0.05). The VAS pain scores (at rest and on movement) were significantly lower in Group Q at T1-T4 (P < 0.05). Opioid consumption and the incidence of adverse reactions were lower in Group Q (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

For patients undergoing LRG, the ultrasound-guided QLB 3 could alleviate perioperative cell-mediated immunity suppression, improve postoperative analgesia, decrease opioid consumption, and reduce the incidence of adverse reactions.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

The Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2000034592).

Comparing the analgesic effect of regional nerve block technique in laparoscopic nephrectomy: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Various regional nerve block techniques have been employed to manage acute pain following laparoscopic nephrectomy; however, the optimal technique remains unclear.

METHODS

This network meta-analysis (NMA) compares the analgesic efficacy of various regional nerve block techniques. We conducted a comprehensive search in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science (WOS), Cochrane, and Scopus databases from inception until October 10, 2024, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compare the analgesic efficacy of regional nerve block techniques, including quadratus lumborum block (QLB), transversus abdominis plane block (TAPB), retrolaminar block (RLB), local infiltration anesthesia (LIA), erector spinae block (ESB), paravertebral block (PVB), and epidural analgesia) for post-laparoscopic nephrectomy pain management. The entire NMA analysis was conducted using R software and a Bayesian framework. The primary outcome of this NMA was the cumulative oral morphine equivalent (OME) consumption at 24 h postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included 6-h postoperative OME consumption, intraoperative OME consumption, time to first opioid use, incidence of rescue analgesic use, incidence of nausea and vomiting, and patient satisfaction.

RESULTS

Our direct comparison results indicate that the interventions effectively reduced OME consumption at 24 h and 6 h postoperatively and intraoperatively, extended the time to first opioid use, improved patient satisfaction, and reduced the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting. The NMA results demonstrated that preoperative quadratus lumborum block (PreOp QLB; MD -31.23, 95 % CI -54.99 to -9.95; low-quality evidence) and preoperative erector spinae block (PreOp ESB; MD -44.44, 95 % CI -88.03 to -0.97; moderate-quality evidence) significantly reduced the 24-h postoperative OME consumption.

CONCLUSIONS

Analysis of existing evidence suggests that PreOp QLB demonstrates a superior advantage over other interventions, significantly reducing 24-h postoperative OME, 6-h postoperative OME, rescue analgesia usage, and the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting, as well as extending time to first opioid use. Other interventions, such as PreOp ESB, also show potential benefits. However, due to limitations in the current number of studies and sample sizes, future large-scale, high-quality studies are necessary to further support these findings.

Modified versus traditional subcostal anterior quadratus lumborum block for postoperative analgesia after laparoscopic nephrectomy: a randomized-controlled study

PURPOSE

To examine the ramifications of both the modified and traditional subcostal anterior quadratus lumborum block (SQLB) on postoperative analgesia in individuals undergoing laparoscopic nephrectomy.

METHODS

Forty-six individuals slated for elective laparoscopic nephrectomy under general anesthesia were randomly assigned to acquire either traditional or modified SQLB using 20 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine. The primary outcome was intravenous morphine-equivalent intake during the first 24 h following surgery. Secondary outcomes included sensory block dermatomes, numerical rating scale (NRS) scores, the total number of patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) demands, rescue analgesic use, and complications related to opioids and nerve block.

RESULTS

The modified SQLB group had significantly lower morphine-equivalent consumption compared to the traditional SQLB group within the initial 24 h after surgery (23.1 ± 4.3 vs. 34.7 ± 6.8 mg, P < 0.001). The modified SQLB also resulted in a greater number of dermatome segments of sensory block at 5, 10, and 15 min after block (P < 0.05), lower NRS pain scores at rest and during coughing at 6, 24, and 48 h (P < 0.001), and reduced usage of rescue analgesics as well as total PCA demands (P < 0.05). No significant differences were observed in the incidence of complications related to opioids or the nerve block procedure between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Ultrasound-guided modified SQLB confers significantly superior analgesic advantages over the traditional SQLB for patients undergoing laparoscopic nephrectomy, culminating in a marked reduction in postoperative opioid consumption and more efficacious pain management.

Intercostal serratus plane block versus posterior quadratuus lumbar block in laparoscopic nephrectomy: A randomized, controlled, double-blind study

BACKGROUND

Even though laparoscopic nephrectomy improves the quality of postoperative recovery, it still causes moderate to severe pain. Our objective was to determine whether serratus intercostal plane block (SIPB) was noninferior to posterior quadratus lumborum block (QLB) in terms of pain control and quality of recovery.

METHODS

This multicentre, controlled, randomized, blinded study had a sample size of 120 patients who were randomly assigned to SIPB, QLB, and control groups prior to scheduled laparoscopic nephrectomy. We collected the following variables: postoperative dynamic pain scores at 0, 6, 12, and 24 h, postoperative quality of recovery (QoR15), and total opioid consumption (fentanyl and morphine).

RESULTS

Our results show that SIPB was non-inferior to QLB with regard to the primary endpoint (NRS 0.4/0.9) and quality of recovery (QoR15 112.7/106.85) (p 0.27). Opioid consumption (fentanyl p 0.37 and morphine p 0.9) was similar in the SIPB and QLB groups, and both groups were superior to controls in terms of intraoperative fentanyl consumption (p 0.001) and pain control (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

SIPB and QLB showed adequate postoperative pain control, good quality of recovery and lower fentanyl consumption, especially compared to the control group.

Transperitoneal robot-assisted partial nephrectomy: a comparison of operative and oncological outcomes between posterior and anterolateral tumours

OBJECTIVE

To compare operative and oncological outcomes, as well as the risk of postoperative complications in patients who underwent transperitoneal robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) for renal tumours located either posteriorly or anterolaterally.

METHODS

Retrospective, consecutive study including 451 patients who underwent transperitoneal RAPN for non-metastatic, localised renal tumours from May 2016 to April 2023. Operative data included duration of the procedure, warm ischaemia time, and blood loss; oncological data included surgical margins and recurrence; and 90-day postoperative complications were classified according to the Clavien-Dindo classification.

RESULTS

In total, 140 (31%) patients had tumours with a posterior location. The median follow-up was 3.3 (IQR 1.8-5.0) years. There were no differences in operative outcomes or length of hospital stay between the two groups. Positive surgical margins were recorded in 9% of the patients with posterior tumours compared to 7% of patients with anterolateral tumours, p = 0.60. The estimated probability of recurrence-free survival at 5 years was 95.2% (95% CI 87.4-98.2) for patients with posterior tumours and 96.7% (95% CI 92.3-98.6) for patients with anterolateral tumours, p = 0.4. Patients with posterior tumours had a similar risk of any complication (OR 1.24 [95% CI 0.80-1.91]) and CD ≥ III (OR 0.73 [95% CI 0.28-1.67]) compared to patients with anterolateral tumours.

CONCLUSION

This study found that patients with posterior tumours had longer operating times and hospital stays following transperitoneal RAPN compared to those with anterolateral tumours but without increased complications or poorer oncological outcomes.

Meta-analysis: The utility of the anterior quadratus lumborum block in abdominal surgery

BACKGROUND

Regional anesthesia is routinely used in Enhanced Recovery After Surgery pathways to improve post-operative recovery times. No consensus has been reached on optimal block type. This study reviews the current literature as it pertains to the anterior quadratus lumborum (aQL) block in all abdominal surgeries, as well as its efficacy compared to the transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block.

METHODS

PubMed was searched for original, peer-reviewed articles that include "(anterior) quadratus lumborum block." 89 articles were included. Data was extracted according to PRISMA guidelines, with articles manually reviewed by two independent reviewers. A meta-analysis was then conducted on a subset of 14 randomized control trials (RCT) evaluating total oral morphine equivalent consumed at 12 and 24 ​h post-operatively in patients who received an aQL block compared to control.

RESULTS

28 articles were included with 14 RCT used in a random-effects meta-analysis. There was a significant reduction in post-operative pain scores and opioid use in patients who receive an aQL block for abdominal surgeries. Meta-analysis determined a decrease in total oral morphine equivalent consumed at both 12 and 24 ​h post-operatively compared to controls. Compared to no region block, both the aQL and TAP block show a significant reduction in pain and post-operative opioid consumption.

CONCLUSION

The literature demonstrates non-inferiority of the aQL block compared to the TAP block in abdominal surgery, with some studies suggesting its superiority. Limitations include heterogeneity in study type and design, as well as the presence of confounding variables when comparing across surgery types.

The efficacy and safety of continuous transmuscular quadratus lumborum block for postoperative analgesia after laparoscopic nephrectomy: A prospective randomized clinical trial

Background and Aims

Analgesic efficacy and safety of continuous catheter technique in transmuscular quadratus lumborum block (QLB3) for laparoscopic nephrectomy has not been studied. This study was planned to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ultrasound (US)-guided continuous QLB3 for postoperative analgesia after laparoscopic nephrectomy.

Material and Methods

In this randomized, open-label, single-centered trial, 64 patients belonging to the American Society of Anesthesiologists, physical status grade I and II, 18-65 years of age, scheduled for laparoscopic nephrectomy were included. Patients were randomized into the QLB group and the control group. After surgery, the QLB group received transmuscular QLB with a 0.4 mL/kg bolus of 0.25% ropivacaine and catheter insertion for continuous infusion of 0.25% ropivacaine at 0.1 mL/kg/h. Patients in both groups received fentanyl (0.5 μg/kg) as rescue analgesia by IV PCA pump.

Results

The data of 30 patients in each group were analyzed. Total fentanyl consumption during the first 48 h postoperatively was significantly lower in the QLB group compared to the control group (mean ± SD; QLB group = 74.33 ± 32.75 μg; control group = 209.10 ± 52.04 μg) (P < 0.001). Postoperative NRS pain scores at rest and on movement were significantly lower in the QLB group compared to the control group at various time intervals up to 48 h postoperative (P < 0.05). No severe complications were seen in any of the patients.

Conclusions

US-guided continuous catheter transmuscular QLB reduced postoperative opioid consumption by 64.45% and decreased NRS pain scores after laparoscopic nephrectomy without complications.

Anterior quadratus lumborum blocks for postoperative pain treatment following intra-abdominal surgery: A systematic review with meta-analyses and trial sequential analyses

BACKGROUND

The anterior quadratus lumborum (QL) block may be used for postoperative pain management for intra-abdominal surgeries, but the evidence is uncertain. We aimed to investigate the benefit and harm of the anterior QL block compared to placebo/no block for intra-abdominal surgery.

METHODS

We searched Medline, Embase, and CENTRAL for randomized controlled trials investigating anterior QL block for postoperative pain management for adult patients undergoing any intra-abdominal surgery. The two co-primary outcomes were cumulative 24-h opioid consumption and serious adverse events. We performed meta-analysis, trial sequential analysis (TSA), assessed the risk of bias, and present the certainty of evidence with the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach.

RESULTS

Thirty-five trials randomizing 2418 patients were included in the meta-analyses. Anterior QL block may reduce cumulative 24-h intravenous opioid consumption compared to placebo/no block (MD -10.42 mg, 96.7% CI -14.83 to -6.01, TSA-adjusted CI -17.03 to -3.82, p < .01). Two trials reported on SAEs. Anterior QL block may have little to no effect on the number of serious adverse events compared to placebo (RR 1.49, 96.7% CI 0.19 to 11.47, p = .68), but the evidence is very uncertain. All trial results were assessed as being high risk of bias.

CONCLUSIONS

The anterior QL block may reduce cumulative 24-h opioid consumption. Reported serious adverse events were few and the anterior QL block may have little to no effect on the number of SAEs, but the evidence was very uncertain.

Effect of anterior quadratus lumborum block with ropivacaine on the immune response after laparoscopic surgery in colon cancer: a substudy of a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Surgery induces a temporal change in the immune system, which might be modified by regional anesthesia. Applying a bilateral preoperative anterior quadratus lumborum block has proven to be a safe and effective technique in pain management after abdominal and retroperitoneal surgery, but the effect on the immune response is not thoroughly investigated.

METHODS

This study is a substudy of a randomized, controlled, double-blinded trial of patients undergoing laparoscopic hemicolectomy due to colon cancer. Twenty-two patients were randomized to undergo either a bilateral anterior quadratus lumborum nerve block with a total of 60 mL ropivacaine 0.375% or placebo with corresponding isotonic saline injections. The main objective of this exploratory substudy was to investigate the systemic immune response in the first postoperative day by examining changes in blood transcript levels (n=750) and stimulated secretion of cytokines (n=17) on ex vivo activation with microbial ligands and anti-CD3/CD28.

RESULTS

Using unsupervised data analysis tools, we observed no effect of the bilateral anterior quadratus lumborum nerve block on gene expression in immune cells (permutational multivariate analysis of variance using distance matrices: F=0.52, p=0.96), abundances of major immune cell populations (Wilcoxon rank-sum test: p>0.05), and stimulated cytokine secretion (Wilcoxon rank-sum test: p>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study provides evidence that administration of bilateral anterior quadratus lumborum nerve block as a part of a multimodal analgesic regimen in an enhanced recovery after surgery for laparoscopic hemicolectomy in this cohort does not alter the systemic immune response. Trial registration number NCT03570541.

Superiority of opioid free anesthesia with regional block over opioid anesthesia with regional block in the quality of recovery after retroperitoneiscopic renal surgery: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Opioids are the main analgesic drugs used in the perioperative period, but they often have various adverse effects. Recent studies have shown that quadratus lumborum block (QLB) has an opioid sparing effect. The aim of this study was to further evaluate the effect of opioid-free anesthesia (OFA) combined with regional block on the quality of recovery in patients undergoing retroperitoneoscopic renal surgery.

METHODS

Sixty patients undergoing elective retroperitoneoscopic renal surgery were divided into the opioid-free anesthesia with quadratus lumborum block group (OFA group, N.=30) and opioid anesthesia with quadratus lumborum block group (OA group, N.=30) using the random number table method. The main outcome measures were the quality of recovery assessed by Quality of Recover-40 (QoR-40) at the 24th postoperative hour. Secondary outcomes were postoperative pain score, postoperative opioid consumption, postoperative nausea and vomiting, time to ambulate, and time to readiness for discharge.

RESULTS

The QoR-40 score on the first postoperative day was significantly higher in the OFA group than that in the OA group (175.41±6.74 vs. 165.07±4.55; P<0.05). OFA also significantly reduced postoperative pain (P<0.05) and morphine consumption at both the 24th and 48th postoperative hour (P<0.05), as well as time to ambulate, and time to readiness for discharge (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

OFA with regional block is superior to opioid anesthesia with regional block in the quality of recovery after retroperitoneiscopic renal surgery.

Erector spinae plane block versus quadratus lumborum block for postoperative analgesia after laparoscopic nephrectomy: A randomized controlled trial

STUDY OBJECTIVE

We compared the analgesic effects of erector spinae plane block versus quadratus lumborum block following laparoscopic nephrectomy.

DESIGN

A randomized controlled trial.

SETTING

A tertiary hospital in Beijing, China.

PATIENTS

Patients scheduled for elective laparoscopic nephrectomy.

INTERVENTIONS

A total of 110 patients were enrolled and randomized to receive either erector spinae plane block (n = 55) or quadratus lumborum block (n = 55) under ultrasound guidance. Patient-controlled sufentanil analgesia was provided after surgery.

MEASUREMENTS

Our primary outcome was cumulative opioid consumption within 24 h after surgery. Secondary outcomes included postoperative pain intensity, subjective sleep quality, and quality of recovery.

MAIN RESULTS

All 110 patients (mean 53 years, 57.3% female) were included in the intention-to-treat analysis. Cumulative sufentanil equivalent within 24 h was lower in patients given erector spinae plane block (median 13 μg, interquartile range 4 to 33) than in those given quadratus lumborum block (median 25 μg, interquartile range 13 to 39; median difference - 8 μg, 95% CI -15 to 0, P = 0.041). Pain intensity (0-10 range where 0 = no pain and 10 = the worst pain) at 2, 6, 12, and 24 h after surgery was lower with erector spinae plane block (at rest: median differences -1 point, all P ≤ 0.009; with movement: median differences -2 to -1 points, all P < 0.001). Subjective sleep quality on the night of surgery (the Richards-Campbell Sleep Questionnaire: 0-100 range, higher score better; median difference 12, 95% CI 2 to 23, P = 0.018) and quality of recovery at 24 h (the Quality of Recovery-15: 0-150 range, higher score better; median difference 8, 95% CI 2 to 15, P = 0.012) were better with erector spinae plane block. No procedure-related adverse events occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with quadratus lumborum block, erector spinae plane block provided better analgesia as manifested by lower opioid consumption and pain intensity for up to 24 h after laparoscopic nephrectomy.

Quadratus lumborum block vs. transversus abdominis plane block for postoperative pain control in patients with nephrectomy: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

STUDY OBJECTIVE

This systematic review and network meta-analysis aimed to compare the analgesic efficacy of transversus abdominis plane block (TAPB) and quadratus lumborum block (QLB) on nephrectomy.

DESIGN

Systematic review and network meta-analysis.

PATIENTS

Patients undergoing nephrectomy.

INTERVENTIONS

TAPB and QLB for postoperative analgesia.

MEASUREMENTS

The primary outcome was 24 h morphine-equivalent consumptions after surgery. Secondary outcomes included postoperative pain scores, postoperative opioid consumption, postoperative rescue analgesia, postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), length of hospital stay after surgery, and patient satisfaction.

MAIN RESULTS

Fourteen studies involving 883 patients were included. Seven studies compared TAPB to control, six studies compared QLB to control, and one study compared TAPB to QLB. For direct meta-analysis of the post-surgical 24 h morphine-equivalent consumption, QLB was lower than control (mean difference [95%CI]: -18.16 [-28.96, -7.37]; I2 = 88%; p = 0.001), while there was no difference between TAPB and control (mean difference [95%CI]: -8.34 [-17.84, 1.17]; I2 = 88%; p = 0.09). Network meta-analysis showed similar findings that QLB was ranked as the best anesthetic technique for reducing postoperative 24 h opioid consumption (p-score = 0.854). Moreover, in direct meta-analysis, as compared to control, the time of first postoperative rescue analgesia was prolonged after QLB (mean difference [95%CI]: 165.00 [128.99, 201.01]; p < 0.00001), but not TAPB (mean difference [95%CI]: 296.82 [-91.92, 685.55]; p = 0.13). Meanwhile, QLB can effectively reduce opioid usages at intraoperative period, as well as at postoperative 6 h and 48 h, while TAPB can only reduce opioid consumption at 6 h after surgery. As compared to control, both TAPB and QLB exhibited the reduction in PONV and pain scores at post-surgical some timepoints. Also, QLB (mean difference [95%CI]: -0.29 [-0.49, -0.08]; p = 0.006) but not TAPB (mean difference [95%CI]: 0.60 [-0.25, 1.45]; p = 0.17) exhibited the shorter postoperative length of hospital stay than control.

CONCLUSIONS

QLB is more likely to be effective in reducing postoperative opioid use than TAPB, whereas both of them are superior to control with regard to the reduction in postoperative pain intensity and PONV.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO identifier: CRD42022358464.

New Kid on the Block: A Systematic Review of the Quadratus Lumborum Block in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Background

Although the transversus abdominal plane (TAP) block is commonly used in abdominal surgery as part of enhanced recovery after surgery pathways, the quadratus lumborum (QL) block has been hypothesized as an effective alternative to the TAP block in some areas. This review evaluates the current literature, as it relates to the QL block in plastic and reconstructive surgery.

Methods

A systematic review using PubMed searched for all original, peer-reviewed articles, including the term "quadratus lumborum block." In total, 509 articles were identified for review by two independent reviewers. Original articles evaluating the use of a QL block in any plastic surgery operation were included. Articles evaluating pediatric patients, animal trials, and the use of a QL block in any nonplastic surgery operation were excluded.

Results

Three articles met inclusion criteria. One trial demonstrated decreased subjective pain scores and total opioid use, whereas the second found no statistically significant difference. A case study described the use of a QL block for unilateral breast reconstruction with minimal opiate use and reduced pain scores postoperatively. Limitations include the limited number of studies and the heterogeneity in study type and design, making analysis difficult.

Conclusions

Despite its demonstrated efficacy in other surgical subspecialties, there are limited data evaluating the use of the QL block in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Additional research is needed to evaluate the role of the QL block in plastic surgery and how it compares to the more widely utilized TAP block.

No quadriceps muscle weakness following anterior quadratus lumborum block compared with placebo: a randomized, non-inferiority, blinded, volunteer trial

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Anterior quadratus lumborum block is a truncal block, applied in close proximity to the lumbar plexus, potentially causing lower limb weakness. This trial aimed to evaluate whether a unilateral anterior quadratus lumborum block caused quadriceps muscle weakness compared with placebo.

METHODS

In this randomized, non-inferiority, triple-blind trial, 20 healthy volunteers received an active unilateral anterior quadratus lumborum block with 30 mL ropivacaine 0.75% and a placebo block on the contralateral side. Primary outcome was change in maximal quadriceps muscle strength from baseline to 60 min postblock compared with placebo. Secondary outcomes were change in single-leg 6 m timed hop test, change in Timed-Up and Go test, change in mean arterial pressure from baseline to 30 min postblock and dermatomal affection.

RESULTS

There was no statistically significant difference in changes in maximal quadriceps muscle strength between active and placebo block; 15.88 N (95% CI -12.19 to +43.94), pnon-inf=0.003, indicating non-inferiority. Timed-Up and Go test was performed significantly faster 60 min postblock; -0.23 s (95% CI -0.38 to -0.08, p=0.005). Mean change in mean arterial pressure from baseline to 30 min postblock was 4.25 mm Hg (95% CI 0.24 to 8.26, p=0.04). Dermatome testing revealed an affection primarily of the lower abdomen (Th10-L1) with the active block.

CONCLUSION

In this randomized controlled trial including healthy volunteers a unilateral anterior quadratus lumborum block does not cause statistical or clinical significant motor block of the quadriceps muscle compared with placebo. When administered correctly, the block can be used for procedures where early postoperative mobilization is essential.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT05023343.

Effects of erector spinae plane block on opioid consumption in patients undergoing hand-assisted laparoscopic donor nephrectomy: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The erector spinae plane block is a relatively new regional anesthesia technique that is expected to provide some benefits for postoperative analgesia. This study investigated the effects of erector spinae plane block on postoperative opioid consumption in kidney donors undergoing hand-assisted laparoscopic donor nephrectomy for renal transplantation.

METHODS

Fifty-two donors scheduled for elective hand-assisted laparoscopic donor nephrectomy were randomly divided into the block (25 donors) and control (27 donors) groups. Donors in the block group received 30 mL of 0.25% bupivacaine under ultrasound guidance, whereas the control group received no block treatment. The primary outcome measure was the amount of fentanyl administered via patient-controlled analgesia at 24 h. Secondary outcomes included the duration of stay, opioid consumption in the post-anesthesia care unit, and pain scores during the recording hours.

RESULTS

No significant differences were observed between the groups regarding total opioid consumption converted to intravenous morphine equivalent administered via patient-controlled analgesia (33.3±21.4 mg vs. 37.5±18.5 mg; P=0.27) and in the postanesthesia care unit (1.5±0.9 mg vs. 1.4±0.8 mg; P=0.55). The duration of stay in the postanesthesia care unit (86.3±32.6 min vs. 85.7±33.6 min; P=0.87) was similar between the groups. There was no significant difference between the groups in the postoperative donor-reported NRS pain scores (P>0.05 for all the time points).

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative erector spinae plane block is not an effective strategy for reducing postoperative pain or opioid consumption in patients undergoing hand-assisted laparoscopic donor nephrectomy. Different block combinations are needed for optimal pain management in hand-assisted laparoscopic donor nephrectomy.

Anterior Quadratus Lumborum Block at Lateral Supra-Arcuate Ligament vs Lateral Quadratus Lumborum Block for Postoperative Analgesia after Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Quadratus lumborum block (QLB) has been found to be advantageous for laparoscopic colorectal surgery. This study hypothesized that preoperative anterior QLB at lateral supra-arcuate ligament (QLB-LSAL) would decrease postoperative opioid usage and offer improved analgesia within the context of multimodal analgesia compared with lateral QLB (LQLB) for laparoscopic colorectal surgery.

STUDY DESIGN

In this randomized controlled trial, 82 American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I to III class colorectal cancer patients undergoing laparoscopic radical resection were enrolled and randomly assigned to receive either LQLB or QLB-LSAL (0.375% ropivacaine 0.3 mL/kg bilaterally for each group). The primary outcomes were the total intravenous morphine equivalent consumption at 24 hours postoperatively.

RESULTS

Intravenous morphine equivalent consumption at 24 hours postoperatively was significantly reduced in the QLB-LSAL group compared with that in the LQLB group with per-protocol analysis (29.2 ± 5.8 vs 40.5 ± 9.6 mg, p < 0.001) and intention-to-treat analysis (29.6 ± 6.1 vs 40.8 ± 9.5 mg, p < 0.001). Time to first patient-controlled analgesia request was notably longer in the QLB-LSAL group than that in the LQLB group (10.4 ± 3.9 vs 3.7 ± 1.5 hours, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative bilateral ultrasound-guided QLB-LSAL reduces morphine usage and extends the duration until the first patient-controlled analgesia demand within the framework of multimodal analgesia when compared with LQLB after laparoscopic colorectal surgery.

Randomized controlled trial of the effect of general anesthetics on postoperative recovery after minimally invasive nephrectomy

BACKGROUND

General anesthetic techniques can affect postoperative recovery. We compared the effect of propofol-based total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) and desflurane anesthesia on postoperative recovery.

METHODS

In this randomized trial, 150 patients undergoing robot-assisted or laparoscopic nephrectomy for renal cancer were randomly allocated to either the TIVA or desflurane anesthesia (DES) group. Postoperative recovery was evaluated using the Korean version of the Quality of Recovery-15 questionnaire (QoR-15K) at 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h postoperatively. A generalized estimating equation (GEE) was performed to analyze longitudinal QoR-15K data. Fentanyl consumption, pain severity, postoperative nausea and vomiting, and quality of life three weeks after discharge were also compared.

RESULTS

Data were analyzed for 70 patients in each group. The TIVA group showed significantly higher QoR-15K scores at 24 and 48 h postoperatively (24 h: DES, 96 [77, 109] vs. TIVA, 104 [82, 117], median difference 8 [95% CI: 1, 15], P = 0.029; 48 h: 110 [95, 128] vs. 125 [109, 130], median difference 8 [95% CI: 1, 15], P = 0.022), however not at 72 h (P = 0.400). The GEE revealed significant effects of group (adjusted mean difference 6.2, 95% CI: 0.39, 12.1, P = 0.037) and time (P < 0.001) on postoperative QoR-15K scores without group-time interaction (P = 0.051). However, there were no significant differences in other outcomes, except for fentanyl consumption, within the first 24 h postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

Propofol-based TIVA showed only a transient improvement in postoperative recovery than desflurane anesthesia, without significant differences in other outcomes.

Fascial plane blocks in children-Scientifically supported or not?

Since the introduction of Fascial Plane Blocks in 2007 there has been an enormous interest and application of Fascial Plane Blocks, evidenced by substantially more than 1000 PubMed items. Despite this gigantic number of publications, also including randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses in children, there is still no clear-cut insight into how much of the purported effect is in fact due to the blockade of nerve structures and how much is merely adding the well-known analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of the plasma levels of local anesthetics that are achieved with these techniques. Furthermore, Fascial Plane Blocks appear useful only if compared to conventional multi-modal analgesia (no block or placebo) and Fascial Plane Blocks lack the potency to provide surgical anesthesia on their own and appear only to be of value when used for minor-moderate surgery. Despite the huge literature, there has so far not emerged any clinical situations where Fascial Plane Blocks have definitively been shown to be the block of choice, being decisively more effective than other established regional blocks. Lastly, Fascial Plane Blocks may appear as virtually free of complications, but case reports are emerging that point to a real risk for causing local anesthetic systemic toxicity when using Fascial Plane Blocks. This text aims to synthesize the current knowledge base regarding the Fascial Plane Blocks that are relevant to use in the pediatric context. In summary, there does currently not exist any convincing scientific evidence for the continued support for the use of Fascial Plane Blocks in children, except for the rectus sheath block and possibly also the transmuscular quadratus lumborum block.

Ultrasound-guided anterior quadratus lumborum block at the L2 level for postsurgical analgesia in patients undergoing laparoscopic gynaecological surgery: a single-centre, randomised, double-blinded trial at a university-affiliated hospital in China

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the analgesic effect of an ultrasound-guided anterior quadratus lumborum block (QLB) at the L2 level on postoperative pain after laparoscopic gynaecological surgery.

DESIGN

Prospective single-centre randomised double-blind trial.

SETTING

University-affiliated hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Sixty patients aged between 18 and 65 years scheduled for laparoscopic gynaecological surgery.

INTERVENTIONS

Before surgery, bilateral anterior QLB was performed with 20 mL of 0.375% ropivacaine injected on each side in the QLB group, whereas equal amount of saline was administered in the placebo group.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary endpoint was the cumulative morphine dose in the first 24 hours, and the secondary endpoints were morphine consumption at each time interval, area under the curve (AUC) of the numeric rating scale (NRS) for pain, maximum pain intensity, incidence of moderate-to-severe pain (NRS>3), sedation score, adverse events, and time to home-readiness.

RESULTS

Cumulative morphine consumption in the first 24 hours after surgery was significantly lower in the QLB group than in the placebo group (mean difference, 14.2; 95% CI 6.3 to 22.1; p<0.001). The AUCs of NRS pain intensity scores, including visceral and incisional pain at rest and on movement, were significantly lower in the QLB group than in the placebo group (all p<0.001). The time to home-readiness was significantly shorter in the QLB group than in the placebo group (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Ultrasound-guided anterior QLB at the L2 level significantly reduced morphine consumption and relieved visceral and incision pain intensity after laparoscopic gynaecological surgery, which was beneficial for enhanced recovery.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR-IOR-17011960).

Quadratus lumborum block and transversus abdominis plane block in laparoscopic nephrectomy: a meta-analysis

Aim: To study the efficacy of quadratus lumborum block (QLB) and transversus abdominis plane (TAP) in laparoscopic nephrectomy patients. Materials & methods: We conducted a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials for QLB and/or TAP technique compared with each other or a control. Results: Direct analysis of 24 h post-op pain score at rest for each compared with control showed significant reduction, QLB (mean differences [MD] [95% CI]: -1.12 [-1.87,-0.36]; p = 0.004) and TAP (MD [95% CI]: -0.36 [-0.59, -0.12]; p = 0.003). With movement both were respectively lower than control QLB (MD [95% CI]: -1.12 [-1.51, -0.72]; p = <0.0001) and TAP (MD [95% CI]: -0.50 [-0.95, -0.05]; p = 0.03). Moreover, QLB demonstrated less risk 24 h of post-op nausea vomiting (PONV) versus control (PONV; risk ratios [RR] [95% CI]: 0.64 [0.45,0.90]; p = 0.01). Conclusion: TAP and QLB reduce pain scores compared with control, whereas only QLB reduces PONV compared with control.

Anterior Quadratus Lumborum Block and Quadriceps Strength: A Prospective Cohort Study

The decrease in quadriceps strength after anterior quadratus lumborum block (AQLB) has not been quantified. This prospective cohort study investigated the incidence of quadriceps weakness after AQLB. We enrolled patients undergoing robot-assisted partial nephrectomy, and AQLB was performed at the L2 level with 30 mL of 0.375% ropivacaine. We evaluated each quadriceps' maximal voluntary isometric contraction using a handheld dynamometer preoperatively and postoperatively at 1 and 4 days. The incidence of muscle weakness was defined as a 25% reduction in muscle strength compared with the preoperative baseline, and "muscle weakness possibly caused by nerve block" was defined as a 25% reduction compared with the non-block side. We also assessed the numerical rating scale and quality of recovery-15 scores. Thirty participants were analyzed. The incidence of muscle weakness compared with preoperative baseline and the non-block side was 13.3% and 30.0%, respectively. Patients with a numerical rating scale ≥ 4 or quality of recovery-15 score < 122, which was classified as moderate or poor, had decreased muscle strength with relative risks of 1.75 and 2.33, respectively. All patients ambulated within 24 h after surgery. The incidence of quadriceps weakness possibly caused by nerve block was 13.3%; however, all patients could ambulate after 1 day.

Effects of Erector Spinae Plane Block and Transmuscular Quadratus Lumborum Block on Postoperative Opioid Consumption in Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

INTRODUCTION

Total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) is a common surgical procedure that is frequently associated with substantial postoperative pain. As part of multimodal analgesia, the erector spinae plane block (ESPB) and transmuscular quadratus lumborum block (TQLB) have been demonstrated to be effective. This study aimed to evaluate whether ESPB and TQLB reduce postoperative pain and opioid consumption after TLH.

METHODS

A total of 90 female patients undergoing TLH were randomized to receive either ESPB, TQLB, or no intervention before general anesthesia. All patients received a patient-controlled sufentanil analgesia postoperatively. Postoperative pain and sufentanil consumption were evaluated. The primary outcome was cumulative sufentanil consumption at 12 h postoperatively.

RESULTS

The cumulative sufentanil consumption at 12 h postoperatively was significantly lower in Group ESPB than in Group CON after Bonferroni correction (median [interquartile range], 0 [0, 4] μg vs. 6 [0, 10] μg; median difference = - 3; 95% confidence interval, - 6-0; P = 0.010). There were no significant differences between Group TQLB and CON (0 [0, 4] μg vs. 6 [0, 10] μg; P = 0.098) or between the two block groups (P = 1.000). When compared with Group CON, ESPB and TQLB persistently reduced pain scores until 6 and 4 h after surgery, respectively (P < 0.05). However, no significant differences were found in pain scores between the two block groups.

CONCLUSIONS

ESPB and TQLB improved the quality of multimodal analgesia for TLH. ESPB may be more favorable due to the prolonged period of analgesia and decreased opioid consumption after TLH.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR2100048165, Registry URL: http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=129578 . Date of registration: July 4, 2021. The patient enrollment began on July 12, 2021.

Analgesic Efficacy of Quadratus Lumborum Block in Patients Undergoing Nephrectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the analgesic efficacy of quadratus lumborum block (QLB) in adults undergoing nephrectomy.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

PATIENTS

Adult patients (≥18 years of age) received nephrectomy under general anesthesia.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science on January 10, 2022, including randomized controlled trials that evaluated the analgesic efficacy of QLB for patients undergoing nephrectomy.

RESULTS

A total of 12 randomized controlled trials (N = 821 patients) were included in the study. Compared with the non-block, single-shot QLB reduced postoperative opioid consumption (mean difference [MD], -8.37 mg intravenous morphine equivalent; 95% confidence interval [CI], -12.19 to -4.54 mg) and pain scores at 2 hours, 6 hours, 12 hours, and 24 hours at rest and during movement after nephrectomy. Single-shot QLB also prolonged the time to first analgesic request (MD, 6.44 hours; 95% CI, 2.23 to 10.65 hours), shortened the length of hospital stay (MD, -0.32 day; 95% CI, -0.55 to -0.09 day), and decreased the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (risk ratio, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.36 to 0.65). Compared with continuous epidural anesthesia, repeated QLB could provide comparable postoperative analgesic benefits.

CONCLUSIONS

Single-shot QLB provided a statistically significant but clinically small improvement in postoperative analgesia and recovery for patients undergoing nephrectomy. The QLB would be beneficial as part of multimodal analgesia. Future research might need to determine which approach of QLB is superior for postoperative analgesia after nephrectomy.

Ultrasound-Guided Quadratus Lumborum Block at the Lateral Supra-Arcuate Ligament versus Subcostal Transversus Abdominis Plane Block for Postoperative Analgesia Following Open Hepatectomy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Purpose

Many studies confirmed that several approaches of quadratus lumborum block (QLB) were superior to transversus abdominis plane block (TAPB) in reducing opioid consumption during postoperative period. As a new QLB approach at the lateral supra-arcuate ligament (QLB-LSAL), the analgesic efficacy and safety in patients undergoing open hepatectomy are still unknown. This study aims to compare postoperative analgesia between the blocks in open hepatectomy.

Patients and Methods

Sixty-two patients undergoing open hepatectomy were enrolled and randomly allocated into the QLB-LSAL group (group Q) and the subcostal TAPB group (group T). Preoperatively, patients received ultrasound-guided bilateral QLB-LSAL or subcostal TAPB with injection of 0.5% ropivacaine (a total volume of 40 mL). The primary outcome was cumulative total morphine equivalent consumption in the first postoperative 24 h. Other outcomes included numerical rating scale (NRS) scores at rest and coughing, cumulative total morphine equivalent consumption at 2, 6, 12, 48 h, Quality of Recovery-15 (QoR-15) scores, time to first patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) request, time to first ambulation and adverse effects.

Results

The cumulative total morphine equivalent consumption in group Q was decreased significantly at all postoperative time points (P < 0.01). The postoperative NRS scores at rest and coughing in group Q were lower than those in group T at all postoperative time points except 48 h (P < 0.05). A significant increase was also observed in the QoR-15 scores among patients in group Q. Time to first PCIA request was significantly prolonged in group Q than in group T, and time to first ambulation was shortened. Adverse effects showed no statistical significance between the two groups.

Conclusion

Compared with subcostal TAPB, preoperative bilateral QLB-LSAL provided superior analgesic properties and promoted early postoperative recovery quality in patients undergoing open hepatectomy.

Trial Registration

China Clinical Trials Registration Center (http://www.chictr.org.cn) ChiCTR2200063291, 3/9/2022.

Narcotic Requirements before and after Implementation of Buccal Nerve Blocks for Buccal Mucosa Graft Harvest: Technique and Retrospective Review

The reduction in opioid use has become a public health priority. We aimed to assess if performing buccal nerve blocks (BNB) at the time of buccal mucosa graft (BMG) harvest impacts post-operative narcotic usage in the inpatient setting. We retrospectively reviewed clinical characteristics and morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs) received for all patients that underwent a BMG urethroplasty at our institution. The primary outcome measure was post-operative MMEs for patients before and after implementing the BNB. We identified 74 patients that underwent BMG urethroplasty, 37 of which were before the implementation of the BNB and 37 of which were after. No other changes were made to the peri-operative pathway between these time points. The mean total MMEs per day, needed post-operatively, was lower in the BNB group (8.8 vs. 5.0, p = 0.12). A histogram distribution of the two groups, categorized by number of MMEs received, showed no significant differences between the two groups. In this retrospective analysis, we report our experience using BNBs at the time of buccal mucosa graft harvest. While there were no significant differences between the number of MMEs received before and after implementation, further research is needed to assess the blocks’ impact on pain scores.

Comparison of the Postoperative Analgesic Effects between Ultrasound-Guided Transmuscular Quadratus Lumborum Block and Thoracic Paravertebral Block in Laparoscopic Partial Nephrectomy Patients: A Randomized, Controlled, and Noninferiority Study

Background

This prospective, randomized, double-blinded, noninferiority study aimed to compare the effects of analgesia and recovery between transmuscular quadratus lumborum block (TMQLB) and paravertebral block (PVB).

Methods

Sixty-eight, American Society of Anesthesiologists level I-III patients, who underwent laparoscopic partial nephrectomy in Peking Union Medical College Hospital were randomly allocated to either TMQLB or PVB group (independent variable) in a 1 : 1 ratio. The TMQLB and PVB groups received corresponding regional anesthesia preoperatively with 0.4 ml/kg of 0.5% ropivacaine and follow-up at postoperative 4, 12, 24, and 48 hours. The participants and outcome assessors were blinded to group allocation. We hypothesized that the primary outcome, postoperative 48-hour cumulative morphine consumption, in the TMQLB group was not more than 50% of that in the PVB group. Secondary outcomes including pain numerical rating scales (NRS) and postoperative recovery data were dependent variables.

Results

Thirty patients in each group completed the study. The postoperative 48-hour cumulative morphine consumption was 10.60 ± 5.28 mg in the TMQLB group and 6.40 ± 3.40 mg in the PVB group. The ratio (TMQLB versus PVB) of postoperative 48-hour morphine consumption was 1.29 (95% CI: 1.13-1.48), indicating a noninferior analgesic effect of TMQLB to PVB. The sensory block range was wider in the TMQLB group than in the PVB group (difference 2 dermatomes, 95% CI 1 to 4 dermatomes, P=0.004). The intraoperative analgesic dose was higher in the TMQLB group than in the PVB group (difference 32 µg, 95% CI: 3-62 µg, P=0.03). The postoperative pain NRS at rest and on movement, incidences of side effects, anesthesia-related satisfaction, and quality of recovery scores were similar between the two groups (all P  >  0.05).

Conclusions

The postoperative 48-hour analgesic effect of TMQLB was noninferior to that of PVB in laparoscopic partial nephrectomy. This trial is registered with NCT03975296.

Efficacy of quadratus lumborum block on postoperative pain and side effects in patients who underwent urological surgery: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Ultrasound-guided quadratus lumborum block (QLB) is considered a novel nerve block for postoperative pain control. However, its efficacy after urological surgery remains unclear.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of the current meta-analysis was to evaluate the effects of the QLB block versus control (placebo or no injection) on postoperative pain and other adverse outcomes after urological surgery, providing extensive evidence of whether quadratus lumborum block is suitable for pain management after urological surgery.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov to collect studies investigating the effects of QLB on analgesia after urological surgery. The primary outcomes included visual analog scale (VAS) at rest and during movement, 24-h postoperative morphine consumption, and the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV).

RESULTS

Overall, 13 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were reviewed, including 751 patients who underwent urological surgery. The QLB group exhibited a lower VAS score postoperatively at rest or on movement at 0, 6, 12, and 24 h, with less 24-h postoperative morphine consumption and lower incidence of PONV.

LIMITATIONS

Although the result is stable, heterogeneity exists in the current research.

CONCLUSIONS

QLB exhibited a favorable effect of postoperative analgesia with reduced postoperative complications at rest or during movement after urological surgery. However, it is still a novel technology at a primary stage, which needs further research to develop.

Reduced Opioid Consumption with Pericapsular Nerve Group Block for Hip Surgery: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

The pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block targets the nerves innervating the anterior hip surface; however, few studies on this technique are currently available. We investigated the effects of the PENG block on postoperative opioid consumption after a hip surgery. This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted at a single institution. Fifty patients undergoing hip surgery were randomly allocated, 25 in each group, to receive a PENG block either using 25 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine (PENG group) or 25 mL of saline (control group). The primary outcome was the total opioid consumption 24 h postoperatively. The secondary outcomes were postoperative pain scores, time to first opioid demand, sensory block efficiency, quadriceps muscle strength, complications, and patient satisfaction. Compared with those in the control group, patients in the PENG group had a significantly lower total opioid consumption 24 h postoperatively (440.72 ± 242.20 μg vs. 611.07 ± 313.89 μg, P = 0.037) and significantly lower pain scores at 30 min postblock and 6 postoperatively (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively). The time to first opioid demand was significantly shorter in the control group than in the PENG group (P < 0.001). Sensory block effectiveness was better in the PENG group 30 min postblock and 6 and 12 h postoperatively than in the control group. Patient satisfaction was also better in the PENG group than in the control group. There were no differences in the other outcomes. The PENG block reduced the total opioid consumption in the first 24 h after hip surgery with no significant effects on quadriceps muscle strength and complication rate. This study was registered at the Korea Clinical Research Information Service (cris.nih.go.kr; Reg. No. KCT0006348) on July 16, 2021.

Analgesic Effect of Ultrasound-Guided Anterior Quadratus Lumborum Block at the L2 Level in Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Partial Nephrectomy: A Single-Center, Randomized Controlled Trial

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of ultrasound-guided anterior quadratus lumborum block (QLB) at the L2 level in patients undergoing laparoscopic partial nephrectomy.

Methods

Patients who were 18-70 years old with an American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status of 1-2 and were scheduled for elective laparoscopic partial nephrectomy were recruited into the cluster randomized controlled trial. Sixty-three patients were randomly allocated to receive QLB (group Q, n = 32) or no block (group C, n = 31). The patients were not masked to the group allocations. The postoperative follower was blinded to the group allocations. All patients received total intravenous anesthesia, the same multimodal analgesic regimen, and rescue analgesia when needed. The primary outcome was perioperative cumulative sufentanil consumption.

Results

30 patients in group Q and 29 patients in group C were included in the statistical analysis. Block-related complications were not found in this study. Sufentanil consumption during the perioperative period (155.41 [19.58] vs 119.37 [12.41] μg, p < 0.001) and sufentanil dosage during surgery and 0-6 h, 6-12 h, and 12-24 h after surgery were lower in group Q than in group C, while 24-48 h after surgery was similar between both groups. The median sensory blockade area in group Q was T9-L1. Comparison of invasive blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) before and after skin incision in group C was statistically significant, but there was no significant difference in group Q. Both at rest and during activity, numerical rating scale (NRS) scores and the incidence of rescue analgesia were lower in group Q at any time point after surgery. The incidences of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), time from postoperative to discharge, postoperative recovery quality, or anesthesia satisfaction were similar between the two groups.

Conclusions

Anterior QLB at the L2 level can reduce the perioperative dosage of sufentanil and the degree of postoperative pain in patients undergoing laparoscopic partial nephrectomy, but it did not improve postoperative recovery quality and anesthesia satisfaction.

Impact of Partial Nephrectomy and Percutaneous Cryoablation on Short-term Health-related Quality of Life—A Prospective Comparative Cohort Study

Background

Partial nephrectomy (PN) is the gold standard for the treatment of stage cT1 renal cell carcinoma (RCC). However, the increasing incidence of RCC in the elderly population calls for alternative minimally invasive treatments to reduce the negative effects on patients’ health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and subsequent healthy life expectancy.

Objective

To assess and compare short-term HRQoL and self-reported health status after PN and percutaneous cryoablation (PCA) of patients treated for RCC stage cT1.

Design, setting, and participants

Patients who underwent PN or PCA between 2019 and 2021 for RCC stage cT1 at two university hospitals in Denmark were assessed. The exclusion criteria included insufficient understanding of the Danish language, dementia, metastatic RCC, conversion to nephrectomy, and salvage procedures.

Intervention

PN and PCA.

Outcome measurements and statistical analysis

The European Organisation for the Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire was distributed before treatment, and 14 and 90 d postoperatively. A linear mixed-effect model was used to analyze the changes from baseline to follow-up between PN and PCA treatment.

Results and limitations

The cohort included 165 patients (PN: 79; PCA: 86). The completion rate was 96–98%. Patients receiving PCA were significantly older (median 69.1 vs 62.1 yr) and had lower scores on physical (p < 0.001) and role functioning (p = 0.009) than PN. A statistically significant change from baseline to 14 d was found for several HRQoL scales, which favored PCA over PN. However, the observed change was no longer significant at 90-d follow-up. Limitations include sample size and confounding by indication.

Conclusions

This study found a significant difference between baseline and 14-d follow-up in several HRQoL and symptoms scales, favoring PCA over PN. However, no significant differences were observed in any HRQoL scales between PN and PCA of RCC stage cT1 from baseline to 90-d follow-up.

Patient summary

Surgical removal and percutaneous cryoablation (freezing) of small tumors in the kidney had a similar impact on quality of life after 90 d.

Partial Nephrectomy versus Percutaneous Cryoablation of Small Renal Cell Carcinomas: A Comparison of Adverse Events in a Prospective Multicenter Cohort Study

PURPOSE

To assess and compare complications and readmissions after partial nephrectomy and percutaneous cryoablation of cT1 renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients treated for cT1 RCC between 2019 and 2021 were prospectively and consecutively enrolled. Complications recorded within 30 and 90 days were graded according to the Clavien-Dindo classification, and percutaneous cryoablation was graded according to the Society of Interventional Radiology classification of adverse events. Major complications were defined as complications with a grade of ≥3 based on the Clavien-Dindo classification. Readmission within 30 days was recorded.

RESULTS

The cohort included 86 partial nephrectomies and 104 cryoablations. The complication rate within 90 days was 23% after partial nephrectomy and cryoablation (P = .98), with major complication rates of 3% after partial nephrectomy and 10% after cryoablation (P = .15). The readmission rates were 14% and 11% after partial nephrectomy and cryoablation, respectively (P = .48). Double-J stents were associated with overall complications (odds ratio [OR], 9.88; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.18-44.68; P = .003) and readmissions (OR, 5.39; 95% CI, 1.37-21.06; P = .015) after cryoablation. A high versus low radius-endophytic-nearness-anterior-location score (OR, 5.86; 95% CI, 1.08-31.81; P = .040) and endophytic location (OR, 7.70; 95% CI, 1.72-34.50; P = .008) were associated with a higher complication rate after cryoablation. The Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) was associated with major complications after partial nephrectomy (OR, 2.12; 95% CI, 1.05-4.30; P = .036).

CONCLUSIONS

Partial nephrectomy and cryoablation are comparable regarding complications within 90 days after treatment. Tumor complexity and double-J stents were associated with complications after cryoablation, and a high CCI was associated with complications after partial nephrectomy.

Ultrasound-guided posterior quadratus lumborum block can reduce postoperative opioid consumption and promote rapid recovery in patients undergoing sutureless laparoscopic partial nephrectomy: A triple-blind, randomized, controlled study

Purpose

We hypothesized that posterior quadratus lumborum block would reduce postoperative opioid consumption and improve the quality of recovery in patients undergoing sutureless laparoscopic partial nephrectomy.

Materials and methods

The study included 60 patients, ages 18−65 with American Society of Anesthesiologists scores of I-II scheduled for elective sutureless laparoscopic partial nephrectomy. Before general anesthesia, 60 participating patients were randomly allocated to receive a 30-ml injection posterior to the quadratus lumborum muscle with either 0.375% ropivacaine (n = 30) or normal saline (n = 30). The primary outcomes included cumulative opioid consumption within 12 h postoperatively and quality of postoperative recovery at 48 h. Secondary outcomes included the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), opioid consumption by period, first time to press the analgesic pump, number of patients needing rescue analgesia, blood glucose and cortisol concentrations, early postoperative recovery indicators, and adverse events.

Results

There were 48 patients included in the final analysis. The intervention group had lower cumulative consumption of sufentanil within 12 h postoperatively and higher quality of postoperative recovery scores at 48 h postoperatively compared with the control group (p < 0.001). The NRS at resting and movement of the intervention group was lower at 0 h, 6 h, and 12 h after surgery than in the control group (p < 0.05). At prespecified intervals (0 to 2 h, 2 to 6 h, 6 to 12 h, 12 to 24 h, and 24 to 48 h) after surgery, the intervention group had lower consumption of sufentanil compared with the control group (p < 0.05). The intervention group took longer to press the analgesic pump for the first time within 48 h after surgery compared with the control group (p < 0.001). The postoperative blood glucose and cortisol concentrations in the intervention group were lower than in the control group (p < 0.05). The times to first excretion, ambulation, and discharge were shorter in the intervention group compared with the control group (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in adverse events between the two groups.

Conclusions

Our trial demonstrated that patients who received posterior quadratus lumborum block had significantly lower opioid consumption within 12 h postoperatively and had a better quality of recovery at 48 h postoperatively. Therefore, we recommend posterior quadratus lumborum block as an option for postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing sutureless laparoscopic partial nephrectomy.

Trial Registration

http://www.chictr.org.cn, identifier ChiCTR2100053439.

Anterior quadratus lumborum block does not reduce postoperative opioid consumption following laparoscopic hemicolectomy: a randomized, double-blind, controlled trial in an ERAS setting

Background and aims

An opioid-sparing postoperative analgesic regimen following laparoscopic hemicolectomy is optimal to promote minimal postoperative pain, early mobilization, and improved quality of recovery. Various regional anesthesia techniques have been tested to improve postoperative pain management after laparoscopic hemicolectomy. In this study, we aimed to assess the effect of administering a preoperative bilateral ultrasound-guided anterior quadratus lumborum nerve block on postoperative opioid consumption after laparoscopic colon cancer surgery.

Methods

In this randomized, controlled, double-blinded trial, 69 patients undergoing laparoscopic hemicolectomy due to colon cancer were randomized to receive an anterior quadratus lumborum block with ropivacaine 0.375% 30 mL on each side or isotonic saline (placebo). The primary outcome measure was total opioid consumption during the first 24 hours postsurgery. The secondary outcome measures were pain scores, accumulated opioid consumption in 6-hour intervals, nausea and vomiting, ability of postoperative ambulation, time to first opioid, orthostatic hypotension or intolerance, postoperative Quality of Recovery-15 scores, surgical complications, length of hospital stay, and adverse events.

Results

The total opioid consumption in the first 24 hours postsurgery was not significantly reduced in the ropivacaine group compared with the saline group (mean 129 mg (SD 88.4) vs mean 127.2 mg (SD 89.9), p=0.93). In addition, no secondary outcome measures showed any statistically significant intergroup differences.

Conclusion

The administration of a preoperative bilateral anterior quadratus lumborum nerve block as part of a multimodal analgesic regimen for laparoscopic hemicolectomy did not significantly reduce opioid consumption 24 hours postsurgery.

Trial registration numberNCT03570541.

Comparative Study between Ultrasound-Guided Quadratus Lumborum Block Type 2 Versus Lumbar Epidural Analgesia as a Perioperative Analgesic Technique for Pelvic Cancer Surgeries

Background: The effect of the quadratus lumborum block (QLB) is believed to result from a spread of LA from its lumbar deposition cranially into the thoracic paravertebral space.The aim of this study is to compare the analgesic efficacy of an Ultrasound-guided quadrates lumborum type II block versus lumbar epidural analgesia or conventional analgesia after pelvic cancer surgeries regarding intraoperative fentanyl consumption, postoperative pain scores and morphine consumption in the first 24 hours.Methods: This study was conducted on 90 patients of American Society of Anesthesia (ASA) physical status II scheduled for elective pelvic cancer operations. Patients were randomized into three equal groups of 30 patients: Group Q: received bilateral QLB by 20ml of 0.25% bupivacaine in each side, Group E: received continuous lumbar epidural block analgesia ((0.125 % bupivacaine at infusion rate of 6ml/hour for 24 hours). Group C (Control group): were transferred to operation room without further intervention.Results: End tidal sevoflurane was significantly decreased in group Q than group C and in group E than group C at all time measurements. VAS at 0.5, 1, 8. 16 and 24 hours was significantly increased in group C than Group Q and group E. Time to first rescue dose of morphine was significantly increased in Group E than Group Q (P1 <0.001) and was significantly decreased in group C than Group Q (P2 <0.001) and was significantly decreased in group C than Group E (P3 <0.001). Total dose of morphine in 1st 24 hours was significantly increased at group C than group Q and group E (P <0.001) but there was an insignificant difference between Group Q and E.Conclusion: When compared to the control group, QLB and epidural block resulted in decreased VAS, intraoperative sevoflurane and fentanyl use and postoperative morphine consumption with a greater level of patient satisfaction. Epidural block, on the other hand, resulted in less intraoperative sevoflurane usage than QLB.

Evaluation of Sensory Loss and Postoperative Analgesia Obtained by Diaphragmatic Apposition Zone Block Under Direct Laparoscopic Visualization in Patients Undergoing Nephrectomy: A Descriptive Study

Purpose

Local anesthetics can spread into the subendothoracic fascia compartment via the arcuate ligament and apposition zone of the diaphragm after the anterior quadratus lumborum blocks. Therefore, a new block may be achieved if local anesthetic is administered into the diaphragmatic apposition zone (DAZ) under direct laparoscopic visualization by surgeons. Therefore, we evaluated the sensory loss and postoperative analgesic efficacy of this new block in patients receiving laparoscopic nephrectomy.

Methods

A total of 28 patients scheduled to receive elective laparoscopic nephrectomy under general anesthesia were enrolled in this study. The DAZ blocks were performed in patients under direct laparoscopic visualization with 20 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine before the dissected kidneys or renal tumors were taken out from the incision. All patients received the intravenous patient-controlled analgesia after surgery. The dermatomes of sensory loss and the muscle weakness of quadriceps femoris were assessed at 2 h post-surgery in the wards. The postoperative pain was scored. The opioid consumption in the first 24 h after surgery was recorded.

Results

The average number of dermatomes of sensory block was 8.6 ± 1.2. The highest level of sensory loss was T6 (T5-T6) [median (interquartile range, IQR)], and the lowest level of sensory block was L1 (L1–L2). The postoperative pain scores at rest or on movement at 2 h, 6 h, 12 h, 24 h and 48 h were kept at the low levels (less than 4). The muscle strength of the quadriceps femoris evaluated was 5 (5–5) points [median (IQR)]. Total dose of intravenous morphine equivalent consumption in the first 24 h after surgery was 21.2 ± 4.1 mg.

Conclusion

The DAZ block manifests a wide dermatomal coverage of sensory loss and is associated with the low levels of postoperative pain intensity and opioid use. It provides a new postoperative analgesia option for patients undergoing laparoscopic nephrectomy.

Ultrasound-Guided Quadratus Lumborum Block Enhances the Quality of Recovery after Gastrointestinal Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

Quadratus lumborum block (QLB) has been used to reduce postoperative acute pain and opioid consumption. However, the efficacy of QLB on the quality of recovery (QoR) after gastrointestinal surgery has not been established. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of QLB to enhance the postoperative QoR in patients undergoing open gastrointestinal surgery.

Methods

Eighty-four patients undergoing open gastrointestinal surgery were randomized to receive ultrasound-guided QLB with either 20 ml of 0.375% ropivacaine or saline. The primary outcome was the QoR-15 score at 24 h after surgery. The secondary outcomes were the postoperative pain intensity, opioid consumption, the incidence of nausea, vomiting, and chronic pain.

Results

The global QoR-15 score at 24 h postoperatively was significantly higher in the QLB group than in the control group (mean difference: 16.9; 95% CI: 11.9–21.9). Additionally, the QoR-15 scores for five dimensions were significantly higher in the QLB group than in the control group. The cumulative oxycodone consumption was significantly lower in the QLB group during 0–6, 6–24, 0–24, 24–48, and 0–48 h postoperatively than in the control group. At rest or during coughing, the pain verbal rating scale scores were significantly lower at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 h after surgery in the QLB group than in the control group. The incidence of postoperative nausea was significantly different between the groups, but postoperative vomiting was not.

Conclusion

Single-injection posteromedial QLB with ropivacaine enhanced the QoR at 48 h after surgery and improved analgesia during the early postoperative period in patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery.

An Enhanced Recovery After Surgery protocol for robotic-assisted laparoscopic nephrectomies utilizing a quadratus lumborum block

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols have been developed in several fields to reduce hospitalization lengths and overall costs. There have also been developments in multimodal analgesia methods to curtail opioid usage after surgery. Herein, we present the results of our initiation of an ERAS protocol for robotic-assisted laparoscopic partial and radical nephrectomies, employing a quadratus lumborum (QL) regional anesthetic block. We retrospectively reviewed 614 patients in our Institutional Review Board approved database who underwent robotic-assisted laparoscopic partial or radical nephrectomies from January 2017 to February 2020. An ERAS protocol utilizing multimodal analgesia (acetaminophen and gabapentin) and a QL block was developed and introduced in February 2019. We then compared the opioid consumption and perioperative outcomes of patients before and after ERAS protocol initiation. 192 ERAS patients (February 2019 to February 2020) were compared to 422 non-ERAS patients (January 2017 to January 2019). Baseline characteristics and the proportion of preoperative opioids users were similar between the two groups. There were no statistically significant differences in surgery length, hospitalization length, or complication rates. There were statistically significant differences in our primary endpoint, opioid consumption, on post-operative days 0 (p < 0.001), 1 (p < 0.001), and 2 (p < 0.001). The total opioid requirements over the course of admission were lower in the ERAS group compared to the non-ERAS group (p = 0.03). The initiation of an ERAS protocol employing multimodal analgesia and a QL block, for patients undergoing robotic-assisted laparoscopic partial or radical nephrectomies, can decrease opioid requirements without compromising perioperative outcomes.

The Use of Peripheral Nerve Blockade in Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgery: Is There a Benefit?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this review is to synthesize recent literature investigating the use of regional anesthesia for minimally invasive surgery.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies investigating the use of newer peripheral nerve blocks such as erector spinae plane (ESP) and quadratus lumborum (QL) block are very limited. Evidence supporting the use of peripheral nerve blockade in laparoscopic or robotic surgery is very limited and of low-moderate quality. While transverse abdominal plane (TAP) block may decrease opioid and pain scores after laparoscopic cholecystectomy, bariatric surgery, and colorectal surgery, the benefit of the block in the presence of multimodal analgesia remains to be clarified. Unilateral paravertebral block may be beneficial for percutaneous nephrolithotomy. ESP and rectus sheath blockade may enhance analgesia in laparoscopic surgery, but the magnitude of this benefit may not be clinically relevant. Limited evidence supports the use of QL block in laparoscopic urologic surgery. There is insufficient recent evidence to support the use of TAP or QL block for laparoscopic gynecologic surgery.

Evaluation of Analgesia Effect after Ultrasound-Guided Laparoscopic Renal Surgery

Kidney surgery involves placing the kidney in the iliac fossa of the lower abdomen on the right or left side. Studies have found that most kidney patients experience moderate to severe pain after surgery. The stress response caused by postoperative pain, especially visceral pain, not only aggravates the patient's pain and irritability and aggravates the original complications but may also harm the early recovery of renal function and affect the survival of the kidney. Therefore, adequate postoperative analgesia for renal patients is essential. This paper combines ultrasound-guided laparoscopic technology to improve the postoperative analgesia effect of renal surgery and compares the data with experimental research methods. Through experimental research, it can be seen that the method proposed in this article has a certain effect, and ultrasound-guided laparoscopic technology can be used in follow-up clinical research to improve the analgesic effect of renal surgery.

Ultrasound-Guided Continuous Transmuscular Quadratus Lumborum Block for Postoperative Analgesia in Patients Undergoing Radical Nephrectomy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Introduction

Ultrasound (US) guided transmuscular quadratus lumborum block (TMQLB) has been widely used as regional anaesthesia (RA) technique for managing postoperative pain after intraperitoneal and retroperitoneal procedures like nephrectomy, percutaneous nephrostomy, cholecystectomy, and also for hip surgeries. Although continuous epidural analgesia is considered the gold standard for most of these procedures, alternative techniques such as transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block and continuous rectus sheath block have also been used successfully. US-guided TMQLB seems to have more advantages than TAP block as it blocks the visceral afferents. With more cephalad spread of the local anaesthetic into the thoracic paravertebral space, it might block somatic pain from T6 to L2 as well.

Methods

After institutional ethics committee approval, we recruited 64 consecutive patients in the study and randomized them into two groups. Patients in the study group received bupivacaine (0.125%) and the control group received normal saline as a continuous infusion for 48 hours. Both groups were compared for 48 hours morphine consumption, time to first analgesic, hemodynamics, postoperative nausea/vomiting (PONV), sedation, and other adverse events.

Results

Data from 60 patients were analyzed. Forty-eight hours of morphine consumption in group A (study) was less than group B (7.4 ± 4.57 mg versus 11.86 ± 5.58 mg) and the time to first morphine requirement was 240 min (105-500) in group A compared to 90 min (90-225) in group B which was statistically significant. Demographic data, American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status, hemodynamics, Ramsay sedation score (RSS), and PONV were comparable in both groups.

Conclusion

Continuous US-guided TMQLB appears to be a safe and effective RA technique for managing postoperative pain after nephrectomy for up to 48 hours. Trial registration: German Clinical Trials Register-DRKS-ID: DRKS00014611.

Anterior quadratus lumborum block at the lateral supra-arcuate ligament versus transmuscular quadratus lumborum block for postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing laparoscopic nephrectomy: A randomized controlled trial

STUDY OBJECTIVE

The analgesic efficacy of transmuscular quadratus lumborum block (TQLB) to decrease the need for opioid consumption after laparoscopic nephrectomy has been demonstrated in several studies. However, the effect of an anterior QLB approach at the lateral supra-arcuate ligament (QLB-LSAL) in this surgical context is unclear. Here, we aimed to compare postoperative analgesic effects of the two block approaches in laparoscopic nephrectomy.

DESIGN

A single-center, randomized controlled trial.

SETTING

University-affiliated tertiary care hospital.

PATIENTS

A total of 106 patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status of I-III scheduled to undergo elective laparoscopic nephrectomy under general anesthesia.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients were randomly allocated to receive preoperative TQLB or QLB-LSAL with 0.5% ropivacaine (25 mL). Postoperatively, patient-controlled analgesia with intravenous sufentanil was administered.

MEASUREMENTS

The primary outcome was postoperative intravenous morphine equivalent consumption within the first 24 h postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included pain scores, satisfaction scores, levels of sedation, and incidence of nausea or vomiting.

MAIN RESULTS

Patients who underwent preoperative QLB-LSAL used a significantly lower intravenous morphine equivalent dose than those who underwent preoperative TQLB within the initial 24 h after surgery (34.3 ± 6.3 mg vs 23.5 ± 3.2 mg, P < 0.001). No significant differences were observed in pain scores, satisfaction scores, sedation scores, or incidence of nausea or vomiting between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that, compared to TQLB, QLB-LSAL is a beneficial nerve block that can reduce postoperative opioid consumption, making it a potentially superior approach to achieve multimodal analgesia after laparoscopic nephrectomy.

Transmuscular quadratus lumborum block for postoperative pain and recovery after laparoscopic adrenalectomy: a randomized controlled trial

Background

To investigate the role of transmuscular quadratus lumborum block (TMQLB) for postoperative pain control, patient satisfaction and recovery in laparoscopic adrenalectomy.

Methods

Seventy-two patients aged between 18 and 70 years with an ASA I-II and scheduled for laparoscopic adrenalectomy were randomized to receive a single-shot TMQLB with 0.4 ml/kg 0.5 % ropivacaine or 0.4 ml/kg 0.9 % saline as placebo. The primary endpoint was pain on movement at 12 h after surgery evaluated by the numeric rating scale (NRS, 0–10). P-values < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The secondary outcomes included pain at rest and pain on movement evaluated by the NRS, and postoperative recovery related parameters.

Results

NRS on movement at 12 h after surgery was lower in the TMQLB group compared with the control (median 2 vs. 3, p = 0.024). Intraoperative fentanyl consumption was lower in the TMQLB group (247.08 ± 63.54 vs. 285.44 ± 74.70, p = 0.022). The rate of using postoperative rescue tramadol was also lower in the TMQLB group (5.6 vs. 27.8 %, p = 0.027). Similar incidences of nausea and vomiting were observed (11.1 vs. 25 %, p = 0.220). Patient satisfaction of pain service was better in the TMQLB group (83.3 vs. 25 %, p < 0.001) with shorter time to ambulation (16.5 vs. 21 h, p = 0.004) and flatus (18.5 vs. 23.5 h, p = 0.006).

Conclusions

TMQLB showed better control of postoperative pain on movement for laparoscopic adrenalectomy with improved patients’ satisfaction of anesthesia, shorter time to ambulation and flatus.

Trial registration

This study was registered at Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03942237; registration date: 08/05/2019; enrollment date: 10/05/2019).

Evaluation of analgesic effects and safety of quadratus lumborum block in patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

INTRODUCTION

Recent years have witnessed the rapid expansion of quadratus lumborum block (QLB) technique in laparoscopic surgeries. However, inconsistent conclusions from latest studies prompted us to conduct present study to evaluate comprehensively the effects of QLB in patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Databases including PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library were searched from inception to March 2021 by us. Randomized controlled trials comparing QLB versus placebo or different block techniques were involved. Coprimary outcomes included number of patients requiring additional analgesia, opioids consumption and incidence of postoperative nausea/vomiting (PONV).

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Data from 20 studies involving a total of 1,332 patients were acquired. Based on the current evidences, the results indicated that application of QLB was associated with less number of patients requiring additional analgesia (RR = 0.67, with 95% CI [0.49, 0.91]), reduced intraoperative opioid consumption (SMD - 0.97 with 95% CI [-1.48, -0.45]) and postoperative opioid consumption (SMD -19.12 with 95% CI [-34.83, -3.41]), and less incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (RR = 0.71, with 95% CI [0.58, 0.87]) compared to placebo. In addition, no significant intergroup (QLB vs different regional block techniques) differences were observed for most outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Current evidences exhibited several superiorities of QLB for patients in laparoscopic surgeries. Differences between QLB and some other block techniques in analgesic effects and PONV controlling effects were not significant. However, it calls for more high-quality evidences with large samples and trials with consistent evaluation scales for pain evaluation to draw more reliable conclusions.

A Dynamic Test to Identify the Potential Recess Between the Psoas Major and Quadratus Lumborum Muscles at the Supra-Iliac Level

Purpose

The transmuscular quadratus lumborum block (TQLB) deposits the local anesthetic into the fascial interspace between the quadratus lumborum (QL) and psoas major (PM) muscles in the lumbar paravertebral regions. However, there are multiple anatomical relationships between the QL and PM muscles in the cross section of ultrasound scanning at the supra-iliac level, which may influence the identification of injection site with the TQLB. In the current study, we developed a dynamic test to identify the anatomical relationships between the QL and PM muscles.

Methods

Forty male and 40 female volunteers were enrolled from June 20, 2021 to July 2, 2021 at Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University for this descriptive study. The ultrasound identification of the cross-section anatomical relationship between the QL and PM muscles was performed under the shamrock sonogram at the supra-iliac level. The types of anatomical relationship between the QL and PM muscles were divided into “separate” or “non-separate”. The volunteers who were identified as “non-separate” received the dynamic tests. The numbers of positive dynamic tests in “non-separate” volunteers were recorded.

Results

Six (15%) male volunteers and 10 (25%) female volunteers were identified as “separate”. Thirty-four male and 30 female volunteers who were identified as “non-separate” received the dynamic tests. The positive dynamic tests were observed in 8 (23.5%) male and 9 (30%) female volunteers, respectively.

Conclusion

Our study showed that the potential recess between the encased QL and encased PM muscles may exist in “non-separate” subjects, in which the local anesthetic is injected may result in the block failure. A dynamic test could help distinguish the potential recess.

Comparison of ultrasound-guided anterior quadratus lumborum block at the lateral supra-arcuate ligament with posterior quadratus lumborum block for perioperative analgesia in laparoscopic nephrectomy: a protocol for a randomised, prospective, parallel group, non-inferior trial

OBJECTIVE

Anterior quadratus lumborum block at the lateral supra-arcuate ligament (QLBA) is a new method for postoperative pain relief in patients undergoing abdominal surgery. Perioperative QLBA is effective, but it has not been compared with posterior quadratus lumborum block (QLB2). The present study aims to evaluate the postoperative pain of patients undergoing laparoscopic nephrectomy surgery with QLBA versus QLB2.

METHODS/DESIGN

This study is a randomised, prospective, parallel group, non-inferior trial. All patients undergoing laparoscopic nephrectomy surgery will be randomised 1:1 to the QLBA group or the QLB2 group with general anaesthesia. The objective of the trial is to evaluate the postoperative pain of patients undergoing laparoscopic nephrectomy surgery with QLBA (n=50) versus QLB2 (n=50). The primary outcome for this trial is the Visual Analogue Scale scores at rest and activity (dynamic pain scores are assessed with a cough or a trial to sit up in bed) 2 hours after surgery between patients who receive QLBA versus QLB2. The secondary objectives will be to compare (1) pain at rest and activity 0.5 hour, 2 hours, 24 hours, 48 hours after surgery; (2) the time spent on block operation; (3) the blocked dermatomal coverage 5 min and 15 min after block operation; (4) intraoperative opioid consumption; (5) types and doses of the rescue analgesic after surgery; (6) nausea and vomiting score within 24 hours after surgery; (7) time from the end of surgery to the first onset significant pain; (8) patient satisfaction score.

DISCUSSION

Clinical experience has supported that QLB is a very effective postoperative analgesic method, and we will answer the following questions in this trial: Will both approaches have the same analgesic effect and duration? Will the QLBA have a non-inferior postoperative analgesic effect compared with QLB2 or the QLBA be able to prolong the duration of analgesia after surgery? The results of this study could have actual clinical applications that could help to reduce postoperative pain and shorten hospital stays.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study design was approved by the ethical committee of Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Beijing, China (2020-ke-321). The trial results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and at conferences.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ChiCTR2000035354.

Quadratus Lumborum Block Reduces Postoperative Opioid Consumption and Decreases Persistent Postoperative Pain Severity in Patients Undergoing Both Open and Laparoscopic Nephrectomies-A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: New regional techniques can improve pain management after nephrectomy. Methods: This study was a randomized controlled trial conducted at two teaching hospitals. Patients undergoing elective open and laparoscopic nephrectomy were eligible to participate in the trial. A total of 100 patients were divided into a quadratus lumborum block (QLB) group (50 patients) and a control (CON) group (50 patients). At the end of surgery, but while still under general anesthesia, unilateral QLB with ropivacaine was performed on the side of nephrectomy for patients in the QLB group. The main measured outcome of this study was oxycodone consumption via a patient-controlled anesthesia (PCA) pump during the first 24 h following surgery; other measured outcomes included postoperative pain intensity assessment, patient satisfaction with pain management, and persistent pain evaluation. Results: Patients undergoing QLB needed less oxycodone than those in the CON group (34.5 mg (interquartile range 23 to 40 mg) vs. 47.5 mg (35–50 mg); p < 0.001). No difference between the groups was seen in postoperative pain intensity measured on the visual analog scale, except for the evaluation at hour 2, which was in favor of the QLB group (p = 0.03). Patients who received QLB were more satisfied with postoperative pain management than the CON group. Persistent postoperative pain was assessed with the Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory (NPSI) at months 1, 3, and 6, and was found to be significantly lower in the QLB group at each evaluation (p < 0.001). We also analyzed the impact of the surgery type on persistent pain severity, which was significantly lower after laparoscopic procedures than open procedures at months 1, 3, and 6. Conclusions: QLB reduces oxycodone consumption in patients undergoing open and laparoscopic nephrectomy and decreases persistent pain severity months after hospital discharge.