Postoperative pain management

Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Metamorphine: A Morphine-Metamizole Adduct from Patient-Controlled Analgesia Pumps

Opioids are among the most effective drugs in managing moderate to severe pain. Herein, we describe a morphine-metamizole adduct with a phenazone moiety added at position C2 of the morphinan backbone. This adduct, coined metamorphine, was first detected as a byproduct of the morphine-metamizole drug interaction in patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pumps used for management of severe pain. In this study, metamorphine was successfully synthesized using the Mannich condensation. Qualitative high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection (HPLC-UV) analysis was employed to confirm the identity of metamorphine, and the yield was then purified using preparative HPLC. Subsequent studies were undertaken to investigate the pharmacological properties of the newly synthesized compound. A radioligand-based binding assay demonstrated that metamorphine binds strongly to the μ-opioid receptor (Ki = 3.0 nM). Functional assays showed that it activates both G-protein and β-arrestin pathways, with EC50 values of 0.169 and 3.06 μM, respectively. However, metamorphine did not exhibit significant activity on TNF, suggesting that it may lack analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory effects associated with this pathway. Based on our findings, PCA pumps should be closely monitored, while therapeutic drug monitoring can be utilized to measure metamorphine serum concentration alongside with other opioids. Lead optimization of metamorphine could potentially result in new opioids with an expanded pharmacological spectrum and/or reduced side effects.

Effects of Cautery-Assisted Palatal Stiffening With and Without Uvulectomy on Quality of Life in Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Snoring: A Retrospective Cohort Study

INTRODUCTION

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and snoring are common conditions that disrupt sleep, leading to significant physical and emotional challenges that affect daily life and overall well-being. While non-surgical treatments like continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) are effective, many patients find them challenging to maintain. Cautery-assisted palatal stiffening (CAPS), with or without uvulectomy, offers a minimally invasive surgical alternative to improve symptoms and enhance quality of life (QoL).

AIM

This study aims to assess and compare the effects of CAPS, with and without uvulectomy, on post-surgical QoL in patients with OSA or snoring.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 94 patients who underwent CAPS, with or without uvulectomy, at King Hamad University Hospital in Bahrain to treat OSA or snoring. QoL was assessed using the Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), evaluating physical and emotional well-being.

RESULTS

Among the 94 patients, CAPS improved physical functioning (mean score: 83.03) and general health (72.98). A trend toward greater emotional well-being was observed in the CAPS-only group compared to the uvulectomy group (p = 0.057). Over half of the participants (53.2%) reported feeling significantly better overall. CAPS effectively enhanced physical QoL, with some limitations remaining in emotional health.

CONCLUSIONS

CAPS and CAPS with uvulectomy significantly improve post-surgical QoL, especially in physical functioning, though some emotional challenges may persist. These findings support CAPS as a beneficial option for patients, particularly for enhancing physical well-being.

Assessing the efficacy of Naoxintong capsules on wound healing in post-craniotomy patients: A clinical perspective

This study was conducted to determine whether Naoxintong capsules may enhance wound healing and reduce postoperative complications in individuals having craniotomies. A total of 120 patients at Tongji Hospital, Shanghai, participated in this clinical perspective study conducted from April 2022 to June 2023. Participants were divided into treatment group (n = 60), receiving standard care plus Naoxintong capsules and control group (n = 60), receiving standard care only. Primary outcomes included the rate of wound healing, while secondary outcomes encompassed postoperative complications and patient-reported outcomes on pain and quality of life. The treatment group exhibited significantly enhanced wound healing rate than the control at Day 7 (40.33 vs. 25.67%, p < 0.05), Day 14 (75.17 vs. 50.83%, p < 0.05) and Day 28 (94.83 vs. 79.50%, p < 0.05). Postoperative complications were markedly reduced in the treatment group, with lower rates of infection (p < 0.05), wound dehiscence (p < 0.05) and cerebrospinal fluid leakage (p < 0.05). Furthermore, patient-reported outcomes significantly favoured the treatment group, with reduced pain scores and improved quality of life at 4 weeks post-surgery(p < 0.05). Naoxintong capsules thus significantly enhanced the wound healing and reduced postoperative complications, contributing to improved patient-reported outcomes in post-craniotomy patients. These findings advocated for the integration of Naoxintong in postoperative care, highlighting the potential of traditional Chinese medicine in modern surgical recovery protocols. Further studies with larger cohorts are recommended to validate these findings and explore the underlying mechanisms.

Duloxetine for Postoperative Pain Control Following Knee or Hip Replacement: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

Duloxetine is a Food and Drug Administration-approved selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor for treating depression, anxiety, fibromyalgia, and neuropathic and chronic musculoskeletal pain. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the efficacy of duloxetine in reducing pain and postoperative opioid use following lower extremity total joint arthroplasty.

Methods

A literature search was performed, identifying randomized controlled trials investigating duloxetine for pain management after total hip and total knee arthroplasty. Data from the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain during movement and at rest were extracted for postoperative days (PODs) 1, 3, 7, and 14, as well as postoperative week 6 and postoperative month 3. Opioid use data were obtained at 24, 48 and 72 hours. All data were analyzed using inverse variance with random effects and presented as weighted mean difference.

Results

Eight unique studies were identified and included, 7 of which were analyzed quantitatively. Duloxetine decreased postoperative opioid consumption at 48 and 72 hours. For VAS for pain at rest, significantly reduced pain was reported by duloxetine-treated patients at POD 3, POD 7, and postoperative week 6. For VAS for pain at movement, significantly reduced pain was reported by duloxetine-treated patients at POD1, POD 3, POD 7, POD 14, postoperative week 6, and postoperative month 3.

Conclusions

Duloxetine appears to decrease postoperative pain and opioid consumption following total joint arthroplasty. However, definitive conclusions are limited by small sample size and study heterogeneity. While there is a need for follow-up studies to determine the optimal dose, duration, and patient population, strong preliminary data provide robust support for future large-scale efficacy studies.

Effect of intra-articular hyalase, Ketorolac, marcaine and triamcinolone, versus Ketorolac, marcaine and triamcinolone for reducing knee joint pain other than joint replacement

Introduction

Knee pain is one of the causes of physiological complications in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. It is necessary to provide a solution to reduce pain in these patients. Our study aimed to compare the effect of intra-articular hyalase, ketorolac, marcaine, and triamcinolone versus ketorolac, marcaine, and triamcinolone for reducing knee joint pain after knee surgery.

Methods

This clinical study was performed on 30 candidates for knee surgery other than knee replacement from 2019 to 2020. The patients were randomly divided into two groups: hyalase, ketorolac, marcaine, and triamcinolone (group 1) and ketorolac, marcaine, and triamcinolone (group 2). The patient's pain score was recorded by the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) and range of motion (ROM) at the end of the first week, the end of the first month, and the end of the third month as well as the sixth month and the twelfth month after surgery.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 42.3 years. On average, the group receiving hyalase (first group) received about 30% better scores and had less pain (P < 0.05). In the first week, first month, and third month, no significant difference was observed between the two groups. But the pain scores for the first and second groups were 3.1 and 4.5 during the sixth to twelfth months, respectively (P < 0.05). Moreover, the increase in ROM during the sixth to twelfth months was significantly higher in the group receiving hyalase (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Adding hyalase to ketorolac, marcaine, and triamcinolone could improve pain control in the short and long term and this could be capable of reducing the need for additional drugs.

Antibiotic Combination Therapy: A Strategy to Overcome Bacterial Resistance to Aminoglycoside Antibiotics

After the first aminoglycoside antibiotic streptomycin being applied in clinical practice in the mid-1940s, aminoglycoside antibiotics (AGAs) are widely used to treat clinical bacterial infections and bacterial resistance to AGAs is increasing. The bacterial resistance to AGAs is owed to aminoglycoside modifying enzyme modification, active efflux pump gene overexpression and 16S rRNA ribosomal subunit methylation, leading to modification of AGAs' structures and decreased concentration of drugs within bacteria. As AGAs's side effects and bacterial resistance, the development of AGAs is time-consuming and difficult. Because bacterial resistance may occur in a short time after application in clinical practice, it was found that the antibacterial effect of the combination was not only better than that of AGAs alone but also reduce the dosage of antibiotics, thereby reducing the occurrence of side effects. This article reviews the clinical use of AGAs, the antibacterial mechanisms, the molecular mechanisms of bacterial resistance, and especially focuses a recent development of the combination of AGAs with other drugs to exert a synergistic antibacterial effect to provide a new strategy to overcome bacterial resistance to AGAs.

The Effects of Acupressure on Improving Health and Reducing Cost for Patients Undergoing Thoracoscopic Surgery

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of practicing acupressure on the Shenmen and Neiguan acupoints with a view to reduce anxiety and improve the comfort and physical health of patients undergoing thoracoscopic surgery.

METHODS

A total of 100 hospitalized patients undergoing thoracoscopic surgery were assigned randomly into the experimental (n = 49) and control groups (n = 51). Subjects in the experimental group received routine care plus acupressure on the Shenmen and Neiguan acupoints, while those in the control group received regular routine care. The data were collected using demographic information, physical and surgical data, the Visual Analog Scale (VAS)-A, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory Y Form (STAI-Y1), and Shortened General Comfort Questionnaire scores. The linear mixed model was used to examine the influences of acupressure on VAS-A and STAI-Y1 scores at different time points before and after the surgery to observe group-by-time interactions.

RESULTS

The mean age of the subjects was 60.97 years. All subjects had mild-to-moderate anxiety after surgery and showed a statistically significant decline in regression coefficients on the first and second days after the intervention (β = -11.61, p = 0.002; β = -18.71, p < 0.001). Similarly, for STAI-YI scores, the data showed a significant difference in the pre-test and post-test interactions between the two groups (β = 4.72, p = 0.031). Conversely, acupressure did not have a statistically significant difference on comfort (F = 2.953, p = 0.057). Compared with the control subjects, the experimental subjects used less morphine and developed side effects less frequently (p < 0.01). They were also able to get out of bed after surgery 163.79 min earlier (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Acupressure is a simple and easy-to-practice treatment. Acupressure on the Shenmen and Neiguan acupoints reduces anxiety and improves recovery in patients after undergoing thoracoscopic surgery.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices of health professionals towards postoperative pain management at a referral hospital in Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Postoperative pain (POP) is a form of acute pain following surgery. It results from tissue injury during surgical procedure like skin incision, tissue dissection, manipulation and traction. It is one of the immediate postoperative complications. Despite new standards, guidelines and different strategies the practice of postoperative pain management is found to be inadequate. We aimed to assess knowledge, attitude and practice on postoperative pain management practice among Health professionals working at XX Referral Hospital.

METHOD

Institution based cross-sectional study was conducted to assess Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Health professionals regarding to Post-operative pain management at XX Referral Hospital 2020 from 118 health professionals. Data was collected using structured self-administered questionnaire and was verified, coded and entered to Epi Info Software version 3.5.4 and then it was exported and analyzed by SPSS version 20 Software. After analysis frequency and percentages was used to summarize the finding.

RESULT

The overall finding of the study revealed that health professionals had good knowledge (58.4%), unfavorable attitude (44.9%), and poor practice (24.58%) towards post-operative pain management.

CONCLUSION

Non physician anesthetists have good knowledge, attitude and practice towards post-operative pain management. But the overall attitude and practice of health professionals' towards post-operative pain management is poor.

Ultrasound-guided femoral nerve block and intravenous fentanyl in pain management of the patients with hip fracture: a prospective, randomized, single blinded clinical trial

Aim

Proximal femoral fracture is a painful condition. Pain alleviation is a treatment cornerstone to both comfort the patient and reduce adverse effects. This study aimed to evaluate and compare ultrasound-guided femoral nerve block and intravenous fentanyl administration in relieving the pain of patients with hip fractures.

Methods

The present interventional clinical trial was conducted on 40 patients referred to Shahid-Bahonar Hospital with unilateral isolated proximal femur fracture and American Society of Anesthesiologists I and II. The patients were randomly divided into two groups: intravenous fentanyl and ultrasound-guided femoral nerve block for pain management. Pain severity was assessed by a numerical rating scale before and after the intervention in both groups and the groups were then compared.

Results

Forty patients were enrolled in to study; 27 (67.5%) were male. There was no significant difference in demographic variables between the two groups. Fourteen (35%) were older than 80 years. Pain significantly decreased three scores compared to the pre-intervention level in both groups (95% confidence interval, 2-4). This was slightly higher in the femoral nerve block group. The largest strength of association for age and numerical rating scale of pain was found in the differences between the pre-intervention and after-intervention in femoral nerve block group (r = -0.775, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

We found similar pain severity between the two groups. Considering the possible side effects of fentanyl, an ultrasound-guided femoral nerve block shows may provide safer pain control and may be particularly suitable for patients with opioid dependence.

The effectiveness of acupressure for managing postoperative pain in patients with thoracoscopic surgery: A randomized control trail

PURPOSE

More than 86% patients experience moderate to severe pain after thoracoscopic surgery. A combination of diverse nonpharmacological pain relief methods is a developing trend for pain management. The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of acupressure in reducing pain after thoracoscopic surgery.

DESIGN

A Randomized controlled study with purpose sampling was used for this study. Patients who underwent thoracoscopic surgery at a medical center in central Taiwan were enrolled. Study data was collected from September 2020 to April 2021 after the approval of the institutional review board. A total of 100 participants were randomized into two groups (49 and 51 in the experimental and control groups, respectively).

METHODS

Participants in the experimental group received acupressure at the Neiguan (PC6) and Shenmen (HT7) acupoints thrice a day for 2 days, whereas those in the control group received routine treatment and did not receive acupressure. The measurement included questionnaires for the collection of general information, physiological information, and disease rating scale. The Visual Analogue Scale-Pain (VAS-P) was used to measure the severity of pain. SPSS statistical software was used for data analysis. Independent sample t-test and chi-squared test were used for descriptive statistics, and paired t-test and linear mixed model were used to examine the effect of acupressure in alleviating pain.

FINDINGS

After acupressure intervention, the pain score of the experimental group was lower than that of the control group, and this difference was significant β = 17.76, p < 0.001 on day 1 after intervention; β = 19.80, p < 0.001 on day 2 after intervention. The postoperative pain score in the experimental group on day 2 after intervention was significantly lower than that in the control group (t = 2.039, p = 0.044). After the subjects received acupressure, pain index significantly decreased after considering the interaction between time and group (p < 0.001). Regardless of the type of surgery, there were significant differences in pain index when the interaction between time and group was considered (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

This study provided an experimental basis that acupressure can help in pain management in patients after thoracoscopic surgery, and the pain relief results become more significant as the duration of intervention increases.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Acupressure is effective in relieving postoperative pain in any type of thoracoscopic surgery. Nurses can use acupressure to help control pain in patients after thoracoscopic surgery.

Effect of Preoperative Duloxetine on Opioid Consumption in Women Undergoing Abdominal Hysterectomy: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Background

Pain is one of the most challenging issues following surgery, and it is crucial to provide adequate and appropriate pain control measures.

Objectives

This study assessed the efficacy of preoperative duloxetine in controlling postoperative pain in women following an abdominal hysterectomy in Yas Hospital affiliated to Tehran University of Medical Sciences between December 2019 and April 2020.

Methods

The study involved 80 women who were candidates for elective abdominal hysterectomy. The participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups. Group 1 received a 60 mg duloxetine capsule two hours before surgery. Group 2 received placebo following the same schedule. The amount of administrated opioids and the time from surgery to the administration of opioids were recorded, along with the frequency of nausea and vomiting experienced.

Results

Two patients from each group withdrew before the study ended. In total, 38 women in each group were assessed. There were no significant differences in age, duration of surgery, and the amount of administrated opioids between the two groups. However, the number of patients who had nausea and vomiting differed significantly between the two groups (65% vs. 34%; P = 0.006).

Conclusions

Our findings showed that duloxetine was not effective in controlling pain after abdominal hysterectomy. In addition, patients who received duloxetine had a significantly higher rate of nausea/vomiting.

Lumbar Plexus Block as an Effective Alternative to Subarachnoid Block for Intertrochanteric Hip Fracture Surgeries in the Elderly

Background and Aims:

Elderly patients with hip fractures pose a medical challenge for the anesthesiologist and are often associated with a high incidence of perioperative morbidity and mortality. We aimed to compare the efficacy of lumbar plexus block (LPB) with subarachnoid block (SAB) in elderly patients undergoing closed reduction and internal fixation for hip fractures.

Methods:

In this observational study, 50 patients with femoral intertrochanteric fracture were divided into LPB group and SAB group of 25 each by convenient sampling. Patients in the LPB group were given 20–25 ml of 0.5% bupivacaine to block the ipsilateral lumbar plexus with nerve stimulator assistance, whereas the patients in the SAB group received 0.5% bupivacaine intrathecally. Student's t-test was used for comparing the time for performing block, the time to achieving block, the time to the first request for analgesia, and the hemodynamic variables.

Results:

Lumbar plexus blockade took a longer time for performing and achieving block (P < 0.001). The time for the first request for analgesia was significantly longer in the LPB group (P < 0.001). A statistically significant reduction in blood pressures was noted in the SAB group.

Conclusions:

Lumbar plexus blockade offered more stable intraoperative hemodynamics and longer duration of postoperative analgesia in elderly patients undergoing hip fracture surgery.

Comparison of the Effect of Intra-Rectal Administration of Lidocaine Gel and Lidocaine Plus Fentanyl on Pain Reduction in Prostate Biopsy: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare the effect of intra-rectal administration of lidocaine gel alone versus lidocaine gel plus topical fentanyl on pain reduction in prostate biopsy.

Methods

In a double-blind randomized clinical trial, 96 patients who met the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned into two groups. 1) The treatment group: Lidocaine gel (2%) 50 g and 2) the intervention group: Lidocaine gel (2%) 50 g and fentanyl gel 50 µg. During the prostate biopsy, the VAS score was recorded. Blood pressure, heart rate, and patient level of consciousness were also analyzed.

Results

The mean VAS score was 5.1 ± 2 and 3.0 ± 2, which was lower in the intervention group (P value < 0.001). In terms of consciousness after biopsy, there was no difference between the two groups (P value = 0.358). There was no difference between the groups in terms of mean blood pressure and heart rate before and during the prostate biopsy. Finally, in terms of consciousness after the prostate biopsy, there was no difference between the current treatment and intervention groups.

Conclusions

The combination of lidocaine gel and fentanyl with a dose of 50 µg has a significant effect on reducing the pain associated with prostate biopsy in comparison with lidocaine gel alone. The antinociceptive effect of the above regimens is not associated with hemodynamic changes and changes in patients' consciousness.

Comparison of Three-Quadrant Transversus Abdominis Plane Block and Continuous Epidural Block for Postoperative Analgesia After Transperitoneal Laparoscopic Nephrectomy

Background

Postoperative pain management is important for the early recovery of the living donor patient. Patient-controlled opioid analgesia, epidural analgesia, or a combination of both is the preferred pain management after abdominal surgery although these approaches have serious side effects. The transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block has been increasingly used for postoperative pain management and the addition of dexamethasone to local anesthetic can prolong the duration of action.

Objectives

This study evaluated the efficacy of ultrasound-guided three-quadrant TAP block analgesia with the addition of dexamethasone, compared to the continuous epidural analgesia in postoperative cumulative opioid consumption and pain scale in the first 24 hours following transperitoneal laparoscopic living donor nephrectomy.

Methods

A prospective randomized control study was conducted on 50 patients with ASA I-II, 18 - 65 years old, BMI 18 - 30, and undergoing transperitoneal laparoscopic donor nephrectomy under general anesthesia. The patients were randomly assigned into either a three-quadrant TAP block group (n = 25) with 20 mL of 0.25% bupivacaine plus dexamethasone 8 mg or a continuous epidural group (n = 25) using 0.125% bupivacaine postoperatively. The morphine consumption and the numerical rating scale (NRS) at rest and movement were evaluated at 2, 6, 12, and 24 hours postoperatively. The postoperative first-time mobilization and duration of urinary catheter usage were recorded.

Results

Patients demographic characteristics were similar in the two groups. During 24 hours after the surgery, cumulative morphine consumption (P = 0.232), the NRS at rest and movement (P > 0.05), and the first-time mobilization (P = 0.075) were not significantly different between the groups, except that the NRS during movement at 12 hours was significantly lower in the TAP block group (P = 0.004). The duration of urinary catheterization was significantly longer as a side effect in the continuous epidural group (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The three-quadrant TAP block with the addition of dexamethasone showed comparable analgesic effects as the continuous epidural analgesia in cumulative opioid consumption and pain scale in the first 24 hours following transperitoneal laparoscopic donor nephrectomy.

The Effect of Low-Level Laser on Postoperative Pain After Elective Cesarean Section

Background

Postoperative pain is one of the major concerns about a cesarean in pregnant women that can lead to serious complications and delayed recovery for patients.

Objectives

The objective is to investigate the effect of low power laser on acute pain after elective cesarean.

Methods

In this randomized, double-blind clinical trial, 80 candidates for an elective cesarean were divided randomly into two groups, control and laser. The type of surgery was the same for both groups, which contained the spinal anesthesia technique. At the end of surgery, the surgical incision in patients who were treated with laser, (GaAlAs: 804 nm and GaAlInp: 650 nm) was irradiated by laser. The control group also received laser off by the same method. Patients were monitored for 24 hours to assess the severity of postoperative pain by VAS, the first request for analgesic and the total consumption of analgesic.

Results

The results demonstrated significant reduction of pain in the laser group 1, 4, 8, 12, 16, 24 hours after surgery, compared with the control group (P value < 0.05). Additionally, the average of total received analgesic in the group laser was less than the controls (P value = 0.006). The first request for analgesic in the laser received group was significantly longer than the controls (P value = 0.005).

Conclusions

Low power laser therapy is a good method to reduce postoperative pain due to the fact that it is a safe and non-invasive method which is also accepted by patients.

Comparison of the Post-Caesarean Analgesic Effect of Adding Dexmedetomidine to Paracetamol and Ketorolac: A Randomized Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

Paracetamol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g. ketorolac) can be considered for mild to moderate post-caesarean pain. As a selective α-2 agonist adrenergic receptor, dexmedetomidine has analgesic and sedative effects without causing respiratory depression.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of adding dexmedetomidine to paracetamol or ketorolac on post-caesarean pain and the associated complications thereof.

METHODS

Sixty pregnant women, who were candidates for caesarean section with spinal anesthesia, were randomly assigned to either of two groups of 30 patients. For post-operative pain management, an intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) device was used for 24 hours. Dexmedetomidine (3 µg kg-1) was added to paracetamol (35 mg kg-1) in the group DP and to ketorolac (1 mg kg-1) in the group DK. Visual analog scale (VAS), Ramsay sedation scale, hemodynamic changes, rescue analgesic (meperidine) consumption, patient satisfaction, and possible complications were recorded at 6, 12, and 24, hours after surgery, and compared afterward.

RESULTS

The pain score was significantly lower in the DK group than in the DP group (P < 0.05). The hemodynamics and sedation scale were similar in both groups. The total meperidine consumption was higher in the DP group, but it was not significantly different. Maternal satisfaction was greater in the DK group (P < 0.05). Concerning complications, the two groups did not show statistically significant differences (P = 0.4).

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of dexmedetomidine to ketorolac, compared with its addition to paracetamol, causes further reduction in the post-operative pain score and provides more satisfaction.

Impact of the Ultrasound-Guided Serratus Anterior Plane Block on Post-Mastectomy Pain: A Randomised Clinical Study

OBJECTIVE

A variety of methods, including neuraxial and regional blocks, have been used to manage post-mastectomy pain. This study evaluates the effect of serratus anterior plane block on acute pain after mastectomy.

METHODS

A total of 60 patients who were candidates for mastectomy under general anaesthesia were divided in this trial into two groups. After entering the recovery room, the first-experimental-group (SAB) underwent the ultrasound-guided serratus anterior block, but the second-control-group (CTL) received no block intervention. An intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) device was used to deliver fentanyl in both groups. Using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), the patients' pain was assessed at intervals of 1, 6, 12 and 24 hours after entering the recovery room. Intravenous acetaminophen was administered as a rescue analgesic if the pain exceeded 3 on the VAS. A total amount of fentanyl consumed, the time to first PCA request, a total amount of acetaminophen consumption and possible adverse effects were evaluated.

RESULTS

The pain scores assessed at the time intervals were not significantly different between the two groups (p>0.5). The total consumption of fentanyl was significantly lower in the SAB group than in the CTL group (p=0.0001). Duration of the time to first PCA request was remarkably longer in the SAB group than in the CTL group (p=0.0001). The total amount of acetaminophen consumed was notably higher in the CTL group than in the SAB group (p=0.001). None of the patients experienced side effects.

CONCLUSION

Undertaking serratus anterior block following mastectomy can reduce pain scores and lower opioid usage.

The Effects of Pre-Spinal Anesthesia Administration of Crystalloid and Colloid Solutions on Hypotension in Elective Cesarean Section

Background

Spinal anesthesia is an appropriate alternative for general anesthesia in many operations, particularly in cesarean section. However, the induced hypotension is the main drawback of this method. Therefore, the current study aimed at comparing the effects of crystalloid and colloid solutions used as the preload on the post-spinal hypotension and its complications in females who are candidate for elective cesarean section.

Methods

The current randomized, controlled, double-blind study was conducted on the female candidate of elective cesarean section (n = 96; age range: 20 to 40 years). The patients were in their 37 to 42 weeks of gestational age during the experiments. The systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), heart rate (HR) variation, amount of injected ephedrine during surgery, Apgar score at birth, total solution infused after spinal anesthesia, urine output, nausea, and vomiting were comparatively assessed between the two groups.

Results

The percentages of reduction in SBP and DBP variables in the crystalloid solution were higher than those of the colloid group and the differences were statistically significant (P = 0.042 and P = 0.008, respectively). Average percentage of HR changes was more significant in the crystalloid than the colloid group (P = 0.032). In contrary, administration of the two types of solutions did not result in significant differences in the Apgar scores. The prevalence of nausea and vomiting in the colloid group subjects was lower than those of the crystalloid solution group; however, the differences were not significant.

Conclusions

The current study findings recommend colloid solution to prevent hemodynamic instability after spinal anesthesia. However, the costs and availability of the solution and recommendation of anesthesiologist should be considered. Conduction of further clinical trials with larger sample sizes is recommended.

An Evaluation of the Adding Magnesium Sulfate to Ropivacaine on Ultrasound-Guided Transverse Abdominis Plane Block After Abdominal Hysterectomy

BACKGROUND

Post-hysterectomy pain is extremely annoying and using transverse abdominis plane (TAP) block can be a useful method to manage postoperative pain, but its duration of effect is challenging. Magnesium sulfate increases, in some cases, the effects of local anesthetics on the peripheral nerve blocks.

OBJECTIVES

The current study aimed at investigating the effects of adding magnesium sulfate to ropivacaine in the transverse abdominis plane block after hysterectomy.

METHODS

The current randomized, double blind, clinical trial, to manage postoperative pain, was conducted on a total of 60 patients, 30 - 60 years old, ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) class I-II undergone elective abdominal hysterectomy candidates to receive ultrasound-guided bilateral transverse abdominis abdominis plane (TAP) blocks. Patients with coagulation disorders, infection, history of any addiction, sensitivity to the local anesthetics and magnesium sulfate were excluded. The subjects were equally allocated into two groups, the control group, ropivacaine plus normal saline (R), and the study group, ropivacaine plus magnesium sulfate (RM). The injection contained 19 mL ropivacaine 0.2% plus 1 mL normal saline in the group R, and 19 mL ropivacaine 0.2% plus 1 mL magnesium sulfate 50% in the RM group on each side. As well as the patients' characteristics, the level of pain score (visual analogue scale = VAS), rescue analgesic demand (diclofenac suppository), and possible adverse effects were evaluated at 1, 2, 6, 12, and 24 hours after the operation in the two groups.

RESULTS

The mean pain scores of the patients at the first hour after surgery were 5.7 ± 0.9 and 5.9 ± 1.1 in R and RM groups, respectively. The scores reached 2.9 ± 0.5 and 2.7 ± 0.4 at the second hour after surgery (the first post-block measurement) and 3.1 ± 0.7 and 2.8 ± 0.7 within the next 24 hours, respectively. Although the pain scores were generally lower at all hours in the RM group, none was statistically significant. The rescue analgesic consumption gradually increased in the two groups, and it was less in the study group than in the control group in the first hours after the block (second hour after surgery); however, it was not statistically significant. No adverse effects were observed in the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Results of the current study suggested that the addition of magnesium sulfate to ropivacaine in TAP block does not affect the post-hysterectomy pain.

The Effect of Adding Dexmedetomidine as an Adjuvant to Lidocaine in Forearm Fracture Surgeries by Supraclavicular Block Procedure Under Ultrasound-Guided

Background

To improve the brachial plexus block (BPB) performance, different compounds have been used as adjuvants to local analgesics.

Objectives

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of adding DEX to lidocaine on effectiveness of nerve block, and postoperative pain in forearm fracture surgery by supraclavicular BPB undergoing ultrasound-guided.

Methods

This was a double-blinded randomized clinical trial conducted on 72 patients with ASA classes I and II, which were candidates for forearm fracture surgery. In group A, patients received 3 mg/kg of lidocaine 2%. In group B, patients received 3 mg/kg of lidocaine 2% and DEX (1 µg/kg). The ultrasound-guided supraclavicular BPB was performed in all patients. The onset of sensory and motor blocks were evaluated with pin prick test and modified Bromage scale, respectively. The sensory and motor block moment was recorded as the onset of the block. The first analgesic request time, total consumed analgesic, adverse effect, and hemodynamic parameters of patients were recorded. A visual analog scale (VAS) was used for recording the severity of pain.

Results

The two groups showed no significant difference in the demographic variables. The onset of sensory and motor block in the DEX groups was shorter. The duration of sensory and motor block, and analgesic request was significantly longer than the control groups. Total analgesic consumption 24 hours after surgery in the DEX groups was significantly lower. Moreover, hemodynamic status of patients in both groups was stable and no significant difference was observed between groups. This study showed that DEX, as an adjuvant to lidocaine, improve the characteristics of supraclavicular BPB and decrease the postoperative pain.

The effects of adjuvant intrathecal fentanyl on postoperative pain and rebound pain for anorectal surgery under saddle anesthesia

BACKGROUND

Intrathecal opioid has been known to enhance the quality and prolong the duration of spinal anesthesia, as well as to reduce postoperative pain. The purpose of this study was to evaluate postoperative analgesic characteristics of intrathecal fentanyl for the first 48 hours after anorectal surgery under saddle anesthesia.

METHODS

Eighty patients were recruited in our study. Forty patients were randomly allocated to group B that received 0.5% bupivacaine 5 mg with 0.3 ml normal saline. The other 40 patients were assigned to group BF which was given 0.5% bupivacaine 5 mg with fentanyl 15 μg. The primary outcome variable was a numeric rating scale (NRS) at six hours postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included changes in the NRS score between one and 48 hours postoperatively, consumption of rescue analgesics, and the frequency of rebound pain.

RESULTS

Group BF exhibited a lower mean NRS score at postoperative six hours compared to group B (P < 0.001). However, the mean NRS score was not different after postoperative six hours between the two groups. The median consumption of rescue analgesics in group BF was less than that of group B (P = 0.028) and the frequency of rebound pain decreased in group BF when compared to group B (P = 0.021). The levels of sensory block were S1 dermatome and motor block scores were 0 for both groups. There was no significant difference in adverse effects between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Intrathecal fentanyl 15 μg for anorectal surgery under saddle anesthesia led to an improved pain score for the first six hours after surgery and decreased postoperative analgesic use. Rebound pain diminished with intrathecal fentanyl and adverse effects did not increase.

Effect of Dexmedetomidine Versus Nalbuphine as an Adjuvant on Paravertebral Block to Manage Postoperative Pain After Mastectomies

Background and Objective

Breast cancer is the commonest cancer in women worldwide. Many patients are frequently admitted to the operating theaters for mastectomies. Thoracic paravertebral block (PVB) is increasingly used as an effective means for post-operative pain relief. The present study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness and safety of dexmedetomidine and nalbuphine as an adjuvant to bupivacaine local anesthetic in thoracic paravertebral block in breast cancer surgeries.

Methods

A total of 60 female patients aged 18 to 78 were included in the study, and ASA I, II, III were scheduled for mastectomy. These patients were unsystematically assigned into three 20-member groups: group PB received bupivacaine (0.3 mL/ kg) + 1 mL (0.9% sodium chloride) normal saline; group PBD received bupivacaine (0.3 mL/kg) + dexmedetomidine 1 μg/kg; and Group PBN received bupivacaine (0.3 mL/kg) and 10 mg (1 mL) nalbuphine. Demographic data, intraoperative SPO₂, ETCO₂, HR, SBP and DBP, pain scores (at rest and movement), and sedation scores were recorded every 30 minutes during the initial 2 hours and 4, 8, 24, and 48 hours from T0. Also, postoperative tramadol consumption, the time to the first analgesic request, and any complications were also recorded.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences among the three groups regarding demographic data, SPO₂, ETCO₂, HR, SBP and DBP intraoperatively. Moreover, no significant difference was found in HR, SBP and DBP postoperatively. Postoperative pain scores were significantly higher in group BP, whether at rest or movement. The sedation was significantly higher in PBD group in the first 12 hours postoperatively. There was a significantly lower postoperative tramadol consumption in PBN group and a significantly longer time to the first analgesic request than other groups. No complications were reported in any group.

Conclusions

Addition of nalbuphine 10 mg as an adjuvant to bupivacaine local anesthetic in PVB improved the quality of the block and decreased postoperative analgesic requirements than the bupivacaine only group and dexmedetomidine and bupivacaine group. However, adding dexmedetomidine to bupivacaine increased the time to the first analgesic request and more sedation than bupivacaine and bupivacaine and nalbuphine.

A Comparison of Continuous Thoracic Epidural Analgesia with Bupivacaine Versus Bupivacaine and Dexmedetomidine for Pain Control in Patients with Multiple Rib Fractures

Background

The control of pain in traumatic patients with chest injury leading to rib fracture is one of the primary goals in traumatic patients. The efficacy of the thoracic epidural approach in comparison with other approaches for relieving post-thoracotomy pain is unknown. The goal of the present study was to compare thoracic epidural analgesia with bupivacaine alone and in combination with dexmedetomidine in patients with multiple rib fractures.

Methods

64 traumatic patients with multiple rib fractures were selected and randomly assigned to two similar groups. For pain relief, a thoracic epidural catheter was inserted to infuse bupivacaine alone or the combination of bupivacaine and dexmedetomidine. Then, we recorded and analyzed pain scores and ABG changes.

Results

Based on the results, the two approaches could result in proper analgesia, but analgesia with the combination of bupivacaine and dexmedetomidine was significantly improved compared to bupivacaine alone (P < 0.05). In addition, ABG of patients significantly changed when the combination of bupivacaine and dexmedetomidine was used within 2 to 4 days (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The results of the present study showed that epidural infusion of a combination of bupivacaine and dexmedetomidine could provide better control of rib fracture pain in traumatic patients, and is a proper alternative for bupivacaine alone.

Comparison of Magnesium Sulfate and Tramadol as an Adjuvant to Intravenous Regional Anesthesia for Upper Extremity Surgeries

BACKGROUND

Intravenous Regional Anesthesia (IVRA) is a simple efficient method for providing regional anesthesia of the limbs. However, it has some limitations such as lack of postoperative analgesia.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to compare the analgesic effects of magnesium sulfate and tramadol when added to lidocaine used for IVRA in upper limb surgery.

METHODS

In this double - blind randomized clinical trial, 69 patients who underwent elective upper limb surgery with IVRA were randomly allocated into 3 groups. Patients in group A, received IVRA with 0.5% lidocaine and tramadol 100 mg, in group B received IVRA with 0.5% lidocaine and magnesium sulfate 1.5 g, while in group C patients received IVRA with 0.5% lidocaine and normal saline. The onset of sensory block and the duration of postoperative analgesia pain intensity were noted in each patient. Furthermore, the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting, respiratory depression, and skin rash were recorded.

RESULTS

Duration of postoperative analgesia was more prolong in the tramadol group than other groups (P = 0.01). Also, the total amount of morphine consumption in the group A, group B, and C was 8.91 ± 5.81, 11.95 ± 4.81, 16.72 ± 4.07 mg, respectively, which was significantly lower in the tramadol group in comparison to the other groups (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

It seems that adding tramadol as an adjuvant to lidocaine during IVRA in comparison to magnesium sulfate increases duration of postoperative analgesia and decreases analgesic consumption without increasing opioid-related side effects.

Postoperative analgesic efficiency of transversus abdominis plane block after ventral hernia repair: a prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Effective postoperative analgesia is a key element in reducing postoperative morbidity, accelerating recovery and avoiding chronic postoperative pain. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) block, performed before surgical incision, in providing postoperative analgesia for patients undergoing open ventral hernia repair under general anaesthesia.

METHODS

Seventy elective patients scheduled for open ventral hernia repair surgery under general anaesthesia were divided randomly into two equal groups: Group I received bilateral TAP block performed before surgical incision (n = 35); Group II received systemic postoperative analgesia with parenteral opioid (morphine) alone (n = 35). Postoperatively pain scores at rest and with movement, total morphine consumption and opioid related side effects were recorded.

RESULTS

Postoperative pain scores at rest and mobilization/cough were significantly higher in patients without TAP block (p < 0.05). Mean intraoperative fentanyl consumption was comparable between the two groups: 0.75 ± 0.31 mg in group I (TAP) and 0.86 ± 0.29 mg in group II (MO), p = 0.1299. Patients undergoing preincisional TAP block had reduced morphine requirements during the first 24 hours after surgery, compared to patients from group II, without TAP block (p = 0.0001). There was no difference in the incidence of opioid related side effects (nausea, vomiting) in the both groups during the first 24 postoperative hours.

CONCLUSION

The use of preincisional ultrasound guided TAP block reduced the pain scores at rest and with movement/cough, opioid consumption and opioid-related side effects after ventral hernia repair when compared with opioid-only analgesia.

The Effect of Ketamine and Dexamethasone in Combination with Lidocaine on the Onset and Duration of Axillary Block in Hand and Forearm Soft Tissue Surgery

Background

Using peripheral nerve block compared to general anesthesia has gained more popularity due to reduced postoperative pain, less need for post-surgery analgesic drugs, reduced incidence of nausea, shortness of PACU time, and increased patient satisfaction.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare the effect of ketamine and dexamethasone as additives to lidocaine on duration and onset of axillary block action.

Methods

In this clinical trial, all patients who referred to Hazrat-e-Fatemeh hospital for forearm and hand soft tissue surgery with informed consent were randomly divided into three groups in order to examine the onset and duration of axillary block: lidocaine + ketamine, lidocaine + dexamethasone in axillary block, and lidocaine alone (control). Then, the onset and duration of sensory and motor blocks were measured and recorded every three minutes and after the surgery. Quantitative and qualitative variables were analyzed using ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis test and Chi-square or Fisher exact test in SPSS v.22.

Results

Duration of sensory and motor block axillary was significantly higher in lidocaine + dexamethasone group than in lidocaine + ketamine group (P < 0.05); it was also significantly higher in lidocaine + ketamine group compared to lidocaine group (P < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in the onset of sensory and motor block axillary between the three groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

According to the results of our study, we can conclude that adding dexamethasone or ketamine to lidocaine could improve duration of sensory and motor axillary block in patients undergoing forearm and hand soft tissue surgery. However, dexamethasone had the highest effect on duration of block axillary. We proved that dexamethasone or ketamine added to lidocaine had no effect on the onset of block axillary.

Comparing the Effectiveness of Patient Control Analgesia Pump and Bolus Morphine in Controlling Pain After Cardiopulmonary Bypass Graft Surgery

Background

Postoperative pain is a complex process commonly caused by surgical trauma. It is one of the major concerns of patients undergoing heart surgery. Despite new techniques and modern analgesic treatments, postoperative pain is still one of the most important controversial issues.

Methods

68 patients scheduled for elective CABG with CPB were included in a prospective, double-blind clinical trial. They were randomly divided into two groups. One group received PCA pump including morphine (group P) with underlying infusion of 0.02 mg/kg/Qh, bolus dose of 1 mg, lockout time of 15 minutes, and a maximum of 4 bolus of 0.02 mg/kg for one hour and the other group received morphine bolus (group B). Three patients were excluded from the study, and 33 and 32 patients participated in the groups P and B, respectively. Variables including age, gender, pump time, aortic clamp time, duration of surgery, complications (nausea and vomiting, GI Bleeding, and hypoxia), level of pain based on VAS, opioid consumption, hemodynamic, and sedation status were measured in both groups.

Results

There was no significant difference between the groups regarding age, gender, pump time, clamp time, duration of surgery, complication, sedation score, and hemodynamic status in most of the assessment periods. By assessing the pain severity in the groups at different periods, results showed a significant difference between the groups except at enrollment, and a lower severity of pain was noted in the group P compared to the group B. The consumed opioid was significantly higher in the group P than in the group B. However, higher doses of diclofenac and paracetamol were administered in the group B compared to the group P.

Conclusions

Results showed that higher morphine would be used in patients with PCA pump after extubation following heart surgery, and this increased dose of opioid was associated with better pain control and lack of complication. Therefore, PCA pump with underlying infusion could be effectively used in patients undergoing CABG that are directly assessed in intensive care unite.

The Analgesic Efficacy of Intrathecal Bupivacaine and Fentanyl with Added Neostigmine or Magnesium Sulphate

Background

An appropriate anesthesia duration with minimal side effects and prolonged postoperative analgesia are the ideal characteristics of an intrathecal drug used during spinal anesthesia. Neostigmine and magnesium sulphate have been used as spinal anesthetic additives with narcotics and local anesthetics.

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the analgesic properties of intrathecal neostigmine and magnesium sulphate by adding them to intrathecal bupivacaine-fentanyl.

Methods

: In total, 210 patients undergoing tibial fracture surgery were enrolled in a double-blinded clinical trial study. Patients were randomly allocated to one of three groups: group F received 10 mg of bupivacaine and 25 µg of fentanyl as intrathecal drug for spinal anesthesia, group N received 150 µg of neostigmine added to 10 mg of bupivacaine and 25 µg of fentanyl, and group M received 50 mg of magnesium sulphate added to 10 mg of bupivacaine and 25 µg of fentanyl. Analgesia duration, motor blockade scores, postoperative pain scores 6 and 12 hours after surgery, postoperative voiding time, and the incidence of hypotension, bradycardia, respiratory depression, and nausea and vomiting were recorded.

Results

Group M showed significantly longer analgesia duration (330.76 ± 80.98 minutes) than group F (280.98 ± 60.33 minutes). The pain scores in group M 6 hours (NRS: 2.44 ± 0.98) and 12 hours (NRS: 4.10 ± 0.88) after surgery were significantly lower than those of the other two groups. Before discharge from recovery, motor blockade scores and voiding time were not significantly different between the three groups. Hypotension (40%), bradycardia (25%), and nausea and vomiting (70%) were more obvious among group N patients. Respiratory depression did not occur in any patients.

Conclusions

The addition of 50 mg of magnesium sulfate to a bupivacaine–fentanyl solution for intrathecal anesthesia improved the efficacy and duration of the analgesia without any significant side effects. The addition of 150 µg of neostigmine increased the incidence of hypotension, bradycardia, and nausea and vomiting. Moreover, neostigmine failed to prolong analgesia duration.

The Effect of Intravenous Magnesium Sulfate Versus Intravenous Sufentanil on the Duration of Analgesia and Postoperative Pain in Patients with Tibia Fracture

BACKGROUND

In the recent decades controlling postoperative pain has become a popular topic as it leads to the patients' wellbeing and improved life quality, while it reduces the costs for both patients and medical facilities.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed at comparing intravenous magnesium sulfate versus intravenous sufentanil on the duration of analgesia and postoperative pain in patients undergoing tibia fracture surgery.

METHODS

This double blind clinical trial study was performed on 70 candidates of tibia fractures between the ages of 18 and 55 years with American society of anesthesiologists (ASA) class I and II. The patients were randomly divided to 2 groups, 1 receiving magnesium sulfate (M) and another receiving sufentanil (S). Both of the groups underwent spinal anesthesia with 10 mg bupivacaine 0.5%. One hour after ensuring the sensorimotor blockade, in the S group 0.1 µg/kg/hour and in the M group 8 mg/kg/hour was diluted in 1 liter of Ringer's solution and infused. In this study, full weakness of the lower limb was considered as the sign of sensorimotor blockade initiation. The postoperative pain intensity was measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), 0, 1, 4, 8, 16, and 24 hours after the end of anesthesia duration. In case of VAS ≥ 3, the patients received 0.3 mg/kg pethidine, intravenously. At last, the time of requesting the first narcotic drug and the total usage of pethidine were recorded.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Sufentanil was found to be more effective than magnesium sulfate in reducing postoperative pain and the time of first narcotics request was later in patients receiving sufentanil (P < 0.05).

Anesthetic Considerations in Patients Undergoing Bariatric Surgery: A Review Article

Context

This article discusses the anesthetic considerations in patients undergoing bariatric surgery in the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases of surgery.

Evidence Acquisition

This review includes studies involving obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery. Searches have been conducted in PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Review using the terms obese, obesity, bariatric, anesthesia, perioperative, preoperative, perioperative, postoperative, and their combinations.

Results

Obesity is a major worldwide health problem associated with many comorbidities. Bariatric surgery has been proposed as the best alternative treatment for extreme obese patients when all other therapeutic options have failed.

Conclusions

Anesthetists must completely assess the patients before the surgery to identify anesthesia- related potential risk factors and prepare for management during the surgery.

Exploring the Interplay between Rescue Drugs, Data Imputation, and Study Outcomes: Conceptual Review and Qualitative Analysis of an Acute Pain Data Set

In placebo-controlled acute surgical pain studies, provisions must be made for study subjects to receive adequate analgesic therapy. As such, most protocols allow study subjects to receive a pre-specified regimen of open-label analgesic drugs (rescue drugs) as needed. The selection of an appropriate rescue regimen is a critical experimental design choice. We hypothesized that a rescue regimen that is too liberal could lead to all study arms receiving similar levels of pain relief (thereby confounding experimental results), while a regimen that is too stringent could lead to a high subject dropout rate (giving rise to a preponderance of missing data). Despite the importance of rescue regimen as a study design feature, there exist no published review articles or meta-analysis focusing on the impact of rescue therapy on experimental outcomes. Therefore, when selecting a rescue regimen, researchers must rely on clinical factors (what analgesics do patients usually receive in similar surgical scenarios) and/or anecdotal evidence. In the following article, we attempt to bridge this gap by reviewing and discussing the experimental impacts of rescue therapy on a common acute surgical pain population: first metatarsal bunionectomy. The function of this analysis is to (1) create a framework for discussion and future exploration of rescue as a methodological study design feature, (2) discuss the interplay between data imputation techniques and rescue drugs, and (3) inform the readership regarding the impact of data imputation techniques on the validity of study conclusions. Our findings indicate that liberal rescue may degrade assay sensitivity, while stringent rescue may lead to unacceptably high dropout rates.

The Effect of Magnesium Sulfate on Postoperative Pain in Upper Limb Surgeries by Supraclavicular Block Under Ultrasound Guidance

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have been conducted to evaluate the effect of different adjuvants on brachial plexus block.

OBJECTIVES

This study investigated the effect of adding magnesium sulfate to lidocaine on postoperative pain in upper limb surgeries by supraclavicular brachial plexus block under ultrasound guidance.

METHODS

This study was carried out on patients who were candidate for upper limb surgeries. This was a controlled double-blind study conducted on a number of 52 patients aged 18 - 75 years with ASA class I or II. The first group (M) received lidocaine 1% (4 mg/kg) plus fentanyl 50 micg and magnesium sulfate 20% (5 mL) while the second group (N) received lidocaine 1% (4 mg/kg) plus fentanyl 50 micg and normal saline (5 mL) to supraclavicular brachial plexus block under ultrasound guidance. Postoperative pain was evaluated by visual analog scale (VAS) until 24 hours. Sensory and motor blocks onset and duration, rescue analgesics, hemodynamic variables, and side effects were recorded for all the patients.

RESULTS

Postoperative VAS values at 24 hours were significantly lower in group M than group N (P < 0.0001). Sensory and Motor blocks onset and duration were statistically longer in group M than group N (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of magnesium sulfate to lidocaine decreased the postoperative pain and increased the onset and duration of sensory and motor blocks in supraclavicular brachial plexus block under ultrasound guidance in upper limb surgeries.

A Comparative Study on the Efficacy of Oral Memantine and Placebo for Acute Postoperative Pain in Patients Undergoing Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR)

BACKGROUND

Memantine is an N-methyl-D-Aspartate (NMDA) antagonist. By transferring acute postoperative pain, the NMDA channels may lead to active excess and neuropathic pain. Objectives: This study attempted to investigate the effect of preoperative use of single oral dose of memantine in controlling Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) postoperative pain.

METHODS

A double-blind clinical trial was conducted on 60 patients undergoing DCR. On arrival at the operating room, the memantine group received 20 mg of oral memantine and the control group received placebo. The severities of pain by visual analogue scale (VAS) and sedation by Ramsy Scale were measured immediately 1, 2, and 6 hours after the operation. The drug's side effects were recorded.

RESULTS

The pain scores of patients in the recovery in 1, 2, and 6 hours after operation were significantly lower in the memantine group than the placebo group (P < 0.001). The sedation score, 1 hour after the operation, was significantly greater in the memantine group than the placebo (P < 0.001). The sedation scores did not have any statistically significant difference in recovery and 2 hours after surgery between the two groups. Moreover, the sedation scores in 6 hours after the surgery were identical in the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The oral single-dose 20 mg of memantine administered before DCR can reduce postoperative pain compared with placebo.

Effect of Intravenous Acetaminophen on Postoperative Pain in Vitrectomy: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Clinical Trial

Background

Nowadays, pain, nausea, and vomiting are regarded as important complications of anesthesia and surgery. The current study aimed at assessing the effect of preemptive intravenous acetaminophen on control of pain, nausea, vomiting, shivering, and drowsiness following the general anesthesia for retina and/or vitrectomy surgeries.

Methods

In a randomized, double-blind, clinical trial, 83 candidates for retina or vitrectomy eye surgery under general anesthesia were distributed into 3 groups: A) 41 patients in the control group who received 100 mL of normal saline just before the surgery and 100 mL of normal saline 20 minutes before the end of surgery; B) 21 patients in the preemptive group who received acetaminophen 15 mg/kg in 100 mL normal saline just before the surgery and 100 mL normal saline 20 minutes before the end of surgery; C) 21 patients in the preventive group who received 100 mL normal saline just before the surgery and acetaminophen 15 mg/kg in 100 mL normal saline 20 minutes before the end of surgery. Pain, nausea, vomiting, and shivering were assessed at the recovery and 2, 4, and 24 hours after the operation. Anesthesia emergence situation was assessed after arrival in the recovery room by the Richmond agitation-sedation scale (RASS) questionnaire. Blood pressure and heart rate were recorded before anesthesia induction, just after intubation, before extubation, and on discharge from the recovery room.

Results

Total intraoperative fentanyl, duration of operation, and duration of anesthesia were not different among the studied groups. Vital signs were not statistically different among the groups at before anesthesia induction, just after intubation, before extubation, and on discharge from the recovery room. Thirty-three patients in the control group (87.8%), 11 in preemptive (52.4%), and 14 in preventive groups (66.7%) needed acetaminophen in the first 24 hours after the surgery (P value = 0.008). Pain scores measured by visual rating scale (VRS) was lower in the preemptive and preventive groups, compared with those of the control group, in the recovery (P value = 0.006), 2 hours after the surgery (P value = 0.008), and 4 hours after the surgery (P value = 0.012), but not in 24 hours after the operation (P value = 0.1).

Conclusions

Intravenous acetaminophen administered as preemptive or preventive medication was effective and safe to control acute postoperative pain and analgesic request after the vitrectomy eye surgery.

Influence of Difference in Timing of Perioperative Administration of Low-dose Ketamine on Postoperative Analgesia

Background:

Preemptive analgesia is a part of multimodal regime for effective postoperative analgesia. Ketamine is said to possess preemptive effects, which has been simultaneously refuted by other studies. Hence, we designed this randomized, double-blinded trial to establish the influence of timing of perioperative ketamine administration for superior postoperative analgesia.

Methods:

Ninety patients undergoing infraumbilical surgeries under spinal anesthesia were randomized to receive ketamine either preincision (Group KI), preincision and during skin closure (Group KII), or only during skin closure (Group KIII). Outcomes studied were postoperative pain, sedation, and incidence of side effects.

Results:

Analysis of variance statistics for postoperative visual analog scales (VAS) for pain showed no significant difference in three groups. However, there was a significant difference between Groups KII and KIII in the immediate postoperative period (95% confidence interval [CI] of mean VAS for Group KI = 0.9249–1.4889; 95% CI for Group KII = 1.4406–1.8260; P = 0.043). Sedation scores in the immediate, 4 h and 8 h postoperative showed a significant difference between Group KI and Group KII (P = 0.007, 0.008, 0.001, respectively) and between Group KI and KIII (KI: KIII - P = 0.0008, 0.0006, 0.02, respectively). Although the incidence of psychotomimetic effect was more in Groups KIII, it was not statistically significant.

Conclusion:

Ketamine possesses postoperative analgesic effects in the immediate postoperative period only when its preemptive administration is supplemented with repeat administration during closure. Incidences of side effects were comparable in all groups.

The Analgesic Efficacy of 5% Naproxen Gel for Pain Associated with Orthodontic Separator Placement: A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial

Background and Objectives

Several methods have been proposed to relieve orthodontic pain, each with its advantages and disadvantages. This study aimed at assessing the efficacy of 5% naproxen gel to relieve pain associated with orthodontic separator placement.

Methods

This double-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted on 41 patients between 14 and 20 years old complaining of pain due to placement of orthodontic elastic separators. Five-percent naproxen and placebo gels were applied randomly in a spilt mouth design to the permanent first molars area. The gels were applied every 8 hours for 3 days after placement of separators. Patients recorded their level of pain at determined time points using a 0 to 100 visual analog scale. Normal distribution was assessed by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Paired samples t test was used to compare the mean pain score between the two gels. Multi-factorial repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) compared the severity of pain based on gender and age.

Results

Out of 41 patients, 34 completed this trial (23 females and 11 males). The mean pain score significantly decreased over time in both sides and for both genders (P < 0.001). Pain score was not significantly different between males and females or between patients < 16 and ≥ 16 years of age. The mean pain score was significantly lower in the naproxen group at all-time points (P < 0.001). Naproxen gel showed significantly higher analgesic efficacy when compared to the placebo at all-time points. The highest and lowest pain score was noted at 2 hours and at 7 days after separator placement, respectively.

Conclusions

Using 5% naproxen gel is an effective method for reducing orthodontic pain following elastic separator placement.

Hypnoanalgesia for Dilatation and Curettage Pain Control

There are many acceptable approaches ranging from light to moderate intravenous sedation or analgesic drugs that are used to provide pain control in dilatation and curettage. We report the use of hypnosis as a nonpharmacologic approach to control pain in this manner.

Effect of Oral Clonidine on Shoulder Tip Pain and Hemodynamic Response After Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Randomized Double Blind Study

Background

Shoulder tip pain is a common problem after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. There are a few clinical trial studies on the effect of clonidine on post laparoscopic shoulder pain (PLSP). This study aimed at evaluating the effect of oral clonidine on PLSP in semi-sitting position and post-operative hemodynamic response of patients undergoing LC surgery.

Methods

This randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on 60 patients, who were candidates for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy surgery under general anesthesia, and were randomly allocated to clonidine and placebo groups. Patients in the clonidine group received 0.2 mg oral, 90 minutes prior to induction. Patients in the placebo group received vitamin C tablets during the same time. Postoperative pain intensity was assessed, using a visual analog scale at the emergence from anesthesia, 4 and 8 hours after the operation by an anesthetist, who was blinded to the patient group. Mean arterial blood pressure and heart rate were recorded before clonidine administration and in post-operative period.

Results

The mean age was 36.85 ± 10.93 years and the mean Body Mass was 26.34 ± 3.46 kg/m². Two groups were not comparable with respect to occurrence of PLSP (P = 0.739). There was a significant difference in intensity of PLSP between the 2 groups at emergence from anesthesia (P = 0.012), 4 and 8 hours after the operation (P = 0.001) between 2 groups. The clonidine group showed a larger reduction of pain intensity at these phases. The result of independent t test indicated significant differences in the MABP value between the 2 groups at the time of emergence from anesthesia (P = 0.031). The clonidine group demonstrated a lower MABP level at this time.

Conclusions

Oral clonidine is not effective in preventing the PLSP. However, it alleviates PLSP intensity in the patient under LC procedure on the first post-operative hours.

Development of a Minimum Data Set (MDS) for C-Section Anesthesia Information Management System (AIMS)

Background

Caesarean section, also known as C-section, is a very common procedure in the world. Minimum data set (MDS) is defined as a set of data elements holding information regarding a series of target entities to provide a basis for planning, management, and performance evaluation. MDS has found a great use in health care information systems. Also, it can be considered as a basis for medical information management and has shown a great potential for contributing to the provision of high quality care and disease control measures.

Objectives

The principal aim of this research was to determine MDS and required capabilities for Anesthesia information management system (AIMS) in C-section in Iran.

Methods

Data items collected from several selected AIMS were studied to establish an initial set of data. The population of this study composed of 115 anesthesiologists was asked to review the proposed data elements and score them in order of importance by using a five-point Likert scale. The items scored as important or highly important by at least 75% of the experts were included in the final list of minimum data set.

Results

Overall 8 classes of data (consisted of 81 key data elements) were determined as final set. Also, the most important required capabilities were related to airway management and hypertension and hypotension management.

Conclusions

In the development of information system (IS) based on MDS and identification, because of the broad involvement of users, IS capabilities must focus on the users’ needs to form a successful system. Therefore, it is essential to assess MDS watchfully by considering the planned uses of data. Also, IS should have essential capabilities to meet the needs of its users.

Open Appendectomy Using Ultrasound Guided Transversus Abdominis Plane Block: A Case Report

Introduction

TAB block has been used as an analgesic adjuvant in many abdominal surgeries with fair reliability, but it has never been used as an anesthetic technique.

Case Presentation

In this case report, a 19- year-old male underwent an open appendectomy using ultrasound-guided TAP block as a single anesthetic technique.

Conclusions

It was concluded that under certain circumstances TAP block can be used as an anesthetic modality

Effect of Multisensory Stimulation on Pain of Eye Examination in Preterm Infants

Background

Eye examination as one of the painful procedures for retinopathy of prematurity screening can cause some pain-related physiological and behavioral changes in preterm infants. Multisensory stimulation is an analgesic non-pharmacological method that has analgesic effects on infants during painful procedures.

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the effect of multisensory stimulation on induced pain during eye examination for retinopathy of prematurity screening in preterm infants.

Methods

In this double-blind clinical trial, 80 preterm infants were randomly divided into two groups. In the intervention group, multisensory stimulation program was performed for 15 minutes before the beginning of examination while the control group received the routine care. Pain score for each infant was recorded by premature infant pain profile. Data were analyzed using independent t-test, Mann-Whitney, and ANOVA with repeated measures by SPSS software (version 16).

Results

The mean gestational age was 30.4 ± 1.7 weeks in the multisensory stimulation group and 30.6 ± 1.8 weeks in the control group. Based on ANOVA with repeated measures, the pain score was significantly different between two groups during the assessment process (P < 0.001). The changes in pain severity during the examination were also significant between the two groups (P < 0.001); so that the pain was more intensive in the control group than the intervention group.

Conclusions

Multisensory stimulation program as a safe and easy method can reduce pain in neonates and may be used as a way to reduce pain during eye examination in infants.

Paracetamol Instead of Ketorolac in Post-Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery Pain Management: A Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND

Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) is a minimally invasive procedure that is growing more common around the world. Despite causing less pain compared open thoracic surgery, postoperative pain management is still important.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to compare the analgesic effects of paracetamol and ketorolac in VATS patients.

METHODS

This was a double-blinded randomized clinical trial conducted on 70 patients undergoing lobectomy or segmentectomy due to lung masses, using video-assisted methods. The patients were randomly divided into two groups (each n = 35): the ketorolac (K) group and the paracetamol (P) group. The K group received ketorolac 30 mg IV stat at the end of surgery and then a 90 mg/24 h infusion. The P group received paracetamol 1 g IV stat at the end of surgery and then a 3 g/24 h infusion. Pain scores were recorded during recovery and 2, 4, 8, 12, and 24 hours after drug administration. Pain scores, total doses of rescue analgesics, and patient satisfaction levels were compared between the groups.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between the K and P groups in pain scores in any of the evaluations. Seventeen (48.6 %) and 9 (25.7 %) patients in the K and P groups, respectively, did not require any rescue analgesia (P = 0.047). The mean doses of rescue analgesia in the K and P groups were 3.129 ± 4.27 mg and 4.38 ± 3.69 mg, respectively, which were similar (P = 0.144). There was no significant difference between the groups in satisfaction scores (P = 0.175).

CONCLUSIONS

Paracetamol 1 g stat + 3 g/24 h infusion is as effective as ketorolac 30 mg stat + 90 mg/24 h infusion in post-VATS pain management, with good tolerability and a low incidence of adverse effects.

Intraoperative Electroacupuncture Reduces Postoperative Pain, Analgesic Requirement and Prevents Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting in Gynaecological Surgery: A Randomised Controlled Trial

Background

Electroacupuncture (EA) is believed to modulate the pain pathway via the release of endogenous opioid substances and stimulation of descending pain inhibitory pathways. In this study, the use of intraoperative 2 Hertz EA stimulation is investigated to determine any opioid-sparing effect and reduction of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in patients undergoing gynaecological surgery.

Patient and Methods

This was a prospective, double blinded randomized study conducted in a tertiary hospital in Malaysia. Patients (n = 64) were randomly allocated to receive 2 Hertz EA and compared to a control group. EA was started intraoperatively till the end of the surgery (mean duration of surgery was 149.06 ± 42.64 minutes) under general anaesthesia. Postoperative numerical rating scale (NRS), the incidence of nausea, vomiting and usage of rescue antiemetics were recorded at 30 minutes, 2, 4, and 24 hours, respectively. The total morphine demand and usage from the patient-controlled analgesia Morphine (PCAM) were also recorded in the first 24 hours postoperatively.

Results

The mean NRS was 2.75 (SD = 2.34) at 30 minutes and 2.25 (SD = 1.80) at 2 hours postoperatively in the EA group that was significantly lower than the mean NRS in the control group as 4.50 (SD = 2.37) at 30 minutes and 3.88 (SD = 2.21) at 2 hours. The mean PCA morphine demand was 27.28 (SD = 21.61) times pressed in the EA group and 55.25 (SD = 46.85) times pressed in the control group within 24 hours postoperatively, which showed a significant reduction in the EA group than the control group. Similarly, total morphine requirement was significantly lower in the EA group with the value of 21.38 (SD = 14.38) mg compared to the control group with the value of 33.94 (SD = 20.24) mg within 24 hours postoperatively. Incidence of postoperative nausea also significantly reduced in the EA group at 30 minutes (15.6%) compared to the control group (46.9%).

Conclusions

It can be concluded that subjects receiving EA intraoperatively experienced less pain and PONV. Hence, it is plausible that EA has an opioid-sparing effect and can reduce PONV.

Sedative and Analgesic Effects of Propofol-Fentanyl Versus Propofol-Ketamine During Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography: A Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial

Background

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a painful procedure that requires analgesia and sedation.

Objectives

In this study, we compared the analgesic and sedative effects of propofol-ketamine versus propofol-fentanyl in patients undergoing ERCP.

Methods

In this clinical trial, 72 patients, aged 30 - 70 years old, who were candidates for ERCP were randomly divided into two groups. Before the start of ERCP, both groups received midazolam 0.5 - 1 mg. The intervention group (PK) received ketamine 0.5 mg/kg, and the control group (PF) received fentanyl 50 - 100 micrograms. All patients received propofol 0.5 mg/kg in a loading dose followed by 75 mcg/kg/minute in an infusion. The patients, the anesthesiologist, and the endoscopist were unaware of the medication regimen. Sedation and analgesia quality (based on a VAS), blood pressure, respiratory rate, heart rate, arterial oxygen saturation, recovery time (based on Aldrete scores), and endoscopist and patient satisfation were recorded.

Results

The sedative effects were equal in the two groups (P > 0.05), but the analgesic effects were higher in the PF group than in the PK group (P < 0.05). The PK group had higher blood pressure levels in the eighth minute. Respiratory rate, heart rate, and arterial oxygen saturation showed no significant differences between the groups (P > 0.05). Endoscopist satisfaction, patient satisfaction, and recovery time showed no significant differences between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

The results showed that the sedative effect of propofol-ketamine was equal to the propofol-fentanyl combination during ERCP. To prevent respiratory and hemodynamic complications during ERCP, the propofol-ketamine combination should be used in patients with underlying disease.

Combined Ketamine-Tramadol Subcutaneous Wound Infiltration for Multimodal Postoperative Analgesia: A Double-Blinded, Randomized Controlled Trial after Renal Surgery

Background

Pain is an important consideration after renal surgery. A multimodal approach to postoperative pain management could enhance analgesia by risking fewer side effects after surgery.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of the subcutaneous infiltration of ketamine and tramadol at the incision site to reduce postoperative pain.

Methods

Sixty-four patients between 18 and 80 years old who were scheduled for elective renal surgery were enrolled in a double-blind randomized controlled study. At the end of the surgery, patients were divided into four groups with 16 patients in each group: the saline group, who were treated with 10 mL of saline solution; the K group, who were treated with 1 mg/kg etamine in 10 mL of saline solution; the T group, who were treated with 1 mg/kg tramadol in 10 mL of saline solution; and the K/T group, who were treated with 0.5 mg/kg ketamine with 0.5 mg/kg tramadol in 10 mL of saline solution. In each group, the solution was infiltrated subcutaneously at the incision site. The postoperative pain scores and rescue analgesic consumption of the patients in each group were recorded for 24 hours and compared. The primary goal of the study was to compare the results of patients treated with a combined ketamine and tramadol subcutaneous wound infiltration, patients treated with a tramadol subcutaneous wound infiltration, and patients treated with a ketamine subcutaneous wound infiltration.

Results

Sixty-four patients were enrolled in the study. Pain intensity and cumulative meperidine consumption were significantly lower in the K/T group (27 mg; 95% confidence interval, 25.2 - 53.2) in comparison with the group that received a saline infusion during the first 24 hours after surgery (P < 0.001). The sedation score of the K, T, and K/T groups were significantly higher than the saline group (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The combined subcutaneous infiltration of ketamine and tramadol at the incision site produces better analgesia and an opioid-sparing effect during the first 24 hours when compared with the control group and the groups that received a subcutaneous infiltration of only ketamine or tramadol.

Treatment of Post-Latissimus Dorsi Flap Breast Reconstruction Pain With Continuous Paravertebral Nerve Blocks: A Retrospective Review

Objectives

The addition of a perioperative continuous paravertebral nerve block (cPVB) to a single-injection thoracic paravertebral nerve block (tPVB) has demonstrated improved analgesia in breast surgery. However, its use following isolated post-mastectomy reconstruction using a latissimus dorsi flap (LDF) has not previously been examined.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of patients who underwent salvage breast reconstruction with a unilateral LDF by a single surgeon. Preoperatively, all patients received a single-injection tPVB with 0.5% ropivacaine. Additionally, patients had the option for catheter placement to receive a continuous 0.2% ropivacaine infusion with intermittent boluses. Infusions commenced in the recovery room and the catheters were removed on the morning of discharge. The primary endpoint was the mean pain numeric rating scale (NRS) scores for the 24-hour period beginning at 7:00 on post-operative day 1.

Results

A total of 22 patients were included in this study (11-cPVB and 11-tPVB). The mean NRS pain score of cPVB patients (3.5 (standard deviation (SD) 1.8) was lower than that of the single-injection tPVB patients (4.4 (SD 2.1), however this difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.31). The length of hospital stay and opioid use was not statistically different between groups.

Conclusions

Patients receiving a cPVB in addition to tPVB after LDF reconstruction experienced similar pain to those receiving tPVB alone. A larger, randomized clinical trial is warranted to fully determine the benefits of using cPVB in addition to tPVB for this procedure.

A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Use of Enthonox With Pethidine for Pain Relief in Primigravid Women During the Active Phase of Labor

Background

The use of pain-relieving drugs during labor is now part of standard care in many countries throughout the world. Each method of pain relief has its own risks and benefits, variations in effectiveness, and availability and acceptability.

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of intramuscular pethidine as an analgesic during labor by comparing it to inhaled 50% nitrous oxide (Entonox).

Methods

In this clinical trial study, 100 women who expected to have a natural childbirth were observed. The inclusion criteria for this study were the commencement of spontaneous labor pain along with appropriate maternal and fetal indications for vaginal delivery. By using random numbers, each subject was randomly allocated to one of two groups, with one group using Entonox and the other receiving an intramuscular injection of 0.5 mg/kg of pethidine for pain relief. The intensity of labor pain experienced by the subjects and the outcomes of the deliveries were collected with questionnaires.

Results

The average pain scores in the Entonox and pethidine groups were 3.94 ± 1.4 and 5.6 ± 1.1, respectively, 30 minutes after intervention (P = 0.001), but there was not a significant difference in the severity of the pain (5.06 ± 1.4 and 4.7 ± 1.1 for the Entonox and pethidine groups, respectively) between the subjects in each group 60 minutes after the intervention (P = 0.592). No significant differences were seen in the duration and interval of uterine contractions, maternal complications, Apgar scores, and the duration of the first and second stage of labor between the two studied groups (P > 0.05). An analysis of the pooled risk differences showed that none of the side effects investigated were significantly different between the two groups except for mouth dryness, which was significantly higher in nitrous oxide users (P = 0.044).

Conclusions

Inhaled nitrous oxide seems to give better pain relief in the short term compared to a single dose of pethidine. Entonox, which is more convenient to administer than an intramuscular injection of pethidine, is also regarded as safe both for mothers and neonates.

Diclofenac Suppository vs. IV Acetaminophen Combined With IV PCA for Postoperative Pain Management in Patients Undergoing Laminectomy: A Randomized, Double-Blinded Clinical Trial

Background

Tissue damage caused by surgical procedures nearly always results in pain. The effective management of postoperative pain remains a challenge because of its influence on the surgical outcome and its critical role in early mobilization and functionality. Recent research on postoperative pain management supports a treatment approach known as “multimodal analgesia,” which comprises the use of more than one method or modality of pain control and management.

Objectives

In the present study, we compared the effects of diclofenac suppository and intravenous (IV) acetaminophen combined with IV patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) for pain management after laminectomy surgery.

Patients and Methods

Our randomized, double-blinded controlled trial during 2013 at Besat hospital in Hamadan, Iran, included 102 ASA I-II patients aged 18 to 65 years who were candidates for laminectomy surgery. The patients were randomly assigned to receive the diclofenac suppository (100 mg) (n = 51) or IV acetaminophen (1 g in 100 mL normal saline) (n = 51) 10 minutes before completing surgery and 12 hours after the operation.

Results

The patients’ characteristics were the same in both study groups. The patients’ satisfaction levels were higher among those who received diclofenac when compared with the acetaminophen group, especially at the time points of 6 and 12 h after surgery. The consumed narcotic using the PCA pump within 24 h of surgery in the diclofenac group was significantly lower than that of the acetaminophen group (735.70 ± 59.61 µg vs. 819.70 ± 80.02 µg; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The use of diclofenac suppository combined with IV PCA results in reduced narcotic usage and a higher level of patient satisfaction compared to the use of IV acetaminophen combined with IV PCA.

Comparison of Bispectral Index Monitoring With the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool in the Pain Assessment of Intubated Adult Patients After Cardiac Surgery

Background

Detecting pain is crucial in sedated and mechanically ventilated patients, as they are unable to communicate verbally.

Objectives

This study aimed to compare Bispectral index (BIS) monitoring with the Critical-care pain observation tool (CPOT) and vital signs for pain assessment during painful procedures in intubated adult patients after cardiac surgery.

Materials and Methods

Seventy consecutive patients who underwent cardiac surgery (coronary artery bypass graft or valvular surgery) were enrolled in the study. Pain evaluations were performed early after the operation in the intubated and sedated patients by using BIS and CPOT, and also checking the vital signs. The pain assessments were done at three different times: 1) baseline (immediately before any painful procedure, including tracheal suctioning or changing the patient’s position), 2) during any painful procedure, and 3) five minutes after the procedure (recovery time).

Results

The mean values for CPOT, BIS, and mean arterial pressure (MAP) scores were significantly different at different times; they were increased during suctioning or changing position, and decreased five minutes after these procedures (CPOT: 3.98 ± 1.65 versus 1.31 ± 1.07, respectively (P ≤ 0.0001); BIS: 84.94 ± 10.52 versus 63.48 ± 12.17, respectively (P ≤ 0.0001); MAP: 92.88 ± 15.37 versus 89.77 ± 14.72, respectively (P = 0.003)). Change in heart rate (HR) was not significant over time (95.68 ± 16.78 versus 93.61 ± 16.56, respectively; P = 0.34). CPOT scores were significantly positively correlated with BIS at baseline, during painful stimulation, and at recovery time, but were not correlated with HR or MAP, except at baseline. BIS scores were significantly correlated with MAP but not with HR.

Conclusions

It appears that BIS monitoring can be used for pain assessment along with the CPOT tool in intubated patients, and it is much more sensitive than monitoring of hemodynamic changes. BIS monitoring can be used more efficiently in intubated patients under deep sedation in the ICU.