Erector spinae plane block for postoperative analgesia in spine surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Effectiveness of the Bilateral and Bilevel Erector Spinae Plane Block (ESPB) in Pediatric Idiopathic Scoliosis Surgery: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to compare the effect of the ultrasound-guided bilateral and bilevel erector spinae plane block (ESPB) on pain scores, opioid requirement, intraoperative motor-evoked potentials (MEPs), and stress response to surgery expressed by the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) versus standard analgesia methods following idiopathic scoliosis surgery.

METHODS

This was a prospective, double-blinded, randomized controlled trial. Sixty patients aged 10 to 18 years and physical status ASA 1 or 2 were randomized into 2 equal groups, each receiving an ESPB or sham block. The primary outcome was the pain scores (Numerical Rating Scale, NRS) within 48 hours after spinal correction and fusion surgery for idiopathic thoracic scoliosis. The secondary outcomes were total opioid consumption, NLR, and PLR levels at 12 and 24 hours postoperatively and intraoperative MEPs.

RESULTS

ESPB patients presented lower NRS scores, signifying less pain, at all time points (30, 60, 90, 120 min; and 6, 12, 24, and 48 h after surgery), all P <0.0001. The total opioid consumption, the incidence of nausea or vomiting, and the need for remifentanil and propofol during surgery were significantly lower in the ESPB group. The surgery-induced stress response expressed by NLR and PLR was considerably lower in the ESPB group. ESPB did not affect the intraoperative MEP's amplitude.

CONCLUSIONS

ESPB is effective for postoperative analgesia, can reduce opioid consumption in patients undergoing scoliosis surgery, and reduces the stress response to surgery. ESPB does not interfere with neuromonitoring.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I.

Regional Anesthesia Techniques in Modern Neuroanesthesia Practice: A Narrative Review of the Clinical Evidence

Neurosurgical procedures are often associated with significant postoperative pain that is both underrecognized and undertreated. Given the potentially undesirable side effects associated with general anesthesia and with various pharmacological analgesic regimens, regional anesthetic techniques have gained in popularity as alternatives for providing both anesthesia and analgesia for the neurosurgical patient. The aim of this narrative review is to present an overview of the regional techniques that have been incorporated and continue to be incorporated into modern neuroanesthesia practice, presenting in a comprehensive way the evidence, where available, in support of such practice for the neurosurgical patient.

The efficacy of ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane block (ESPB) versus freehand ESPB in postoperative pain management after lumbar spinal fusion surgery: a randomized, non-inferiority trial

PURPOSE

Spine surgeries have experienced exponential growth over the past 2 decades. These surgeries are often accompanied by long and severe perioperative pain, presenting a significant management challenge. This study aims to assess and compare the efficacy of two techniques for postoperative pain (POP) management in lumbar spine surgeries: ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane block (ESPB) and intraoperative freehand ESPB.

METHODS

In this prospective randomized non-inferiority trial (Registration Number: IRCT20221107056427N1), adult patients who were candidates for lumbar spinal fusion surgery were randomly divided into two groups: ultrasound-guided ESPB (n = 29) and freehand ESPB (n = 29). The primary outcomes were the total amount of morphine consumed during the first 24 h following the surgery and the numerical rating scale (NRS) pain score at various time points within the first 24 h following the surgery. The secondary outcome was the fentanyl used during surgery.

RESULTS

Participants in the intraoperative freehand approach had considerably higher total morphine consumption in the first postoperative 24 h. The trend of NRS changes in both the ultrasound-guided ESPB group and the freehand ESPB group during the first 24 h after surgery showed a significant decrease. Still, there was no significant difference between the two groups. However, the first analgesic demand time was significantly shorter in the intraoperative freehand ESPB group compared to the ultrasound-guided approach.

CONCLUSION

According to our results, the ultrasound-guided approach of ESPB is more effective in POP management and opioid sparing in lumbar spinal fusion surgeries compared to the freehand approach. However, the data from this study are not sufficient to draw robust conclusions, and further randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes are required to validate our results.

Changes in motor evoked potentials after erector spinae block in scoliosis surgery-when to take pre-incision baseline recordings?

Multimodal intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) is highly valuable in scoliosis surgeries for monitoring spinal cord function, particularly during instrumentation. Accurate timing of baseline recordings of TcMEP and SSEP is crucial, as any changes observed during surgery and instrumentation are compared to these baseline recordings. However, the impact of ultrasound-guided erector spinae block (USG-ESPB) on SSEP and TcMEP is not well-studied in scoliosis surgery. In this report, we present two cases of scoliosis surgery where bilateral two-level USG-ESPB using different concentrations of ropivacaine (0.375% and 0.2%) resulted in a transient and significant deterioration of TcMEP, occurring 3 minutes after the block and lasting for 20 minutes. Remarkably, SSEPs remained unchanged during this period. These findings suggest that USG-ESPB may produce TcMEP changes, highlighting the importance of carefully considering the timing of baseline TcMEP acquisition in scoliosis surgery.

Efficacy and Safety of Erector Spinae Plane Block Versus Thoracolumbar Interfascial Plane Block in Patients Undergoing Spine Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

As 2 novel peripheral nerve blocks, the erector spinae plane block (ESPB) and thoracolumbar interfascial plane (TLIP) block can relieve postoperative pain in spinal surgery. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of ESPB versus TLIP block in patients undergoing spine surgery.

METHODS

An extensive search of English online databases, including PubMed, Web of Sciences, Embase, Medline, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Chinese online databases like Wanfang Data, CNKI, and CQVIP until March 31, 2023, with no language restrictions, was performed. This systematic review and meta-analysis are based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement and have been registered on PROSPERO (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews) with registered ID: CRD42023420987.

RESULTS

Five studies involving 457 patients were eligible for inclusion in this study. Compared with TLIP block, ESPB had lower postoperative opioid consumption at postoperative 48 hours (standard mean difference =-1.31, 95% CI:-2.54 to -0.08, P =0.04, I2 =80%) and postoperative pain score at postoperative 24 hours (standard mean difference =-0.72, 95% CI=-1.43 to -0.02, P =0.04, I2 =95%) in patients undergoing spine surgery. Complications associated with ESPB and TLIP block were not reported in the included studies.

DISCUSSION

ESPB and TLIP block are 2 novel and effective block methods. Patients receiving ESPB had lower postoperative opioid consumption and postoperative pain scores compared with patients receiving TLIP block; there was no statistically significant difference's between the 2 groups in intraoperative opioid consumption, adverse events, and rescue analgesia.

Erector Spinae Plane Block on Postoperative Pain and Opioid Consumption After Lumbar Spine Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

PURPOSE

Evaluate the effectiveness of the erector spinae plane (ESP) block in lumbar spine surgeries.

DESIGN

Systematic review with meta-analysis.

METHODS

PubMed, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Google Scholar, and other gray literature were searched for eligible studies. Risk ratio (RR), mean difference (MD), and standardized mean difference were used to estimate outcomes with suitable effect models. The quality of evidence was assessed using the Risk of Bias algorithm and the grades of recommendation, assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) approach.

FINDINGS

Twenty-two randomized controlled trials involving 1,327 patients were included. The erector spinae plane (ESP) block demonstrated a lower cumulative pain score within the first 48 hours at rest (MD, -1.03; 95% CI, -1.19 to -0.87; P < .00001) and during activity (MD, -1.16; 95% CI, -1.24 to -1.08; P < .00001). In addition, ESP block decreased opioid consumption (MD, -6.25; 95% CI, -8.33 to -4.17; P < .00001) and prolonged the time to first analgesic rescue (MD, 5.66; 95% CI, 3.11-8.20; P < .0001) resulting in fewer patients requesting rescue analgesic (RR, 0.33; 95% CI, 0.13-0.83; P = .02), lower incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (RR, 0.29; 95% CI, 0.10-0.79; P = .02) with improved patient satisfaction score (standardized mean difference, 2.17; 95% CI, 1.40-2.94; P < .00001).

CONCLUSIONS

ESP block can provide effective postoperative pain control for lumbar spine surgery, improve patient satisfaction, and reduce the amount of postoperative opioid use.

The Use of Erector Spinae Plane Block Reduces Opioid Consumption and Pain Score in Postoperative Period After Hip Surgery: A Meta-Analysis

Erector spinae plane block (ESPB) is a relatively new regional anesthesia block that has been used in thoracic and abdominal surgeries with variable success. ESPB can easily be administered using an ultrasound technique with a safer profile. Recently, there have been few randomized controlled trials (RCTs) regarding the role of ESPB in hip surgeries. A current meta-analysis was done to evaluate the role of ESPB block in controlling postoperative pain after hip surgeries. PRISMA guidelines were followed to perform this meta-analysis. We used online databases including Science Direct, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library. This review was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) database as ID-CRD42023445516 in July 2023. We included studies that reported opioid use, pain control after surgery, and side effects associated with ESPB for hip surgeries. The ReviewManager software, i.e., RevMan for Mac 5.4 (Cochrane Collaboration, Oxford, UK), was utilized to conduct this meta-analysis. We included five RCTs during this meta-analysis. Our results demonstrated that the use of ESPB in hip surgery caused a significant decrease in 24-hour postoperative opioid consumption (p=0.02). ESPB also resulted in a significant decrease in pain scores up to nine hours postoperatively (p<0.05).

Erector spinae plane block improves postoperative recovery after laminectomy and discectomy surgery: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

There is still room for improvement of pain management after spinal surgery. The goal of this study was to evaluate adding the erector spinae block to the standard analgesia regimen. Our hypothesis was that the erector spinae plane block will decrease length of hospital stay, reduce opioid need and improve numeric rating scale pain scores.

METHODS

This was a single center retrospective cohort study. We included 418 patients undergoing laminectomy or discectomy from January 2019 until December 2021. The erector spinae plane block was introduced in 2016 by Forero and colleagues and added to our clinical practice in October 2020. Patients who did not receive an erector spinae plane block prior to its implementation in October 2020 were used as control group. The primary outcome measure was functional recovery, measured by length of hospital stay. Secondary outcome measures were perioperative opioid consumption, need for patient-controlled analgesia and numeric rating scale pain scores. Postoperative data collection time points were: at the PACU and after 3, 6, 12 and 24 h postoperatively.

RESULTS

There was a significant shorter length of hospital stay in patients undergoing single level laminectomy (with erector spinae plane block 29 h (IQR 27-51), without block 53 h (IQR 51-55), p < .001), multiple level laminectomy (with erector spinae plane block 49 h (IQR 31-54), without block 54 h (IQR 52-75), p < .001) and discectomy (with erector spinae plane block 27 h (IQR 25-30), without block 29 h (IQR 28-49), p = .04).

CONCLUSIONS

Erector spinae plane block reduces length of stay after laminectomy surgery.

Utility of Ultrasound-Guided Erector Spinae Plane Blocks for Postoperative Pain Management Following Thoracolumbar Spinal Fusion Surgery

Purpose

The primary objective of this study is to determine if ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane blocks (ESPB) prior to thoracolumbar spinal fusion reduces opioid consumption in the first 24 hours postoperatively. Secondary objectives include ESPB effects on administration of opioids, utilization of intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (IV-PCA), pain scores, length of stay, and opioid related side effects.

Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis was performed on consecutive, adult patients undergoing primary thoracolumbar fusion procedures. Demographic and baseline characteristics including diagnoses of chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and preoperative use of opioids were collected. Surgical data included surgical levels, opioid administration, and duration. Postoperative data included pain scores, opioid consumption, IV-PCA duration, opioid-related side effects, ESPB-related complications, and length of stay (LOS). Statistical analysis was performed using chi-squared and t-test analyses, multivariable analysis, and covariate adjustment with propensity score.

Results

A total of 118 consecutive primary thoracolumbar fusions were identified between October 2019 and December 2021 (70 ESPB, 48 no-block [NB]). There were no significant demographic or surgical differences between groups. Median surgical time (262.50 mins vs 332.50 mins, p = 0.04), median intraoperative opioid consumption (8.11 OME vs 1.73 OME, p = 0.01), and median LOS (152.00 hrs vs 128.50 hrs, p = 0.01) were significantly reduced in the ESPB group. Using multivariable covariate adjustment with propensity score analysis only intraoperative opioid administration was found to be significantly less in the ESPB cohort.

Conclusion

ESPB for thoracolumbar fusion can be performed safely in index cases. There was a reduction of intraoperative opioid administration in the ESPB group, however the care team was not blinded to the intervention. Extensive thoracolumbar spinal fusion surgery may require a different approach to regional anesthesia to be similarly effective as ESPB in isolated lumbar surgeries.

Guidelines on perioperative optimization protocol for the adult patient 2023

OBJECTIVE

The French Society of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine [Société Française d'Anesthésie et de Réanimation (SFAR)] aimed at providing guidelines for the implementation of perioperative optimization programs.

DESIGN

A consensus committee of 29 experts from the SFAR was convened. A formal conflict-of-interest policy was developed at the outset of the process and enforced throughout. The entire guidelines process was conducted independently of any industry funding. The authors were advised to follow the principles of the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system to guide assessment of quality of evidence.

METHODS

Four fields were defined: 1) Generalities on perioperative optimization programs; 2) Preoperative measures; 3) Intraoperative measures and; 4) Postoperative measures. For each field, the objective of the recommendations was to answer a number of questions formulated according to the PICO model (population, intervention, comparison, and outcomes). Based on these questions, an extensive bibliographic search was carried out using predefined keywords according to PRISMA guidelines and analyzed using the GRADE® methodology. The recommendations were formulated according to the GRADE® methodology and then voted on by all the experts according to the GRADE grid method. As the GRADE® methodology could have been fully applied for the vast majority of questions, the recommendations were formulated using a "formalized expert recommendations" format.

RESULTS

The experts' work on synthesis and application of the GRADE® method resulted in 30 recommendations. Among the formalized recommendations, 19 were found to have a high level of evidence (GRADE 1±) and ten a low level of evidence (GRADE 2±). For one recommendation, the GRADE methodology could not be fully applied, resulting in an expert opinion. Two questions did not find any response in the literature. After two rounds of rating and several amendments, strong agreement was reached for all the recommendations.

CONCLUSIONS

Strong agreement among the experts was obtained to provide 30 recommendations for the elaboration and/or implementation of perioperative optimization programs in the highest number of surgical fields.

Ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane block for postoperative short-term outcomes in lumbar spine surgery: A meta-analysis and systematic review

BACKGROUND

Patients undergoing lumbar spine surgery usually suffer from moderate to severe acute pain. Erector spinae plane block (ESPB) has been applied to relieve acute pain in various surgeries and improve postoperative outcomes. This study aimed to further identify the efficacy and safety of erector spinae plane block in patients undergoing lumbar spine surgery. This study also evaluates the outcomes of the erector spinae plane block compared with other regional blocks.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane library, Embase, and CINAHL databases to identify all randomized controlled trials evaluating the effects of ESPB on postoperative pain after lumbar spine surgery. The primary outcome is postoperative total opioid consumption in 24 hours. The secondary outcomes are postoperative pain scores, intraoperative opioid consumption, time to first rescue analgesia, number of patients requiring rescue analgesia, first time to ambulation after surgery, length of hospital stay, patients' satisfaction score, and postoperative side effects such as postoperative nausea and vomiting, itching.

RESULTS

A total of 19 randomized controlled trials are included in the final analysis. Compared with no/sham block, ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane block can decrease perioperative opioid consumption including intraoperative opioid consumption: standardized mean difference (SMD) = -3.04, 95% confidence interval (CI) (-3.99, -2.09), P < .01, and opioid consumption postoperatively: (SMD = -2.80, 95% CI [-3.61, -2.00], P < .01); reduce postoperative pain at 2, 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours both at rest and movement; meanwhile shorten time to hospital length of stay: (SMD = -1.01, 95% CI [-1.72, 0.30], P = .006), decrease postoperative nausea and vomiting (RR = 0.35, 95% CI [0.27, 0.46], P < .00001), and improve patient satisfaction (SMD = -2.03, 95% CI [-0.96, 3.11], P = .0002). But ultrasound-guided ESPB doesn't shorten the time to ambulation after surgery (SMD = -0.56, 95% CI [-1.21, 0.08], P = .09). Additionally, ESPB is not superior to other regional blocks (e.g., thoracolumbar interfascial plane/midtransverse process to pleura block).

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis demonstrates that ultrasound-guided ESPB can provide effective postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing lumbar spine surgery and improve postoperative outcomes, and it deserves to be recommended as an analgesic adjunct in patients undergoing lumbar spine surgeries.

Retrospective Comparison of Anesthetic Methods for Percutaneous Balloon Kyphoplasty Surgery: General Anesthesia and Erector Spinae Plane Block

Background and Objectives: This study aims to investigate whether erector spinae plane (ESP) block can be an alternative to general anesthesia as a primary anesthesia method in percutaneous balloon kyphoplasty surgery. In addition, postoperative intensive care needs were compared in terms of length of intensive care unit stay and length of hospital stay. Materials and Methods: Medical records of patients who underwent percutaneous balloon kyphoplasty operation at Kastamonu Training and Research Hospital between January 2020 and November 2022 were reviewed retrospectively. Among 70 patients who underwent percutaneous balloon kyphoplasty, 58 patients with ASA (American Association of Anesthesiologists) classification III or IV, who underwent general anesthesia as the anesthesia method or ESP block, were included in the study. The patients were divided into two groups according to the anesthesia method applied. Group GA: general anesthesia group (n = 19) and Group ESP: ESP block group (n = 39). Group data for age, gender, ASA classification, number of surgical levels, surgical urgency, duration of surgery, postoperative complications, need for intensive care, length of stay in the intensive care unit, and hospital stay were compared. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between Group GA and Group ESP in terms of age, gender, ASA classification, surgical urgency, number of surgical levels, duration of surgery, and postoperative complication data of the patients included in the study. Seven (36.6%) patients in Group GA and six (15.4%) patients in Group ESP needed intensive care, and there was no statistically significant difference between the groups (p = 0.06). However, the need for intensive care was higher in Group GA. A statistically significant difference was found in Group GA and Group ESP, which was higher in Group GA for the length of stay in the intensive care unit (p = 0.02) and length of hospitalization (p = 0.04). Conclusions: ESP block may be an alternative method to general anesthesia as the primary anesthetic option for single or multilevel percutaneous balloon kyphoplasty surgery. With the ESP block, the length of stay in the intensive care unit and the length of stay in the hospital can be reduced, especially in high-risk patients.

Efficacy and Safety of Erector Spinae Plane Block for Perioperative Pain Management in Lumbar Spinal Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background

Since the application of ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane block (ESPB) in 2016, the approach has been gradually applied to perioperative analgesia in various surgeries. In recent years, more and more studies have focused on the effect of ESPB in perioperative analgesia of lumbar spinal surgery, but its clinical effect remains controversial.

Objective

This systematic review and meta-analysis was designed to explore the efficacy and safety of ESPB used for perioperative pain management in lumbar spinal surgery.

Methods

The Pubmed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE databases were comprehensively searched for relevant articles from inception to March 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing ESPB with placebo or without ESPB in lumbar spinal surgery were included. The Review Manager 5.3 software was employed for this meta-analysis.

Results

Nineteen RCTs with 1381 participants were included for final analysis. ESPB group exhibited lower intraoperative consumption of sufentanil and remifentanil, lower total opioid consumption within 24 h and 48 h after surgery, lower incidence of rescue analgesia, longer time to first rescue analgesic and lower number of PCA button presses compared to the control group (P<0.05). Moreover, the ESPB group had significantly lower pain scores at rest and on movement within 48 h after surgery compared with the control group (P<0.05). In terms of opioid-related adverse reactions, ESPB reduced the incidence of postoperative nausea, vomitting, somnolence and itching in comparison to the control group (P<0.05). ESPB-related serious complications were not reported in included studies.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis demonstrated that ESPB used in lumbar spinal surgery was effective in relieving postoperative pain, decreasing the perioperative consumption of opioids, as well as decreasing the incidence of postoperative opioid-related adverse reactions.

Opioid versus non-opioid analgesia for spine surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

PURPOSE

Opioids are the primary analgesics used in patients undergoing spine surgery. Postoperative pain is common despite their liberal use and so are opioid-associated side effects. Non-opioid analgesics are gaining popularity as alternative to opioids in spine surgery.

METHODS

This systematic review evaluated current evidence regarding opioid and non-opioid intraoperative analgesia and their influence on immediate postoperative pain and adverse events in spine surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 10,459 records were obtained by searching Medline, EMBASE and Web of Science databases and six randomized controlled trials were included. Differences in postoperative pain scores between opioid and non-opioid groups were not significant at 1 h: 4 studies, mean difference (MD) = 0.65 units, 95% confidence intervals (CI) [-0.12 to 1.41], p = 0.10, but favored non-opioid at 24 h after surgery: 3 studies, MD = 0.75 units, 95%CI [0.03 to 1.46], p = 0.04. The time for first postoperative analgesic requirement was shorter (MD = -45.06 min, 95%CI [-72.50 to -17.62], p = 0.001), and morphine consumption during first 24 h after surgery was higher in opioid compared to non-opioid group (MD = 4.54 mg, 95%CI [3.26 to 5.82], p < 0.00001). Adverse effects of postoperative nausea and vomiting (Relative risk (RR) = 2.15, 95%CI [1.37 to 3.38], p = 0.0009) and shivering (RR = 2.52, 95%CI [1.08 to 5.89], p = 0.03) were higher and bradycardia was lower (RR = 0.35, 95%CI [0.17 to 0.71], p = 0.004) with opioid analgesia.

CONCLUSION

The certainty of evidence on GRADE assessment is low for studied outcomes. Available evidence supports intraoperative non-opioid analgesia for overall postoperative pain outcomes in spine surgery. More research is needed to find the best drug combination and dosing regimen. Prospero Registration: CRD42020209042.

Ultrasound-guided fascial plane blocks for spine surgery

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The development of truncal and fascial plane blocks has created novel opportunities to apply regional analgesic techniques to patients undergoing spine surgery. This review will summarize recent literature devoted to evaluating candidate blocks for spine surgery, including erector spinae plane block, thoracolumbar interfascial plane block, midpoint transverse process to pleura block, and transversus abdominis plane block. Procedure-specific effects of blocks on patient and healthcare system outcomes will be presented and gaps in care and knowledge will be highlighted.

RECENT FINDINGS

The most studied paradigm was bilateral erector spinae plane block for lumbar spine surgery. The most common outcomes assessed were early postoperative pain scores, opioid consumption and related side effects, and length of hospital stay. All candidate blocks were associated with mixed evidence for analgesic and opioid-sparing benefits, and/or reductions in length of hospital stay. The magnitude of these effects was overall small, with many studies showing statistically but not clinically significant differences on outcomes of interest. This may reflect, at least in part, the current state of the (emerging) evidence base on this topic.

SUMMARY

Our understanding of the risks, benefits, and value of truncal and fascial plane blocks for spine surgery cohorts is evolving. Although the results derived from this body of literature are encouraging, further research is required before the widespread adoption of specified blocks into spine care can be recommended.

Ultrasound Guided Continuous Erector Spinae Plane Block versus Patient Controlled Analgesia in Open Nephrectomy for Renal Malignancies: A Randomized Controlled Study

Background

It is critical to manage acute postoperative pain for patient satisfaction and better outcome. Erector spinae plane block (ESPB) can produce sensory blocking on both visceral and somatic levels. This study aimed to evaluate the ESPB efficacy in controlling acute postoperative pain in open nephrectomy for renal malignancies.

Methods

This prospective randomized, controlled, open-label trial included 60 cases scheduled for open nephrectomy for renal malignancy under general anesthesia. Cases were assigned randomly into two equal groups. Group E administered continuous preoperative unilateral ESPB (20mL bupivacaine 0.25% bolus then 6 mL/h 0.1% for 48 hours). Group C administered intravenous (IV) patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) morphine (0.01 mg/kg/h). Postoperative analgesia was managed by morphine (3 mg IV in group E or 0.01 mg/kg bolus with a 15-min lockout in group C) to keep the visual analog scale (VAS) scores <4.

Results

Intraoperative fentanyl consumption and total morphine consumption in 1st 48 hours postoperatively were significantly lower in group E than group C (P= 0.001 and <0.001, respectively). The time to first analgesic request was significantly longer in group E than group C (P <0.001). VAS scores at movement and rest were significantly lower in group E than group C (P <0.001).

Conclusion

In renal malignancies, ESPB provided better analgesia with prolonged time and lower pain scores at both rest and movement compared to IV PCA following open nephrectomy.

Perioperative management in complex spine surgery: a narrative review

The last two decades have seen a significant increase in the number of spine surgical procedures performed worldwide. This type of surgery includes a wide variety of procedures, from mini-invasive discectomies to multi-level spinal arthrodesis and osteotomies. Moreover, different surgical approaches are described at different spine levels: the anesthesiologist should be aware of the potential benefits and risks for the patients and be prepared for their management. In this narrative review we seek to describe basic concepts of perioperative spine care and address evolving areas in which care is changing. We will discuss preoperative concerns, intraoperative management including airway management, choice of maintenance, intraoperative neuromonitoring and anesthetic effect, blood management and the dynamic topic of anesthetic and analgesic techniques. Finally, we will briefly address the issue of perioperative complications as they relate specifically to spine surgery.

The Effect of Single-Shot Erector Spinae Plane Block (ESPB) on Opioid Consumption for Various Surgeries: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Study Objective

Design

Setting

Patients

Intervention

Measurements

Results

Conclusion

Efficacy of Erector Spinae Nerve Block for Pain Control After Spinal Surgeries: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

Erector spinae plane block (ESPB), as a regional anesthesia modality, is gaining interest and has been used in abdominal, thoracic and breast surgeries. The evidence on the efficacy of this block in spinal surgeries is equivocal. Recently published reviews on this issue have concerning limitations in methodology.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted using the PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL). Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that were done in patients undergoing spinal surgery and had compared outcomes of interest among those that received ESPB and those with no block/placebo were considered for inclusion. Statistical analysis was performed using STATA software. GRADE assessment was done for the quality of pooled evidence.

Results

A total of 13 studies were included. Patients receiving ESPB had significantly reduced total opioid use (Standardized mean difference, SMD −2.76, 95% CI: −3.69, −1.82), need for rescue analgesia (Relative risk, RR 0.38, 95% CI: 0.22, 0.66) and amount of rescue analgesia (SMD −5.08, 95% CI: −7.95, −2.21). Patients receiving ESPB reported comparatively lesser pain score at 1 h (WMD −1.62, 95% CI: −2.55, −0.69), 6 h (WMD −1.10, 95% CI: −1.45, −0.75), 12 h (WMD −0.78, 95% CI: −1.23, −0.32) and 24 h (WMD −0.54, 95% CI: −0.83, −0.25) post-operatively. The risk of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) (RR 0.32, 95% CI: 0.19, 0.54) was lower in those receiving ESPB. There were no differences in the duration of surgery, intra-operative blood loss and length of hospital stay between the two groups. The quality of pooled findings was judged to be low to moderate.

Conclusions

ESPB may be effective in patients with spinal surgery in reducing post-operative pain as well as need for rescue analgesic and total opioid use. In view of the low to moderate quality of evidence, more trials are needed to confirm these findings.

Systematic Review Registration:http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier: CRD42021278133.

Analgesic efficacy of erector spinae plane block in lumbar spine surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis

STUDY OBJECTIVE

Erector spinae plane block (ESPB) has gained popularity for perioperative analgesia in various surgeries. However, its efficacy in lumbar surgery remains unclear. This review aimed to determine whether ESPB could improve analgesic efficacy in lumbar spine surgery.

DESIGN

A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

SETTING

Perioperative setting.

PATIENTS

Patients undergoing lumbar spine surgery under general anesthesia.

INTERVENTIONS

We searched the databases including PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Web of Science etc. for published eligible controlled trials comparing ESPB with control (no block/sham block) in lumbar spine surgery.

MEASUREMENTS

The primary outcome was opioid consumption in the first 24 h after surgery.

MAIN RESULTS

Twelve studies comprising 665 participants were included. Compared to the control, ESPB reduced the opioid (morphine milligram equivalents) consumption significantly 24 h after surgery [mean difference (MD) = -14.55; 95% confidence interval (CI), -21.03 to -8.07; P < 0.0001] and lowered the pain scores at various time points (at rest or during movement) for 48 h after surgery. ESPB increased the patient satisfaction score (0-10) (MD = 2.38; 95% CI, 2.10 to 2.66; P < 0.0001), decreased the postoperative nausea and vomiting [risk ratio (RR) = 0.36; 95% CI, 0.20 to 0.67; P = 0.001], and minimized the length of hospital stay (MD = -1.24 days; 95% CI, -2.31 to -0.18; P = 0.02). Furthermore, subgroup analysis revealed additional reduction in opioid consumption by the block approach at the vertebral level of incision/operation than that at the fixed thoracic/lumbar level. However, considerable heterogeneity and low-grade quality of evidence were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

ESPB provided effective postoperative analgesia resulting in better patient satisfaction and recovery with decreased postoperative nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing lumbar surgery compared to the control. However, the low-grade quality of evidence compromised the findings, therefore further high-quality of evidence is required. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42021233362.

Impact of ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane block on outcomes after lumbar spinal fusion: a retrospective propensity score matched study of 242 patients

BACKGROUND

We evaluated the impact of bilateral ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane blocks on pain and opioid-related outcomes within a standardized care pathway for lumbar fusion.

METHODS

A retrospective propensity score matched cohort study. Clinical data were extracted from the electronic medical records of patients who underwent lumbar fusion (January 2019-July 2020). Propensity score matching based on common confounders was used to match patients who received or did not receive blocks in a 1:1 ratio. Primary outcomes were Numeric Rating Scale pain scores (0-10) and opioid consumption (morphine equivalent dose) in the first 24 hours after surgery (median (IQR)). Secondary outcomes included length of stay and opioid-related side effects.

RESULTS

Of 1846 patients identified, 242 were matched and analyzed. Total 24-hour opioid consumption was significantly lower in the erector spinae plane block group (30 mg (0, 144); without-blocks: 45 mg (0, 225); p=0.03). There were no significant differences in pain scores in the postanesthesia care unit (with blocks: 4 (0, 9); without blocks: 4 (0,8); p=0.984) or on the nursing floor (with blocks: 4 (0,8); without blocks: 4 (0,8); p=0.134). Total length of stay was 5 hours shorter in the block group (76 hours (21, 411); without blocks: 81 (25, 268); p=0.001). Fewer patients who received blocks required postoperative antiemetic administration (with blocks: n=77 (64%); without blocks: n=97 (80%); p=0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

Erector spinae plane blocks were associated with clinically irrelevant reductions in 24-hour opioid consumption and no improvement in pain scores after lumbar fusion. The routine use of these blocks in the setting of a comprehensive care pathway for lumbar fusion may not be warranted.

Predictors of postoperative urinary retention after posterior spinal fusion for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

PURPOSE

To determine predictors for postoperative urinary retention in adolescents undergoing posterior spinal fusion for idiopathic scoliosis. Postoperative urinary retention affects almost every third adolescent after spinal fusion for idiopathic scoliosis. There are limited data regarding the risk factors of postoperative urinary retention in this patient group.

METHODS

A retrospective study with prospectively collected urinary retention data from paediatric spine register with 159 consecutive patients (114 females, mean age 15.6 years, range 10-21 years) undergoing pedicle screw instrumentation for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis at a university hospital between May 2010 and April 2020. Postoperative urinary retention was defined as an inability to void after catheter removal and documented residual over 300 mL as confirmed using an ultrasound or by catheterization.

RESULTS

Postoperative urinary retention was diagnosed in 33% (53 of 159) of the patients during hospital stay. Opioid amount on the day of catheter removal (OR 6.74 [95% CI: 2.47, 18.36], p < 0.001), male gender (OR 2.26 [95% CI: 1.01, 5.05], p = 0.048), and increasing weight (OR 1.04 [95% CI: 1.01, 1.07], p = 0.014) were associated with postoperative urinary retention. Mean opioid consumption on the day of catheter removal was 0.81 mg/kg (95% CI: 0.66, 0.96) in the retention group vs 0.57 mg/kg (95% CI: 0.51, 0.64) in the non-retention group, p < 0.001.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher total opioid consumption, opioid amount on the day of catheter removal, higher weight, and male gender increases the risk of postoperative urinary retention in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis undergoing posterior spinal fusion.