Improved long-lasting postoperative analgesia, recovery function and patient satisfaction after inguinal hernia repair with inguinal field block compared with general anesthesia

Ropivacaine perineal infiltration for postpartum pain management in episiotomy repair: a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether perineal infiltration of ropivacaine after episiotomy would decrease the incidence of postpartum pain compared with placebo.

DESIGN

Two-centre, double-blind, randomised, controlled trial.

SETTING

Two French maternity units, October 2017 to April 2020.

POPULATION

272 women undergoing epidural analgesia with vaginal singleton delivery and mediolateral episiotomy at term (≥37 weeks) were randomly allocated perineal infiltration of ropivacaine (n = 135) or placebo (n = 137) in a 1:1 ratio before episiotomy repair.

METHODS

Patients were followed at short term (12, 24, 48 h), mid-term (day 7) and long-term (3 and 6 months).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was the rate of perineal pain, defined by a Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) exceeding 3/10, in the mid-term (day 7) postpartum period. Secondary outcomes were perineal pain (NPRS) and analgesic intake, quality of life (SF-36), postpartum depression (EPDS), pain neuropathic component (DN4) and sexual health (FSFI).

RESULTS

Perineal pain occurred to an equal extent in the ropivacaine and placebo groups at day 7 (34.2% versus 30.4%, odds ratio 1.1, 95% confidence interval 0.7-1.8, p = 0.63). Similar results were recorded in the short and long term. High rates of dyspareunia and postpartum depression were documented in both groups. No differences were highlighted between the groups in terms of analgesic intake, adverse events, pain neuropathic component and postpartum quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS

This study did not demonstrate any benefit of ropivacaine infiltration over placebo.

Procedure-specific and patient-specific pain management for ambulatory surgery with emphasis on the opioid crisis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Postoperative pain is frequent while, on the other hand, there is a grooving general concern on using effective opioid pain killers in view of the opioid crisis and significant incidence of opioid abuse. The present review aims at describing nonopioid measures in order to optimize and tailor perioperative pain management in ambulatory surgery.

RECENT FINDINGS

Postoperative pain should be addressed both preoperatively, intraoperatively and postoperatively. The management should basically be multimodal, nonopioid and procedure-specific. Opioids should only be used when needed on top of multimodal nonopioid prophylaxis, and then limited to a few days at maximum, unless strict control is applied. The individual patient should be screened preoperatively for any risk factors for severe postoperative pain and/or any abuse potential.

SUMMARY

Basic multimodal analgesia should start preoperatively or peroperatively and include paracetamol, cyclo-oxygenase (COX)-2 specific inhibitor or conventional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and in most cases dexamethasone and local anaesthetic wound infiltration. If any of these basic analgesics are contraindicated or there is an extra risk of severe postoperative pain, further measures may be considered: nerve-blocks or interfascial plane blocks, gabapentinnoids, clonidine, intravenous lidocaine infusion or ketamine infusion. In the abuse-prone patient, a preferably nonopioid perioperative approach should be aimed at.

Ropivacaine 75 mg versus placebo in perineal infiltration for analgesic efficacy at mid- and long-term for episiotomy repair in postpartum women - the ROPISIO study: a two-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials

Background

Perineal pain due to episiotomy is commonly reported and can be severe enough to disturb the mother–infant dyad during the postpartum period. Its incidence at day 7 postpartum varies from 63% to 74%. Recent studies have investigated the analgesic efficacy of perineal infiltration of ropivacaine after episiotomy but have only focused on the immediate postpartum period (at 24 and 48 h after birth). Large, adequately powered, multicenter, randomized controlled trials are required to evaluate the impact of ropivacaine infiltration on perineal pain and mid- and long-term quality of life before the widespread use of ropivacaine to prevent perineal pain after episiotomy can be recommended.

Methods/design

The ROPISIO study is a two-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial being conducted in La Roche sur Yon and Nantes, France. It will involve 272 women with vaginal singleton delivery and mediolateral episiotomy at term (≥ 37 weeks). Perineal infiltration (ropivacaine 75 mg or placebo) will be administrated just after vaginal birth and before episiotomy repair. The primary outcome will be the analgesic efficacy at day 7 postpartum (midterm), defined by the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) strictly superior to 3/10 on the perineal repair area. Secondary outcomes will be the analgesic efficacy (NPRS) and the impact of pain on daily behavior, on the quality of life (36-item Short Form Health Survey), on the occurrence of symptoms of postpartum depression (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale), and on sexual health (Female Sexual Function Index) at 3 and 6 months (long-term) using validated online questionnaires. This study will have 90% power to show approximately 30% relative risk reduction in the incidence of perineal pain at day 7, from 70.0% to 50.0%.

Discussion

Ropivacaine is a promising candidate drug, inexpensive, and easy to administer, and it would be suitable to include in the routine management of deliveries in labor ward. This study will investigate if perineal ropivacaine infiltration just after birth can reduce mid- and long-term postpartum pain and increase quality of life in women with mediolateral episiotomy.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03084549. Registered on 14 April 2017.

Local anesthesia underutilized for inguinal hernia repair in northern Ghana

Introduction

Inguinal hernia repair is a common procedure and a priority for public health efforts in Ghana. It is essential that inguinal hernia repair be performed in a safe, efficient manner to justify its widespread use. Local anesthesia has many favorable properties and has been shown to be superior, compared to regional or general anesthesia, in terms of pain control, safety profile, cost-effectiveness, resources required, and time to discharge. Local anesthesia is recommended for open repair of reducible hernias, provided clinician experience, by multiple international guidelines. Regional anesthesia is associated with myocardial infarction and other complications, and its use is discouraged by multiple guidelines, especially in older patients. This study aims to assess the current state of anesthesia for inguinal hernia repair in the northern and transitional zone of Ghana. In addition we will assess the perceptions of different types of anesthesia along with understanding of evidence-based guidelines among clinicians participating in inguinal hernia repair.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of all inguinal hernia repairs for male patients, 18 and older, in over 90% of hospitals in northern Ghana. All 41 hospitals were visited and caselogs and patient charts were manually reviewed to extract data. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine predictors of local anesthesia use. We designed a survey instrument to assess the perceptions of physicians and anesthetists regarding different types of anesthesia for inguinal hernia repair. The survey was designed by a Ghanaian surgeon, reviewed by all co-authors, and tested prior to implementation using a sample (n = 8) of clinicians having similar practices to those of the survey population. Of 70 clinicians, 66 responded, yielding a response rate of 94%.

Results

8080 patients underwent hernia repair of which 37% were performed under local anesthesia, while the majority, 60%, were performed under regional anesthesia. Negative predictors of local anesthesia were emergent repair (OR = 0.258, p < 0.001), surgery performed at a teaching hospital (OR = 0.105, p < 0.001), and bilateral hernia repair (OR = 0.374, p < 0.001). 1,839 (22.8%) of IH repairs were done on patients age 65 or older and RA was most frequently used among the elderly population (57.8%), while local anesthesia was used 39.5% of the time. Sixty-six clinicians participated in the survey with the majority reporting that local anesthesia requires fewer staff, less equipment, has a shorter recovery, is more cost-effective, and might be safer for patients. However 66% were unfamiliar with or incorrectly perceived international guidelines.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this study is the largest assessment of anesthesia use for inguinal hernia repair in an LMIC. Although the selection of anesthetic technique should be guided by a patient’s general health, the anatomy of the hernia, and clinician judgment, local anesthesia appears to be underutilized in northern Ghana. Survey responses demonstrate high rates of unfamiliarity or incorrectly perceived evidence-based guidelines. Future research should assess how education on the benefits and technique of local anesthesia administration may further increase rates for inguinal hernia repair, especially for older patients.

International guidelines for groin hernia management

INTRODUCTION

Worldwide, more than 20 million patients undergo groin hernia repair annually. The many different approaches, treatment indications and a significant array of techniques for groin hernia repair warrant guidelines to standardize care, minimize complications, and improve results. The main goal of these guidelines is to improve patient outcomes, specifically to decrease recurrence rates and reduce chronic pain, the most frequent problems following groin hernia repair. They have been endorsed by all five continental hernia societies, the International Endo Hernia Society and the European Association for Endoscopic Surgery.

METHODS

An expert group of international surgeons (the HerniaSurge Group) and one anesthesiologist pain expert was formed. The group consisted of members from all continents with specific experience in hernia-related research. Care was taken to include surgeons who perform different types of repair and had preferably performed research on groin hernia surgery. During the Group's first meeting, evidence-based medicine (EBM) training occurred and 166 key questions (KQ) were formulated. EBM rules were followed in complete literature searches (including a complete search by The Dutch Cochrane database) to January 1, 2015 and to July 1, 2015 for level 1 publications. The articles were scored by teams of two or three according to Oxford, SIGN and Grade methodologies. During five 2-day meetings, results were discussed with the working group members leading to 136 statements and 88 recommendations. Recommendations were graded as "strong" (recommendations) or "weak" (suggestions) and by consensus in some cases upgraded. In the Results and summary section below, the term "should" refers to a recommendation. The AGREE II instrument was used to validate the guidelines. An external review was performed by three international experts. They recommended the guidelines with high scores. The risk factors for inguinal hernia (IH) include: family history, previous contra-lateral hernia, male gender, age, abnormal collagen metabolism, prostatectomy, and low body mass index. Peri-operative risk factors for recurrence include poor surgical techniques, low surgical volumes, surgical inexperience and local anesthesia. These should be considered when treating IH patients. IH diagnosis can be confirmed by physical examination alone in the vast majority of patients with appropriate signs and symptoms. Rarely, ultrasound is necessary. Less commonly still, a dynamic MRI or CT scan or herniography may be needed. The EHS classification system is suggested to stratify IH patients for tailored treatment, research and audit. Symptomatic groin hernias should be treated surgically. Asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic male IH patients may be managed with "watchful waiting" since their risk of hernia-related emergencies is low. The majority of these individuals will eventually require surgery; therefore, surgical risks and the watchful waiting strategy should be discussed with patients. Surgical treatment should be tailored to the surgeon's expertise, patient- and hernia-related characteristics and local/national resources. Furthermore, patient health-related, life style and social factors should all influence the shared decision-making process leading up to hernia management. Mesh repair is recommended as first choice, either by an open procedure or a laparo-endoscopic repair technique. One standard repair technique for all groin hernias does not exist. It is recommended that surgeons/surgical services provide both anterior and posterior approach options. Lichtenstein and laparo-endoscopic repair are best evaluated. Many other techniques need further evaluation. Provided that resources and expertise are available, laparo-endoscopic techniques have faster recovery times, lower chronic pain risk and are cost effective. There is discussion concerning laparo-endoscopic management of potential bilateral hernias (occult hernia issue). After patient consent, during TAPP, the contra-lateral side should be inspected. This is not suggested during unilateral TEP repair. After appropriate discussions with patients concerning results tissue repair (first choice is the Shouldice technique) can be offered. Day surgery is recommended for the majority of groin hernia repair provided aftercare is organized. Surgeons should be aware of the intrinsic characteristics of the meshes they use. Use of so-called low-weight mesh may have slight short-term benefits like reduced postoperative pain and shorter convalescence, but are not associated with better longer-term outcomes like recurrence and chronic pain. Mesh selection on weight alone is not recommended. The incidence of erosion seems higher with plug versus flat mesh. It is suggested not to use plug repair techniques. The use of other implants to replace the standard flat mesh in the Lichtenstein technique is currently not recommended. In almost all cases, mesh fixation in TEP is unnecessary. In both TEP and TAPP it is recommended to fix mesh in M3 hernias (large medial) to reduce recurrence risk. Antibiotic prophylaxis in average-risk patients in low-risk environments is not recommended in open surgery. In laparo-endoscopic repair it is never recommended. Local anesthesia in open repair has many advantages, and its use is recommended provided the surgeon is experienced in this technique. General anesthesia is suggested over regional in patients aged 65 and older as it might be associated with fewer complications like myocardial infarction, pneumonia and thromboembolism. Perioperative field blocks and/or subfascial/subcutaneous infiltrations are recommended in all cases of open repair. Patients are recommended to resume normal activities without restrictions as soon as they feel comfortable. Provided expertise is available, it is suggested that women with groin hernias undergo laparo-endoscopic repair in order to decrease the risk of chronic pain and avoid missing a femoral hernia. Watchful waiting is suggested in pregnant women as groin swelling most often consists of self-limited round ligament varicosities. Timely mesh repair by a laparo-endoscopic approach is suggested for femoral hernias provided expertise is available. All complications of groin hernia management are discussed in an extensive chapter on the topic. Overall, the incidence of clinically significant chronic pain is in the 10-12% range, decreasing over time. Debilitating chronic pain affecting normal daily activities or work ranges from 0.5 to 6%. Chronic postoperative inguinal pain (CPIP) is defined as bothersome moderate pain impacting daily activities lasting at least 3 months postoperatively and decreasing over time. CPIP risk factors include: young age, female gender, high preoperative pain, early high postoperative pain, recurrent hernia and open repair. For CPIP the focus should be on nerve recognition in open surgery and, in selected cases, prophylactic pragmatic nerve resection (planned resection is not suggested). It is suggested that CPIP management be performed by multi-disciplinary teams. It is also suggested that CPIP be managed by a combination of pharmacological and interventional measures and, if this is unsuccessful, followed by, in selected cases (triple) neurectomy and (in selected cases) mesh removal. For recurrent hernia after anterior repair, posterior repair is recommended. If recurrence occurs after a posterior repair, an anterior repair is recommended. After a failed anterior and posterior approach, management by a specialist hernia surgeon is recommended. Risk factors for hernia incarceration/strangulation include: female gender, femoral hernia and a history of hospitalization related to groin hernia. It is suggested that treatment of emergencies be tailored according to patient- and hernia-related factors, local expertise and resources. Learning curves vary between different techniques. Probably about 100 supervised laparo-endoscopic repairs are needed to achieve the same results as open mesh surgery like Lichtenstein. It is suggested that case load per surgeon is more important than center volume. It is recommended that minimum requirements be developed to certify individuals as expert hernia surgeon. The same is true for the designation "Hernia Center". From a cost-effectiveness perspective, day-case laparoscopic IH repair with minimal use of disposables is recommended. The development and implementation of national groin hernia registries in every country (or region, in the case of small country populations) is suggested. They should include patient follow-up data and account for local healthcare structures. A dissemination and implementation plan of the guidelines will be developed by global (HerniaSurge), regional (international societies) and local (national chapters) initiatives through internet websites, social media and smartphone apps. An overarching plan to improve access to safe IH surgery in low-resource settings (LRSs) is needed. It is suggested that this plan contains simple guidelines and a sustainability strategy, independent of international aid. It is suggested that in LRSs the focus be on performing high-volume Lichtenstein repair under local anesthesia using low-cost mesh. Three chapters discuss future research, guidelines for general practitioners and guidelines for patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The HerniaSurge Group has developed these extensive and inclusive guidelines for the management of adult groin hernia patients. It is hoped that they will lead to better outcomes for groin hernia patients wherever they live. More knowledge, better training, national audit and specialization in groin hernia management will standardize care for these patients, lead to more effective and efficient healthcare and provide direction for future research.

Complications, Pain Control, and Patient Recovery After Local Versus General Anesthesia for Open Inguinal Hernia Repair in Adults—Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

The purpose of this systematic review is to provide an “up-to-date” evidence-based guideline and clarify the possible benefits as well as drawbacks of local anesthesia (LA) and general anesthesia (GA) in open inguinal hernia surgery in adults. Study method comprised randomized controlled trials. Primary outcome measures were complications, pain control, and patient recovery. Secondary outcome measures were patient satisfaction and hernia recurrence. A total of 14 randomized controlled trials contributed to the study. A total of 1677 patients were analyzed, with 953 in the LA group and 724 in the GA group. Complications were statistically less frequent in the LA group compared with the GA group [odds ratio (OR), 0.31; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 0.15, 0.64). Supplemental intraoperative analgesia had a statistical significance in the LA group, with an OR of 28.93 (95% CI, 7.86, 106.47). Postoperative pain was statistically significantly lower in the LA group [standardized eman difference (SMD), −1.06; 95% CI, −1.64, −0.48)]. Length of stay was shorter for patients who underwent operation under LA compared with those receiving GA (OR, −1.21; 95% CI, −2.08, −0.33]). Time to full mobility was shorter in the LA group, without statistical significance (OR, 3.04; 95% CI, 0.19, 47.90), whereas measuring in SMD showed significance in comparison with GA (SMD, −1.74; 95% CI, −2.34, −1.14). Hernia recurrence was not noted. Patient satisfaction was greater in the LA group (SMD, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.15, 1.15). Compared with GA, LA showed superiority in terms of complications, postoperative pain, length of stay, time to full mobility, and patient satisfaction. Therefore, it appears to be a more appropriate anesthetic technique for open inguinal hernia repair in adults.

Prolonged Analgesic Effect of PRF-108 and PRF-110 on Post-operative Pain in Pigs

Introduction

Local anesthetic infusion techniques have been reported to reduce opiate requirements and pain scores following different kinds of surgery, including orthopedic surgery, inguinal hernia, and Cesarean surgery in women.

Methods

PRF-108 and PRF-110 formulations were applied to the wound space in an incisional model in pigs to test the hypothesis that these formulations have better and longer analgesic effects than the commercially available ropivacaine solution (Naropin^®, AstraZeneca).

Results

The data show significantly better analgesic activity with PRF-108 and PRF-110 compared to ropivacaine. The duration of the analgesic efficacy of PRF-108 and PRF-110 was at least five times longer than that was measured following treatment with ropivacaine. The data further suggest that active clearance from the injection site (the wound) is much slower for PRF-108 and PRF-110 than for the commercial ropivacaine solution.

Conclusion

Assessing the local concentration of PRF compounds and commercially available ropivacaine solution suggests that active clearance from the injection site (the wound) is much slower for PRF-108 and PRF-110 than for ropivacaine.

Funding

PainReform.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s40122-015-0043-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The Effect of Pre-Incision Field Block versus Post-Incision Inguinal Wound Infiltration on Postoperative Pain after Paediatric Herniotomy

BACKGROUND:

The Ilioinguinal/iliohypogastric nerve block has been shown to significantly decrease opioid analgesic requirements and side effects after inguinal herniotomy. We compared the effect of pre-incisional field block with 0.25% bupivacaine and post-incisional wound infiltration with 0.25% bupivacaine for postoperative pain control after inguinal herniotomy.

PATIENTS & METHODS:

This was a randomized controlled double blind study in 62 ASA I and II children aged 1-7 years scheduled for inguinal herniotomy. They were assigned to receive either pre-incision field block (group I) or post-incision wound infiltration at the time of wound closure (group II). The pain score was assessed in the recovery room using mCHEOPS score and VAS or FLACC score at home by the parents for 24 hours.

RESULTS:

The mean pain scores during the 2 hour stay in the recovery room, at 12 and 18 hours at home were similar in both groups, p > 0.05. However, the mean pain scores were significantly lower at 6 hours at home in group I (1.22 ± 0.57) than in group II (1.58 ±0.90), p <0.001, but significantly higher at 24 hours at home in group I (3.29 ± 0.46) than in group II (2.32 ± 0.24), p = 0.040. There was no difference in mean paracetamol requirement, and in the number of patients who required paracetamol for pain relief at home in both groups, p > 0.05.

CONCLUSION:

We have demonstrated that both pre-incisional ilioinguinal/iliohypogastric field block and post incisional wound infiltration provided adequate postoperative analgesia for 24 hours after inguinal herniotomy.

Bispectral index monitoring of propofol sedation during ultrasound guided nerve block for inguinal herniorraphy: A randomized prospective study

Background:

Patient's awareness can be reduced during ultrasound guided nerve block for inguinal herniorraphy with propofol sedation. The study was aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of direct visualization of anatomy of inguinal region by ultrasound and benefits of bispectral index (BIS) monitoring.

Materials and Methods:

After approval, 40 adult male consented patients of ASA grade I-III of 18-58 years with body mass index <25 were randomized into two groups of 20 patients each. A high frequency (8-13 MHz) linear transducer was used to perform the ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerves (ILHN and ILIN) block between the internal oblique and transversus abdominis muscles with 20 mL of 0.75% ropivacaine. The propofol infusion rate for sedation in patients of group I (non-BIS) was managed clinically and in patients of group II (BIS) was managed with BIS index of 65-75. Any surgical or anesthetic complications were recorded. The two groups were compared by evaluating the propofol consumption during surgery.

Results:

Ultrasonographic visualization of the ILHN and ILIN was possible in all patients and inguinal herniorraphy was performed uneventfully. The mean dose of propofol required for sedation was 5.45 mg/kg/h in patients of group I (non-BIS) while 4.92 mg/kg/h in patients of group II (BIS). The mean propofol consumption was not statistically significant (P = 0.12). All patients were hemodynamically stable and there was no respiratory depression during propofol sedation.

Conclusion:

Ultrasonography has facilitated the clinically effective nerve block for inguinal herniorraphy and BIS monitoring has ensured amnesia and faster emergence.

General anesthesia plus ilioinguinal nerve block versus spinal anesthesia for ambulatory inguinal herniorrhapy

Objective:

The aim was to evaluate general anesthesia (GA) plus ilioinguinal nerve block (IIB) versus spinal anesthesia (SA) in patients scheduled for ambulatory inguinal hernia repair regarding pain management, anesthesia recovery and reducing potential complications.

Materials and Methods:

A double-blind, prospective, randomized, controlled study in patients American Society of Anesthesiologists I-III randomized into two groups: GA plus IIB group, induction of anesthesia with propofol, maintenance with sevoflurane, airway management with laryngeal mask allowing spontaneous ventilation and ultrasound-guided IIB; SA group, patients who underwent spinal block with 2% mepivacaine. The study variables were pain intensity, assessed by visual analog scale, analgesic requirements until hospital discharge, time to ambulation and discharge, postoperative complications-related to both techniques and satisfaction experienced.

Results:

Thirty-two patients were enrolled; 16 patients in each group. The differences regarding pain were statistically significant at 2 h of admission (P < 0.001) and at discharge (P < 0.001) in favor of the GA plus ilioinguinal block group. In addition in this group, analgesic requirements were lower than SA group (P < 0.001), with times of ambulation and discharge significantly shorter. The SA group had a higher tendency to develop complications and less satisfaction.

Conclusion:

General anesthesia plus IIB is better than SA regarding postoperative analgesia, time to mobilization and discharge, side-effect profile and satisfaction experienced by the patients.

Efficacy of the bilateral ilioinguinal-iliohypogastric block with intrathecal morphine for postoperative cesarean delivery analgesia

The ilioinguinal-iliohypogastric (IIIH) block is frequently used as multimodal analgesia for lower abdominal surgeries. The aim of this study is to compare the efficacy of IIIH block using ultrasound visualization for reducing postoperative pain after caesarean delivery (CD) in patients receiving intrathecal morphine (ITM) under spinal anesthesia. Participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatment groups for the bilateral IIIH block: Group A = 10 mL of 0.5% bupivacaine, Group B = 10 mL of 0.5% bupivacaine on one side and 10 mL of a normal saline (NSS) placebo block on the opposite side, and Group C = 10 mL of NSS placebo per side. Pain and nausea scores, treatment for pain and nausea, and patient satisfaction were recorded for 48 hours after CD. No differences were noted with respect to pain scores or treatment for pain over the 48 hours. There were no differences to the presence of nausea (P = 0.64), treatment for nausea (P = 0.21), pruritus (P = 0.39), emesis (P = 0.35), or patient satisfaction (P = 0.29). There were no differences in pain and nausea scores over the measured time periods (MANOVA, P > 0.05). In parturients receiving ITM for elective CD, IIIH block offers no additional postoperative benefit for up to 48 hours.

Evidence-based management of postoperative pain in adults undergoing open inguinal hernia surgery

Background

Open inguinal hernia repair is associated with moderate postoperative pain, but optimal analgesia remains controversial. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the available literature on the management of pain after open hernia surgery.

Methods

Randomized studies, in English, published between January 1966 and March 2009, assessing analgesic and anaesthetic interventions in adult open hernia surgery, and reporting pain scores, were retrieved from the Embase and MEDLINE databases. In addition to published evidence, clinical practice was taken into account to ensure that the recommendations had clinical validity.

Results

Of the 334 randomized studies identified, 79 were included. Quantitative analysis suggested that regional anaesthesia was superior to general anaesthesia for reducing postoperative pain. Spinal anaesthesia was associated with a higher incidence of urinary retention and increased time to home-readiness compared with regional anaesthesia.

Conclusion

Field block with, or without wound infiltration, either as a sole anaesthetic/analgesic technique or as an adjunct to general anaesthesia, is recommended to reduce postoperative pain. Continuous local anaesthetic infusion of a surgical wound provides a longer duration of analgesia. Conventional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or cyclo-oxygenase 2-selective inhibitors in combination with paracetamol, administered in time to provide sufficient analgesia in the early recovery phase, are optimal. In addition, weak opioids are recommended for moderate pain, and strong opioids for severe pain, on request.

Parecoxib sodium in the treatment of postoperative pain after Lichtenstein tension-free mesh inguinal hernia repair

PURPOSE

This prospective, randomized, double-blind study compared the analgesic efficacy and safety of parecoxib sodium versus lornoxicam and diclofenac, after Lichtenstein tension-free mesh inguinal hernia repair.

METHODS

Patients were randomly assigned to receive parecoxib 80 mg daily i.v. (Group A), lornoxicam 16 mg daily i.v. (Group B) or diclofenac 150 mg daily i.m. (Group C). Rescue analgesia in all groups consisted of pethidine 25 mg i.m. Pain was measured with an analogue scale (pain intensity score).

RESULTS

Patients treated with parecoxib 80 mg reported significantly lower summed pain intensity scores compared with lornoxicam and diclofenac-treated patients. Duration of analgesia was also significantly longer with parecoxib than with lornoxicam and diclofenac. Adverse events were significantly less common in the parecoxib and lornoxicam group, compared with diclofenac group.

CONCLUSIONS

Multiple-day administration of parecoxib 40 mg twice daily is more effective than equivalent doses of lornoxicam and diclofenac, and generally better tolerated than diclofenac after Lichtenstein tension-free mesh inguinal hernia repair.

[Ambulatory surgery and anaesthesia]

BACKGROUND

Most surgical procedures in Norway are performed on an ambulatory basis. Many types of health professionals are involved and need training in how to handle these patients. The paper reviews important aspects of handling ambulatory surgical patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The authors' research, clinical experience from ambulatory anaesthesiology and literature identified through a non-systematic search in Medline and EMBASE form the basis for the article.

RESULTS

With the advent of modern techniques, anaesthesia is no longer a limiting factor for whether surgery can be performed on an ambulatory basis or not. The decision to hospitalize a patient after elective surgery is based on limitations in the patient's general health, daily functioning and psychosocial status or the type of surgical procedure planned. When assessing whether surgery can be elective or not it is valuable to consider the entire treatment chain and ask the following questions: Can this patient who has undergone this procedure be expected to cope with transport and staying at home or in a hotel the same day as the operation, when escorted by an adult until the next day? - and is it safe?

INTERPRETATION

To ensure good planning and performance, it is important that the anaesthetist has access to up-to-date information on planned surgical procedures, the patient's general health, use of medication, allergies and level of daily functioning.

[Efficiency of bupivacaine wound subfasciale infiltration in reduction of postoperative pain after inguinal hernia surgery]

INTRODUCTION

The reduction of postoperative pain after surgery of inguinal hernia is an objective of lot of studies. The subfasciale infiltration of the wound may be an efficient technique.

METHODS

This study was designed as a randomized, double blind, prospective study, comparing two treatment groups: a group infiltrated by bupivacaine (Gr B), and second one infiltrated by a placebo (Gr P). A part of demographic parameters and ASA class, the postoperative pain intensity at rest and at coughing, the morphine consumption and the secondary effects were compared. Patient's satisfaction and postoperative chronic pain at 3 and 6 months were also analyzed.

RESULTS

Concerning demographic parameters, ASA class and secondary effects, we didn't find any meaningful difference between the two groups. However, there was a significant reduction of postoperative pain in the bupivacaine group as well at rest as coughing. Gr P patients have more morphine consumption and they were unsatisfied and accused more chronic pain.

DISCUSSION

Wound infiltration is still a simple and efficient technique in postoperative pain reduction. With this technique, hernia surgery may become ambulatory.

Local anesthetic hernia repair in overweight and obese patients

BACKGROUND

Inguinal hernia repair under local anesthesia (LA) has many advantages and is associated with high patient satisfaction. However, there are concerns of exceeding the maximum safe dose of LA agents in overweight and obese patients. The aim of the present study was to establish whether inguinal hernia repair could be safely performed under LA in overweight and obese patients.

METHODS

Patients who underwent elective LA hernia repair under a single consultant surgeon were studied retrospectively. Each patient received the same LA mixture developed at our hospital specifically for hernia repair. The mixture includes lignocaine and bupivocaine, both with adrenaline, made up to a volume of 100 ml with saline. Data were collected by case note review, and by postal and telephone surveys.

RESULTS

A total of 125 patients who underwent LA hernia repair, in whom body mass index (BMI) was measured, were studied. Based on the World Health Organization (WHO) classification, there were 35 (28%) normal weight patients and 63 (72%) overweight (BMI>or=25<30) or obese (BMI>or=30) patients. The median BMI was 27 (range 19-38). The mean volumes of LA mixture used for each group were 58 ml and 62 ml, respectively. High day case rates of 91% and 84% were obtained for the two groups, respectively. Complications included three wound hematomas and three simple wound infections, with no significant differences between groups. One patient developed a recurrent hernia (<1%).

CONCLUSIONS

Local anesthetic inguinal hernia repair in the obese is safe and well tolerated. Use of a large volume local anesthetic mixture is recommended in overweight and obese patients.

Administration of fentanyl before remifentanil-based anaesthesia has no influence on post-operative pain or analgesic consumption

BACKGROUND

Remifentanil's short-acting analgesic effect and the potential of producing hyperalgesia is a challenge to post-operative pain control. This study investigated whether pre-treating the patients with fentanyl before remifentanil-based anaesthesia could reduce post-operative pain or analgesic consumption.

METHODS

One-hundred patients admitted for anterior cruciate ligament repair were included in a double-blind study. Propofol and remifentanil were used for general anaesthesia. Group Pre received fentanyl 1.5 microg/kg intravenously (IV) and Group Post placebo before the remifentanil infusion. At the end of surgery, Group Pre received 1.5 microg/kg and Group Post received 3.0 microg/kg. Patient-controlled analgesia with fentanyl was used as analgesic rescue medication during the first 4 h post-operatively. Oxycodone 5 mg orally was taken as needed during the subsequent 4-24-h period.

RESULTS

A mean dose of remifentanil 0.43 microg/kg/min was used for 90 min during surgery in both groups. There were no differences in the verbal rate scale (VRS) score or need of rescue analgesic medication between the groups during the first 4 h. Group Post had significantly less pain in the 4-24-h period after surgery, with a median VRS score of 'slight pain' vs. 'moderate pain' in Group Pre (P<0.05). The oxycodone consumption was similar in both groups.

CONCLUSION

Pre-treatment with fentanyl 1.5 microg/kg IV yielded no reduction in post-operative pain or analgesic consumption after 90 min of remifentanil-based anaesthesia with 0.43 microg/kg/min of remifentanil.

Efficacité des techniques d'analgésie locorégionale après chirurgie du sein : une méta-analyse

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of locoregional analgesic techniques (thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB), wound infiltration (WI)) after breast surgery.

STUDY DESIGN

Meta-analysis.

METHODS

Searches of Medline and Cochrane were performed using the search terms "breast surgery" and "local anaesthetics" and "infiltration" or "paravertebral block". Manual searches were also performed. Two independent investigators assessed the publications and extracted the data. Inclusion criteria were randomised controlled trials that evaluated effectiveness of single-injection TPVB or WI with local anaesthetics after breast surgery. Postoperative pain scores evaluated by visual analogic scale (VAS) during the first six hours (H6), at twelve hours (H12) and incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) were collected.

RESULTS

Nine studies met inclusion criteria with five trials that evaluated paravertebral block (N=253) and 4 studies that evaluated wound infiltration (N=174). TPVB decreased significantly VAS at H6 (Weighted mean difference (WMD)=-18 [-5;-32] ; P=0.007) and at H12 (WMD=-12[-20;-4] ; P=0.001) and the risk of PONV (relative risk=0.39 [0.26; 0.57] ; P<0.00001). WI did not decrease significantly VAS for postoperative pain and PONV.

CONCLUSION

Single injection TPVB in contrast to WI is effective for analgesia after breast surgery and decreases PONV.

Herniorrafia inguinal com anestesia locorregional - (uso de ropivacaína)

OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo é relatar a eficiência e a segurança da realização de herniorrafias inguinais com a utilização da anestesia locorregional com ropivacaina, destacando sua técnica, suas indicações e limitações. MÉTODO: Foram operados 50 pacientes, no período compreendido entre janeiro e dezembro de 2005, sendo submetidos à herniorrafia inguinal mediante anestesia locorregional utilizando-se o anestésico ropivacaina, associada a sedação intra-venosa, no Hospital Universitário Cruz Vermelha Brasileira - UnicenP, na cidade de Curitiba-PR, sendo utilizada técnica sem tensão, com o uso de prótese. Foram avaliadas as variáveis idade, gênero e tipo de hérnia através da classificação de Nyhus. RESULTADOS: Não foram observadas quaisquer alterações conseqüentes a reações adversas ao anestésico local, não sendo necessária nenhuma conversão do método anestésico ou mesmo complementação deste. As complicações pós-operatórias foram de pequena monta e de resolução adequada. CONCLUSÃO: A anestesia local por bloqueio de campo, com o uso de ropivacaína e associada a sedação intravenosa, para a realização de herniorrafias inguinais, constitui-se em procedimento plenamente viável, prático, menos oneroso e benéfico ao paciente.

Psychologische Persönlichkeitsmerkmale, Operationsverlauf und Genesung bei Patienten mit Präferenz für Allgemein- oder Lokalanästhesie

OBJECTIVE

This study addresses two questions concerning open inguinal hernia repair patients: (1) are there differences in psychological traits between patients opting for local vs. general anaesthesia and (2) assuming comparable operations, are there any differences between the two groups during surgery and postoperative recovery?

METHODS

A total of 69 male patients aged between 18 and 80 took part in the study. After having been briefed about anaesthesia, they opted for either local (n=40) or general anaesthesia (n=29). In order to determine psychological traits, patients filled out questionnaires before the operation [NEO Five-Factor-Inventory (NEO-FFI) and the Stress Coping Questionnaire (SVF)] and the Anaesthesiological Questionnaire (ANP) after the operation. Data about the surgery (duration of anaesthesia and operation, blood pressure and heart rate) and the convalescence period (time spent in recovery room, length of stay in hospital) were also recorded. The patients' information processing skills were measured preoperatively and postoperatively using the "Trail Making Test".

RESULTS

Patients preferring local anaesthesia were significantly older than those who chose general anaesthesia. Therefore two similar age groups were formed by using the method of matched samples (n=2x26). Between these groups no significant differences were found with reference to psychological traits, but markedly extraverted patients favoured local anaesthesia. There were no differences in the duration of anaesthesia and surgery. Local anaesthesia patients spent less time in the recovery room and in hospital than general anaesthesia patients. Postoperatively, the cognitive state and the satisfaction with the anaesthesia were comparable between both groups.

CONCLUSION

Psychological traits do not have a significant impact on the choice of either local or general anaesthesia. However, highly extraverted patients prefer local anaesthesia while extreme introverts prefer general anaesthesia. Our findings suggest that local anaesthesia will become more widely adopted for the repair of groin hernia. Future studies should focus on optimising the perioperative care for patients who choose local anaesthesia.

Inguinal herniorrhaphy under monitored anesthesia care with ilioinguinal-iliohypogastric block: the impact of adding clonidine to ropivacaine

There is no information concerning the association of ropivacaine and clonidine for ilioinguinal-iliohypogastric block. In this prospective, double-blind study, we randomly assigned 40 adult patients scheduled for inguinal herniorrhaphy under monitored anesthesia care to receive either 225 mg ropivacaine (7.5 mg/mL) alone (control group) or combined with 75 mug clonidine (clonidine group) for preoperative ilioinguinal-iliohypogastric block. After completion of surgery, patients were transferred to the postanesthesia care unit and were asked to stand up and walk around at the second postoperative hour. After leaving the postanesthesia care unit, patients could take oral propacetamol (500 mg) and codeine (30 mg) on request. Pain intensity was assessed with a 100 mm visual analog scale. Time to first request of supplemental analgesics (median [95% confidence interval]) was 10 h (7.1-14.5 h) and 9 h (6.4->24 h) respectively in the clonidine and control groups (P = 0.83). Pain at rest did not differ between groups whereas pain at motion was reduced on the third postoperative day in the clonidine group. More patients who received clonidine experienced orthostatic hypotension upon standing up within the first postoperative hours (6 of 20 versus 1 of 20 in the control group; P < 0.05). In conclusion, the benefit of adding clonidine 75 mug to ropivacaine for ilioinguinal-iliohypogastric block for motion pain on the third postoperative day must be balanced with an increasing risk of orthostatic hypotension in the immediate postoperative period.

Groin Hernia Repair: Anesthesia

The choice of anesthesia for groin hernia repair is between general, regional (epidural or spinal), and local anesthesia. Existing data from large consecutive patient series and randomized studies have shown local anesthesia to be the method of choice because it can be performed by the surgeon, does not necessarily require an attending anesthesiologist, translates into the shortest recovery (bypassing the postanesthesia care unit), has the lowest cost, and has the lowest postoperative morbidity regarding risk of urinary retention. Spinal anesthesia has no documented benefits for this small operation and should be avoided owing to the risk of rare neurologic side effects and the high risk of urinary retention. General anesthesia with short-acting agents may be a valid alternative when combined with local infiltration anesthesia, although an anesthesiologist is required. Despite sufficient scientific data to support the choice of anesthesia, large epidemiologic and nationwide information from databases show an undesirable high (about 10-20%) use of spinal anesthesia and low (about 10%) use of local infiltration anesthesia. Surgeons and anesthesiologists should therefore adjust their anesthesia practices to fit the available scientific evidence.

Combined ilioinguinal blockade and local infiltration anaesthesia for groin hernia repair—a double-blind randomized study

BACKGROUND

Local infiltration anaesthesia for inguinal hernia repair is cost-effective, but fear of intra-operative pain may hinder its widespread use. It is unknown whether a combined ilioinguinal blockade and local infiltration anaesthesia improves intra-operative analgesia.

METHODS

We performed a double-blind randomized study in 160 patients undergoing inguinal hernia mesh repair under local infiltration anaesthesia with or without additional ilioinguinal blockade. Intra-operative pain and pain at 24 and 48 h postoperatively and analgesic requirements (acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and tramadol) were assessed.

RESULTS

Median intra-operative pain scores were reduced (P=0.02) from 13 to 9 with additional ilioinguinal blockade, with no differences in requirement for sedation. There were significantly (P<0.05) more patients with intra-operative visual analogue pain scale >/=30 in the placebo group vs the ilioinguinal blockade group. Postoperative pain scores and analgesic requirements were similar.

CONCLUSION

Combined ilioinguinal blockade and local infiltration anaesthesia is recommended for groin hernia repair to reduce intra-operative pain.

[Ropivacain after inguinal hernia surgery. A prospective, randomised, double-blinded, controlled study]

BACKGROUND

To optimise the satisfaction of patients after repair of primary inguinal hernias under local anaesthesia, we analysed the analgetic power of Ropivacain in the postoperative period.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

One hundred consecutive patients underwent repair under local anaesthesia with the same volume of 0.75% Ropivacain or 1% Mepivacain in a randomised and blinded manner. Postoperative pain analysis was carried out in all patients.

RESULTS

Subjective pain levels at rest and under stress as well as impairment by pain were found to be significantly lower in the Ropivacain group at the day of operation. Decrease in vital capacity and peak flow showed similar results. The postoperative amount of analgesics and time of mobilisation showed a positive influence by the use of Ropivacain.

CONCLUSION

Ropivacain reduces postoperative pain levels after hernia repair. This leads to increased comfort for patients, without elevated perioperative risk.

Anaesthetic practice for groin hernia repair--a nation-wide study in Denmark 1998-2003

BACKGROUND

Recent scientific data suggest that local infiltration anaesthesia for inguinal hernia surgery may be preferable compared to general anaesthesia and regional anaesthesia, since it is cheaper and with less urinary morbidity. Regional anaesthesia may have specific side-effects and is without documented advantages on morbidity in this small operation.

METHODS

To describe the use of the three anaesthetic techniques for elective open groin hernia surgery in Denmark from January 1st 1998 to December 31st 2003, based on the Danish Hernia Database collaboration.

RESULTS

In a total of 57,505 elective open operations 63.6% were performed in general anaesthesia, 18.3% in regional anaesthesia and 18.1% in local anaesthesia. Regional anaesthesia was utilized with an increased rate in elderly and hospitalized patients. Outpatient surgery was most common with local infiltration anaesthesia.

CONCLUSION

Use/choice of anaesthesia for groin hernia repair is not in accordance with recent scientific data. Use of spinal anaesthesia should be reduced and increased use of local anaesthesia is recommended to enhance recovery and reduce costs.

Regional anaesthesia in ambulatory surgery

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this review is to present recent research into the clinical use of regional anaesthesia techniques in ambulatory surgery. Further, to put into an ambulatory perspective some of the issues recently discussed on the basis and practice of regional anaesthesia in general.

RECENT FINDINGS

Early discharge with long-acting peripheral nerve blockade seems safe, and discharge of patients who have not voided after surgery is possible under specified terms. The spinal anaesthesia technique may be improved in terms of better and faster recovery characteristics if the dose of local anaesthesia is reduced by adding a small dose of opioid.

SUMMARY

Loco-regional techniques are well suited for ambulatory surgery due to less postoperative nausea and pain and possibly less cognitive dysfunction. The different techniques are continuously being refined in order to provide fast discharge readiness, while still maintaining the benefits.

Local, regional, or general anaesthesia in groin hernia repair: multicentre randomised trial

BACKGROUND

In specialised centres, local anaesthesia is almost always used in groin hernia surgery; whereas in routine surgical practice, regional or general anaesthesia are the methods of choice. In this three-arm multicentre randomised trial, we aimed to compare the three methods of anaesthesia and to determine the extent to which general surgeons can reproduce the excellent results obtained with local anaesthesia in specialised hernia centres.

METHODS

Between January, 1999, and December, 2001, 616 patients at ten hospitals, were randomly assigned to have either local, regional, or general anaesthesia. Primary endpoints were early and late postoperative complications. Secondary endpoints were duration of surgery and anaesthesia, length of postoperative hospital stay, and time to normal activity. Analysis was by intention to treat.

FINDINGS

Intraoperative tolerance for local anaesthesia was high. In the early postoperative period, local anaesthesia was superior to the other two types with respect to almost all endpoints. At 8 days' and 30 days' follow-up, there were no significant differences between the three groups. Although the mean duration of surgery was longer, the total anaesthesia time-ie, time from the start of anaesthesia until the patient left the operating room-was significantly shorter than it was for regional or general anaesthesia.

INTERPRETATION

Local anaesthesia has substantial advantages compared with regional or general anaesthesia, such as shorter duration of admission, less postoperative pain, and fewer micturition difficulties. The favourable results obtained with local anaesthesia in specialised hernia centres can, to a great extent, be reproduced by general surgeons in routine surgical practice.

A comparison of intra-operative or postoperative exposure to music--a controlled trial of the effects on postoperative pain

The effect of intra-operative compared to postoperative music on postoperative pain was evaluated in a controlled trial. In all, 151 patients undergoing day case surgery for inguinal hernia repair or varicose vein surgery under general anaesthesia were randomly allocated to three groups: group 1 listened to music intra-operatively, group 2 listened to music postoperatively and group 3, the control group, listened to 'white noise'. The anaesthetic and postoperative analgesic techniques were standardised. Pain was assessed using a numeric rating scale (0-10) and patients requirements for postoperative morphine, paracetamol and ibuprofen was recorded. The effect of music on nausea, fatigue and anxiety was also investigated. The results showed that patients exposed to music intra-operatively or postoperatively reported significantly lower pain intensity at 1 and 2 h postoperatively and patients in the postoperative music group required less morphine at 1 h compared to the control group. No differences were noted in the other variables. This study demonstrates that there is a short-term pain-reducing effect of music therapy however, the beneficial effects do not differ if the patient is exposed to music intra-operatively or postoperatively.

Analgesia following music and therapeutic suggestions in the PACU in ambulatory surgery; a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

This study was designed to determine whether music (M), or music in combination with therapeutic suggestions (M/TS) could improve the postoperative recovery in the immediate postoperative in daycare surgery.

METHODS

One-hundred and eighty-two unpremedicated patients who underwent varicose vein or open inguinal hernia repair surgery under general anaesthesia were randomly assigned to (a). listening to music (b). music in combination with therapeutic suggestions or (c). blank tape in the immediate postoperative period. The surgical technique, anaesthesia and postoperative analgesia were standardized. Analgesia, the total requirement of morphine, nausea, fatigue, well-being, anxiety, headache, urinary problems, heart rate and oxygen saturation were studied as outcome variables.

RESULTS

Pain intensity (VAS) was significantly lower (P = 0.002) in the M (2.1), and the M/TS (1.9) group compared with the control group (2.9) and a higher oxygen saturation in M (99.2%) and M/TS (99.2%) group compared with the control (98.0%), P < 0.001, were found. No differences were noted in the other outcome variables.

CONCLUSION

This controlled study has demonstrated that music with or without therapeutic suggestions in the early postoperative period has a beneficial effect on patients' experience of analgesia. Although statistically significant, the improvement in analgesia is modest in this group of patients with low overall pain levels.