Low-dose bupivacaine plus fentanyl for spinal anesthesia during ambulatory inguinal herniorrhaphy: a comparison between 6 mg and 7. 5 mg of bupivacaine

The Effect of Intrathecal Bupivacaine Plus Dextrose 5% and Fentanyl Compared with Bupivacaine Alone on the Onset and Duration of Analgesia in Patients Undergoing Lower-Limb Orthopedic Surgery

Introduction

This study aimed to compare the effect of intrathecal bupivacaine plus dextrose 5% and fentanyl with bupivacaine alone on the onset and duration of analgesia in patients undergoing lower-limb orthopedic surgery.

Materials and Methods

A total of 40 patients eligible for lower-limb surgery were divided into two groups by simple randomization: the control group which received only bupivacaine and the intervention group which received bupivacaine plus dextrose 5% and fentanyl. Anesthesia was induced by the spinal method. The visual analog scale (VAS) was used to assess the patients' pain; hemodynamic status (systolic and diastolic blood pressure and the heart rate) and oxygen saturation were also monitored.

Results

There was a significant difference between groups in the type of lower-limb movement at the L1 anesthesia level, the sensory block level at time zero after surgery, the type of backward movement at time zero after surgery, and the analgesic dose received (p < 0.05). Fifteen and 30 minutes after the start of surgery, mean systolic blood pressure, and 45 and 60 minutes after the start of surgery, systolic and diastolic blood pressure and the heart rate were significantly lower in the control group than in the intervention group (p < 0.05). The VAS score was significantly lower in the intervention group than in the control group at 6 and 24 hours after surgery (p < 0.05). Systolic and diastolic blood pressure at time zero, systolic blood pressure at hour 6, and diastolic blood pressure at hour 24 after surgery were significantly lower in the control group than in the intervention group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The mean duration of anesthesia and analgesia was significantly longer in patients receiving bupivacaine plus fentanyl than in those receiving bupivacaine alone. However, concerning hemodynamic parameters, it cannot be concluded that the bupivacaine plus fentanyl receiving group was generally superior to the bupivacaine receiving group.

Lower Dosing of Bupivacaine Spinal Anesthesia Is Not Associated With Improved Perioperative Outcomes After Total Joint Arthroplasty

Background

The choice of anesthesia plays a significant role in the success of total joint arthroplasty (TJA). Isobaric bupivacaine spinal anesthesia is often used. However, dosing of bupivacaine has not been extensively studied and is usually at the discretion of the treating anesthesiologist and surgeon. The goal of this study was to determine what, if any, effect the dose of bupivacaine spinal anesthesia had on perioperative outcomes in TJA.

Methods

A total of 761 TJAs performed with bupivacaine spinal anesthesia by arthroplasty surgeons were retrospectively reviewed. Perioperative outcomes evaluated were operation duration, estimated blood loss, length of stay (LOS) in the postanesthesia care unit, hospital LOS, discharge disposition, episodes of intraoperative hypotension, postoperative nausea and vomiting, and missed physical therapy sessions because of postoperative symptoms of hypotension. A Student’s t-test was used for continuous variables, and a chi-squared test was used for categorical variables.

Results

Of the 761 patients, 499 (65.6%) received 15 mg isobaric bupivacaine while 262 (34.4%) received <15 mg (range = 7.5-14.5 mg, median = 12.5 mg). With the numbers available in this cohort, lower doses of bupivacaine were not associated with any significant differences between groups for any of the studied perioperative outcomes, including proportion of patients discharged home or LOS.

Conclusion

Dosage of bupivacaine spinal anesthetic did not affect perioperative outcomes. Bupivacaine may not have a dose-related response curve in this regard, and if seeking to perform same-day or outpatient TJA, other agents may need to be considered, rather than smaller doses of bupivacaine.

Spinal Anesthesia Using Chloroprocaine is Safe, Effective, and Facilitates Earlier Discharge in Selected Fast-track Total Hip Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Spinal anesthetic choice plays an underappreciated role in total hip arthroplasty (THA). Chloroprocaine, a short-acting local anesthetic, has been limited to short-duration ambulatory procedures and has not been studied in THA. We compare perioperative outcomes of patients undergoing fast-track THA using chloroprocaine spinal anesthesia with those who have surgery with a longer-acting agent (bupivacaine).

METHODS

A total of 143 THAs performed under spinal anesthesia by 3 arthroplasty surgeons between November 2018 and July 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients receiving chloroprocaine were matched 1:1 by demographics to patients receiving bupivacaine. Ultimately, 74 patients were included (37 chloroprocaine and 37 bupivacaine). The primary outcome was hospital length of stay (LOS). Other perioperative outcomes were also evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 37 patients (50%) received chloroprocaine (60 mg), whereas 37 (50%) received bupivacaine (median 10 mg, range 8-15 mg). Among the matched groups, chloroprocaine use was associated with shorter hospital LOS (0.9 vs 1.2 days; P = .03), shorter operative time (68.2 vs 83.6 minutes, P = .03), lower estimated blood loss (184.7 vs 218.9 mL, P = .02), shorter postanesthesia care unit LOS (139.4 vs 194.9 minutes; P = .04), and less intraoperative hypotension (59.5% vs 83.8%, P = .02). Patients receiving chloroprocaine were also more commonly discharged home (100% vs 89.2%; P = .04).

CONCLUSION

Chloroprocaine is a safe and reliable option for patients to mobilize rapidly and leave the hospital sooner after THA. Compared with bupivacaine, it is associated with shorter hospital LOS and higher likelihood for discharge to home.

Postoperative urinary retention: A controlled trial of fixed-dose spinal anesthesia using bupivacaine versus ropivacaine

Background and Aims

Following spinal anesthesia (SA), patient discharge is often delayed due to postoperative urinary retention (POUR), the incidence of which varies widely. The present study of bupivacaine versus ropivacaine in equianalgesic doses was taken to explore the correlation between time to void urine and time for complete functional recovery.

Material and Methods

In this double-blinded study fifty adult patients were assigned to two groups (bupivacaine/ropivacaine) according to alternate case allocation for receiving SA for lower abdominal, perineal, and lower limb surgeries, lasting less than 2 h. Statistical analysis was conducted using an intention-to-treat approach, using Mann-Whitney test for nonparametric data. Primary outcome data could not be obtained for 14 out of the 50 patients due to perioperative bladder catheterization. No patients were lost to follow-up.

Results

Both the bupivacaine and ropivacaine groups were comparable in terms of ability to void (8.0 ± 2.3 vs. 7.0 ± 1.2 h; P > 0.05), modified Bromage scale after 4 h of SA (1.8 ± 1.3 vs. 2.6 ± 0.9 grade; P > 0.05), time to complete ambulation (6.7 ± 1.4 vs. 6.1 ± 1.0 h; P > 0.05), and time to negative Romberg test (6.1 ± 1.4 vs. 5.6 ± 0.9 h; P > 0.05), respectively. Strong positive correlations (r = 0.7-0.9) were found between time to void urine and time for complete ambulation.

Conclusions

Time to void urine and recovery of motor functions were found comparable statistically when bupivacaine and ropivacaine were used in the doses of 12.5 and 18.75 mg, respectively, for SA. However, group ropivacaine required lesser time to void and no patient developed POUR. Time to void urine was more than the time for ambulation. This may indicate a need for "selective spinal anesthesia" or adjuvant combination technique to accelerate the resolution of a block for ambulatory surgery.

Post-operative urinary retention: Review of literature

Postoperative urinary retention (POUR) is one of the postoperative complications which is often underestimated and often gets missed and causes lot of discomfort to the patient. POUR is essentially the inability to void despite a full bladder in the postoperative period. The reported incidence varies for the wide range of 5%-70%. Multiple factors and etiology have been reported for occurrence of POUR and these depend on the type of anaesthesia, type and duration of surgery, underlying comorbidities, and drugs used in perioperative period. Untreated POUR can lead to significant morbidities such as prolongation of the hospital stay, urinary tract infection, detrusor muscle dysfunction, delirium, cardiac arrhythmias etc. This has led to an increasing focus on early detection of POUR. This review of literature aims at understanding the normal physiology of micturition, POUR and its predisposing factors, complications, diagnosis and management with special emphasis on the role of ultrasound in POUR.

Survey on the practice of anaesthesiologists in inguinal hernia surgery in Galicia

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the preference in the anaesthetic technique by anaesthesiologists for the management of inguinal hernia surgery in Galicia.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Using the National Catalogue of Hospitals of the Ministry of Health and Consumer Affairs in Galicia, a questionnair was sent to the Heads of Anaesthesiology Service and Coordinators of the Postanaesthesia Care Unit (PACU) with 11 questions on the anaesthetic technique chosen by anaesthesiologists in the management of patients for inguinal hernia surgery, as well as their reasons.

RESULTS

The questionnaire was sent to 11 hospitals: 8 with PACU and 3 District. A total of 94 professionals responded, 56% with more than 10 years of experience, who performed between 8-10 procedures/month (58%) on an outpatient basis (61.54%). The most used anaesthetic technique was intradural in 52.8%, compared to 41.8% of general anaesthesia. Respondents with more than 10 years of experience preferred spinal anaesthesia in 38.6% of cases, compared to those with less experience (6.8%) (P=.037). One in 4 of those who chose general anaesthesia used ultrasound-guided interfascial blocks (27.5%). The local anaesthetic most used in intradural anaesthesia was hyperbaric bupivacaine (70.8%) at doses higher than 7mg.

CONCLUSION

Intradural anaesthesia with hyperbaric bupivacaine was the technique most chosen by anaesthesiologists for the management of inguinal hernia surgery. The anaesthetic techniques chosen among the different hospitals did not follow a homogenous distribution. In this survey, there was a tendency to choose the technique associated with the experience of the anaesthesiologist.

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

BACKGROUND

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSIONS

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

Modelling of the optimal bupivacaine dose for spinal anaesthesia in ambulatory surgery based on data from systematic review

BACKGROUND

Spinal bupivacaine is used for day-case surgery but the appropriate dose that guarantees hospital discharge is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to determine the spinal bupivacaine dose that prevents delayed hospital discharge in ambulatory surgery.

DESIGN

Systematic review of clinical trials.

DATA SOURCES

Comprehensive search in electronic databases of studies published between 1996 and 2014 reporting the use of spinal bupivacaine in ambulatory patients. Additional articles were retrieved through hyperlinks and by manually searching reference lists in original articles, review articles and correspondence published in English and French.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Data were used to calculate, motor block duration and discharge time, an estimated maximal effect (Emax: maximum theoretical time of motor block) and the effective dose to obtain half of Emax (D50) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). A simulation was performed to determine the dose corresponding to a time to recovery of 300 min for motor function, and 360 min for discharge, in 95% of the patients.

RESULTS

In total, 23 studies (1062 patients) were included for analysis of the time to recovery of motor function, and 12 studies (618 patients) for the time to hospital discharge. The Emax for recovery of motor function was 268 min [95% CI (189 to 433 min)] and the D50 was 3.9 mg [95% CI (2.3 to 6.2 mg)]. A 7.5-mg dose of bupivacaine enables resolution of motor block and ambulation within 300 min in 95% of the patients. A 5-mg dose or less was associated with an unacceptable failure rate.

CONCLUSION

Ambulatory surgery is possible under spinal anaesthesia with bupivacaine although the dose range that ensures reliable anaesthesia with duration short enough to guarantee ambulatory management is narrow.

[Unilateral spinal anesthesia : Literature review and recommendations]

Unilateral spinal anesthesia is a cost-effective and rapidly performed anesthetic technique. An exclusively unilateral block only affects the sensory, motor and sympathetic functions on one side of the body and offers the advantages of a spinal block without the typical adverse side effects seen with a bilateral block. The lack of hypotension, in particular, makes unilateral spinal anesthesia suitable for patients with cardiovascular risk factors e. g. aortic valve stenosis or coronary artery disease. Increasing numbers of surgical procedures are now being performed on an outpatient basis. Until now, spinal anesthesia has been considered unsuitable for this, not only because of the high incidence of intraoperative hypotension and postoperative urinary retention but also because of the prolonged postoperative stay before home discharge. This is not the case with unilateral spinal anesthesia: motor function returns rapidly, the incidence of urinary retention is extremely low, and patients are usually eligible for home discharge sooner than after bilateral spinal anesthesia or general anesthesia. The success of the technique depends on a number of factors. In addition to the local anesthetic, its concentration and dose, and the baricity of the injected solution, the shape of the spinal needle, the injection speed, the patient's position during injection, and the time the patient remains in this position after injection are equally important parameters. A number of intrathecally applied adjuvant drugs are used to give a more intense and/or longer-lasting block. For this review, we collated the published data on unilateral spinal anesthesia from journals with an impact factor greater than 1.0 and defined an optimized method for performing the technique. In order to achieve an exclusively unilateral block one should use 0.5 % hyperbaric bupivacaine injected at a rate of 0.33 ml/min or slower. During the injection and the following 20 min the patient should lie in the lateral decubitus position on the side intended for surgery with knees drawn to the chest. An injection of 5 mg (1 ml) hyperbaric bupivacaine 0.5 % provides an hour-long block to T 12, and a dose of 7.5 to 10 mg (1.5-2.0 ml) extends the block to T 6. Adding clonidine (0.5 to 1.0 µg/kg BW) to the injection prolongs the duration of the block to approximately two to three hours. During the 20-minute fixation period, the cephalad spread of the block can be influenced to a certain extent by raising or lowering the head of the table.

Randomized comparison of the feasibility of three anesthetic techniques for day-case open inguinal hernia repair

STUDY OBJECTIVE

Comparison of local anesthetic infiltration (LAI), spinal anesthesia (SPIN) and total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) for open inguinal herniorrhaphy. We hypothesized that patients receiving LAI could be discharged faster than SPIN and TIVA patients.

DESIGN

Randomized, prospective trial.

SETTING

University hospital day-surgery center.

PATIENTS

156 adult male patients (ASA 1-3) undergoing day-case open inguinal herniorrhaphy.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients were randomized to either LAI (lidocaine+ropivacaine), SPIN (bupivacaine+fentanyl) or TIVA (propofol+remifentanil). Perioperative Ringer infusion was 1.5mL/h. Urinary bladder was scanned before and after surgery. Interviews were performed on postoperative days 1, 7 and 90.

MEASUREMENTS

Duration of surgery, duration of the patients' stay in the operating room and time until their readiness for discharge home. Patient satisfaction and adverse effects were registered.

MAIN RESULTS

Surgery lasted longer in LAI group (median 40min) than in SPIN group (35min) (P=.003) and TIVA group (33min) (P<.001). Although surgery was shortest in TIVA group, TIVA patients stayed longer in the operating room than LAI patients (P=.001). Time until readiness for discharge was shorter in LAI group (93min) than in TIVA (147min) and SPIN (190min) groups (P<.001). Supplementary lidocaine infiltration was given to 32 LAI patients, and IV fentanyl to 29 LAI and 4 SPIN patients. Ephedrine was required in 34 TIVA, 5 LAI and 5 SPIN patients. One SPIN and three LAI patients had to be given TIVA and another SPIN patient LAI to complete the operations. Urinary retention was absent. Discomfort in the scar (26%) three months postoperatively was not anesthesia-related.

CONCLUSIONS

Logistically, LAI was superior because of the fastest recovery postoperatively. The anesthetic techniques were adequate for surgery in all but a few LAI and SPIN patients. Lack of urinary retention was probably related to the small IV infusion volumes.

Randomised controlled trial of spinal anaesthesia with bupivacaine or 2-chloroprocaine during caesarean section

BACKGROUND

Neuraxial anaesthesia is the desired method for Caesarean section. Bupivacaine is a well-known local anaesthetic. It has a long duration of action and can cause unpredictable levels of anaesthesia with subsequent prolonged discharge time. 2-Chloroprocaine has a rapid onset of action, producing an excellent sensory and motor block and has a rapid hydrolysis in the bloodstream by pseudocholinesterase. We compared bupivacaine and 2-chloroprocaine for spinal anaesthesia during Caesarean section. The primary endpoint was the earliest reversal sign of the motor block.

METHODS

Sixty ASAI/II patients, planned for elective singleton Caesarean section, were equally randomised to three groups. All patients received a combined spinal-epidural anaesthesia. The first group received 2-chloroprocaine (40 mg) without sufentanil, the second group received 2-chloroprocaine (40 mg) with sufentanil (1 μg) and the third group received hyperbaric bupivacaine (7.5 mg) with sufentanil (1 μg) as a spinal anaesthetic. Motor and sensory blockade were assessed at specific time points.

RESULTS

There was no difference between the three groups regarding the time to regression of the motor block. However, at 5 min post spinal injection, the level of sensory block was higher for both groups with 2-chloroprocaine, in comparison with the bupivacaine group.

CONCLUSION

2-Chloroprocaine can be used for low risk Caesarean section in healthy parturients. There is no difference in time to motor block resolution compared to bupivacaine. Motor recovery seems more predictable for 2-chloroprocaine and may be beneficial for the breastfeeding initiation.

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

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of two different doses of intrathecal morphine on postoperative analgesia, postoperative first mobilization and urination times and the severity of side effects.

METHODS

After Institutional Ethical Committee approval, 48 ASA I-II patients were enrolled in this randomized double-blinded study. Spinal anesthesia was performed with 0.1mg (Group I, n=22) or 0.4mg (Group II, n=26) ITM in addition to 7.5mg heavy bupivacaine. The first analgesic requirement, first mobilization and voiding times, and postoperative side effects were recorded. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 15.0 and p<0.05 was considered as statistically significant. The numeric data were analyzed by the t-test and presented as mean±SD. Categorical data were analyzed with the chi-square test and expressed as number of patients and percentage.

RESULTS

Demographic data were similar among groups. There were no differences related to postoperative pain, first analgesic requirements, and first mobilization and first voiding times. The only difference between two groups was the vomiting incidence. In Group II 23% (n=6) of the patients had vomiting during the first postoperative 24h compared to 0% in Group I (p=0.025).

CONCLUSION

For inguinal hernia repairs, the dose of 0.1mg of ITM provides comparable postoperative analgesia with a dose of 0.4mg, with significantly lower vomiting incidence when combined with low dose heavy bupivacaine.

A randomized clinical study comparing spinal anesthesia with isobaric levobupivacaine with fentanyl and hyperbaric bupivacaine with fentanyl in elective cesarean sections

BACKGROUND

To date, racemic bupivacaine is the most popular local anesthetic for spinal anesthesia in parturients undergoing elective cesarean delivery. With the introduction of levobupivacaine as pure S (-) enantiomer of bupivacaine which offers advantages of lower cardiotoxicity and neurotoxicity and shorter motor block duration, its use has widely increased in India. However, very few studies have been conducted about its efficacy in obstetric anesthesia. Thus, this study was undertaken to compare the sensorial, motor block levels, and side-effects of equal doses of hyperbaric bupivacaine and levobupivacaine with intrathecal fentanyl addition in elective cesarean cases.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

After approval of College Ethical Committee, 30 parturient with American Society of Anesthesiologists I-II undergoing elective cesarean section were enrolled for study with their informed consent. They were randomly divided equally to either Group BF receiving 10 mg (2 ml) hyperbaric bupivacaine and 25 mcg (0.5 ml) fentanyl, or Group LF receiving 10 mg (2 ml) isobaric levobupivacaine and 25 mcg (0.5 ml) fentanyl. Sensory and motor block characteristics of the groups were assessed with pinprick, cold swab, and Bromage scale; observed hemodynamic changes and side-effects were recorded. Effects on the neonate were observed by APGAR score at 1 and 5 min and umbilical cord blood gas analysis.

RESULTS

Hemodynamic parameters like mean arterial pressure of Group BF were found to be lower. Group BF exhibited maximum motor block level whereas in Group LF, max sensorial block level and postoperative visual analog scale scores were higher. Umbilical blood gas pCO2 was slightly higher, and pO2 was marginally lower in Group BF. Onset of motor block time, time to max motor block, time to T10 sensorial block, reversal of two dermatome, the first analgesic need were similar in both groups.

CONCLUSION

Intrathecal isobaric levobupivacaine-fentanyl combination is a good alternative to hyperbaric bupivacaine-fentanyl combination in cesarean surgery as it is less effective in motor block, it maintains hemodynamic stability at higher sensorial block levels.

Spinal anaesthesia with hyperbaric prilocaine in day-case perianal surgery: randomised controlled trial

Background. The local anaesthetics used in day-case spinal anaesthesia should provide short recovery times. We aimed to compare hyperbaric prilocaine and bupivacaine in terms of sensory block resolution and time to home readiness in day-case spinal anaesthesia. Methods. Fifty patients undergoing perianal surgery were randomized into two groups. The bupivacaine-fentanyl group (Group B) received 7.5 mg, 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine + 20 μg fentanyl in total 1.9 mL. The prilocaine-fentanyl group (Group P) received 30 mg, 0.5% hyperbaric prilocaine + 20 μg fentanyl in the same volume. Results. Time to L1 block and maximum block was shorter in Group P than in Group B (Group P 4.6 ± 1.3 min versus Group B 5.9 ± 01.9 min, P = 0.017, and Group P 13.2 ± 7.5 min versus Group B 15.3 ± 6.6 min, P = 0.04). The time to L1 regression and S3 regression of the sensorial block was significantly shorter in Group P than in Group B (45.7 ± 21.9 min versus 59.7 ± 20.9 min, P = 0.024, and 133.8 ± 41.4 min versus 200.4 ± 64.8 min, P < 0.001). The mean time to home readiness was shorter for Group P than for Group B (155 ± 100.2 min versus 207.2 ± 62.7 min (P < 0.001)). Conclusion. Day-case spinal anaesthesia with hyperbaric prilocaine + fentanyl is superior to hyperbaric bupivacaine in terms of earlier sensory block resolution and home readiness and the surgical conditions are comparable for perianal surgery.

Addition of lidocaine to levobupivacaine reduces intrathecal block duration: randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The duration of the spinal block is a concern for anesthetists. Low dose intrathecal lidocaine has vasodilatory effects and increases the local anesthetic clearance from the intrathecal space. The aim was to investigate whether this effect of lidocaine can be used to increase the resolution of levobupivacaine spinal anesthesia.

METHOD

After obtaining ethical approval and informed patient consent, 40 patients underwent transurethral prostate resection were studied. Patients were randomized into two groups and patients received either levobupivacaine 6.75 mg + 0.3 mL 2% lidocaine (Group L) or levobupivacaine 6.75 mg + saline (Group C). The main outcome measures were the difference between groups regarding the duration of the spinal block and PACU stay. Secondary outcome measures were the difference between groups in onset and resolution of the spinal block, adverse events and treatments were also investigated.

RESULTS

Spinal block resolved faster in Group L than Group C; 162.43±39.4 min vs 219.73 ± 37.3 min (p = 0.000). PACU time was shorter in Group L (109 ± 49.9 min in Group L vs 148 ± 56.8 min in Group C) (p = 0.036). There was no difference between groups with respect to the incidence of adverse events and treatments. Groups were also similar regarding complications. PDPH and TNS were not observed in any group.

CONCLUSION

Addition of low dose lidocaine to hyperbaric levobupivacaine reduces the duration of the intrathecal block provided by hyperbaric levobupivacaine. This technique can be used to reduce the spinal block duration for relatively short procedures like TUR-P.

ED50 and ED90 of intrathecal hyperbaric 2% prilocaine in ambulatory knee arthroscopy

PURPOSE

Hyperbaric 2% prilocaine (HP) is increasingly used for spinal anesthesia in day-case surgery. The aim of this prospective double-blind study was to determine the effective dose (ED)50 and the ED90 of HP for patients undergoing knee arthroscopy.

METHODS

Doses of HP were determined using an up-and-down sequential allocation technique. Sequences were analyzed by isotonic regression analysis. A subsequent observational study was performed with the calculated ED90 in 50 patients to confirm the initial result and to describe the induced blockade effects and side effects. Times corresponding to onset and duration of sensory and motor block, surgical data, and side effects were recorded.

RESULTS

The ED50 was estimated at 28.9 mg (95% confidence interval [CI]: 26.5 to 35.3) and the ED90 was estimated to be 38.5 mg (95% CI: 35.7 to 39.5). A 40 mg dose of HP provided efficient anesthesia in 46 patients (92%, 95% CI: 82 to 98). The average (SD) time to effective anesthesia was 14.5 (3.9) min. Complete sensory block at level T12 was obtained after ten minutes in 44 of 50 patients. The average (SD) duration of the sensory block was 205 (36.1) min. Maximal level of sensory block was obtained at the T8-T11 levels in 41 of 50 patients without hemodynamic instability. A Bromage 3 score was obtained in 40 of the 46 patients who achieved successful anesthesia after 30 min. Patients did not experience urinary retention, nor were any signs of transient neurologic symptoms observed.

CONCLUSION

This study determined the ED50 of HP is 28.9 mg and suggests that a 40-mg dose of HP is adequate to provide successful spinal anesthesia for outpatient knee arthroscopy.

Addition of lidocaine to bupivacaine for spinal anaesthesia compared with bupivacaine spinal anaesthesia and local infiltration anaesthesia

BACKGROUND

Two spinal anaesthesia techniques were compared with local infiltration anaesthesia (LIA) to test the hypothesis that the addition of lidocaine to bupivacaine would decrease the spinal block's duration and provide shorter recovery to discharge.

METHODS

Ninety-three patients undergoing outpatient herniorrhaphy were randomised into three groups. Spinal anaesthesia: the BL Group (bupivacaine-lidocaine) received 2 ml hyperbaric bupivacaine (10 mg) + 0.6 ml 1% lidocaine (6 mg), the BS Group (bupivacaine-saline) received 2 ml hyperbaric bupivacaine (10 mg) + 0.6 ml saline. LIA: the LIA group received plain bupivacaine + lidocaine. Resolution of the nerve blocks were compared between spinal anaesthesia groups, and post-operative pain scores, analgesic requirements, post-anaesthesia care unit (PACU) time, and discharge time were compared among all groups.

RESULTS

Spinal block resolved faster in the BL group vs. the BS group: 194.8 [standard deviation (SD) 29.2] min vs. 236.8 (SD 36.5) min (P = 0.000). PACU and discharge time were shortest in the LIA group [PACU time: 108.7 (SD 27.6) min vs. 113.0 (SD 39.4) min and 151.9 (SD 43.7) min in the BL and BS groups (P = 0.000), and discharge time 108.5 (SD 29.5) min vs. 145.8 (SD 37.3) min and 177.1 (SD 32.0) min in the BL and BS groups, respectively (P = 0.000)]. Pain scores and analgesic consumption were lower, with the time to first analgesic intake being longer in the LIA group.

CONCLUSION

Addition of lidocaine to bupivacaine reduced the duration of the spinal block and was associated with shorter recovery times. However, LIA provided the fastest recovery to discharge after outpatient inguinal herniorrhaphy.

Avoiding bladder catheterisation in total knee arthroplasty: patient selection criteria and low-dose spinal anaesthesia

BACKGROUND

Bladder catheterisation may be inconvenient for patients, delay mobilisation and risk complications. We hypothesised that by excluding pre-operatively patients at high risk of post-operative urinary retention, the majority of patients could avoid perioperative catheterisation during low-dose spinal anaesthesia.

METHODS

Patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty were assigned if fit for spinal anaesthesia and without severe symptoms of lower urinary tract obstruction, gross incontinence, mobilisation difficulties hindering micturition and > 200 ml residual urine volume. Bladder volume was monitored by ultrasound and temporary catheterisation advised if > 400 ml.

RESULTS

Fifty-two patients (men 54%, age 65 ± 9 years, body mass index 31 ± 5, 30% with history of urinary tract problems) were included. Intrathecal hyperbaric bupivacaine given was 7.8 ± 1.08 mg and always 7.5 μg sufentanil providing sufficient anaesthesia in all cases. Crystalloid given during surgery was 8.5 ± 4.0 ml/kg. Voluntary micturition was reached by 46 patients (88%, confidence interval (CI) 79-97%), but six (12%, CI 3-21%) needed temporary catheterisation once (four men/two women). Larger bladder volumes were found in those catheterised than those with voluntary micturition on the pre-operative (131 ± 76 ml vs. 68 ± 57 ml, P = 0.03) and first post-operative bladder scan (445 ± 169 ml vs. 271 ± 129 ml, P = 0.004). All but two patients (96%) could be mobilised the same day. No patient suffered bladder dysfunction.

CONCLUSION

Low-dose spinal anaesthesia combined with simple selection criteria allowed for early mobilisation (96%) and avoidance of bladder catheterisation in the vast majority (88%) of patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty, and the rest (12%) only needed a single temporary catheterisation.

Hyperbaric articaine with or without fentanyl in spinal anaesthesia: patient and observer blinded comparison

BACKGROUND

The rapid and short-acting local anaesthetic articaine is a feasible spinal anaesthetic for day-case open inguinal herniorrhaphy (OIH). We hypothesised that similarly to other spinal local anaesthetics, the addition of fentanyl may prolong articaine spinal analgesia without prolonging motor block.

METHODS

We performed a randomised, controlled study in 100 adult patients undergoing OIH. Spinal anaesthesia was induced by injecting hyperbaric articaine 72 mg with (Group A + F) or without (Group A) fentanyl 10 μg with the patient in lateral decubitus position. The distribution of sensory block was tested using pinprick and controlled by tilting the operating table 10 up or down. Motor block testing was based on the patient's ability to flex knees and ankles. Rescue analgesic was intravenous (i.v.) fentanyl. Pain scores were registered, and i.v. paracetamol 1 g was given as the first post-operative analgesic.

RESULTS

There were no differences (A + F vs. A) in the maximum median extension of the sensory block (T5 vs. T5), mean duration of sensory block ≥ T10 (76 min vs. 73 min), or total duration of sensory (146 min vs. 146 min) or motor block (99 min vs. 107 min). Fewer patients in Group A + F needed fentanyl (5 vs. 14, P < 0.05) perioperatively or paracetamol (3 vs. 18, P < 0.001) post-operatively.

CONCLUSION

Fentanyl 10 μg added to spinal hyperbaric articaine improved analgesia and reduced analgesic consumption during and after OIH. Fentanyl did not prolong motor block or delay recovery.

Neuraxial anesthesia and bladder dysfunction in the perioperative period: a systematic review

PURPOSE

Urinary retention requiring catheterization carries the risk of infection. Neuraxial anesthesia causes transient impairment of bladder function ranging from delayed initiation of micturition to frank urinary retention. We undertook a review of the literature to determine the elements of neuraxial anesthesia and analgesia that prolong bladder dysfunction and increase the incidence of urinary retention.

METHODS

We performed a systematic search of the PubMed, MEDLINE, and EMBASE databases (from January 1980 to January 2011) to identify studies where neuraxial anesthesia and/or analgesia were employed and at least one of the following outcomes was reported: urinary retention, time to micturition, or post void residual. We included randomized controlled trials and observational studies published in the English language and we excluded case reports. The randomized trials were graded according to the Jadad score.

PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Our search yielded 94 studies, and in 16 of these studies, the authors reported time to micturition after intrathecal anesthesia of varying local anesthetics and doses. Intrathecal injections were performed in 41 of these studies, epidural anesthesia/analgesia was used in 39 studies, and five studies involved both the intrathecal and epidural routes. Meta-analysis was not possible because of the heterogeneity of interventions and reported outcomes. The duration of detrusor dysfunction after intrathecal anesthesia is correlated with local anesthetic dose and potency. The incidence of urinary retention displays a similar trend and is further increased by the presence of neuraxial opioids, particularly long-acting variants. Urinary tract infection secondary to catheterization occurred rarely.

CONCLUSIONS

Neuraxial anesthesia/analgesia results in transient detrusor dysfunction. The duration of dysfunction depends on the potency and dose of medication used; however, it does not appear to result in significant morbidity.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy under spinal anesthesia: comparative study between conventional-dose and low-dose hyperbaric bupivacaine

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy has the advantages of causing less postoperative pain and requiring a short hospital stay, and therefore is the treatment of choice for cholelithiasis. This study was designed to compare spinal anesthesia using hyperbaric bupivacaine given as a conventional dose by lumbar puncture or as a low-dose by thoracic puncture.

METHODS

A total of 140 patients with symptomatic gallstone disease were randomized to undergo laparoscopic cholecystectomy with low-pressure CO(2) pneumoperitoneum under spinal anesthesia using either conventional lumbar spinal anesthesia (hyperbaric bupivacaine 15 mg and fentanyl 20 mg) or low-dose thoracic spinal anesthesia (hyperbaric bupivacaine 7.5 mg and fentanyl 20 μg). Intraoperative parameters, postoperative pain, complications, recovery time, and patient satisfaction at follow-up were compared between the two treatment groups.

RESULTS

All procedures were completed under spinal anesthesia, with no cases needing conversion to general anesthesia. Values for time for block to reach the T(3) dermatomal level, duration of motor and sensory block, and hypotensive events were significantly lower with low-dose bupivacaine. Postoperative pain was higher for low-dose hyperbaric bupivacaine at 6 and 12 hours. All patients were discharged after 24 hours. Follow-up 1 week postoperatively showed all patients to be satisfied and to be keen advocates of spinal anesthesia.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy can be performed successfully under spinal anesthesia. A small dose of hyperbaric bupivacaine 7.5 mg and 20 μg fentanyl provides adequate spinal anesthesia for laparoscopy and, in comparison with hyperbaric bupivacaine 15% and fentanyl 20 μg, causes markedly less hypotension. The low-dose strategy may have an advantage in ambulatory patients because of the earlier recovery of motor and sensory function and earlier discharge.

Role of regional anesthesia in the ambulatory environment

The use of local anesthetics in ambulatory surgery offers multiple benefits in line with the goals of modern-day outpatient surgery. A variety of regional techniques can be used for a wide spectrum of procedures; all are shown to reduce postprocedural pain; reduce the short-term need for opiate medications; reduce adverse effects, such as nausea and vomiting; and reduce the time to dismissal compared with patients who do not receive regional techniques. Growth in ambulatory procedures will likely continue to rise with future advances in surgical techniques, changes in reimbursement, and the evolution of clinical pathways that include superior, sustained postoperative analgesia. Anticipating these changes in practice, the role of, and demand for, regional anesthesia in outpatient surgery will continue to grow.

Time duration to safety sitting in parturient receiving spinal anesthesia for cesarean section with 0.5% Bupivacaine and morphine

Background: Spinal anesthesia has been used for cesarean section for a long time. However, the proportion of post-cesarean paturients who were able to sit at the fourth hour still remains unclear. Objective: Investigate the proportion of post-cesarean paturients that were able to sit at the fourth hour following spinal anesthesia with 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine and morphine. Furthermore, investigate the optimum time to encourage ambulation, and the risk factors delaying time duration to sit. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted in 240 patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classification I and II, and single pregnancy parturients undergoing cesarean section. The patients who had body mass index (BMI) >35, estimated blood loss >1000 mL, needed postoperative bed rest, or received postoperative sedation were excluded. Hyperbaric bupivacaine 8-11 mg and morphine 0.2-0.3 mg were used. The patients were evaluated at the fourth hour until they could sit without adverse events or complete the sixth hour. All patients were evaluated for risk factors delaying the time duration to sit. Results: Out of 240 patients, 77.0%, 90.9%, and 98.4% were able to sit at the fourth, fifth, and sixth hour, respectively. The risk factors that delayed time to sit were Bromage scale >1 and pain score >3 by the univariate analysis, and were Bromage scale >1 and pain score >3 by the multivariate analysis. Conclusion: Seventy-seven percent of the patients could sit at the fourth hour, and most patients (98%) could sit at the sixth hour. The risk factors that delayed the time duration to sit were Bromage score >1 and pain score >3.

The effects of intrathecal levobupivacaine and bupivacaine in the elderly

The objective of this study was to compare the block durations and haemodynamic effects associated with intrathecal levobupivacaine or bupivacaine in elderly patients undergoing transurethral prostate surgery. Eighty patients were prospectively randomised to receive plain 1.5 ml levobupivacaine 0.5% (group levobupivacaine) or 1.5 ml plain bupivacaine 0.5% (group bupivacaine) in combination with fentanyl 0.3 ml (15 microg) for spinal anaesthesia. The time to reach T10 and peak sensory block level, and to maximum motor block were significantly shorter in group bupivacaine compared to group levobupivacaine (p < 0.05). Peak sensory block level was also significantly higher in group bupivacaine. In group bupivacaine, mean arterial pressure was significantly lower than group levobupivacaine, starting from 10 min until 30 min after injection (p < 0.05). Hypotension and nausea were less common in group levobupivacaine than group bupivacaine (p < 0.05). Because of the better haemodynamic stability and fewer side-effects associated with levobupivacaine, it may be preferred for spinal anaesthesia in elderly patients.

Is there an advantage in using low-dose intrathecal bupivacaine for cesarean section?

PURPOSE

Spinal anesthesia for cesarean section is associated with a high incidence of maternal hypotension. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of low-dose bupivacaine with fentanyl to reduce the incidence of hypotension in spinal anesthesia for cesarean section.

METHODS

Forty pregnant women undergoing elective cesarean section were randomly allocated to two groups; those receiving 10 mg bupivacaine to group B (n = 20) and those receiving 4 mg bupivacaine plus 25 microg fentanyl to group BF (n = 20); the agents were given intrathecally with patients in the sitting position, with a combined spinal-epidural technique.

RESULTS

Sensory block was adequate for surgery in all patients. Hypotension occurred in all patients in group B (100%) and in 15 patients in group BF (75%). The incidence of hypotension, number of ephedrine treatments, and need for ephedrine were significantly greater in group B than group BF. Three patients in group BF required i.v. fentanyl supplementation after delivery. In 1 of these patients, i.v. fentanyl was not adequate, and epidural supplementation of 1% lidocaine was required.

CONCLUSION

The development of hypotension after spinal block in subjects undergoing cesarean section was not prevented despite low-dose (4 mg) bupivacaine plus 25 microg fentanyl, but the severity of maternal hypotension, and the number of ephedrine treatments and the total dose of ephedrine were decreased.

Systematic review of spinal anaesthesia using bupivacaine for ambulatory knee arthroscopy

The use of lidocaine in spinal anaesthesia is associated with transient neurological syndrome (TNS). Bupivacaine has a lower incidence of TNS as an alternative but it may have a prolonged action. This study systematically reviews the literature about the recovery profile of patients undergoing spinal anaesthesia, using bupivacaine for arthroscopic knee surgery. We identified 17 eligible randomized clinical trials (RCTs) (1268 patients). All the articles in this review, except one, used hyperbaric bupivacaine. Five trials compared different doses of bupivacaine (range 3-15 mg). Large doses of bupivacaine (10 and 15 mg) were associated with delayed recovery, and supine positioning was associated with a high incidence of failure. With unilateral positioning, a dose as low as 4-5 mg seems to be sufficient. Five trials comparing bupivacaine or levobupivacaine with ropivacaine showed no significant difference in the time to home discharge. When bupivacaine was combined with fentanyl in two trials, marginal delay in recovery was found [time to discharge (min); weighted mean difference (WMD) 14.1, 95% CI 11.9-40.1] and increased nausea and pruritus but had reduced postoperative pain. Unilateral and bilateral spinal anaesthesia were assessed in two trials, and the latter group was associated with early recovery and discharge [time to discharge (min); WMD -41.6, 95% CI -63.6 to -19.6). The results of our systematic review suggest that 4-5 mg of hyperbaric bupivacaine can effectively produce spinal anaesthesia for knee arthroscopy with unilateral positioning. Ropivacaine or the addition of adjuvants did not improve the recovery time. There is a need for tighter RCTs with more consistent endpoints.

The Combination of Low-Dose Levobupivacaine and Fentanyl for Spinal Anaesthesia in Ambulatory Inguinal Herniorrhaphy

This study investigated whether the addition of 25 μg intrathecal fentanyl to levobupivacaine spinal anaesthesia for outpatient inguinal herniorrhaphy allows a sub-anaesthetic levobupivacaine dose to be used. Forty patients were assigned to receive 5 mg levobupivacaine 0.5% mixed with 25 μg fentanyl (group LF) or 7.5 mg levobupivacaine 0.5% (group L). The highest sensory block levels achieved were T7 (range T5 – T9) and T6 (range T4 – T9) in groups LF and L, respectively. The times to two-segment regression, S2 regression, ambulation, urination and discharge were all significantly shorter in group LF than group L. These results indicate that, for outpatient inguinal herniorrhaphy, intrathecal fentanyl combined with low-dose levobupivacaine provides good quality spinal anaesthesia and minimizes the need for intra-operative analgesia. This protocol is well suited for the outpatient setting because it features rapid recovery of full motor power, sensory function and bladder function.

Management of temporary urinary retention after arthroscopic knee surgery in low-dose spinal anesthesia: development of a simple algorithm

INTRODUCTION

In practice, trauma and orthopedic surgery during spinal anesthesia are often performed with routine urethral catheterization of the bladder to prevent an overdistention of the bladder. However, use of a catheter has inherent risks. Ultrasound examination of the bladder (Bladderscan) can precisely determine the bladder volume. Thus, the aim of this study was to identify parameters indicative of urinary retention after low-dose spinal anesthesia and to develop a simple algorithm for patient care.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective pilot study approved by the Ethics Committee enrolled 45 patients after obtaining their written informed consent. Patients who underwent arthroscopic knee surgery received low-dose spinal anesthesia with 1.4 ml 0.5% bupivacaine at level L3/L4. Bladder volume was measured by urinary bladder scanning at baseline, at the end of surgery and up to 4 h later. The incidence of spontaneous urination versus catheterization was assessed and the relative risk for catheterization was calculated. Mann-Whitney test, chi(2) test with Fischer Exact test and the relative odds ratio were performed as appropriate. *P < 0.05.

RESULTS

Seventy percent of the patients were able to void spontaneously; in 30%, a Foley catheter had to be inserted because bladder volume exceeded 500 ml and/or urination was insufficient (P < 0.01). Bladder volume differed independently of the fluid infused. Additionally, patients with a bladder volume >300 ml postoperatively had a 6.5-fold greater likelihood for urinary retention.

CONCLUSION

In the management of patients with short-lasting spinal anesthesia for arthroscopic knee surgery we recommend monitoring bladder volume by Bladderscan instead of routine catheterization. Anesthesiologists or nurses under protocol should assess bladder volume preoperatively and at the end of surgery. If bladder volume is >300 ml, catheterization should be performed in the OR. Patients with a bladder volume of <300 ml at the end of surgery may be transferred to the ward or recovery room. In these patients, bladder volume must be checked at least every 60 min for a maximum of 3 h or until spontaneous voiding is possible or bladder volume is >500 ml.

Use of spinal anaesthesia in day surgery

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

An increasing number of day-case surgical patients is challenging the presently used methods of anaesthesia: reliable surgical anaesthesia should be fast, with rapid recovery and minimal side effects. To compete with modern ambulatory general anaesthesia a knowledge of special spinal anaesthesia techniques is essential. This review brings together important issues concerning the spinal technique, anaesthetic agents and benefits as well as the disadvantages of spinal anaesthesia in outpatients.

RECENT FINDINGS

For surgical procedures in one lower limb, a low dose of hyperbaric bupivacaine with standardized spinal anaesthesia technique produces a reliable block, with low incidence of side effects and home-readiness equal to spinal anaesthesia with lidocaine (50 mg) or general anaesthesia (desflurane), whereas ropivacaine has not shown benefits over spinal anaesthesia with bupivacaine. 'Walk-in, walk-out' spinals with an extremely low dose of lidocaine and opioids for gynaecological laparoscopy created the concept of selective spinal anaesthesia. Reintroduction of chloroprocaine may provide a solution for bilateral, short-acting spinal anaesthesia in the future.

SUMMARY

To produce reliable spinal anaesthesia with a reasonable recovery time it is essential to understand the factors affecting the spread of spinal block and to choose the optimal drug and adequate dose for specific surgical procedures.

From Aldrete to PADSS: Reviewing discharge criteria after ambulatory surgery

Nurses working in perianesthesia care areas use discharge scoring criteria to complete patient assessments and ensure patient readiness for discharge or transfer to the next phase of recovery. However, all discharge criteria have both advantages and disadvantages. Comparative studies on the reliability of the different discharge criteria in use are extremely limited. As the acuity of our aging population increases, as well as the number of annual surgeries performed on an outpatient basis, it is most timely to ensure that we are following evidence-based discharge criteria.

An Evaluation of General and Spinal Anesthesia Techniques for Prostate Brachytherapy in a Day Surgery Setting

We evaluated four anesthetic techniques for transperineal brachytherapy of the prostate in a day-surgery setting: general anesthesia with either fentanyl and propofol total IV anesthesia (TIVA) or with fentanyl, thiopental, and isoflurane (F-P-I), versus spinal block using 5 mg of 0.5% large-dose spinal hyperbaric bupivacaine (LDS) or 2.5 mg of 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine plus fentanyl 25 mug small-dose spinal (SDS). Operating room time was shorter in the general anesthesia groups. TIVA patients voided earlier (103 +/- 41 min) than F-P-I patients (131 +/- 65 min), SDS (126 +/- 55 min), and LDS patients (169 +/- 65 min; P < 0.05 TIVA versus all groups and between spinal groups). TIVA patients were discharged earlier (119 +/- 42 min) than F-P-I patients (160 +/- 69 min) and SDS or LDS patients (132 +/- 53 and 186 +/- 72 min, respectively; P < 0.05 versus all groups and between the spinal groups). There were no intergroup differences regarding postanesthesia nausea or vomiting, pain score, return to normal function at home, or overall satisfaction. Whereas all four techniques are suitable for this procedure, TIVA provides the earliest voiding and consequently fastest discharge. Between spinal techniques, the SDS technique requires more intraoperative sedation but provides earlier voiding and consequently earlier discharge. TIVA, general anesthesia with isoflurane and fentanyl, and two spinal techniques (5 mg of bupivacaine 0.5% or 2.5 mg of bupivacaine 0.5% plus 25 mug of fentanyl) are suitable techniques for transperineal brachytherapy in the day-surgery setting. TIVA allows for earliest voiding and therefore fastest discharge home. Spinal block with 2.5 mg of bupivacaine plus 25 mug of fentanyl provides earlier voiding and consequently earlier discharge than 5 mg of bupivacaine alone.

The persisting analgesic effect of low-dose intravenous ketamine after spinal anaesthesia for Caesarean section

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

To compare the analgesic effects of intrathecal fentanyl and low-dose intravenous ketamine as adjuvants to intrathecal bupivacaine for Caesarean section.

METHODS

Ninety elective Caesarean section patients were randomized into three groups. Spinal anaesthesia was performed with 15 mg hyperbaric bupivacaine in all groups. Ketamine (0.15 mg kg(-1)) or an equal volume of normal saline was given intravenously immediately after initiating spinal anaesthesia in the ketamine and control group, respectively. In the fentanyl group, 10 microg fentanyl was added to the intrathecal bupivacaine. Arterial pressures, heart rate values, adverse effects, the time of first request for postoperative analgesia, visual analogue pain scores, total analgesic consumptions at 24 and 48 h were recorded in all patients.

RESULTS

The time to first request for analgesia was significantly longer in the ketamine (197 min) and fentanyl (165 min) groups compared to the control group (144 min). Postoperative pain scores were significantly lower in the ketamine group than in both other groups. Although the analgesic requirements during first 24 h were significantly lower in the ketamine group, there was no significant difference between the groups during the following 24 h.

CONCLUSION

Intravenous low-dose ketamine combined with intrathecal bupivacaine for Caesarean section provides longer postoperative analgesia and lower postoperative analgesic consumption than bupivacaine alone suggesting a pre-emptive effect.

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.

Spinal 2-Chloroprocaine: A Comparison with Small-Dose Bupivacaine in Volunteers

Ambulatory surgery continues to increase nationwide. Because spinal lidocaine is associated with transient neurologic symptoms, many clinicians have switched to small-dose bupivacaine for outpatient spinal anesthesia. However, bupivacaine often produces inadequate surgical anesthesia and has an unpredictable duration. Preservative-free 2-chloroprocaine (2-CP) has reemerged as an alternative for outpatient spinal anesthesia. We designed this double-blind, randomized, crossover, volunteer study to compare 40 mg of 2-CP with small-dose (7.5 mg) bupivacaine with measures of pinprick anesthesia, motor strength, tolerance to tourniquet and electrical stimulation, and simulated discharge criteria. Peak block height (2-CP average T7 [range T3-10]; bupivacaine average T9 [range T4-L1]), regression to L1 (2-CP 64 +/- 10 versus bupivacaine 87 +/- 41 min), and tourniquet tolerance (2-CP 52 +/- 11 versus bupivacaine 60 +/- 27 min) did not differ between drugs (P = 0.15, 0.12, and 0.40, respectively). However, time to simulated discharge (including time to complete block regression, ambulation, and spontaneous voiding) was significantly longer with bupivacaine (2-CP 113 +/- 14, bupivacaine 191 +/- 30 min, P = 0.0009). No subjects reported transient neurologic symptoms or other side effects. We conclude that spinal 2-CP provides adequate duration and density of block for ambulatory surgical procedures, and has significantly faster resolution of block and return to ambulation compared with 7.5 mg of bupivacaine.

Influence of the injection site (L2/3 or L3/4) and the posture of the vertebral column on selective spinal anesthesia for ambulatory knee arthroscopy

BACKGROUND

We tested the hypothesis that selective spinal anesthesia for ambulatory knee arthroscopy can be accomplished with a small dose of bupivacaine at the L3/4 interspace with or without a head-down tilt of 5 degrees when the patients were in the lateral decubitus position.

METHODS

In this double-blind study, 123 patients were randomly allocated to receive spinal anesthesia with 4 mg of hyperbaric bupivacaine inserted at either the L2/3 interspace, while the vertebral column was kept horizontal (L2/3 group), or the L3/4 level, with the vertebral column horizontal (L3/4H) or tilted 5 degrees head-down (L3/4T). At 7 min, an additional head down tilt was used in all groups if the sensory block was inadequate.

RESULTS

In the L3/4T group the sensory block (Th8) reached a significantly higher level 30 min after spinal injection, compared with both the L2/3 (Th10) and L3/4H (Th11) groups. In the L3/4H group, 39% of the patients needed an additional tilt for 3 min at 7 min, compared with 10% (P=0.004) in the L3/4T group. Sacral block developed later and recovered faster (P<0.05) in the L3/4T group compared to the L3/4H group. Home-readiness was achieved equally fast in all groups.

CONCLUSION

When producing selective spinal anesthesia, the posture of the vertebral column is a major determinant of both sensory and motor segments to be blocked. A 4-mg dose of hyperbaric bupivacaine at the L3/4 interspace with a 5 degrees head-down tilt of the vertebral column for 6 min is recommended for knee arthroscopy.