Efficacy of pectoral nerve block versus thoracic paravertebral block for postoperative analgesia after radical mastectomy: a randomized controlled trial

Chronic Pain Following Breast Reconstruction: A Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer survival rates have increased significantly, underscoring the importance of enhancing long-term health-related quality of life. Breast reconstruction following mastectomy has emerged as a common approach that contributes to improved health-related quality of life. Nonetheless, chronic pain following breast reconstruction is a prevalent issue that has a negative impact on overall well-being.

METHODS

To examine recent findings on chronic pain after breast reconstruction and progress in pain management, we performed a review of the literature through independent searches using the MEDLINE database within NIH National Library of Medicine PubMed.

RESULTS

The review suggested that autologous reconstruction causes chronic postsurgical pain, especially at specific donor sites, whereas implant-based reconstruction does not seem to increase the risk of chronic pain. Moreover, certain operational and patient factors are also associated with chronic pain. Appropriate pain management can reduce chronic pain and prevent the transition from acute to chronic pain.

CONCLUSION

This scoping review evaluated the characteristics of long-term chronic pain after breast reconstruction. The findings provide patients with important treatment information and will assist with their decision on their preferred treatment.

The Impact of Preoperative Combined Pectoserratus and/or Interpectoral Plane (Pectoralis Type II) Blocks on Opioid Consumption, Pain, and Overall Benefit of Analgesia in Patients Undergoing Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery: A Prospective, Randomized, Controlled, and Triple-blinded Trial

OBJECTIVE

Acute postoperative pain remains a major obstacle in minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS). Evidence of the analgesic benefit of chest wall blocks is limited. This study was designed to assess the influence of combined pectoserratus plane block plus interpectoral plane block (PSPB + IPPB) on postoperative pain and the overall benefit of analgesia compared with placebo.

DESIGN

A prospective, randomized, triple-blinded study was conducted.

SETTING

The setting was the operating room and intensive care unit of a university hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 60 patients undergoing elective right-lateral MICS were enrolled.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients were randomly assigned to preoperative PSPB + IPPB with 30 mL of ropivacaine 0.5% or saline.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

The primary endpoint was total intravenous morphine milligram equivalents administered in the first 24 hours after extubation. Secondary endpoints included the Overall Benefit of Analgesia Score (OBAS) at 24 hours after extubation and repeated Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Values for intravenous morphine milligram equivalents administered in the first 24 hours after extubation were significantly lower (median [interquartile range]: 4.2 mg [2.1 - 7.9] v 8.3 mg [4.2 - 15.7], p = 0.025; mean difference: 6.7 mg [0.94 - 12 mg], p = 0.024, Cohen's d: 0.64 [0.09 - 1.2]). Moreover, OBAS at 24 hours and VAS after extubation were significantly lower (4.0 [3.0 - 6.0] v 7.0 [3.0 - 9.0], p = 0.043; 0.0 cm [0.0 - 2.0] v 1.5 cm [0.3 - 3.0], p = 0.030). VAS did not differ between groups at later points.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative PSPB + IPPB reduced 24-hour postextubation opioid consumption, pain at extubation, and OBAS. Given its low risk and expedient placement, it could be a helpful addition to MICS protocols. Future studies should evaluate these findings in multicenter settings and further elucidate the optimal timing of block placement.

Comparison of ultrasound-guided rhomboid intercostal and subserratus plane block versus thoracic paravertebral block for analgesia in thoracoscopic surgery: a randomized, controlled, non-inferiority trial

BACKGROUND

To investigate the non-inferiority of ultrasound-guided rhomboid intercostal and subserratus plane (RISS) block compared to thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB) in postoperative analgesia for thoracoscopic surgeries.

METHODS

This study consecutively enrolled 50 patients undergoing elective thoracoscopic surgery. Following general anesthesia, the RISS group received a unilateral block with 40 mL of 0.25% ropivacaine, while the TPVB group received with 30 mL of 0.33% ropivacaine. The primary outcome measure was the 24-hour postoperative resting VAS score. Secondary outcome measures included nerve block operation time for two groups, postoperative 1, 2, 4, 8, 48-hour resting VAS scores, and different time points coughing VAS scores, time to first postoperative ambulation, total intravenous analgesic consumption at different time points postoperatively, complications related to the block.

RESULTS

There were no significant statistical differences between the two groups in terms of postoperative rest and cough VAS scores at each time (P>0.05), and the mean difference in rest VAS scores did not exceed the non-inferiority margin in 95% CI. There were no significant differences in total intraoperative and postoperative analgesic consumption at different time points (P>0.05), and no significant differences in time to first postoperative ambulation (P>0.05). Compared to the TPVB group, the RISS group had a shorter nerve block operation time (259.43±30.11 vs. 335.23±30.96 s, P<0.001) and fewer instances of intraoperative hypotension (two vs. seven cases, P=0.022), bleeding at the puncture site, pneumothorax, and arrhythmia.

CONCLUSIONS

In thoracoscopic surgeries, the postoperative analgesic efficacy of ultrasound-guided RISS block is not inferior to TPVB. Compared to TPVB, RISS block is simpler, quicker, and associated with fewer puncture-related complications.

Interpectoral nerve blocks may lower postoperative narcotic use after mastectomy

BACKGROUND

Pain management following mastectomy is a significant challenge often requiring opioids. Nonopioid pain management utilizing nerve blocks has been shown in other fields to reduce postoperative opioid use and may be effective for postoperative pain in mastectomy patients. The primary purpose of this study was to compare postoperative opioid use, measured in morphine milligram equivalents (MME), between mastectomy patients who underwent interpectoral nerve block (IPNB) and a historical control group. Secondary outcomes included length of stay (LOS) and postoperative pain scores.

METHODS

This is a single-center, retrospective cohort study. The charts of women who underwent mastectomy for cancer without immediate reconstruction from 10/2017-12/2019 were reviewed. Wilcoxon rank sum test was used for unadjusted analysis and multiple linear regression for adjusted analysis.

RESULTS

There were 105 patients included in this study, of which 37 (35%) underwent IPNB. In unadjusted analysis, median MME use was significantly lower in patients that received IPNB compared to the control group (IPNB = 5, controls = 17, p = 0.03). Patients that received IPNB had an observed reduction in LOS and postoperative pain, though these results failed to reach statistical significance. There were no IPNB-related complications.

CONCLUSIONS

IPNB may be an effective strategy to decrease postoperative opioid use in mastectomy patients. Larger, prospective studies are needed to further investigate the effectiveness of IPNB.

The Effect of Pectoral Nerve Blocks on Opioid Use and Postoperative Pain in Masculinizing Mastectomy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Bilateral masculinizing mastectomy is the most common gender-affirmation operation performed. Currently, there is lack of data regarding intraoperative and postoperative pain control for this population. It is the authors' aim to study the effects of the pectoral nerve (Pecs) I and II regional nerve blocks in patients undergoing masculinizing mastectomy.

METHODS

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed. Patients undergoing bilateral gender-affirmation mastectomy were randomized to receive either a Pecs block with ropivacaine or placebo injection. The patient, surgeon, and anesthesia team were blinded to the allocation. Intraoperative and postoperative opioid requirements were collected and recorded as morphine milligram equivalents (MME). Participants recorded postoperative pain scores at specific time points on the day of surgery through postoperative day 7.

RESULTS

Fifty patients were enrolled between July of 2020 and February of 2022. Twenty-seven were randomized to the intervention group and 23 to the control group, with 43 patients undergoing analysis. There was no significant difference in intraoperative MME between the Pecs block group and the control group (9.8 versus 11.1; P = 0.29). In addition, there was no difference in postoperative MME between the groups (37.5 versus 40.0; P = 0.72). Postoperative pain scores were also similar between the groups at each specified time point.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no significant reduction in opioid consumption or postoperative pain scores in patients undergoing bilateral gender-affirmation mastectomy who received a regional anesthetic when compared with placebo. In addition, a postoperative opioid-sparing approach may be appropriate for patients undergoing bilateral masculinizing mastectomy.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, I.

Nerve block efficacy in breast augmentation: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Breast augmentation is often performed as a day-case general anaesthetic operation, with postoperative, opioid-based analgesia regimens. However, it may also be performed using regional anaesthesia; a variety of nerve block techniques are available to reduce postoperative pain and analgesic requirements. This systematic review and meta-analysis were undertaken according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis guidelines comparing breast augmentation using regional anaesthesia with general anaesthesia, versus general anaesthesia alone or with local field infiltration. All randomised or quasi-randomised studies that recruited adult female patients undergoing breast augmentation using regional anaesthesia were considered. The primary outcome measures were postoperative pain and analgesic requirements. A randomised effects model was used, with standardised mean difference or mean difference outcomes used as appropriate. Thirteen studies were included for systematic review, out of which eight met the inclusion criteria for meta-analysis. Nerve blocks had statistically significant standardised mean difference reductions in postoperative pain scores across all time points: 0 h (-1.2 [-2.1 to -0.3], p = 0.01, I2 = 85%), 1 h (-1.3 [-2.1 to -0.5], p = 0.002, I2 = 89%), 2 h (-1.8 [-2.8 to -0.9], p = 0.0002, I2 = 88%), 4-6 h (-1.2 [-2.1 to -0.4], p = 0.006, I2 = 89%), 24 h (-1.4 [-2.5 to -0.2], p = 0.02, I2 = 94%). There was also a statistically significant reduction in postoperative opioid requirements: -150 mcg fentanyl (-259.2 to -40.9), p = 0.007. Although an element of study heterogeneity is noted, this systematic review and meta-analysis support the concept that regional anaesthesia using nerve blocks in breast augmentation surgery, reduces both postoperative pain and opioid requirements, compared with general anaesthesia.

Patient Satisfaction and Quality of Recovery With Ambulatory Serratus Plane Catheter After Mastectomy: A Service Evaluation

Background Acute moderate to severe pain after mastectomy is common and impedes patient recovery. Ambulatory serratus plane catheter with infusion pump (ASPIP) is a novel method to provide continuous delivery of local anaesthetic agents in the immediate postoperative period for extended analgesia, early mobility, and return to function after mastectomy. The aim of this project was to evaluate the introduction of ASPIP service and its effect on postoperative pain, opioid use, hospital stay, and recovery. Methods This was a service evaluation project. Eligible mastectomy patients were included over six months. All patients provided consent for intraoperative catheter insertion and ASPIP use. The numerical rating scale (NRS) and the Quality of Recovery-15 (QoR-15) tool were used to assess postoperative pain and the quality of recovery, respectively. Overall satisfaction, sleep quality, and recommendations for the catheter were collected. Day-case rates of mastectomy with or without reconstruction were also measured. Data were presented using descriptive statistics. Mean (SD) and median (quartiles) were used for the continuous variables with percentages to report rates. Approval of the institution's Audit & Quality Improvement Department was obtained. Results Thirty-two consecutive mastectomy patients were included over six months. The mean age was 60 years and the mean BMI was 25.8. Mean pain NRS (10 maximum) at rest and on movement were 1.88 vs. 2.56, 2.03 vs. 2.84, and 1.85 vs. 2.3 out of 10 on postoperative day (POD) one, two, and three, respectively. Six patients required opioids on POD one, four patients on POD two, and none on the third day. Sleep disturbance was observed in three, five, and three patients in the first three days, respectively. The mean overall satisfaction was 9.25/10 (SD: 1.18). All patients recommended ASPIP to other patients. QoR-15 scores reported as median (quartiles) were 143 (136, 147) preoperatively and 135 (126.5, 143) postoperatively, with a median difference of -3 (95% CI: -6 to 0). The day-case rate for mastectomy +/- reconstruction was 66% and 39%, respectively. There were no major complications from the catheter with minor issues in four patients. Conclusion The ASPIP is an effective and safe method of managing postoperative pain after mastectomy with positive patient experience and reduced opioid requirement. As part of an enhanced recovery pathway, it can also increase mastectomy day-case rates, including immediate implant reconstruction.

The effect of different nerve block strategies on the quality of post-operative recovery in breast cancer patients: A randomized controlled study

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effects of three types of ultrasound-guided nerve blocks on post-operative recovery quality in patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy for unilateral breast cancer.

METHODS

In this randomized double-blinded trial (chictr.org.cn, ChiCTR2200059428), 150 female patients were equally assigned to S group (serratus anterior plane block, SAPB) group, P group (paravertebral block, PVB) or ST group (serratus anterior combined with transverse thoracic muscle plane blocks, SA-TTMPB). The primary outcome was QoR-15 at five time points after surgery. Secondary outcomes were pain scores, time of first rescue analgesic and chronic pain incidence at 3 months.

RESULTS

The QoR-15 total score of S group at 24 h, 48 h, 72 h and 7 days post-surgery was significantly lower in groups P and ST, while there was no significant difference between groups P and ST (S vs. P vs. ST, 100.29 ± 6.20 vs. 108.51 ± 7.46 vs. 106.46 ± 6.95; 105.59 ± 6.18 vs. 113.06 ± 7.44 vs. 111.22 ± 6.56; 112.51 ± 6.32 vs. 119.88 ± 6.44 vs. 117.62 ± 6.09; 123.00 ± 5.78 vs. 128.86 ± 5.96 vs. 126.92 ± 5.72, p < 0.05). The dynamic and rest NRS scores at 6 and 12 h post-surgery were significantly higher in group S than in groups P and ST.

CONCLUSION

Serratus anterior plane block combined with transverse thoracic muscle plane block and paravertebral block both have better effects than serratus anterior plane block alone in improving patients' early post-operative recovery quality, and also have an advantage in improving early post-operative pain.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

chictr.org.cn (ChiCTR2200059428).

DATE OF REGISTRATION

29 April 2022.

SIGNIFICANCE

Serratus anterior combined with transverse thoracic muscle plane block may be a safer, easier, and equally effective nerve block strategy than paravertebral block in patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy for unilateral breast cancer.

Assessing the Efficacy of the S-PECS Block in Breast Augmentation Surgery: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Postoperative acute and chronic pain following breast surgery is a common complication that needs resolving to allow for improved patient outcomes. Previously, thoracic epidurals and paravertebral blocks have been the accepted standard administered intraoperatively. However, more recently the introduction of the pectoral nerve block (PECS and PECS-2 blocks) has appeared promising to control the pain more effectively, but further robust analysis is required to prove its efficacy. The authors aim to study the efficacy of a new block, S-PECS, that combines a serratus anterior and a PECS-2 block.

METHODS

In this study, the authors performed a single-center, randomized, controlled, double-blind group trial in 30 female patients undergoing breast augmentation surgery with silicone breast implants and the S-PECS block. Divided into two groups of 15, the PECS group received local anesthetics and the no-PECS control group received a saline injection. All participants were followed up at recovery and at 4, 6, and 12 hours postoperatively.

RESULTS

The authors' results showed that the pain score in the PECS group was significantly less than in the no-PECS group across all time points: recovery, and at 4, 6, and 12 hours. Furthermore, the patients who received the S-PEC block were 74% less likely to request pain medications compared with the no-PECS group ( P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Overall, the modified S-PECS block is an effective, efficient, and safe method of controlling pain in patients undergoing breast augmentation surgery, with additional applications yet to be explored.

The analgesic efficacy of pectoral nerve block for breast augmentation: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled studies

BACKGROUND

Many patients suffered from serious pain after breast augmentation, but the analgesic efficacy of pectoral nerve block for these patients was not well established. Thus, this meta-analysis was intended to study the analgesic efficacy of pectoral nerve block for breast augmentation.

METHODS

Several databases including PubMed, EMbase, Web of Science, EBSCO, and Cochrane library databases were searched, and we included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) regarding the analgesic efficacy of pectoral nerve block for breast augmentation.

RESULTS

Six RCTs were ultimately included in this meta-analysis. Compared with control intervention for breast augmentation, pectoral nerve block could significantly reduce pain scores at 1 h (mean difference [MD] = -2.28; 95% confidence interval [CI] = -3.71 to -0.85; P = 0.002), 2 h (MD = -3.08; 95% CI = -3.95 to -2.20; P < 0.00001), 4 h (MD = -2.95; 95% CI = -3.32 to -2.58; P < 0.00001), 6-8 h (MD = -2.68; 95% CI = -3.24 to -2.11; P < 0.00001), 24 h (MD = -2.04; 95% CI = -2.41 to -1.67; P < 0.00001), the number of analgesic requirement (odd ratio [OR] = 0.20; 95% CI = 0.09 to 0.45; P = 0.0001), and the incidence of nausea (OR = 0.21; 95% CI = 0.08 to 0.54; P = 0.001) and vomiting (OR = 0.15; 95% CI = 0.05 to 0.39; P = 0.0001).  Conclusions: Pectoral nerve block may be effective for pain relief after breast augmentation.

A Randomized Single-Blinded Study Comparing Preoperative with Post-Mastectomy PECS Block for Post-operative Pain Management in Bilateral Mastectomy with Immediate Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Ultrasound-guided pectoralis muscle blocks (PECS I/II) are well established for postoperative pain control after mastectomy with reconstruction. However, optimal timing is unclear. We conducted a randomized controlled single-blinded single-institution trial comparing outcomes of block performed pre-incision versus post-mastectomy.

METHOD

Patients with breast cancer undergoing bilateral mastectomy with immediate expander/implant reconstruction were randomized to receive ultrasound-guided PECS I/II either pre-incision (PreM, n = 17) or post-mastectomy and before reconstruction (PostM, n = 17). The primary outcome was the average pain score using the Numerical Rating Score during post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) and inpatient stay, with the study powered to detect a difference in mean pain score of 2. Secondary outcomes included mean pain scores on postoperative day (POD) 2, 3, 7, 14, 90, and 180; pain catastrophizing scores; narcotic requirements; PACU/inpatient length of stay; block procedure time; and complications.

RESULT

No significant differences between the two groups were noted in average pain score during PACU (p = 0.57) and 24-h inpatient stay (p = 0.33), in the 2 weeks after surgery at rest (p = 0.90) or during movement (p = 0.30), or at POD 90 and 180 at rest (p = 0.42) or during movement (p = 0.31). Median duration of block procedure (PreM 7 min versus PostM 6 min, p = 0.21) did not differ. Median PACU and inpatient length of stay were the same in each group. Inpatient narcotic requirements were similar, as were length of stay and post-surgical complication rates.

CONCLUSION

Intraoperative ultrasound-guided PECS I/II block administered by surgeons following mastectomy had similar outcomes to preoperative blocks.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This trial is registered with Clinical Research Information Service (NCT03653988).

The impact of PECS II blockade in patients undergoing minimally invasive cardiac surgery-a prospective, randomized, controlled, and triple-blinded trial

BACKGROUND

Classic neuraxial techniques, such as thoracic epidural anesthesia, or alternative approaches like the paravertebral block, are not indicated in cardiac surgery due to increased bleeding risk. To provide satisfactory analgesia without the need for excessive opioid use, novel ultrasound techniques gained popularity and are of growing interest. The pectoralis nerve block II (PECS II) has been shown to provide good postoperative analgesia in modified radical mastectomy and might also be suitable for minimally invasive cardiac surgery.

METHODS

In a single center, prospective, triple-blinded, two-group randomized trial, 60 patients undergoing elective, unilateral minimal invasive cardiac surgery will be randomized to receive a PECS II with 30 ml of ropivacaine 0.5% (intervention group) or sodium chloride 0.9% (placebo group). The primary outcome parameter is the overall opioid demand given as intravenous morphine milligram equivalents (MME) during the first 24 h after extubation. Secondary endpoints are the visual analog scale (VAS) 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, and 24 h after extubation, the Overall Benefit of Analgesia Score (OBAS) after 24 h, the interval until extubation, and intensive care unit (ICU) discharge within 24 h, as well as the length of hospital stay (LOS).

DISCUSSION

This prospective randomized, controlled, and triple-blinded trial aims to assess if a PECS II with ropivacaine 0.5% helps to decrease the opioid demand in the first 24 h and increases postoperative pain control after minimally invasive cardiac surgery.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu ; EudraCT Nr: 2021-005452-11; Lukas Gasteiger MD, November 18, 2021.

The Role of Ultrasound in Cancer and Cancer-Related Pain-A Bibliometric Analysis and Future Perspectives

Ultrasound has a deep penetrating ability with minimal or no tissue injury, while cancer-mediated complications during diagnosis, therapy, and surgery have become a serious challenge for clinicians and lead to the severity of the primary condition (cancer). The current study highlights the importance of ultrasound imaging and focused ultrasound therapy during cancer diagnosis, pain reduction, guidance for surgical resection of cancer, and the effectiveness of chemotherapy. We performed the bibliometric analysis on research domains involving ultrasound, cancer management, pain, and other challenges (chemotherapy, surgical guidance, and postoperative care), to observe the trend by which the research field has grown over the years and propose a possible future trend. The data was obtained from the Web of Science, processed, and exported as plain text files for analysis in the Bibliometrix R web interface using the Biblioshiny package. A total of 3248 documents were identified from 1100 journal sources. A total of 390 articles were published in 2022, with almost a 100% growth rate from previous years. Based on the various network analysis, we conclude that the outcome of the constant research in this domain will result in better patient care during the management of various diseases, including cancer and other co-morbidities.

Comparison of the efficacy of ultrasound guided pectoralis-II block and intercostal approach to paravertebral block (proximal intercostal block) among patients undergoing conservative breast surgery: A randomised control study

Background and Aims

Regional anesthesia techniques have attributed a multimodal dimension to pain management after breast surgery. The intercostal approach to paravertebral block has been gaining interest, becoming an alternative to conventional paravertebral block, devoid of complexities in its approach, being recognized as the proximal intercostal block. Parallel to the widespread acceptance of fascial plane blocks in breast surgery, pectoralis II block has emerged as being non-inferior to paravertebral block. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of two independent fascial plane blocks, proximal intercostal block and pectoralis II block, in breast conservation surgery.

Material and Methods

This prospective, randomized control, pilot study included 40 patients, randomly allocated among two groups: proximal intercostal block and pectoralis II block.

Results

The pectoralis II block group had significantly lower pain scores at rest in the immediate postoperative period but became comparable with the proximal intercostal block group in the late postoperative period. Pain scores on movement though were lower at 0 h postoperatively and became comparable with the proximal intercostal block group subsequently. Although the pectoralis II group had earlier recovery in the post-anesthesia care unit, the overall time to discharge from the hospital was comparable and not influential. Both groups had high patient satisfaction scores and similar perioperative opioid consumption. Sedation, time to first rescue analgesia, and postoperative nausea vomiting scores were comparable.

Conclusion

Fascial plane blocks in the form of pectoralis II and proximal intercostal block facilitate pain alleviation, early return to shoulder arm exercise, and enhanced recovery, which should render them to be incorporated into multimodal interdisciplinary pain management in breast conservation surgery.

Erector Spinae Plane (ESP) Block for Postoperative Pain Management after Open Oncologic Abdominal Surgery

Patients undergoing abdominal oncologic surgical procedures require particular surgical and anesthesiologic considerations. Traditional pain management, such as opiate treatment, continuous epidural analgesia, and non-opioid drugs, may have serious side effects in this patient population. We evaluated erector spinae plane (ESP) blocks for postoperative pain management following elective oncologic abdominal surgeries. In this single-center, prospective, and randomized study, we recruited 100 patients who underwent elective oncological abdominal surgery between December 2020 and January 2022 at Soroka University Medical Center in Beer Sheva, Israel. We compared postoperative pain levels in patients who were treated with a preincisional ESP block in addition to traditional pain management with intravenous opioids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and acetaminophen, compared to patients who were only given traditional pain management (control). Patients who were treated with a preincisional ESP block demonstrated significantly lower Visual Analog Scale scores at 60 minutes and 4, 8, and 12 hours following the surgery, compared to the control group (p < 0.001). Accordingly, patients in the ESP group required less morphine from 60 minutes to 12 hours after surgery, but they required increased non-opioid postoperative analgesia management at 4, 8, and 12 hours after surgery (p from 0.002 to <0.001) compared to the control group. In this study, we found ESP blocks to be a safe, technically simple, and effective treatment for postoperative pain management after elective oncologic abdominal procedures.

Thoracolumbar Interfascial Plane Block in Spinal Surgery: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

As the thoracolumbar interfascial plane (TLIP) block may be a promising alternative in spinal surgery, there is a need for timely meta-analysis of this method's effectiveness in different medical outcomes.

METHODS

The meta-analysis of 6 randomized controlled studies on the application of TLIP block in spinal surgery was performed under the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The primary outcome used for comparison was the mean difference (MD) of pain intensity scores at rest/in motion between patients receiving TLIP block and those receiving no block care.

RESULTS

Our analysis favors TLIP block over no block (control group) for pain intensity at rest (MD with 95% confidence interval [CI] is -1.14 [-1.29, -0.99], P value <0.00001, I2 = 99%) and pain intensity in motion (MD with 95% CI is -1.49 [-1.73, -1.24], P value <0.00001, I2 = 99%) on postoperative day 1. Analysis also favors TLIP block in terms of cumulative fentanyl consumption on postoperative day 1 (MD is -166.64 mcg with 95% CI [-204.48, -128.80], P value <0.00001, I2 = 89%), postoperative side effects (risk ratio with 95% CI is 0.63 [0.44, 0.91], P value = 0.01, I2 = 0%), requests for supplementary/rescue analgesia (risk ratio with 95% CI is 0.36 [0.23, 0.49], P value <0.00001, I2 = 0%). The results are statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

The TLIP block reduces postoperative pain intensity, opioid consumption, side effects, and requests for rescue analgesia after spinal surgery more than the no-block alternative.

Ultrasound Guided Parasternal Block for Perioperative Analgesia in Cardiac Surgery: A Prospective Study

Ultrasound guided parasternal block is a regional anaesthesia technique targeting the anterior branches of intercostal nerves, which supply the anterior thoracic wall. The aim of this prospective study is to assess the efficacy of parasternal block to manage postoperative analgesia and reduce opioid consumption in patients undergoing cardiac surgery throughout sternotomy. A total of 126 consecutive patients were allocated to two different groups, receiving (Parasternal group) or not (Control group) preoperative ultrasound guided bilateral parasternal block with 20 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine per side. The following data were recorded: postoperative pain expressed by a 0-10 numeric rating scale (NRS), intraoperative fentanyl consumption, postoperative morphine consumption, time to extubation and perioperative pulmonary performance at incentive spirometry. Postoperative NRS was not significantly different between Parasternal and Control groups with a median (IQR) of 2 (0-4.5) vs. 3 (0-6) upon awakening (p = 0.07); 0 (0-3) vs. 2 (0-4) at 6 h (p = 0.46); 0 (0-2) vs. 0 (0-2) at 12 h (p = 0.57). Postoperative morphine consumption was similar among groups. However, intraoperative fentanyl consumption was significantly lower in the Parasternal group [406.3 ± 81.6 mcg vs. 864.3 ± 154.4, (p < 0.001)]. Parasternal group showed shorter times to extubation [(191 ± 58 min vs. 305 ± 72 min, (p)] and better performance at incentive spirometer with a median (IQR) of 2 raised balls (1-2) vs. 1 (1-2) after awakening (p = 0.04). Ultrasound guided parasternal block provided an optimal perioperative analgesia with a significant reduction in intraoperative opioid consumption, time to extubation and a better postoperative performance at spirometry when compared to the Control group.

Postoperative Analgesic Efficacy of Intraoperative Pectoral Nerve Block for Modified Radical Mastectomy: a Double-Blind Prospective Randomised Interventional Study

Severe acute postoperative pain following breast surgery increases the risk of persistent pain and affects the recovery of patients. Recently, pectoral nerve (PECs) block has gained significance as a regional fascial block that can provide adequate postoperative analgesia. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of PECs II block, which was given intraoperative under direct vision after performing modified radical mastectomy for breast cancer patients. This prospective randomised study was comprised of a PECs II group (n = 30) and a control group (n = 30). Group A patients received 25 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine for PECs II block intraoperatively after the surgical resection was done. Both groups were compared with respect to the demographic and clinical parameters, total intraoperative fentanyl dose, total duration of surgery, postoperative pain score (Numerical Rating Scale) and the analgesic requirement, postoperative complications, postoperative duration of hospital stay, and the outcome. Intraoperative PECs II block was not associated with any increase in the duration of surgery. The postoperative pain scores were significantly higher in the control group till 24 h after the surgery, and so was the postoperative analgesic requirement. Patients in the PECs group were found to have rapid recovery and decreased postoperative complications. Intraoperative PECs II block is not only safe, time-saving procedure but also significantly reduces the postoperative pain and analgesic requirement in breast cancer surgeries. It is also associated with a faster recovery, decreased postoperative complications, and better patient satisfaction.

Combinations of nerve blocks in surgery for post COVID-19 pulmonary sequelae patient: A case report and review of literature

BACKGROUND

Regional anesthesia is a promising method in patients with post coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pulmonary sequelae for preserving pulmonary function and preventing postoperative pulmonary complications, compared with general anesthesia.

CASE SUMMARY

We provided surgical anesthesia and analgesia suitable for breast surgery by performing pectoral nerve block type II (PECS-II), parasternal, and intercostobrachial nerve blocks with intravenous dexmedetomidine administration in a 61-year-old female patient with severe pulmonary sequelae after COVID-19 infection.

CONCLUSION

Sufficient analgesia for 7 h was provided via PECS-II, parasternal, and intercostobrachial blocks perioperatively.

Paravertebral block versus erector spinae plane block for analgesia in modified radical mastectomy: a randomized, prospective, double-blind study

BACKGROUND

Pain control after breast surgery is crucial and supported with regional techniques. Paravertebral block (TPVB) is shown to be effective in postoperative pain management. Erector spinae plane block (ESPB) is assumed to have a similar analgesic effect as an easier and safer block. Our aim was to compare TPVB and ESPB for modified radical mastectomy (MRM) in terms of analgesic efficiency and dermatomal spread.

METHODS

Patients were randomized into Group E (ESPB) and Group P (TPVB). Total 83 patients completed study 42 in Group E and 41 in Group P. Blocks were performed under ultrasonography with 20 mL 0.375% bupivacaine at T4 prior to surgery. T1-10 dermatomal block was examined via pin-prick sensation on the midaxillary and midclavicular lines. Primary outcome was 24-hour morphine consumption. Dermatomal coverage, postoperative 0th minute, 30th minute, 1st, 4th, 6th, 12th and 24th hours pain scores, rescue analgesia requirement and adverse events were secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

Morphine consumption was lower in Group P (19.2±2.9 vs. 21±3.1, P=0.007; mean difference 1.8 mg, 95%CI=0.48-3.1 mg). The number of dermatomes with total loss of sensation was higher in Group P. Pain scores were significantly lower in Group P at all time points. The incidence of complications and adverse events was similar in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Thoracal paravertebral block reduced morphine consumption compared to ESPB after MRM, albeit a small difference. A through coverage of TPVB may be preferred with experienced operators in MRM due to lower pain scores.

A comparative study between ultrasound-guided thoracic paravertebral block, pectoral nerves block, and erector spinae block for pain management in cancer breast surgeries. A randomized controlled study

OBJECTIVES

Achieving adequate perioperative analgesia can be challenging in patients undergoing breast surgeries due to the complex nerve supply of the breast and axilla. The study aims to investigate the efficacy of ESPB in comparison to conventional regional anesthesia techniques (TPVB and PECS).

METHODS

Eighty female patients who were scheduled for elective MRM, with ASA score I-II, and aged between 18 and 60 years, were included in the study. Patients were randomized into four groups, the TPVB, PECS, ESPB, and the control group. All patients in either block groups received 25 ml bupivacaine 0.25% with ultrasound guidance. The control group received only opioids for perioperative pain management. The patients were observed for 48 h after surgery for the duration of analgesia (primary outcome).

RESULTS

ESPB has a shorter duration of analgesia than PECS block with no significant statistical difference compared with group TPVB. Morphine consumption is increased in ESPB compared to the PECS group, with an insignificant difference compared to group TPVB. There was an insignificant difference between the groups concerning hemodynamics and complications, with one pneumothorax case reported in the TPVB group.

CONCLUSION

PECS and ESPB represent a good alternative to TPVB for post-mastectomy analgesia with a superior analgesic effect of PECS block regarding opioid consumption, duration of the analgesia, and VAS score.

Regional anesthesia for breast cancer surgery: which block is best? A review of the current literature

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide. Fortunately, continual advances in diagnosis and treatment are resulting in increased survival rates. Earlier detection and treatment, to include surgical resection, can greatly improve patients outcomes. However, due to the complex innervation of the breast, management of postoperative pain has proven difficult in the past. Approximately, half of all women who undergo breast cancer surgery report postoperative pain syndrome. The paravertebral block has long been the anesthesiologist's choice for mitigating pain during and after the procedure. Newer techniques such as the pectoral nerve block and erector spinae plane block may prove to have some additional benefits. This literature review compares the risks, benefits and specific uses of these three regional nerve blocks in women undergoing breast cancer surgery. It aims to better inform anesthesiologists when they are choosing which technique is best for their patients.

Use of Ultrasound-Guided Interfascial Plane Blocks in Anterior and Lateral Thoracic Wall Region as Safe Method for Patient Anesthesia and Analgesia: Review of Techniques and Approaches during COVID-19 Pandemic

Ultrasound-guided interfascial plane blocks performed on the anterior and lateral thoracic wall have become an important adjuvant method to general anesthesia and an independent method of local anesthesia and pain management. These procedures diminish the harmful effects of anesthesia on respiratory function and reduce the risk of phrenic nerve paralysis or iatrogenic pneumothorax. In postoperative pain management, interfascial plane blocks decrease the dosage of intravenous drugs, including opioids. They can also eliminate the complications associated with general anesthesia when used as the sole method of anesthesia for surgical procedures. The following procedures are classified as interfascial plane blocks of the anterior and lateral thoracic wall: pectoral nerve plane block (PECS), serratus anterior plane block (SAP), transversus thoracic muscle plane block (TTP), pectoral interfascial plane block (PIF), and intercostal nerve block (ICNB). These blocks are widely used in emergency medicine, oncologic surgery, general surgery, thoracic surgery, cardiac surgery, orthopedics, cardiology, nephrology, oncology, palliative medicine, and pain medicine. Regional blocks are effective for analgesic treatment, both as an anesthesia procedure for surgery on the anterior and lateral thoracic wall and as an analgesic therapy after trauma or other conditions that induce pain in this area. In the era of the COVID-19 pandemic, ultrasound-guided interfascial plane blocks are safe alternatives for anesthesia in patients with symptoms of respiratory distress related to SARS-CoV-2 and appear to reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection among medical personnel.

Single-injection regional analgesia techniques for mastectomy surgery: A network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Patients undergoing mastectomy surgery experience severe postoperative pain. Several regional techniques have been developed to reduce pain intensity but it is unclear, which of these techniques is most effective.

OBJECTIVES

To synthesise direct and indirect comparisons for the relative efficacy of different regional and local analgesia techniques in the setting of unilateral mastectomy. Postoperative opioid consumption at 24 h, postoperative pain at extubation, 1, 12 and 24 h, postoperative nausea and vomiting were collected.

DESIGN

Systematic review with network meta-analysis (PROSPERO:CRD42021250651).

DATA SOURCE

PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (from inception until 7 July 2021).

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

All randomised controlled trials investigating single-injection regional and local analgesia techniques in adult patients undergoing unilateral mastectomy were included in our study without any language or publication date restriction.

RESULTS

Sixty-two included studies randomising 4074 patients and investigating nine techniques entered the analysis. All techniques were associated with less opioid consumption compared with controls The greatest mean difference [95% confidence interval (CI)] was associated with deep serratus anterior plane block: mean difference -16.1 mg (95% CI, -20.7 to -11.6). The greatest reduction in pain score was associated with the interpectoral-pecto-serratus plane block (mean difference -1.3, 95% CI, -1.6 to - 1) at 12 h postoperatively, and with superficial serratus anterior plane block (mean difference -1.4, 95% CI, -2.4 to -0.5) at 24 h. Interpectoral-pectoserratus plane block resulted in the greatest statistically significant reduction in postoperative nausea/vomiting when compared with placebo/no intervention with an OR of 0.23 (95% CI, 0.13 to 0.40).

CONCLUSION

All techniques were associated with superior analgesia and less opioid consumption compared with controls. No single technique was identified as superior to others. In comparison, local anaesthetic infiltration does not offer advantages over multimodal analgesia alone.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO (CRD4202125065).

Analgesia and stress attenuation of ultrasound-guided modified pectoral nerve block type-II with different volumes of 0.3% ropivacaine in patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy for breast cancer: A prospective parallel randomized double-blind controlled clinical trial

WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE

A previous randomized clinical trial concluded that an optimal concentration of 0.3% ropivacaine could provide satisfactory analgesia for breast cancer patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy. We wondered if a smaller volume (30 ml vs. 40 ml) of 0.3% ropivacaine could still provide adequate analgesia in an ultrasound-guided PECS II block in modified radical mastectomy.

METHODS

We performed a prospective parallel randomized double-blind controlled clinical trial. Eligible patients were assigned to either the P₃₀ or P₄₀ group (30 or 40 ml of 0.3% ropivacaine, respectively). The skin area of hypoesthesia, anaesthetic plane determined with ultrasound, pain visual analogue scale (VAS), anaesthetic dosages, and complications were recorded. Serum levels of interleukin-1β and interleukin-6 were measured postoperatively.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

A total of 40 patients completed the trials, with 20 patients in each group. Although the skin area of hypoesthesia and the anaesthetic planes were significantly larger in the P₄₀ group compared with the P₃₀ group (p < 0.05), the VAS, analgesic and opioid doses, serum cytokine levels, anaesthetic toxicity, and complications had no significant differences between the two groups.

WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION

Compared with 40 ml, 30 ml of 0.3% ropivacaine could provide adequate analgesia and reduce surgical stress in patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy for breast cancer.

Randomized controlled trial to study the efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided pectoral nerve block for superficial breast surgeries

BACKGROUND

Our study aimed to compare pectoral nerve (PEC) block with local anesthetic (LA) infiltration for providing analgesia in superficial breast surgeries.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective comparative randomized study included seventy American Society of Anesthesiologists I and II female patients undergoing excision of fibroadenoma. In Group 1, the LA mixture was infiltrated in the desired planes. In Group 2, PEC I and PEC II blocks were performed under ultrasound guidance. Patients were observed at regular time intervals for pain scores, time to first analgesic request, and the number of patients requiring rescue analgesia with the cumulative analgesic requirement, hemodynamic changes, and any adverse events.

RESULTS

The patients were comparable in demographic profile, duration of anesthesia, and hemodynamic parameters. NRS scores at all times after extubation were significantly lower in Group 2 as compared to Group 1 (P < 0.0001). All patients in Group 1 required additional analgesia, while only two in Group 2 received rescue analgesia (P < 0.0001). The time to first analgesic request was significantly longer in Group 1 as compared to group 2 (9.5 + 0.70 h vs. 1.35 + 0.83 h) (P < 0.0001). The cumulative requirement of tramadol in Group 1 (96.88 ± 16.45 mg) was significantly higher than in Group 2 (6.47 ± 26.38 mg) (P < 0.0001). No adverse event was reported in either group.

CONCLUSION

PEC block is a useful method for achieving effective and long-lasting analgesia. It is an efficient and safe alternative to LA infiltration in patients undergoing fibroadenoma excision.

PEC block versus local anesthetic infiltration in breast implant augmentation surgery: a retrospective study

INTRODUCTION

Pectoral plane (PEC) blocks are routinely used in analgesia for patients undergoing dual-plane breast augmentation with implants. Local anesthetic infiltration (LAI) is a simple alternative technique with the same aim. We evaluated both techniques.

MM

In this single-center retrospective study, patients received PEC block (ropivacaine 0.2%, 10 ml PEC I, 20 ml PEC II) or LAI. The primary outcome measure was pain, according to the visual analog scale (VAS), at 24h post-surgery. Secondary outcomes included the measure of pain at 1, 2, 6, and 12 hours post-surgery, total opioid consumption at 24h, and opioid side effects.

RESULTS

81 were finally recruited: 37 in the PEC group and 44 in the LAI group. Patient characteristics were comparable between the two groups. At 24h post-surgery, the LAI group showed a decrease in pain, with a VAS score of 0.7 vs 1.5 in the PEC group (p = 0.007). There was no difference in VAS between the two groups at 1, 2, 6, or 12 hours post-surgery. The duration of anesthesia was increased in the PEC group with 153 minutes vs 120 minutes in the LAI group (p < 0.001). There was no difference in rescue morphine consumption between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that LAI had a superior analgesic effect at 24h after surgery for dual-plane breast implant augmentation compared with PEC block. These findings are a good indication that the LAI technique is at least as effective as PEC block while being safe, fast, and easy to use.

Intraoperative pectoral block thoracic paravertebral block for postoperative analgesia after breast cancer surgery: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND AND METHODS

With the increasing rate of breast cancer surgery, the pain management of these patients gains importance. The aim of this study is to compare the ultrasound (US) guided thoracic paravertebral block (TPV) versus intraoperative pectoral nerve block (PECS) with a low volume local anaesthetic for postoperative analgesia after breast cancer surgery. A total of 41 patients underwent mastectomy and sentinel lymph node biopsy or modified radical mastectomy were included in this randomized controlled, single-blinded trial. The patients were divided into two groups as PECS and TPV blocks. In the PECS group, 10 ml of 0.5% bupivacaine was administered to the fascial plane by the surgeon. In the TPV group, 25 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine at T3 level was administered by the anaesthetist under US-guidance. Visual analogue scale (VAS) scores and additional analgesic requirements were recorded at postoperative 0, 6, 12, 24 and 48 h.

RESULTS

In the TPV group, mean VAS score (VAS0) was significantly lower (p ˂ 0.001). In other time periods, there was no significant difference between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

It was observed that intraoperative PECS block was as effective as TPV in providing postoperative analgesia and additional analgesic requirements were similar. This result suggests PECS block may be a good alternative to TPV.

Localization of Chronic Pain in Postmastectomy Patients: A Prospective Comparison Between Patients With and Without Breast Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

After breast surgery with or without immediate reconstruction, chronic pain can be a major problem for patients. However, few studies have examined the details of the sites of long-lasting postoperative pain. In this study, we specified the postoperative pain location after breast surgery, including reconstruction, to find ways to improve surgical procedures or provide effective pain relief.

METHODS

The subjects were 205 Japanese women undergoing mastectomy or breast reconstruction with a tissue expander (TE)/implant or a deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap. Patients were asked whether they had pain in different parts of the body at 1 year after surgery. Differences were assessed by cross-tabulation and χ2 statistics.

RESULTS

Surveys were completed by 157 subjects. Deep inferior epigastric perforator flap cases had significantly more pain and TE/Imp cases had significantly less pain in the medial breast, upper breast, breast upper medial quadrant, and abdomen (P = 0.006, P = 0.006, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, respectively). In the neck area, pain in TE/Imp cases was significantly worse than that in all other patients (P = 0.025). There was no significant difference in chronic pain in any other body regions among the mastectomy only, TE/Imp, and DIEP flap groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the present study revealed that the localization of prolonged postoperative pain after breast surgery differs depending on the surgical procedure. In DIEP flap reconstruction, there was a marked tendency for pain in the inner and upper chest and in the abdomen, whereas TE/IMP surgery resulted in pain around the neck of the affected side. These findings may help improve surgical methods and establish effective pain relief that focuses on the identified pain areas.

Efficacy of regional anesthesia techniques for postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing major oncologic breast surgeries: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

The optimal regional technique to control pain after breast cancer surgery remains unclear. We sought to synthesize available data from randomized controlled trials comparing pain-related outcomes following various regional techniques for major oncologic breast surgery.

METHODS

In a systematic review and network meta-analysis, we searched trials in PubMed, Embase Scopus, Medline, Cochrane Central and Google Scholar, from inception to 31 July 2020, for commonly used regional techniques. The primary outcome was the 24-hr resting pain score measured on a numerical rating score of 0-10. We used surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) to establish the probability of an intervention ranking highest. The analysis was performed using the Bayesian random effects model, and effect sizes are reported as 95% credible interval (Crl). We conducted cluster-rank analysis by combining 24-hr pain ranking with 24-hr opioid use or incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting.

RESULTS

Seventy-nine randomized controlled trials containing 11 different interventions in 5,686 patients were included. The SUCRA values of the interventions for 24-hr resting pain score were continuous paravertebral block (0.83), serratus anterior plane block (0.76), continuous wound infusion (0.76), single-level paravertebral block (0.68), erector spinae plane block (0.59), modified pectoral block (0.49), intercostal block (0.45), multilevel paravertebral block (0.41), wound infiltration (0.33), no intervention (0.12), and placebo (0.08). When compared with placebo, the continuous paravertebral block (mean difference, 1.26; 95% Crl, 0.43 to 2.12) and serratus anterior plane block (mean difference, 1.12; 95% Crl, 0.32 to 1.9) had the highest estimated probability of decreasing 24-hr resting pain scores. Cluster ranking analysis combining 24-hr resting pain scores and opioid use showed that most regional analgesia techniques were more effective than no intervention or placebo. Nevertheless, wound infiltration and continuous wound infusion may be the least effective active interventions for reducing postoperative nausea and vomiting.

CONCLUSION

Continuous paravertebral block and serratus anterior plane block had a high probability of reducing pain at 24 hr after major oncologic breast surgery. The certainty of evidence was moderate to very low. Future studies should compare different regional anesthesia techniques, including surgeon-administered techniques such as wound infiltration or catheters. Trials comparing active intervention with placebo are unlikely to change clinical practice.

STUDY REGISTRATION

PROSPERO (CRD42020198244); registered 19 October 2020.

Is It Useful and Necessary to Add a T2 Paravertebral Block to the Regional Anesthesia During Proximal Humeral Fracture Surgery in Elderly Patients? A Prospective and Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective

This study was designed to investigate whether it is useful and necessary to add a T2 level thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB) based on brachial-cervical plexus block to avoid incomplete anesthesia in elderly patients undergoing deltopectoral approach proximal humeral fracture (PHF) surgery.

Materials and Methods

This study involved 80 patients scheduled for PHF surgery who were randomized to receive either IC block (combined interscalene brachial plexus with superficial cervical plexus block) or ICTP block (T2 TPVB supplemented with IC block). The primary outcome was the success rate of regional anesthesia. The patient who experienced incomplete block was administered with intravenous remifentanil for rescue, or conversion to general anesthesia (GA) if remifentanil was still ineffective. Secondary outcomes included requirements of rescue anesthesia, sensory block of the surgical region, the incidence of adverse reactions, and block procedure-related complications.

Results

The success rate of regional anesthesia in the ICTP group was higher compared with the IC group (77.5 vs. 52.5%, p = 0.019). Intravenous remifentanil was required in 32.5% of patients in the IC group and 17.5% in the ICTP group, respectively. Conversion to GA was performed in 15% of patients in the IC group and 5% in the ICTP group. Sensory block at the medial proximal upper arm was achieved in 85% of patients in the ICTP group, whereas 10% in the IC group (p &lt; 0.001). There was no difference between the groups with respect to the incidence of intraoperative adverse reactions. No block-related complications occurred in either group.

Conclusion

Adding a T2 TPVB is helpful to decrease, but not absolutely avoid the occurrence of incomplete regional anesthesia during PHF surgery in elderly patients. However, considering the potential risks, it is not an ideal option while a minor dose of remifentanil can provide a satisfactory rescue effect.

Clinical Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT03919422.

Efficacy of type-I and type-II pectoral nerve blocks (PECS I and II) in patients undergoing mastectomy: a prospective randomised clinical trial

INTRODUCTION

The benefits of type I/II pectoral nerve blocks (PECS I/II), which can be dose dependent, have been examined in different studies. Nonetheless, few randomised trials have been performed in South America. The present randomised trial examined the efficacy of PECS I/II with a higher dose of the local anaesthetic to manage perioperative pain after mastectomy in Brazil.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This was a randomised, parallel, single-centre, and single-blind trial. Eighty participants undergoing elective mastectomy were randomised (1 : 1) to receive PECS I/II plus ultrasound-guided ropivacaine (0.5%) or standard general anaesthesia. The primary outcome was pain intensity at rest 24 hours after surgery, assessed with a numerical rating scale. Haemodynamic outcomes, consumption of opioids, anaesthe-tics and antiemetics, and post-anaesthetic recovery times were also recorded.

RESULTS

Sixty participants (75%) completed the study. The mean age was 54 years, with 57% of participants undergoing mastectomy and 43% undergoing quadrantectomy. Median pain intensity (interquartile range) at rest (24 h postoperatively) was lower in the PECS I/II group compared to the control group: 0 (0-1.75) vs. 1 (1-2), P = 0.021. A smaller number of patients in the PECS I/II group required intraoperative fentanyl (23.3% vs. 83.3%; P < 0.001) and postoperative tramadol (20.0 vs. 76.7%; P < 0.001). Mean doses of fentanyl and tramadol were about 4-5 times lower in the PECS I/II group (P < 0.001). PECS I/II significantly reduced sevoflurane consumption during surgery (P = 0.01). No difference was observed regarding adverse effects.

CONCLUSIONS

PECS I/II blockade with high-dose local anaesthetic is efficacious and safe, resulting in lower levels of perioperative pain after mastectomy compared to standard general anaesthesia.

The impact of dexamethasone as a perineural additive to ropivacaine for PECS II blockade in patients undergoing unilateral radical mastectomy - A prospective, randomized, controlled and double-blinded trial

STUDY OBJECTIVE

Dexamethasone is commonly used as an adjuvant to local anesthetics to prolong duration of peripheral nerve blocks with minimal side-effects. The present study investigates the efficacy of dexamethasone added to ropivacaine 0.2% as compared to ropivacaine 0.2% alone for pectoral nerves block II (PECS II) in unilateral radical mastectomy.

DESIGN

A prospective, randomized, controlled and double-blinded trial.

SETTING

The study was performed at Innsbruck Medical University Hospital, Austria, between January 2019 and October 2020.

PATIENTS

Sixty female patients with an American Society of Anesthesiologists Score I-II (18-90 years, BMI 18-35) scheduled for unilateral radical mastectomy without one-stage immediate autologous breast reconstruction were randomly assigned to receive PECS II block with ropivacaine 0.2% with or without dexamethasone 8 mg.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients were randomly assigned to receive PECS II block with ropivacaine 0.2% with or without dexamethasone 8 mg.

MEASUREMENTS

Primary outcome parameter was the cumulative opioid consumption during the first 72 postoperative hours. Secondary outcome parameters were the duration of analgesia and the course of the visual analogue scale (VAS) and the area under the curve VAS (AUC-VAS).

MAIN RESULTS

There was no difference in cumulative opioid consumption after 72 h between the ropivacaine 0.2% plus dexamethasone group and the ropivacaine 0.2% plus placebo group (11.89 vs 11.90 morphine milligram equivalent, respectively; p 0.831). Duration of analgesia also did not differ significantly between the ropivacaine 0.2% plus dexamethasone group and the ropivacaine 0.2% plus placebo group (12.75 versus 8.75 h, respectively; p 0.680). There also was no difference in the course of VAS and AUC-VAS.

CONCLUSIONS

Dexamethasone 8 mg when added to ropivacaine 0.2% for PECS II block in unilateral radical mastectomy was not found to reduce total opioid consumption over 72 postoperative hours or to prolong duration of analgesia as compared to pure ropivacaine 0.2%.

Efficacy and Safety of Pectoral Nerve Block (Pecs) Compared With Control, Paravertebral Block, Erector Spinae Plane Block, and Local Anesthesia in Patients Undergoing Breast Cancer Surgeries: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of pectoral nerve block (Pecs) I and II with control or other techniques used during breast cancer surgeries such as local anesthesia, paravertebral block, and erector spinae plane block (ESPB).

METHODS

We searched 4 search engines (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science) for relevant trials, then extracted the data and combined them under random-effect model using Review Manager Software.

RESULTS

We found 47 studies, 37 of them were included in our meta-analysis. Regarding intraoperative opioid consumption, compared with control, a significant reduction was detected in Pecs II (standardized mean difference [SMD]=-1.75, 95% confidence interval [CI] [-2.66, -0.85], P=0.0001) and Pecs I combined with serratus plane block (SMD=-0.90, 95% CI [-1.37, -0.44], P=0.0002). Postoperative opioid consumption was significantly lowered in Pecs II (SMD=-2.28, 95% CI [-3.10, -1.46], P<0.00001) compared with control and Pecs II compared with ESPB (SMD=-1.75, 95% CI [-2.53, -0.98], P<0.00001). Furthermore, addition of dexmedetomidine to Pecs II significantly reduced postoperative opioid consumption compared with Pecs II alone (SMD=-1.33, 95% CI [-2.28, -0.38], P=0.006).

CONCLUSION

Pecs block is a safe and effective analgesic procedure during breast cancer surgeries. It shows lower intra and postoperative opioid consumption than ESPB, and reduces pain compared with control, paravertebral block, and local anesthesia, with better effect when combined with dexmedetomidine.

Utility of Pecs Block for Perioperative Opioid-Sparing Analgesia in Cancer-Related Breast Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Multidisciplinary treatment and multimodal analgesia are the approach to reduce mortality and morbidity of breast cancer. Pectoral nerve block (PECS I and II) is one of the modes of analgesia advocated. The primary aim is to find the risks and benefits of the block in providing analgesia for intraoperative and immediate postoperative cancer-related breast surgery and total morphine consumption. The secondary aim is to evaluate, any additional knowledge acquired, in the reduction of persistent chronic pain state and cancer recurrence, during the time frame studied. The study was conducted after the approval of the ethics committee and National Registry, and included patients of ASA I and II undergoing mastectomy surgery with axillary clearance, under general anesthesia, during the period of 2017 to 2018. A total of 60 patients were recruited, randomizing them into two groups: group 1 (n = 30): ultrasound-guided PECS I (0.2 ml/kg) and PECS II (0.4 ml/kg) block, post-induction with 0.25% levobupivacaine, maximum dose of 2 mg/kg; group 2 (n = 30): no block, only general anesthesia. Intraoperatively, vitals were monitored at regular intervals and analgesics given as per response. Postoperatively, pain was assessed using the numerical pain score and arm abduction score, until discharge. Data collected was analyzed and interpreted using statistical methods. Patients were followed up telephonically, until six months for any chronic pain and cancer recurrence instances. The PECS block group used less morphine intra and postoperatively, which was statistically significant (p = 0.0001). Group 1- Had a significant decrease in the mean intraoperative systolic blood pressure (p = 0.03). There was significant improvement in the arm abduction in the test group as compared to that in the control group (p = 0.001). The average time for block performance was 7.9 min and no complications were observed. No patients in the study groups reported chronic pain or cancer recurrence issues. The two-level PECS block is safe, effective, reliable, and easy to perform. Clinical Trial Registration Number: CTRI/2017/11/010630.

Effect of balanced anaesthesia with and without modified pectoralis nerve block on postoperative analgesia after breast surgeries: A randomised controlled trial

Background and Aims:

Modified pectoral nerve block (PEC) has been reported to have variable effects on perioperative pain in patients undergoing surgery for carcinoma breast. This randomised controlled trial was conducted to study the effect of modified PEC on postoperative pain relief in patients undergoing breast surgery.

Methods:

Fifty patients with carcinoma breast undergoing breast surgery were randomised to receive a modified PEC block consisting of 30 ml of ropivacaine 0.2% after induction of anaesthesia (PEC group) or no block (GA group) in this prospective randomised trial. Time to first rescue analgesia was recorded as primary outcome. Other secondary outcomes recorded were postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, number of rescue boluses and 24-h fentanyl consumption.

Results:

There was no significant difference in time to first rescue analgesia between the two groups, with mean difference (95% confidence interval) of 22.91 (−6.8 to 52.69) min. Amount of fentanyl required to keep pain VAS less than 3 was also comparable between the two groups, mean (standard deviation) of 42.0 μg (17.42) in GA group versus 43.24 μg (17.22) in PEC group; P = 0.830.20/25 patients required rescue analgesia in GA group as compared to 17/25 in PEC group (P = 0.334). The postoperative VAS scores were also comparable between the groups at all time intervals.

Conclusion:

Balanced anaesthesia supplemented with modified PEC block performed after general anaesthesia did not improve the postoperative pain in patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy.

Efficacy of serratus anterior plane block versus thoracic paravertebral block for postoperative analgesia after breast cancer surgery - a randomized trial

Background

Breast cancer surgery is associated with considerable acute post-surgical pain and restricted mobility. Various regional and neuraxial anesthesia techniques have been used to alleviate post-mastectomy pain. Ultrasound-guided serratus anterior plane block (SAPB) has been considered a simple and safe technique. This randomized control study was performed to compare the efficacy of SAPB with the thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB) for postoperative analgesia after breast cancer surgery.

Methods

A total of 40 adult ASA physical status I - II female patients undergoing radical mastectomy were randomly allocated into two groups to receive either ultrasound-guided TPVB or SAPB with 0.4 mL.kg^-1 0.5% ropivacaine, 30 min before surgery. All patients received standardized general anesthesia for surgery. Injection diclofenac and tramadol were used for postoperative rescue analgesia. The time to first rescue analgesia, total analgesic consumption in the first 24 hours, postoperative pain scores, and any adverse effects were recorded.

Results

The time to first rescue analgesia was significantly longer in the SAPB group (255.3 ± 47.8 min) as compared with the TPVB group (146.8 ± 30.4 min) (p < 0.001). Total diclofenac consumption in 24 hours was also less in the SAPB group (138.8 ± 44.0 mg vs 210.0 ± 39.2 mg in SAPB and TPVB group respectively, p < 0.001). Postoperative pain scores were significantly lower in the SAPB group as compared with TPVB group (p < 0.05). The incidence of PONV was also less in the SAPB group (p = 0.028). No block-related adverse effects were reported.

Conclusion

We found that the serratus anterior plane block was more effective than the thoracic paravertebral block for postoperative analgesia after breast cancer surgery.

Ultrasound-guided peripheral trunk block technique: A new approach gradually stepping onto the stage of clinical anesthesia

In recent years, with the continuous development and validation of new visualization, the ultrasound-guided peripheral trunk block becomes more mature and has a more extensive and broader implementation scope in clinical anesthesia. Based on this, we reviewed and summarized the literature on peripheral trunk nerve block include: paraspinal block, retrolaminar block, plane block of erect spinal muscle, transverse convex to pleural midpoint block, block of the trapezius muscle and anterior serratus muscle, anterior serratus muscle block, thoracic nerve block, abdominal transverse fascia block, type-I block of quadratus lumborum, type-II block of quadratus lumborum, type-III block of quadratus lumborum, block of the sheath of rectus abdominis. This paper reviews the ultrasound-guided peripheral trunk block technique, including development history, anatomic basis, implementation methods, advantages and disadvantages of nerve block technique, and describes the bottleneck and difficulties of nerve block technique at present.

Pectoral Nerve Blocks for Breast Augmentation Surgery: A Randomized, Double-blind, Dual-centered Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Pectoral nerve blocks have been proposed for analgesia during and after breast cancer surgery, but data are conflicted in aesthetic breast surgery. This trial tested the primary hypothesis that adding a preincisional pectoral nerve block is superior to systemic multimodal analgesic regimen alone for pain control after breast augmentation surgery. A second hypothesis is that rescue opioid consumption would be decreased with a long-lasting effect for both outcomes during the following days.

METHODS

Seventy-three adult female patients undergoing aesthetic breast augmentation surgery under general anesthesia were randomly allocated to receive a pectoral nerve block versus no block. Both groups received standard care with protocolized multimodal analgesia alone including systematic acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The primary outcome measure was the maximal numerical rating scale in the first 6 h after extubation. Secondary outcomes included intraoperative remifentanil consumption and from extubation to day 5: maximal numerical rating scale, postoperative cumulative opioid consumption and postoperative opioid side effects, and patient satisfaction recorded at day 5.

RESULTS

The maximal numerical rating scale score in the first 6 h was lower in the pectoral nerve block group compared with the control group (3.9 ± 2.5 vs. 5.2 ± 2.2; difference: -1.2 [95% CI, -2.3 to -0.1]; P = 0.036). The pectoral nerve block group had a lower maximal numerical rating scale between days 1 and 5 (2.2 ± 1.9 vs. 3.2 ± 1.7; P = 0.032). The cumulative amount of overall opioids consumption (oral morphine equivalent) was lower for the pectoral nerve block group from hour 6 to day 1 (0.0 [0.0 to 21.0] vs. 21.0 [0.0 to 31.5] mg, P = 0.006) and from days 1 to 5 (0.0 [0.0 to 21.0] vs. 21.0 [0.0 to 51] mg, P = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Pectoral nerve block in conjunction with multimodal analgesia provides effective perioperative pain relief after aesthetic breast surgery and is associated with reduced opioid consumption over the first 5 postoperative days.

EDITOR’S PERSPECTIVE

Ultrasound-Guided Thoracic Paravertebral Block Enhances the Quality of Recovery After Modified Radical Mastectomy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

PURPOSE

Ultrasound-guided thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB) has become increasingly popular for postoperative analgesia after breast surgery. We designed this prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to test the hypothesis that TPVB is superior to placebo in improving the patient quality of recovery following modified radical mastectomy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Sixty-eight female patients undergoing elective unilateral modified radical mastectomy were enrolled. Patients were randomized to receive preoperative ultrasound-guided TPVB with 0.5% ropivacaine (TPVB group, n=34) or 0.9% saline (Control group, n=34). The primary outcome was quality of recovery, measured 24 h after surgery using the 40-item Quality of recovery questionnaire (QoR-40). Secondary outcomes were the area under the curve of the visual analog scale pain scores over 24 h, postoperative 24-h morphine consumption, time to first rescue analgesia, length of post-anesthesia care unit stay, postoperative nausea and vomiting, and patient satisfaction.

RESULTS

The global QoR-40 score 24 h postoperatively (median [interquartile range]) was 173 [170-177] in the TPVB group and 161 [160-164] in the control group (P<0.001), respectively, with a median difference (95% confidence interval) of 11 (9-14). Compared with the control group, preoperative TPVB decreased the area under the curve of the visual analog scale pain scores over 24 h, reduced postoperative 24-h morphine consumption, prolonged the time to first rescue analgesia, shortened the length of post-anesthesia care unit stay, lessened postoperative nausea and vomiting, and improved the patient satisfaction.

CONCLUSION

A single preoperative injection of TPVB with ropivacaine enhances the quality of recovery and postoperative analgesia in patients following modified radical mastectomy.