Quadratus lumborum block for analgesia after caesarean section: a randomised controlled trial

Efficacy of Different Approaches of Quadratus Lumborum Block for Postoperative Analgesia After Cesarean Delivery: A Bayesian Network Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

OBJECTIVES

Various approaches to quadratus lumborum block (QLB) have been found to be an effective analgesic modality after cesarean delivery (CD). However, the evidence for the superiority of any individual approach still needs to be demonstrated. Therefore, we conducted this network meta-analysis to compare and rank the different injection sites for QLB for pain-related outcomes after CD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PubMed, EMBASE, SCOPUS, and the Cochrane Central Registers of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the role of any approach of QLB with placebo/no block for post-CD pain. The primary outcome was parenteral consumption of morphine milligram equivalents in 24 postoperative hours. The secondary end points were early pain scores (4 to 6 h), late pain scores (24 h), adverse effects, and block-related complications. We used the surface under cumulative ranking probabilities to order approaches. The analysis was performed using Bayesian statistics (random-effects model).

RESULTS

Thirteen trials enrolling 890 patients were included. The surface under cumulative ranking probability for parenteral morphine equivalent consumption in 24 hours was the highest (87%) for the lateral approach, followed by the posterior and anterior approaches. The probability of reducing pain scores at all intervals was highest with the anterior approach. The anterior approach also ranked high for postoperative nausea and vomiting reduction, the only consistent reported side effect.

DISCUSSION

The anterior approach QLB had a superior probability for most patient-centric outcomes for patients undergoing CD. The findings should be confirmed through large RCTs.

Ultrasound-guided quadratus lumborum block: a powerful way for reducing postoperative pain

Ultrasound-guided quadratus lumborum block (QLB) has been gradually carried out in clinical practice. However, some clinical evidence is contradictory, and no studies have summarized and described these results. The authors reviewed the anatomical characteristics of QLB and summarized the advantages and disadvantages of four puncture methods, so as to facilitate the clinical application of QLB.

Anesthesia Considerations for Placenta Accreta Spectrum

Anesthesiologists are critical members of the multidisciplinary team managing patients with suspected placenta accreta spectrum (PAS). Preoperatively, anesthesiologists provide predelivery consultation for patients with suspected PAS where anesthetic modality and invasive monitor placement is discussed. Additionally, anesthesiologists carefully assess patient and surgical risk factors to choose an anesthetic plan and to prepare for massive intraoperative hemorrhage. Postoperatively, the obstetric anesthesiologist hold unique skills to assist with postoperative pain management for cesarean hysterectomy. We review the unique aspects of peripartum care for patients with PAS who undergo cesarean hysterectomy and explain why these responsibilities are critical for achieving successful outcomes for patients with PAS. KEY POINTS: · Anesthesiologists are critical members of the multidisciplinary team planning for patients with suspected placenta accreta spectrum.. · Intraoperative preparation for massive hemorrhage is a key component of anesthetic care for patients with PAS.. · Obstetric anesthesiologists have a unique skill set to manage postpartum pain and postoperative disposition for patients with PAS who undergo cesarean hysterectomy..

The minimum effective concentration (MEC90) of ropivacaine for ultrasound-guided quadratus lumborum block for analgesia after cesarean delivery: a dose finding study

BACKGROUND

Quadratus lumborum block was recently proposed as an alternative technique for post-cesarean delivery analgesia. However, there is not a definite optimum concentration of local anesthetics. A biased coin design up-and-down method was used to explore the minimum effective concentration of ropivacaine in quadratus lumborum block for satisfactory analgesia after cesarean delivery.

METHODS

Fifty-six patients weighing 60-80 kg after cesarean section and with ages between 18 and 40 years were recruited. For the posterior quadratus lumborum block, a volume of 25 ml of the assigned concentration of ropivacaine was injected bilaterally. The concentration administered to each patient depended on the response to the previous dose. The first patient received 0.25%. If a successful block was observed, the next patient was randomized to receive the same ropivacaine concentration (with a probability of 0.89) or 0.025% less (with a probability of 0.11). After any block failure, the concentration was always increased by 0.025% for the next. The study ended when 45 successful blocks were obtained. We defined effective quadratus lumborum block as a resting visual analog score ≤ 3 and the absence of a need for rescue anesthetics.

RESULTS

The 90% minimum effective concentration of ropivacaine was 0.335% (95% CI 0.306 to 0.375%), and the 99% minimum effective concentration was 0.371% (95% CI 0.355 to 0.375%). The sufentanil consumption was 11 (11,13) and 24 (22,27) μg at 12 and 24 hours after quadratus lumborum block, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The optimum dosage of ropivacaine is a 25 ml volume of 0.335% for quadratus lumborum block after cesarean delivery.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (No. ChiCTR2000040415 ).

The efficacy of ultrasound-guided anterior quadratus lumborum block for pain management following lumbar spinal surgery: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Quadratus lumborum block (QLB) is a fascial plane block. There is no randomized study on the efficacy of QLB for lumbar surgery. We evaluated the efficacy of QLB for postoperative pain management and patient satisfaction after lumbar disc herniation surgery (LDHS).

METHODS

Sixty patients with ASA score I-II planned for LDHS under general anesthesia were included. We allocated the patients into two groups: the QLB group (n = 30) or the control group (n = 30). QLB was performed with 30 ml 0.25% bupivacaine in the QLB group. Paracetamol 1 g IV 3 × 1 was ordered to the patients at the postoperative period. If the NRS score was ≥ 4, 1 mg/ kg tramadol IV was administered as rescue analgesia.

RESULTS

There was a reduction in the median static NRS at 0 h and 2 h with QLB compared to the control group (p < 0.05). There was no difference in the resting NRS at any other time point up to 24 h. The median dynamic NRS was significantly lower at 0, 2, 4, 8, and 16 h in the QLB group (p < 0.05). The need for rescue analgesia was significantly lower in the QLB group. The incidence of nausea was significantly higher in the control group. The postoperative patient satisfaction was significantly higher in the QLB group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

We found that the QLB is effective for pain control following LDHS.

Ultrasound-guided posterior quadratus lumborum block can reduce postoperative opioid consumption and promote rapid recovery in patients undergoing sutureless laparoscopic partial nephrectomy: A triple-blind, randomized, controlled study

Purpose

We hypothesized that posterior quadratus lumborum block would reduce postoperative opioid consumption and improve the quality of recovery in patients undergoing sutureless laparoscopic partial nephrectomy.

Materials and methods

The study included 60 patients, ages 18−65 with American Society of Anesthesiologists scores of I-II scheduled for elective sutureless laparoscopic partial nephrectomy. Before general anesthesia, 60 participating patients were randomly allocated to receive a 30-ml injection posterior to the quadratus lumborum muscle with either 0.375% ropivacaine (n = 30) or normal saline (n = 30). The primary outcomes included cumulative opioid consumption within 12 h postoperatively and quality of postoperative recovery at 48 h. Secondary outcomes included the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), opioid consumption by period, first time to press the analgesic pump, number of patients needing rescue analgesia, blood glucose and cortisol concentrations, early postoperative recovery indicators, and adverse events.

Results

There were 48 patients included in the final analysis. The intervention group had lower cumulative consumption of sufentanil within 12 h postoperatively and higher quality of postoperative recovery scores at 48 h postoperatively compared with the control group (p < 0.001). The NRS at resting and movement of the intervention group was lower at 0 h, 6 h, and 12 h after surgery than in the control group (p < 0.05). At prespecified intervals (0 to 2 h, 2 to 6 h, 6 to 12 h, 12 to 24 h, and 24 to 48 h) after surgery, the intervention group had lower consumption of sufentanil compared with the control group (p < 0.05). The intervention group took longer to press the analgesic pump for the first time within 48 h after surgery compared with the control group (p < 0.001). The postoperative blood glucose and cortisol concentrations in the intervention group were lower than in the control group (p < 0.05). The times to first excretion, ambulation, and discharge were shorter in the intervention group compared with the control group (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in adverse events between the two groups.

Conclusions

Our trial demonstrated that patients who received posterior quadratus lumborum block had significantly lower opioid consumption within 12 h postoperatively and had a better quality of recovery at 48 h postoperatively. Therefore, we recommend posterior quadratus lumborum block as an option for postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing sutureless laparoscopic partial nephrectomy.

Trial Registration

http://www.chictr.org.cn, identifier ChiCTR2100053439.

Analgesia Effect of Ultrasound-Guided Transversus Abdominis Plane Block Combined with Intravenous Analgesia After Cesarean Section: A Double-Blind Controlled Trial

INTRODUCTION

Complete postoperative analgesia is very important for puerperae after cesarean section. The objective of this study was to explore the optimal postoperative analgesia after cesarean section.

METHODS

A total of 180 full-term puerperae who underwent cesarean section in Hanzhong People's Hospital from March 2019 to March 2020 were enrolled and were randomly divided into three groups. Group A was given 0.9% normal saline, group B and C were given 0.4% ropivacaine for transversus abdominis plane block (TAPB). Postoperative patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) pumps were 2 μg/kg sufentanil + 2.5 mg droperidol, 1.5 μg/kg and 1.3 μg/kg sufentanil, respectively. All puerperae were given different but effective analgesia programs. The primary outcome indicators were visual analog scores (VAS), the first compression time of postoperative analgesia pump and the total number of compressions in 48 h. The secondary outcome indicators were vital signs, Ramsay sedation scores, comfort scores (BCS), the frequency of analgesic rescue, postoperative side effects and satisfaction.

RESULTS

The dynamic and static VAS scores of the puerperae in group B at T₂ and T₆ were significantly lower than group A and at T₁₂, T₂₄ and T₄₈ were significantly lower than group C. Compared with group A, the dynamic and static VAS scores of puerperae in group C were lower at T₂ and T₆ and higher at T₁₂, T₂₄ and T₄₈. The Ramsay score and BCS score of the puerperae in group C at T₁₂, T₂₄ and T₄₈ were significantly lower than those in groups A and B.

CONCLUSIONS

PCIA with sufentanil alone or combined with TAPB can be safely and effectively used for postoperative analgesia after cesarean section. PCIA combined with TAPB had better analgesic effect and lower incidence of side effects while reducing the dose of opioids. The results of this study provide new ideas and insights for the choice of analgesia after cesarean section.

Evaluation of Sensory Loss and Postoperative Analgesia Obtained by Diaphragmatic Apposition Zone Block Under Direct Laparoscopic Visualization in Patients Undergoing Nephrectomy: A Descriptive Study

Purpose

Local anesthetics can spread into the subendothoracic fascia compartment via the arcuate ligament and apposition zone of the diaphragm after the anterior quadratus lumborum blocks. Therefore, a new block may be achieved if local anesthetic is administered into the diaphragmatic apposition zone (DAZ) under direct laparoscopic visualization by surgeons. Therefore, we evaluated the sensory loss and postoperative analgesic efficacy of this new block in patients receiving laparoscopic nephrectomy.

Methods

A total of 28 patients scheduled to receive elective laparoscopic nephrectomy under general anesthesia were enrolled in this study. The DAZ blocks were performed in patients under direct laparoscopic visualization with 20 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine before the dissected kidneys or renal tumors were taken out from the incision. All patients received the intravenous patient-controlled analgesia after surgery. The dermatomes of sensory loss and the muscle weakness of quadriceps femoris were assessed at 2 h post-surgery in the wards. The postoperative pain was scored. The opioid consumption in the first 24 h after surgery was recorded.

Results

The average number of dermatomes of sensory block was 8.6 ± 1.2. The highest level of sensory loss was T6 (T5-T6) [median (interquartile range, IQR)], and the lowest level of sensory block was L1 (L1–L2). The postoperative pain scores at rest or on movement at 2 h, 6 h, 12 h, 24 h and 48 h were kept at the low levels (less than 4). The muscle strength of the quadriceps femoris evaluated was 5 (5–5) points [median (IQR)]. Total dose of intravenous morphine equivalent consumption in the first 24 h after surgery was 21.2 ± 4.1 mg.

Conclusion

The DAZ block manifests a wide dermatomal coverage of sensory loss and is associated with the low levels of postoperative pain intensity and opioid use. It provides a new postoperative analgesia option for patients undergoing laparoscopic nephrectomy.

Neuroanaesthesia: should volatile anaesthetics or total intravenous anaesthesia be used?

The choice of anaesthesia technique for neurosurgical procedures has always been debatable. Despite the well-known effects of volatile anaesthetics on intracranial pressure, these are still widely used. This article explores the advantages and disadvantages of using volatile or total intravenous anaesthesia in patients undergoing neurosurgery.

Post-cesarean section analgesia

Worldwide, the most performed surgical intervention is cesarean section. Hence, post-cesarean pain is a common problem with significant health and economic impact on the individual patient and society. Adequate treatment of post-cesarean pain is necessary to facilitate enhanced recovery, improve neonatal outcome by improving breastfeeding success and bonding between mother and child, and reduce pain-induced side effects. Therefore, optimal pain relief is important, but in the obstetric population, this is often complex due to the interplay of mother and neonate. To facilitate recovery and temper the side effects of potent analgesic drugs such as opioids, multimodal analgesia is currently advocated, and clear international guidelines and recommendations have recently been described. In the present overview, we will discuss the most recent guidelines and evaluate various analgesic interventions.

Ultrasound-Guided Quadratus Lumborum Block Enhances the Quality of Recovery after Gastrointestinal Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

Quadratus lumborum block (QLB) has been used to reduce postoperative acute pain and opioid consumption. However, the efficacy of QLB on the quality of recovery (QoR) after gastrointestinal surgery has not been established. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of QLB to enhance the postoperative QoR in patients undergoing open gastrointestinal surgery.

Methods

Eighty-four patients undergoing open gastrointestinal surgery were randomized to receive ultrasound-guided QLB with either 20 ml of 0.375% ropivacaine or saline. The primary outcome was the QoR-15 score at 24 h after surgery. The secondary outcomes were the postoperative pain intensity, opioid consumption, the incidence of nausea, vomiting, and chronic pain.

Results

The global QoR-15 score at 24 h postoperatively was significantly higher in the QLB group than in the control group (mean difference: 16.9; 95% CI: 11.9–21.9). Additionally, the QoR-15 scores for five dimensions were significantly higher in the QLB group than in the control group. The cumulative oxycodone consumption was significantly lower in the QLB group during 0–6, 6–24, 0–24, 24–48, and 0–48 h postoperatively than in the control group. At rest or during coughing, the pain verbal rating scale scores were significantly lower at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 h after surgery in the QLB group than in the control group. The incidence of postoperative nausea was significantly different between the groups, but postoperative vomiting was not.

Conclusion

Single-injection posteromedial QLB with ropivacaine enhanced the QoR at 48 h after surgery and improved analgesia during the early postoperative period in patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery.

Postoperative Analgesic Effectiveness of Peripheral Nerve Blocks in Cesarean Delivery: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

The purpose of this systematic review and network meta-analysis was to determine the analgesic effectiveness of peripheral nerve blocks (PNBs), including each anatomical approach, with or without intrathecal morphine (ITMP) in cesarean delivery (CD). All relevant randomized controlled trials comparing the analgesic effectiveness of PNBs with or without ITMP after CD until July 2021. The two co-primary outcomes were designated as (1) pain at rest 6 h after surgery and (2) postoperative cumulative 24-h morphine equivalent consumption. Secondary outcomes were the time to first analgesic request, pain at rest 24 h, and dynamic pain 6 and 24 h after surgery. Seventy-six studies (6278 women) were analyzed. The combined ilioinguinal nerve and anterior transversus abdominis plane (II-aTAP) block in conjunction with ITMP had the highest SUCRA (surface under the cumulative ranking curve) values for postoperative rest pain at 6 h (88.4%) and 24-h morphine consumption (99.4%). Additionally, ITMP, ilioinguinal-iliohypogastric nerve block in conjunction with ITMP, lateral TAP block, and wound infiltration (WI) or continuous infusion (WC) below the fascia also showed a significant reduction in two co-primary outcomes. Only the II-aTAP block had a statistically significant additional analgesic effect compared to ITMP alone on rest pain at 6 h after surgery (−7.60 (−12.49, −2.70)). In conclusion, combined II-aTAP block in conjunction with ITMP is the most effective post-cesarean analgesic strategy with lower rest pain at 6 h and cumulative 24-h morphine consumption. Using the six described analgesic strategies for postoperative pain management after CD is considered reasonable. Lateral TAP block, WI, and WC below the fascia may be useful alternatives in patients with a history of sensitivity or severe adverse effects to opioids or when the CD is conducted under general anesthesia.

Ultrasound-Guided Posterior Quadratus Lumborum Block for Acute Postoperative Analgesia in Adult Patients: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Objective

The quadratus lumborum block provides postoperative analgesia for patients undergoing abdominal surgery, although there are three common approaches to perform this block. The present meta-analysis investigated the effectiveness of posterior quadratus lumborum block (QLB2) after surgery.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register were searched from inception to 26 August 2021 for randomized controlled trials that evaluated the analgesic efficacy of QLB2 vs control (placebo or no block). The primary outcomes were pain scores at 6 h, 12 h, and 24 h after surgery. The secondary outcomes were morphine consumption at 24 h after surgery and the postoperative complications.

Results

The present meta-analysis included 14 studies conducted with a total of 1001 patients. In comparison to control group, the QLB2 group presented significantly lower rest pain scores at 6 h (SMD −0.59; 95% CI: −1.05, −0.12; p = 0.01, I² = 84%; GRADE = moderate), 12 h (SMD: –0.83; 95% CI: –1.47, –0.19; p = 0.01; I² = 88%; GRADE = low), and 24 h (SMD: –0.37; 95% CI: –0.71, –0.03; p = 0.03; I² = 80%; GRADE = moderate) after surgery. The dynamic pain scores were significantly reduced, compared to control, in the QLB2 group at 12 h (SMD: –0.93; 95% CI: –1.52, –0.33; p = 0.002; I² = 83%; GRADE = low) and 24 h (SMD: –0.52; 95% CI: –0.93, –0.11; p = 0.01; I² = 83%; GRADE = moderate) after surgery. In addition, the QLB2 group presented reduced postoperative opioid consumption at 24 h (SMD: –0.45; 95% CI: –0.86, –0.03; p = 0.03; I² = 78%; GRADE = moderate). The subgroup analyses revealed that the analgesic benefit of QLB2 did not persist beyond 24 h when the patients were under spinal anesthesia.

Conclusion

Ultrasound-guided QLB2 could provide effective analgesia for patients under general anesthesia by decreasing the intensity of pain and opioid requirement when used within 24 h after abdominal surgery.

Efficacy of regional blocks or local anaesthetic infiltration for analgesia after caesarean delivery: a network meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Caesarean delivery is common and can cause severe postoperative pain but injection of local anaesthetic at various sites for regional blocks or local anaesthetic infiltration may reduce this. We aimed to compare and rank these sites. We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE and CENTRAL to June 2021 for randomised controlled trials and performed a random-effects Bayesian model network meta-analysis. The primary outcome was dose of parenteral morphine equivalents in the first 24 postoperative hours. We used surface under cumulative ranking probabilities to order techniques. We analysed 114 trials (8730 participants). The ordered mean (95% credible interval) reduction in morphine equivalents, from 34 mg with placebo, were as follows: ilio-inguinal 15 (1-32) mg; ilio-inguinal-iliohypogastric 13 (6-19) mg; transversalis fascia 11 (4-26) mg; erector spinae 11 (10-32); transverse abdominis 9 (4-13) mg; wound catheter infusion 8 (2-15) mg; quadratus lumborum 8 (1-15) mg; wound infiltration 8 (2-13) mg; and no intervention -4 (-10 to 2) mg. Ordered efficacies for injection sites were different for other relevant outcomes, including pain (to 4-6 h and to 24 h) and time to rescue analgesia: there was no single preferred route of injection. The ordered mean (95% credible interval) reduction in dynamic pain scores (0-10 scale) at 24 h compared with placebo were as follows: wound infusion 1.2 (0.2-2.1); erector spinae 1.3 (-0.5 to 3.1); quadratus lumborum 1.0 (0.1-1.8); ilio-inguinal-iliohypogastric 0.6 (-0.5 to 1.8); transverse abdominis 0.6 (-0.1 to 1.2); wound infiltration 0.5 (-0.3 to 1.3); transversalis fascia -0.8 (-3.4 to 1.9); ilio-inguinal -0.9 (-3.6 to 1.7); and no intervention -0.8 (-1.8 to 0.2). We categorised our confidence in effect sizes as low or very low.

Combined lumbar muscle block and perioperative comprehensive patient-controlled intravenous analgesia with butorphanol in gynecological endoscopic surgery

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic surgery has become a common surgical approach for the clinical treatment of intra-abdominal lesions in recent years. We hypothesized that lumbar block with postoperative patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) by butorphanol after gynecological surgery under general anesthesia would be more effective than PCIA by butorphanol alone.

AIM

To investigate the effect of lumbar block with PCIA by butorphanol after gynecological surgery under general anesthesia.

METHODS

This study assessed 120 women scheduled for laparoscopic surgery at our hospital between May 2017 and May 2020. They were divided using a random number table into a research group (those who received quadratus lumborum block combined with PCIA analgesia by butorphanol) and a control group (those who received only PCIA analgesia by butorphanol), with 60 patients in each group. Demographic factors, visual analog scale scores for pain, serum inflammatory markers, PCIA compressions, Ramsay scores, and adverse events were compared between groups using a t-test, analysis of variance, or χ² test, as appropriate.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in demographic factors between groups (all P > 0.05). The visual analog scale scores of the research group in the resting state 12 h and 24 h postoperatively were significantly lower than those of the control group (P < 0.05). Two hours after surgery, there were no significant differences in the levels of serum tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-6, or IL-8 between groups (P > 0.05). The serum tumor necrosis factor-α levels of the research group 24 h postoperatively were significantly lower than those of the control group (P < 0.05). The levels of serum IL-6 and IL-8 in the study group 24 h and 48 h postoperatively were significantly lower than those in the control group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Lumbar block with PCIA with butorphanol after gynecological surgery under general anesthesia significantly improves the analgesic effect and reduces the degree of inflammation, instances of PCIA compression, and adverse reactions.

Ultrasound-guided quadratus lumborum block for perioperative analgesia in robot-assisted partial nephrectomy: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Recently, several case reports and limited randomized studies have shown that quadratus lumborum blocks (QLB) are effective in providing pain relief after intra-abdominal and retroperitoneal operations. Additionally, robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) has been proposed as a promising operative treatment for renal carcinoma because it enables early recovery and ambulation. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the analgesic and opioid-sparing effects of a single-injection QLB in patients undergoing RAPN to determine its role in an early recovery program.

METHODS

Fifty-six patients undergoing elective RAPN under general anesthesia were randomized to two equally sized groups. Patients were randomly allocated to receive either a unilateral QLB (n = 28) with 0.375% bupivacaine 0.5 mL/kg (QLB group) or a conventional scheme (n = 28) (control group). The QLB technique, termed QLB2, was performed as first described by Blanco. The primary outcome was visual analog scale (VAS) scores with movement at 6 h postoperatively. The secondary endpoints were morphine consumption at different time periods after surgery, morphine-related side effects, and assessment of postoperative rehabilitation.

RESULTS

Both the VAS pain scores and cumulative opioid consumption were significantly lower in the QLB group at 6 h after surgery as compared with results in the control group (all P < 0.05). There were significant differences in pain scores at all time points except at 4 h with movement and 48 h at rest. However, at 12-24 h no significant differences between the two groups were observed in cumulative opioid consumption or in the duration of PACU and hospital stays. The patient recovery scores were significantly higher in the QLB group.

CONCLUSIONS

Single-injection pre-emptive QLB applied to RAPN was effective and provided satisfactory analgesia and opioid-sparing effects in combination with typical patient-controlled analgesia. In addition, it may provide an effective technique for early recovery in the perioperative period for RAPN.

The Current Consideration, Approach, and Management in Postcesarean Delivery Pain Control: A Narrative Review

Optimal postoperative analgesia has a significant impact on patient recovery and outcomes after cesarean delivery. Multimodal analgesia is the core principle for cesarean delivery and pain management. For a standard analgesic regimen, the use of long-acting neuraxial opioids (e.g., morphine) and adjunct drugs, such as scheduled acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, is recommended unless contraindicated. Oral or intravenous opioids should be reserved for breakthrough pain. In addition to the aforementioned use of multimodal analgesia, preoperative evaluation is critical to individualize the analgesic regimen according to the patient requirements. Risk factors for severe postoperative pain or analgesia-related adverse effects will require modifications to the standard analgesic regimen (e.g., the use of ketamine, gabapentinoids, or regional anesthetic techniques). Further investigation is required to determine analgesic drugs or dose alterations based on preoperative predictions for patients at risk of severe pain. Outcomes beyond pain and analgesic use, such as functional recovery, should be determined to evaluate analgesic treatment protocols.

Description of a novel ultrasound-guided approach for a dorsal quadratus lumborum block: a canine cadaver study

OBJECTIVE

To describe an ultrasound-guided approach to the dorsal aspect of the quadratus lumborum muscle (D-QL) and to evaluate the spread of methylene blue dye in canine cadavers.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective, experimental anatomical study.

ANIMALS

A total of 12 canine cadavers.

METHODS

The ultrasonographic landmarks and injection technique for the D-QL approach were determined in two cadavers. Correct needle tip position was confirmed by computed tomography. Bilateral ultrasound-guided injections were performed in 10 cadavers between the QL muscle, the vertebral body and the ventrocaudal aspect of the transverse process of the first lumbar vertebra (L1) using two volumes of methylene blue: low volume (LV) 0.3 mL kg^-1 or high volume (HV) 0.5 mL kg^-1. Staining of the main thoracolumbar trunk, dorsal and ventral branches of the thoracic (T) and lumbar (L) spinal nerves, sympathetic trunk and epidural space were assessed following dissection. Data between groups were compared using Mann-Whitney U test. Data are presented as median (range).

RESULTS

The ventral branches of spinal nerves T12, T13, L1, L2, L3 and L4 were stained in 10%, 70%, 100%, 90%, 60%, 0% and 30%, 100%, 100%, 100%, 50% and 30% after LV and HV injections, respectively. Multisegmental spread of the sympathetic trunk was found on 3 (3-4) and 5 (3-6) vertebral spinal levels following LV and HV injections, respectively (p = 0.005). The T13 segment of the sympathetic trunk was stained after all HV injections. Epidural spread was found in 20% and 30% of LV and HV injections, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The injection of HV versus LV dye using the D-QL approach provided more consistent staining of the thoracolumbar nerve structures which innervate the abdominal wall and viscera. Clinical studies are required to evaluate the analgesic efficacy of the D-QL block for abdominal procedures in dogs in vivo.

Quadratus lumborum block for postoperative analgesia after cesarean section: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials with trial sequential analysis

The aim of this study was to assess the analgesic efficacy of QLB versus controls in women undergoing cesarean section (CS). We systematically searched Cochrane Library, PUBMED, EMBASE, VIP, WANFANG, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure. Trials were eligible if parturients received QLB during CS. GRADE system was used to assess the certainty of evidence and Trial sequential analyses (TSA) were performed to determine whether the results are supported by sufficient data. Thirteen studies involving 1269 patients were included. Compared to controls, QLB significantly reduced the cumulative postoperative intravenous opioid consumption (in milligram morphine equivalents) at 24 h (MD, - 11.51 mg; 95% CI - 17.05 to - 5.96) and 48 h (MD, - 15.87 mg; 95% CI - 26.36 to - 5.38), supported by sufficient data confirmed by TSA. The postoperative pain scores were significantly reduced by QLB at 4 h, 6 h, 12 h, 24 h, and 48 h postoperatively by QLB compared with control. Moreover, the time to first request for rescue analgesic and the incidence of PONV were also significantly reduced by QLB. The quality of evidence of most results were low and moderate assessed by GRADE.

Novel Regional Nerve Blocks in Clinical Practice: Evolving Techniques for Pain Management

This review examines the use of novel US-guided nerve blocks in clinical practice. Erector spinae block is a regional anesthesia technique doing by injecting a local anesthetic among the erector spinae muscle group and transverse processes. The phrenic nerve is a branch of the cervical plexus, arising from the anterior rami of cervical nerves C3, C4, and C5. The quadratus lumborum muscle is located along the posterior abdominal wall. It originates from the transverse process of the L5 vertebral body, the iliolumbar ligament, and the iliac crest. US-guided peripheral nerve procedures have a considerable scope of use, including treating headaches and hiccups to abdominal surgical pain, cesarean sections, musculoskeletal pathologies. These nerve blocks have been an effective addition to clinical anesthesia practice. The use of peripheral nerve blocks has improved postoperative pain, lessened the use of opioids and their potential side effects, and decreased the incidence of sleep disturbance in patients. More research should be done to further delineate the potential benefits of these blocks.

The Effectiveness of Transversus Abdominis Plane and Quadratus Lumborum Blocks in Acute Postoperative Pain Following Cesarean Section-A Randomized, Single-Blind, Controlled Trial

Acute pain intensity related to cesarean section (CS) may be extensive and is often underestimated. This may influence mothers’ quality of life and their children’s development. Regional analgesia techniques that include transversus abdominis plane block (TAPB) and quadratus lumborum block (QLB) have proven their efficacy in the postoperative period after CS. Although several randomized controlled studies and one meta-analysis have investigated the utility of TAPB and QLB in the reduction of acute and chronic pain after CS, only one study directly compared both types of regional blocks and revealed superiority of QLB over TAPB. Our study aimed to reevaluate the effectiveness of transversus TAPB and QLB in controlling acute postoperative pain after CS. We recruited 197 women with singleton pregnancies undergoing CS under spinal anesthesia. The patients were randomized to receive either TAPB or QLB after CS. The acute postoperative pain was evaluated using the visual analog scale (VAS) at 2, 4, 8, 12 and 24 h after the operation. No significant difference in acute postoperative pain intensity between the groups was found. The patients who received TAPB had a higher demand for supplemental morphine injections (p < 0.039). In our study, none of the evaluated regional blocks demonstrated an advantage over the other regarding acute postoperative pain management.

Quadratus Lumborum and Transversus Abdominis Plane Blocks and Their Impact on Acute and Chronic Pain in Patients after Cesarean Section: A Randomized Controlled Study

BACKGROUND

Severe postoperative pain is a significant problem after cesarean sections.

METHODS

This study was a randomized, controlled trial of 105 patients conducted in two hospitals. All patients were anesthetized spinally for elective cesarean section. Each participant was randomly allocated to one of three study groups: the quadratus lumborum block (QLB) group, the transversus abdominis plane block (TAPB) group, or the control (CON) group. The primary outcome of this study determined acute pain intensity on the visual analog scale (VAS). The secondary outcomes determined morphine consumption and chronic pain evaluation according to the Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory (NPSI) after hospital discharge.

RESULTS

At rest, the pain intensity was significantly higher in the CON group than in the QLB and TAPB groups at hours two and eight. Upon activity, the pain in the control subjects was more severe than in the QLB and TAPB groups in three and two of five measurements, respectively. Moreover, morphine consumption was significantly lower in the QLB (9 (5-10)) and TAPB (10 (6-14)) groups than in the CON (16 (11-19)) group. Persistent postoperative pain was significantly lower in the QLB group than in the CON group at months one and six following hospital discharge.

CONCLUSIONS

Both the QLB and TAPB can improve pain management after cesarean delivery. Moreover, the QLB might reduce the severity of persistent postoperative pain months after cesarean section.

Postoperative Analgesic Effectiveness of Quadratus Lumborum Block for Cesarean Delivery under Spinal Anesthesia

BACKGROUND

Spinal morphine is the mainstay of postcesarean analgesia. Quadratus lumborum block has recently been proposed as an adjunct or alternative to spinal morphine. The authors evaluated the analgesic effectiveness of quadratus lumborum block in cesarean delivery with and without spinal morphine.

METHODS

Randomized trials evaluating quadratus lumborum block benefits in elective cesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia were sought. Three comparisons were considered: spinal morphine versus spinal morphine and quadratus lumborum block; spinal morphine versus quadratus lumborum block; and no block or spinal morphine versus quadratus lumborum block. The two coprimary outcomes were postoperative (1) 24-h cumulative oral morphine equivalent consumption and (2) pain at 4 to 6 h. Secondary outcomes included area under the curve pain, time to analgesic request, block complications, and opioid-related side effects.

RESULTS

Twelve trials (924 patients) were analyzed. The mean differences (95% CIs) in 24-h morphine consumption and pain at 4 to 6 h for spinal morphine versus spinal morphine and quadratus lumborum block comparison were 0 mg (-2 to 1) and -0.1 cm (-0.7 to 0.4), respectively, indicating no benefit. For spinal morphine versus quadratus lumborum block, these differences were 7 mg (-2 to 15) and 0.6 cm (-0.7 to 1.8), respectively, also indicating no benefit. In contrast, for no block or spinal morphine versus quadratus lumborum block, improvements of -18 mg (-28 to -7) and -1.5 cm (-2.4 to -0.6) were observed, respectively, with quadratus lumborum block. Finally, for no block or spinal morphine versus quadratus lumborum block, quadratus lumborum block improved area under the 48-h pain curve by -4.4 cm · h (-5.0 to -3.8), exceeding the clinically important threshold (3.96 cm · h), but no differences were observed in the other comparisons.

CONCLUSIONS

Moderate quality evidence suggests that quadratus lumborum block does not enhance analgesic outcomes when combined with or compared with spinal morphine. However, the block improves postcesarean analgesia in the absence of spinal morphine. The clinical utility of this block seems limited to situations in which spinal morphine is not used.

EDITOR’S PERSPECTIVE

Regional anaesthesia for labour, operative vaginal delivery and caesarean delivery: a narrative review

This narrative review discusses recent evidence surrounding the use of regional anaesthesia in the obstetric setting, including intrapartum techniques for labour and operative vaginal delivery, and caesarean delivery. Pudendal nerve blockade, ideally administered by an obstetrician, should be considered for operative vaginal delivery if neuraxial analgesia is contraindicated. Regional techniques are increasingly utilised in clinical practice for caesarean delivery to minimise opioid consumption, reduce pain, improve postpartum recovery and facilitate earlier discharge as part of enhanced recovery protocols. The evidence surrounding transversus abdominis plane and quadratus lumborum blockade supports their use when: long-acting neuraxial opioids cannot be administered due to contraindications; if emergency delivery necessitates general anaesthesia; or as a postoperative rescue technique. Current data suggest quadratus lumborum blockade is no more effective than transversus abdominis plane blockade after caesarean delivery. Transversus abdominis plane blockade, wound catheter insertion and single shot wound infiltration are all effective techniques for reducing postoperative opioid consumption, with transversus abdominis plane blockade favoured, followed by wound catheters and then wound infiltration. Ilio-inguinal and iliohypogastric, erector spinae plane and rectus sheath blockade all require further studies to determine their efficacy for caesarean delivery in the presence or absence of long-acting neuraxial opioids. Future studies are needed to: compare approaches for individual techniques; determine which combinations of techniques and dosing regimens result in optimal analgesic and recovery outcomes following delivery; and elucidate the populations that benefit most from regional anaesthesia in the obstetric setting.

PROSPECT guideline for elective caesarean section: updated systematic review and procedure-specific postoperative pain management recommendations

Caesarean section is associated with moderate‐to‐severe postoperative pain, which can influence postoperative recovery and patient satisfaction as well as breastfeeding success and mother‐child bonding. The aim of this systematic review was to update the available literature and develop recommendations for optimal pain management after elective caesarean section under neuraxial anaesthesia. A systematic review utilising procedure‐specific postoperative pain management (PROSPECT) methodology was undertaken. Randomised controlled trials published in the English language between 1 May 2014 and 22 October 2020 evaluating the effects of analgesic, anaesthetic and surgical interventions were retrieved from MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane databases. Studies evaluating pain management for emergency or unplanned operative deliveries or caesarean section performed under general anaesthesia were excluded. A total of 145 studies met the inclusion criteria. For patients undergoing elective caesarean section performed under neuraxial anaesthesia, recommendations include intrathecal morphine 50–100 µg or diamorphine 300 µg administered pre‐operatively; paracetamol; non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs; and intravenous dexamethasone administered after delivery. If intrathecal opioid was not administered, single‐injection local anaesthetic wound infiltration; continuous wound local anaesthetic infusion; and/or fascial plane blocks such as transversus abdominis plane or quadratus lumborum blocks are recommended. The postoperative regimen should include regular paracetamol and non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs with opioids used for rescue. The surgical technique should include a Joel‐Cohen incision; non‐closure of the peritoneum; and abdominal binders. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation could be used as analgesic adjunct. Some of the interventions, although effective, carry risks, and consequentially were omitted from the recommendations. Some interventions were not recommended due to insufficient, inconsistent or lack of evidence. Of note, these recommendations may not be applicable to unplanned deliveries or caesarean section performed under general anaesthesia.

Future in regional anesthesia: new techniques and technological advancements

Regional anesthesia has a very interesting long history, initially preferred over general anesthesia because of safety concerns, then for a period general anesthesia became safer and was preferred. The use of innovative technologies such as ultrasound technology has made the blocks safer and successful by directly visualizing targeted nerves and the location of local anesthetics. With the wide use of ultrasound in the regional anesthesia field success rate of peripheral nerve blocks increased and novel blocks techniques developed. Moreover, new extended-release local anesthetic agents have begun to be promising time-efficient and longer duration of analgesia with a single injection. In this article, we attempt to summarize some of the novel block techniques, pharmacological agents, and new technologies in the field of regional anesthesia.

The analgesic efficacy of quadratus lumborum block in caesarean delivery: a meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis

PURPOSE

Quadratus lumborum block (QLB) has recently gained popularity for postoperative analgesia after cesarean delivery (CD) as it provides both visceral and somato-sensory blockade of the abdomen. Aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the analgesic potential of QLB after CD.

METHODS

Electronic database from inception to December 2019 was searched systematically for randomized-controlled trials comparing QLB with injection of inactive solution in women undergoing CD. Primary outcome was consumption of morphine at 24 h. Morphine consumption at 48 h, dynamic and static pain scores at various time intervals were the secondary outcomes studied.

RESULTS

Seven trials met the inclusion criteria. Morphine consumption was reduced significantly with QLB in comparison to sham or no block at 24 h (mean difference [MD] - 9.84 mg; 95% confidence interval [CI] - 18.16, - 0.50; p = 0.04; I² = zero). Adequate "information size" for above outcome was confirmed with trial sequential analysis, ruling out any possibility of a false-positive result. QLB significantly reduced pain scores at rest (MD - 1.13; 95% CI - 1.75, - 0.56; p = 0.00) and on movement (MD - 1.48; 95% CI - 2.5, - 0.46; p = 0.01) at 6 h. However, statistically significant difference in pain scores persisted only for dynamic pain at 24 h (MD - 0.55; 95% CI - 1.04, - 0.06; p = 0.03). QLB does not provide any additional analgesic benefit to the parturient receiving intrathecal morphine.

CONCLUSION

QLB significantly reduces opioid requirements in CD and may have analgesic effects lasting 24 h.

Quadratus lumborum block vs. transversus abdominis plane block for caesarean delivery: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. Anaesthesia 2020;76:393-403. [PMID: 32621529 DOI: 10.1111/anae.15160]

Caesarean delivery is the most commonly performed inpatient surgical procedure globally. Pain after caesarean delivery is moderate to severe if not adequately treated, and is a primary anaesthetic concern for patients. Transversus abdominis plane and quadratus lumborum blocks are fascial plane blocks that have the potential to improve analgesia following caesarean delivery. Although proponents of the quadratus lumborum block suggest that this technique may provide better analgesia compared with transversus abdominis plane block, there are limited data directly comparing these two techniques. We, therefore, performed a systematic review and network meta-analysis to compare transversus abdominis plane and quadratus lumborum block approaches, seeking randomised controlled trials comparing both techniques to each other, or to control, with or without intrathecal morphine. In all, 31 trials with 2188 patients were included and our primary outcome, the cumulative intravenous morphine equivalent consumption at 24 h, was reported in 12 trials. In the absence of intrathecal morphine, transversus abdominis plane and quadratus lumborum blocks were equivalent, and both were superior to control (moderate-quality evidence). In the presence of intrathecal morphine, no differences were found between control, transversus abdominis plane and quadratus lumborum blocks (moderate-quality evidence). Similar results were found for resting and active pain scores at 4-6 h, 8-12 h, 24 h and 36 h, although quadratus lumborum block was associated with lower pain scores at 36 h when compared with transversus abdominis plane block (very low-quality evidence). However, transversus abdominis plane block was associated with a reduced incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (moderate-quality evidence) and sedation when compared with inactive control following intrathecal morphine administration (low-quality evidence). There are insufficient data to draw definitive conclusions, but transversus abdominis plane and quadratus lumborum block appear to be superior to control in the absence of intrathecal morphine, but provide limited additional benefit over inactive control when intrathecal morphine is also used.