A review of anesthetic techniques and outcomes following minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum (Nuss procedure)

Analgesic Effectiveness of Truncal Plane Blocks in Patients Undergoing the Nuss Procedure: A Randomized Controlled Trial

INTRODUCTION

Most patients undergoing the Nuss procedure reported moderate to severe pain after surgery. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided serratus anterior plane block (SAPB) combined with transversus thoracic muscle plane (TTMP) block for relieving acute pain in patients undergoing the Nuss procedure.

METHODS

The enrolled patients in our study were allocated to either receive combined nerve blocks with ropivacaine (NB group) or saline (CON group). The primary outcome of this study was postoperative pain at 2, 4, 8, 16, 24, 36, and 48 h during rest and movement (coughing). Secondary outcomes included intraoperative dosage of remifentanil, the time to extubation and the length of stay in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU), the total acetaminophen and codeine tablet consumption, time to first bowel movement, time to first flatus, opioid-related adverse events, and the length of hospital stay.

RESULTS

Patients in the NB group had significantly lower Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) pain scores compared with the CON group. The NB group required significantly less postoperative acetaminophen consumption and lower dosages of perioperative sufentanyl and remifentanil compared with the CON group. The length of stay in the PACU and time to extubation were significantly increased in the CON group compared with the NE group. Time to first bowel movement and time to first flatus were earlier in the NB group. But there were no significant differences between the groups in terms of the length of hospital stay and codeine tablet consumption.

CONCLUSION

Ultrasound-guided SAPB and TTMP blocks in patients undergoing the Nuss procedure could provide effective analgesia.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2000038506).

Reduction of Urinary Tract Infection in Pediatric Surgical Patients Using NSQIP-P and Quality Improvement Methodology

BACKGROUND

Hospital-acquired urinary tract infections (UTIs) have a detrimental effect on patients, families, and hospital resources. The Sydney Children's Hospital Network (SCHN) participates in the NSQIP-Pediatric (NSQIP-P) to monitor postoperative complications. NSQIP-P data revealed that the median UTI rate at SCHN was 1.75% in 2019, 3.5 times higher than the NSQIP-P target rate of 0.5%. Over three quarters of the NSQIP-P identified patients with UTI also had a urinary catheterization performed intraoperatively. A quality improvement project was conducted between mid-2018 and 2021 to minimize catheter-associated UTIs (CAUTIs) at SCHN.

STUDY DESIGN

NSQIP-P samples include pediatric (younger than 18 years) surgical patients from an 8-day cycle operative log. NSQIP-P data are statistically analyzed by the American College of Surgeons and provide biannual internationally benchmarked reports. The project used clinical redesign methodology with a 6-phase process for quality improvement projects.

RESULTS

The objectives of the project were to reduce urinary catheter duration of use, educate parents or carers, and improve catheter care and insertion technique by health staff. The duration of a urinary catheter in situ reduced from a median of 4.5 to 3 days from 2017 to 2021. The median NSQIP-P UTI rate at SCHN was reduced by 47.4% from 1.75% in 2019 to 0.9% in 2022.

CONCLUSIONS

A multifactorial approach in quality improvement has been shown to be an effective strategy to reduce UTI rates at SCHN, and patient outcomes were improved within a 3-year timeframe. Although this project has reduced UTI rates at SCHN, there remain opportunities for further improvement.

Combined erector spinae plane block with surgical intercostal nerve cryoablation for Nuss procedure is associated with decreased opioid use and length of stay

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Pain management for patients undergoing the Nuss procedure for treatment of pectus excavatum can be challenging. In an effort to improve pain management, our institution added bilateral single injection erector spinae plane (ESP) blocks to surgeon placed intercostal nerve cryoablation. We aimed to assess the efficacy of this practice change.

METHODS

Retrospective clinical data from a single academic medical center were evaluated. Due to an institutional change in clinical management, we were able to perform a before and after study. Twenty patients undergoing Nuss procedure who received bilateral ultrasound-guided single-shot T6 level ESP blocks and intercostal nerve cryoablation were compared with a historical control cohort of 20 patients who underwent Nuss procedure with intercostal nerve cryoablation alone. The primary outcome variables included postoperative pain scores, total hospital opioid use, and hospital length of stay.

RESULTS

Median total hospital intravenous morphine milligram equivalents was lower for the ESP group than for the control group (0.60 (IQR 0.35-0.88) vs 1.15 mg/kg (IQR 0.74-1.68), p<0.01). There was no difference in postoperative pain scores between the two groups. Mean hospital length of stay was 2.45 (SD 0.69) days for the control group and 1.95 (SD 0.69) days for the ESP group (p=0.03). No adverse events related to block placement were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

In a single-center academic practice, the addition of bilateral single injection ESP blocks at T6 to surgeon performed cryoablation reduced opioid consumption without a change in subjectively reported pain scores. The results from this pilot study can provide effect size estimates to guide the design of future randomized trials.

Intercostal nerve cryoablation therapy for the repair of pectus excavatum: a systematic review

Introduction

The minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum (PE) is a painful procedure that can result in long-term hospitalization and opioid use. To mitigate the length of stay and opioid consumption, many different analgesia strategies have been implemented. The aim of this study is to review the use and patient outcomes of intercostal nerve cryoablation (INC) during PE repair reported in the literature.

Methods

An unfunded literature search using PubMed identifying articles discussing INC during PE repair from 1946 to 1 July 2023 was performed. Articles were included if they discussed patient outcomes with INC use during PE repair. Articles were excluded if they were reviews/meta-analyses, editorials, or not available in English. Each article was reviewed for bias by analyzing the study methods, data analysis, patient selection, and patient follow-up. Articles comparing outcomes of INC were considered significant if p-value was <0.05.

Results

A total of 34 articles were included in this review that described INC use during pectus repair. Most supported a decreased hospital length of stay and opioid use with INC. Overall, INC was associated with fewer short-term and long-term complications. However, the researchers reported varied results of total hospital costs with the use of INC.

Conclusion

The review was limited by a paucity of prospective studies and low number of patients who received INC. Despite this, the present data support INC as a safe and effective analgesic strategy during the repair of PE.

Continuous nerve block versus thoracic epidural analgesia for post-operative pain of pectus excavatum repair: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Surgery to repair pectus excavatum (PE) is often associated with severe postoperative pain, which can impact the length of hospital stay (LOS). While thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA) has traditionally been used for pain management in PE, its placement can sometimes result in severe neurological complications. Recently, paravertebral block (PVB) and erector spinae plane block (ESPB) have been recommended for many other chest and abdominal surgeries. However, due to the more severe and prolonged pain associated with PE repair, it is still unclear whether continuous administration of these blocks is as effective as TEA. Therefore, we conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to demonstrate the equivalence of continuous PVB and ESPB to TEA.

Retrospective study comparing outcomes of multimodal epidural and erector spinae catheter pain protocols after pectus surgery

INTRODUCTION

There are no optimal postoperative analgesia regimens for Nuss procedures. We compared the effectiveness of thoracic epidurals (EPI) and novel ambulatory erector spinae plane (ESP) catheters as part of multimodal pain protocols after Nuss surgery.

METHODS

Data on demographics, comorbidities, perioperative details, length of stay (LOS), in hospital and post discharge pain/opioid use, side effects, and emergency department (ED) visits were collected retrospectively in children who underwent Nuss repair with EPI (N = 114) and ESP protocols (N = 97). Association of the group with length of stay (LOS), in hospital opioid use (intravenous morphine equivalents (MEq)/kg over postoperative day (POD) 0-2), and oral opioid use beyond POD7 was analyzed using inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) with propensity scores, followed by multivariable regression.

RESULTS

Groups had similar demographics. Compared to EPI, ESP had longer block time and higher rate of ketamine and dexmedetomidine use. LOS for ESP was 2 days IQR (2, 2) compared to 3 days IQR (3, 4) for EPI (p < 0.01). Compared to EPI, ESP group had higher opioid use (in MEq/kg) intraoperatively (0.32 (IQR 0.27, 0.36) vs. 0.28 (0.24, 0.32); p < 0.01) but lower opioid use on POD 0 (0.09 (IQR 0.04, 0.17) vs. 0.11 (0.08, 0.17); p = 0.03) and POD2 (0.00 (IQR 0.00, 0.00) vs. 0.04 (0.00, 0.06) ; p < 0.01). ESP group also had lower total in hospital opioid use (0.57 (IQR 0.42, 0.73) vs.0.82 (0.71, 0.91); p < 0.01), and shorter duration of post discharge opioid use (6 days (IQR 5,8) vs. 9 days (IQR 7,12) (p < 0.01). After IPTW adjustment, ESP continued to be associated with shorter LOS (difference -1.20, 95% CI: -1.38, -1.01, p < 0.01) and decreased odds for opioid use beyond POD7 (OR 0.11, 95% CI: 0.05, 0.24); p < 0.01). However, total in hospital opioid use in MEq/kg (POD0-2) was now similar between groups (difference -0.02 (95% CI: -0.09, -0.04); p = 0.50). The EPI group had higher incidence of emesis (29% v 4%, p < 0.01), while ESP had higher catheter malfunction rates (23% v 0%; p < 0.01) but both groups had comparable ED visits/readmissions.

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION

Compared to EPI, multimodal ambulatory ESP protocol decreased LOS and postoperative opioid use, with comparable ED visits/readmissions. Disadvantages included higher postoperative pain scores, longer block times and higher catheter leakage/malfunction.

LEVELS OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Patient-Controlled Intravenous Analgesia with or without Ultrasound-Guided Bilateral Intercostal Nerve Blocks in Children Undergoing the Nuss Procedure: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Controlled Trial

Background

Two analgesic strategies have been described for pain treatment after the pectus excavatum surgery: the patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) and ultrasound-guided intercostal nerve block. In this prospective, randomized and double-blinded trial and the short and long-term outcomes were compared in patients after surgery.

Methods

The children were randomized to either the intercostal or control group. Ultrasound-guided intercostal nerve block was with 0.25% ropivacaine and 5 mg dexamethasone in the intercostal group, while the control group was with 0.9% normal saline. The block was performed in the intercostal space corresponding to the lowest depression of the sternum and repeated bilaterally in the spaces above and below. Postoperatively, the children in the two-groups received PCIA with fentanyl for 48 hours. The primary outcome was a pain score on the postoperative day 1, as measured by the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS).

Results

Sixty children undergoing the Nuss procedure were enrolled in the trial. The mean differences in VAS scores between the two groups were 3.2 in the PACU (p < 0.001), 1.7 on postoperative day 1 (p < 0.001) and 0.7 on postoperative day 2 (p=0.015). The opioid consumption was significantly lower in the intercostal group during the postoperative 48 hours (p < 0.05). The anxiety and QOL scores in the intercostal group were significantly improved on some points of time (p < 0.05). The incidence of adverse events was markedly lower in the intercostal group during the postoperative 48 hours (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our results suggest ultrasound-guided intercostal nerve block with PCIA may be more effective than PCIA alone in children who underwent the Nuss procedure.

Postoperative pain following minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum: A descriptive study

BACKGROUND

Minimally Invasive Repair of Pectus Excavatum (MIRPE) is associated with significant postoperative pain. The objective of our study was to characterize the severity and duration of this pain, and to investigate possible associations with pectus severity.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of pediatric patients who underwent MIRPE from January 2014 to April 2018. Pectus excavatum (PE) severity was determined with 3 indices measured from computed tomography: Depression Index (DI), Correction Index (CI), and Haller index (HI). Mean pain scores for every 6-hour period and the presence of pain and intake of analgesics during follow-up were extracted from the medical record.

RESULTS

The cohort included 57 patients with a mean age of 15.9 ± 1.3 years. All 3 severity indices were positively correlated, with a correlation coefficient of 0.8 between the DI and CI. The requirement for 2 bars was significantly associated with higher indices (95% CI:0.18-0.63, p = 0.01). Pain was managed with thoracic epidural analgesia for all but one patient. Growth linear modeling identified five different pain trajectory subgroups of patients up to post-operative day 5. None of the tested predictors (age, gender, body image, physical activity level, DI, CI, HI, difference deformity-epidural level) were significantly associated with class membership. Persistent pain at one-year follow-up was present in 18% of patients, all with severe deformity (DI≥0.8).

CONCLUSION

Pain trajectory and intensity after MIRPE can be classified into discrete patterns but are not influenced by PE severity. Severe deformity seems to predict persistent pain at one year.

Impact of Cryoablation on Pectus Excavatum Repair in Pediatric Patients

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum (MIRPE) involves placement of a transthoracic, retrosternal support bar under thoracoscopic guidance. Despite its minimally invasive technical approach, postoperative pain is a significant morbidity that often results in increased length of stay. Multi-modal pain control strategies have been used in the past with limited success. Recently, the use of intraoperative intercostal nerve cryoablation (CA) has been added. In the present study, we aim to evaluate the effects of CA on postoperative pain control, opioid requirements, and perioperative outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN

A single-center, retrospective chart review of all patients (less than 18 years old) who underwent MIRPE from 2009 to 2020 was performed. CA was started in June 2018. Data collection included demographics, preoperative characteristics, intraoperative findings, and postoperative outcomes. We hypothesized that CA would be associated with improved pain scores, lower doses of total inpatient opioid requirement, and shorter length of stay (LOS).

RESULTS

One hundred sixty-one patients met inclusion criteria: 75 underwent intraoperative CA and 86 underwent MIRPE without CA (NCA group). CA significantly decreased median LOS from 4 days in NCA to 2 days; the use of CA was the only significant predictor of LOS on linear regression. CA was also associated with decreased total PCA, intravenous opioid, and oral opioid dosages. There was no difference in inpatient pain scores and a slight increase in mean procedure time. However, CA was associated with significantly decreased postoperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of cryoablation during MIRPE significantly decreases LOS, perioperative opioid requirements, and postoperative complications, with a minimal increase in operative time. Cryoablation is an effective pain control modality in the surgical management of chest wall deformities in children.

Comparison of erector spinae plane and paravertebral nerve blocks for postoperative analgesia in children after the Nuss procedure: study protocol for a randomized controlled non-inferiority clinical trial

Background

Thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB) is a widely advocated regional technique for alleviating postoperative pain in children undergoing elective pectus excavatum repair. However, this technique is associated with some undesirable adverse events. Recently, the erector spinae plane block (ESPB) has been introduced as a practical alternative to the TPVB in thoracic surgery. This interfascial regional anesthesia technique interrupts pain sensation by injecting local anesthetics between the muscular layers of the thoracic wall. Several case series described it as an effective pain management technique following pectus excavatum repair. Therefore, this trial is designed to test the hypothesis that ESPB is non-inferior to TPVB in postoperative pain control after pectus excavatum repair.

Methods

This is a prospective randomized double-blind non-inferiority trial. A total of 40 patients aged 4 to 18 years undergoing Nuss surgery will be randomly assigned to receive pain treatment with either ESPB or TPVB. All patients will receive additional systemic multimodal analgesia with an intravenous patient-controlled analgesia pump and acetaminophen. The primary outcome is the pain intensity at rest, 24 h postoperatively. Secondary outcomes include accumulated morphine-equivalent consumption, postoperative pain scores, emergence agitation incidence, time of the first mobilization, time to first rescue analgesia, complications related to pain treatment, and morphine-related adverse events.

Discussion

This will the first randomized controlled trial to compare ESPB with TPVB for analgesia after pectus excavatum repair. This trial aims to provide important clinical evidence to elaborate on the analgesic mechanism of ESPB in children.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.govNCT05034601. This trial was prospectively registered.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13063-022-06044-y.

Epidural analgesia and abnormal coagulation in patients undergoing minimal invasive repair of pectus excavatum

Background:

Epidural analgesia (EA) is effective in patients undergoing minimal invasive repair of pectus excavatum (MIRPE) but is associated with major complications such as epidural hematomas. It is recommended to assess coagulation status in patients receiving anticoagulant therapy prior to EA, although no consensus exists in patients without a history of bleeding tendency or anticoagulant therapy. Thus, the aim of this paper was to assess 1) the prevalence of abnormal routine coagulation parameters, i.e., international normalized ratio (INR) and platelet count, and 2) the safety of EA in patients undergoing MIRPE.

Methods:

In this retrospective study, we identified 1,973 patients undergoing MIRPE at our center between 2001 and 2019. Complications related to EA were registered for all patients. Information on coagulation parameters was present in 929 patients. Patients with spontaneously elevated INR ≥1.5 were referred for assessment of coagulation factor VII in order to assess the cause of the elevated INR.

Results:

Of 929 patients with coagulation information available, 18 patients had spontaneously elevated INR ≥1.5 (1.9%). In patients with INR ≥1.5, 12 patients underwent further assessment of factor VII, with all patients having a slightly reduced factor VII close to the lower reference range. The majority of the 1,973 patients undergoing MIRPE received EA (99.6%) with very low complication rates (0.2%) and no incidence of epidural hematomas.

Conclusion:

In patients undergoing MIRPE, coagulation screening prior to EA should not be mandatory as it revealed no clinically relevant consequences. EA is safe with very low complication rates.

Anesthesia for Innovative Pediatric Surgical Procedures

Over the past few decades, there have been many advances in pediatric surgery, some using new devices (eg, VEPTR, MAGEC rods) and others using less invasive approaches (eg, Nuss procedure, endoscopic cranial suture release, minimally invasive tethered cord release). Although many of these procedures were initially met with caution or skepticism, continued experience over the past few decades has shown that these procedures are safe and effective. This article reviews the anesthetic considerations for these conditions and procedures.

Standardization of clinical care pathway leads to sustained decreased length of stay following Nuss pectus repair: A multidisciplinary quality improvement initiative

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Postoperatively, standardized clinical care pathways (SCCPs) help patients reach necessary milestones for discharge. The objective of this study was to achieve 90% compliance with a pectus specific SCCP within 9 months of implementation. We hypothesized that adherence to a pectus SCCP following the Nuss procedure would decrease postsurgical length of stay (LOS).

METHODS

A multidisciplinary team implemented the pectus SCCP, including goals for mobility, lung recruitment, pain control, intake, and output. The full protocol included 42 components, tracked using chart reviews and a patient-directed checklist. The primary process measure was compliance with the pectus SCCP. The primary outcome measure was LOS; secondary outcomes were patient charges, patient satisfaction, and hospital readmission.

RESULTS

Total study patients were n = 509: 159 patients pre-intervention, 350 patients post-intervention (80 implementation group; 270 sustain group). SCCP compliance data were collected on 164 patients post-intervention - 80 implementation, 84 sustain. LOS, ED visits, and hospital readmissions were recorded for all 509 patients. Mean LOS decreased from 4.5 days to 3.4 days, with >90% adherence to the pectus SCCP postintervention. There were no readmissions owing to pain despite earlier termination of epidural analgesia. Total patient charges decreased by 30% and patient satisfaction was high.

CONCLUSION

Using quality improvement methodology with strict adherence to a pectus SCCP, we had significant reduction in LOS and patient charge without compromising effective postoperative pain management or patient satisfaction.

TYPE OF STUDY

Clinical research; quality improvement.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

V.

Opioid use in children's surgery: Awareness, current state, and advocacy

In response to the ongoing opioid epidemic, many surgeons who care for children have reflected upon current practices and the history of our own prescribing. In this editorial review, we provide a brief summary of the origins of opioid use in medicine and surgery, we describe how the ongoing opioid epidemic specifically impacts children and adolescents, and we explore contemporary efforts underway to facilitate evidence-based opioid prescribing. Resources for pediatric surgeons including national guidelines related to safe opioid prescribing and web-based toolkits that may be used to implement change locally are highlighted. The goal of the present manuscript is to introduce opioid stewardship as a guiding principle in pediatric surgery. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: LEVEL V (Expert opinion).

Evolving pediatric epidural practice: An institution's clinical experience over 20 years-A retrospective observational cohort study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Epidural analgesia is an effective, established perioperative intervention in all age-groups. In children, however, epidural-related data are limited compared to the adult population. The aim of this study was to examine the use of pediatric epidural analgesia in our institution and, thereby, add to the existing data pool.

METHODOLOGY

Patients who received epidural analgesia as part of their perioperative management between 1996 and 2016 at Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK, were studied to determine how epidural practice has changed over time, associated incidence of serious adverse events, complications, and patient/parent satisfaction. Epidural use and monitoring were in accordance with standard hospital protocols. Data were prospectively collected and entered into a secure database by trained personnel. These data were subsequently extracted for retrospective analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 3876 patients were included. The median age was 4.4 years (range 1 day to 20 years), and the median weight was 20.3 kg. Across all age-groups, the lumbar region was the most common site of epidural insertion while urology (42.2%) and general surgery (37.3%) were the specialities for which it was most utilized. Over the study period, the number of epidurals performed declined while the number of surgical procedures performed simultaneously increased. The infusate most commonly used was local anesthetic with preservative-free morphine (71.9%). In 923 (23.2%) patients, systemic opioids were additionally used for analgesic management by means of patient-controlled analgesia or nurse-controlled analgesia. There was one serious adverse event in the form of permanent nerve injury, giving an overall incidence of approximately 1:3800. Other complications included postoperative nausea and vomiting (35.9%), urinary retention (4.4%), and pruritus (31%). Overall global satisfaction with the service was generally high, with 95% providing a rating of "very good" or "good."

CONCLUSION

This study evaluated two decades of epidural practice in our institution. Epidural analgesia remains a safe, effective option for postoperative analgesia, but its use has declined over time, and this trend is likely to continue. Rates of serious adverse events and complications were low and comparable to those published in other similar studies. Global satisfaction among patients/parents remains high.

Which Is More Effective for Minimally Invasive Pectus Repair: Epidural or Paravertebral Block?

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of epidural block (EDB) and paravertebral block (PVB) for minimally invasive pectus repair with the conventional method in terms of pain control during and after pectus operations, patient comfort, and length of stay in hospital. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review was made of patients who underwent minimally invasive pectus repair. The patients were allocated into three groups as follows: PVB group (Pre-emptive ultrasound-guided bilateral thoracic single injection PVB, n = 15); EDB group (Pre-emptive landmark-guided single injection thoracic EDB, n = 8); and Control group (Neither PVB nor EPB, n = 9). The intraoperative analgesic requirement was recorded, and a visual analog scale (VAS) for pain evaluation and the Postoperative Patient Satisfaction Scale were applied to all patients. Results: The intraoperative analgesic requirement, VAS scores, postoperative satisfaction level, and time to first requirement for postoperative analgesia were different between the control and PVB groups (P < .001) and between the control and EDB groups (P < .001), but not different between the PVB and EDB groups. Although the length of stay in hospital was shorter in the PVB and EDB groups compared to the control group, the difference was not statistically significant (P = .422). Conclusion: Epidural and bilateral paravertebral blockades performed in conjunction with general anesthesia decrease the intraoperative and postoperative need for analgesics, and might be beneficial for pain management and contribute to a shorter length of hospital stay for patients undergoing minimally invasive pectus repair operations. Both blockades also significantly improved the patient satisfaction.

Ultrasound-Guided Serratus Anterior Plane Block for Pain Management Following Minimally Invasive Repair of Pectus Excavatum

OBJECTIVE

The Nuss procedure is a preferred technique for minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum (MIRPE), but it is associated with significant postoperative pain. We assessed the efficacy and safety of an ultrasound-guided bilateral serratus anterior plane block (SAPB) for relieving acute pain from MIRPE.

DESIGN

A retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

This study was conducted at the Marmara University Pendik Training and Research Hospital, Turkey.

PARTICIPANTS

All participants were scheduled for MIRPE.

INTERVENTIONS

This study was conducted from November 2017 to May 2018. Postoperative pain control was achieved with bilateral SAPB done after induction of anesthesia and IV PCA in 50 patient (SABP group) and with only IV PCA in 45 patients (Control group). SAPB was achieved, targeting the interfascial plane between the serratus anterior and latissimus dorsi muscles, with a single injection of 30 mL (20 mL if patient weighed < 40 kg) of 0.25% bupivacaine and 0.5% lidocaine into each side. Pain scores were recorded for 24 h.

MEASUREMENT AND MAIN RESULTS

Patients in the Control group had a higher demand (mean difference, 61; 95% confidence interval [CI] 30.5-136; P < 0.0001) and delivery dose (mean difference, 25; 95% CI 15-41.5 P = 0.001) during the first postoperative 24 h. SAPB did not affect the median (interquartile range) length of hospital stay: 5 (5-7) days vs. 5 (4-6) days, (P =0.085).

CONCLUSIONS

Bilateral single-injection SAPB in patients undergoing MIRPE decreases pain and opioid consumption during the early postoperative period.

Bilateral single shot erector spinae plane block for pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum surgery in 2 pediatric patients

Numerous publications have emerged on the application of erector spinae plane block in adult population. There are few reports of the use of this block in pediatric patients. The objective is to report 2 cases of adolescents, one diagnosed with pectus excavatum and the other one with pectus carinatum undergoing reconstructive surgery in which a bilateral single-shot erector spinae plane block was performed as an analgesic technique. The block was performed before surgery under general anesthesia in lateral decubitus position, guided by ultrasound using 20ml of 0.25% bupivacaine per side. After the surgery they were extubated and transferred to the Intensive Care Unit. During their postoperative period they had visual analogic scale values less than 4 and no long term narcotics were used during the intraoperative and postoperative period. Bilateral single shot erector spinae plane block was effective as an analgesic technique for the intraoperative and postoperative period in pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum surgery in adolescents.

Withholding Urinary Catheters in Children Receiving Patient-Controlled Analgesia for Appendicitis

BACKGROUND

In some institutions, urinary catheters (UCs) have been placed in all patients receiving opioid patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) because of the increased incidence of urinary retention. Our institutional data demonstrated no UC replacements in 48 children who had PCA for perforated appendicitis who had their catheters removed before discontinuation of the PCA. As part of a quality improvement initiative, we discontinued the practice of requiring UC with PCA for perforated appendicitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective list of patients with perforated appendicitis was maintained. Data were gathered regarding 60 consecutive patients. UC placement was allowed for specific indications including urinary retention and surgeon discretion.

RESULTS

Sixteen patients (27%) received a UC with 14 of these being placed in the operating room (OR). Two UCs were placed outside the OR for urinary retention. Patients who underwent UC placement in the OR weighed significantly more than those who did not (33 versus 42 kg, P = 0.05). No patients required replacement of the catheter once removed. There were no postoperative urinary tract infections. Median PCA duration was 68 h (50, 98) for patients with UC placed in the OR compared with 60 h (47, 78) (P = 0.42). Median postoperative length of stay for patients with UC placed in the OR was 95 h (76, 140) compared with 90 h (70, 113) (P = 0.09).

CONCLUSIONS

UC can be withheld from patients with perforated appendicitis who are placed on PCA with a very low placement rate. UC placement at time of operation did not lengthen time receiving PCA or length of stay.

Ropivacaine has no advantage over bupivacaine in thoracic epidural analgesia for patients with pectus excavatum undergoing the Nuss procedure - a single blind randomized clinical trial comparing efficacy and safety

Introduction

Pectus excavatum repair (Nuss procedure) is a painful procedure requiring effective postoperative analgesia.

Aim

To establish whether thoracic epidural analgesia with ropivacaine is non-inferior to epidural analgesia with bupivacaine following the Nuss procedure in children.

Material and methods

The prospective, randomized, controlled, single blind study included 81 children. Computer-generated random numbers were used to allocate treatment. All children received general anesthesia. Intraoperative and postoperative analgesia was achieved with either 0.5% and 0.1% ropivacaine (group R) or 0.375% and 0.0625% bupivacaine (group B). The Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) and the Prince Henry Hospital Pain Score (PHHPS) were used to assess postoperative pain directly after and 1, 8, 20 and 24 hours after awakening from general anesthesia. NRS scores of more than 2 and a PHHPS score of more than 1 were considered as pain requiring intervention. Hemodynamic stability and side effects were also compared between the groups.

Results

The durations of the procedure and extubation times in groups R and B were similar (59 ±7 vs. 56 ±10 minutes and 9 ±5 vs. 10 ±5 minutes, respectively). Pain scores requiring intervention were below 10% and were recorded with similar frequency in both groups, except for one difference in the PHHPS score in favor of group R after 24 hours (12% vs. 40%, p < 0.05). The frequency of side effects and hemodynamic stability were similar in both groups.

Conclusions

0.1% epidural ropivacaine has no advantage over 0.0625% epidural bupivacaine for pectus excavatum repair in children.

Cryoanalgesia in Patients Undergoing Nuss Repair of Pectus Excavatum: Technique Modification and Early Results

PURPOSE

The Nuss procedure for surgical correction of pectus excavatum often causes severe postoperative pain. Cryoanalgesia of intercostal nerves is an alternative modality for pain control. We describe our modification of the cryoICE™ probe that allows for nerve ablation through the ipsilateral chest along with early results utilizing this technique.

METHODS

To allow for ipsilateral nerve ablation, a 20-French chest tube was cut and secured to the cryoICE probe, thus providing insulation for the malleable end of the probe. A 3-year retrospective review of patients undergoing Nuss repair at our institution was performed. Patients who received cryoanalgesia (cryo, n = 6) were compared with a historical control cohort who did not receive cryoanalgesia (nocryo, n = 13) during Nuss repair. Hospital length of stay, postoperative narcotic requirement (PNR), and highest postoperative pain score were collected.

RESULTS

Both cohorts were similar regarding age, BMI, and pectus index. The cryo group had a significantly less PNR (6.4 versus 17.9 doses, P = .05) and was discharged on average >1 day earlier than nocryo patients (3.7 versus 2.2 days, P = .01). No complications occurred in either group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our technique modification simplifies previously described approaches to intercostal nerve cryoablation. Patients undergoing this adjunct benefit with less PNR and a faster discharge time.

Are Foley catheters needed after minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum?

BACKGROUND

High narcotic requirements after minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum (MIRPE) can increase the risk of urinary retention. Placement of intraoperative Foley catheters to minimize this risk is variable. This study determines the rate of urinary retention in this population to guide future practice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We reviewed retrospectively all patients who underwent MIRPE from January 2012 to July 2016 at 2 academic children's hospitals. Data collected included demographics, BMI, severity of the pectus defect, postoperative pain management, and the incidence of urinary retention and urinary tract infection (UTI).

RESULTS

Of 360 total patients who underwent MIRPE, 218 had an intraoperative Foley catheter. Patients with epidural pain control were more likely to receive a Foley catheter. The urinary retention rate was 34% for patients without an intraoperative Foley, and 1% in patients after removal of an intraoperatively placed Foley. Urinary retention was greater with an epidural compared with patient-controlled anesthesia (55% vs 26%, P = .002) in the no intraoperative Foley group. No urinary tract infections were identified. Epidural pain control was the only risk factor on multivariate analysis for retention in patients without an intraoperatively Foley catheter.

CONCLUSION

Intraoperative Foley catheters obviate urinary retention without increasing the risk of urinary tract infection after MIRPE. These results will allow surgeons to better counsel patients regarding Foley placement.

Anesthesia for minimally invasive chest wall reconstructive surgeries: Our experience and review of literature

Minimal access procedures have revolutionized the field of surgery and opened newer challenges for the anesthesiologists. Pectus carinatum or pigeon chest is an uncommon chest wall deformity characterized by a protruding breast bone (sternum) and ribs caused by an overgrowth of the costal cartilages. It can cause a multitude of problems, including severe pain from an intercostal neuropathy, respiratory dysfunction, and psychologic issues from the cosmetic disfigurement. Pulmonary function indices, namely, forced expiratory volume over 1 s, forced vital capacity, vital capacity, and total lung capacity are markedly compromised in pectus excavatum. Earlier, open surgical correction in the form of the Ravitch procedure was followed. Currently, in the era of minimally invasive surgery, Nuss technique (pectus bar procedure) is a promising step in chest wall reconstructive surgery for pectus excavatum. Reverse Nuss is a corrective, minimally invasive surgery for pectus carinatum chest deformity. A tailor-made anesthetic technique for this new procedure has been described here based on the authors’ personal experience and thorough review of literature based on Medline, Embase, and Scopus databases search.