Expression of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor is induced in injured rat carotid arteries and mediates vascular smooth muscle cell migration

Intraperitoneal instillation versus wound infiltration for postoperative pain relief after cesarean delivery: A prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

AIM

To compare local anesthetic wound infiltration with intraperitoneal instillation of local anesthetic for analgesia after cesarean section under spinal anesthesia.

METHODS

This study was conducted on 150 pregnant women undergoing elective cesarean section under spinal anesthesia. Spinal anesthesia was performed with 7 mg isobaric bupivacaine and 15 μcg fentanyl. The patients were randomized into three groups of 50 patients each: Group local anesthetic wound infiltration (LWI): 20 ml local anesthetic solution (10 ml 0.5% bupivacaine and 10 ml 2% lidocaine mixture) was administered subcutaneous wound infiltration at the end of surgery prior to skin closure and 20 ml saline was instilled into the uterine peritoneal area before fascia closure. Group intraperitoneal local anesthetic (IPLA): 20 ml local anesthetic solution (10 ml 0.5% bupivacaine and 10 ml 2% lidocaine mixture) was instilled into the uterine peritoneal area and 20 ml saline was administered subcutaneous wound infiltration. Group Placebo: 20 ml saline was instilled into the uterine peritoneal area and 20 ml saline was administered local subcutaneous wound infiltration. Pain scores at rest and on movement, total fentanyl consumption at 24 h, maternal satisfaction, and the time to first analgesic request were recorded.

RESULTS

No statistically significant difference was observed in the postoperative pain scores at rest at 2, 12, and 24 h (p = 0.314, 0.343, and 0.735, respectively) and on movement at 12 and 24 h (p = 0.318 and 0.642, respectively) between the groups. The pain scores on movement at 2 h were significantly lower in Group IPLA compared with Group Placebo (p = 0.047). There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of total fentanyl consumption and the time to first analgesic request.

CONCLUSION

The use of intraperitoneal instillation of bupivacaine and lidocaine reduces early the pain score on movement in women undergoing cesarean section under spinal anesthesia.

Updates on Wound Infiltration Use for Postoperative Pain Management: A Narrative Review

Local anesthetic wound infiltration (WI) provides anesthesia for minor surgical procedures and improves postoperative analgesia as part of multimodal analgesia after general or regional anesthesia. Although pre-incisional block is preferable, in practice WI is usually done at the end of surgery. WI performed as a continuous modality reduces analgesics, prolongs the duration of analgesia, and enhances the patient’s mobilization in some cases. WI benefits are documented in open abdominal surgeries (Caesarean section, colorectal surgery, abdominal hysterectomy, herniorrhaphy), laparoscopic cholecystectomy, oncological breast surgeries, laminectomy, hallux valgus surgery, and radical prostatectomy. Surgical site infiltration requires knowledge of anatomy and the pain origin for a procedure, systematic extensive infiltration of local anesthetic in various tissue planes under direct visualization before wound closure or subcutaneously along the incision. Because the incidence of local anesthetic systemic toxicity is 11% after subcutaneous WI, appropriate local anesthetic dosing is crucial. The risk of wound infection is related to the infection incidence after each particular surgery. For WI to fully meet patient and physician expectations, mastery of the technique, patient education, appropriate local anesthetic dosing and management of the surgical wound with “aseptic, non-touch” technique are needed.

Intraperitoneal lidocaine instillation during abdominal hysterectomy: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials

AIM

To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of all randomized placebo-controlled trials (RCTs) that inspected the analgesic benefits of intraperitoneal lidocaine instillation among patients undergoing abdominal hysterectomy.

METHODS

Five electronic databases were inspected from till August 5, 2021. The eligible RCTs were evaluated for risk of bias. The pooled endpoints were summarized as mean difference (MD) or risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS

Five RCTs met the inclusion criteria comprising 263 patients (119 and 117 patients were allocated to lidocaine and control group, respectively). The included RCTs demonstrated a low risk of bias. The postoperative pain score at rest was significantly lower in favor of the lidocaine group (MD=-1.01, 95% CI [-1.20, -0.81], p<0.001), and subgroup analysis demonstrated the same at 2, 4, 8, 12, 24, and 48 h postoperatively. Moreover, the postoperative pain score at moving was significantly lower in favor of the lidocaine group (MD=-0.67, 95% CI [-1.01, -0.33], p<0.001), and subgroup analysis demonstrated the same at 2 and 48 h postoperatively. The postoperative morphine consumption during 0-24 h was significantly lower in favor of the lidocaine group (n = 5 RCTs, MD=-7.29 mg, 95% CI [-13.22, -1.37], p = 0.02). The rate of postoperative vomiting was significantly lower in favor of the lidocaine group (n = 4 RCTs, RR=0.54, 95% CI [0.31, 0.95], p = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

Among patients undergoing abdominal hysterectomy, intraperitoneal lidocaine instillation is feasible, cheap, safe, and associates with effective analgesia in terms of reduced postoperative pain score and morphine consumption.

Postoperative analgesic efficacy of continuous wound infusion with local anesthetics after laparoscopy (PAIN): a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

To investigate the efficacy of continuous wound infusion (CWI) with local anesthetics for reducing postoperative pain compared with placebo in patients undergoing benign gynecologic laparoscopy.

METHODS

In this double-blind trial, 66 patients were randomly assigned to receive either ropivacaine or normal saline though a multi-orifice catheter placed into the umbilical surgical wound for 50 h postoperatively. The primary outcome measure was the severity of postoperative pain 1, 6, 12, 24, and 48 h after surgery. The secondary outcome measure was the number of rescue analgesics requested.

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics did not statistically differ between the ropivacaine and placebo groups. The intensity of postoperative pain was significantly lower in the ropivacaine group than in the placebo group 1, 6, 12, 24, and 48 h after surgery (all P < 0.05). The number of rescue analgesics requested was also significantly lower in the ropivacaine group than in the placebo group. There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding other surgical outcomes.

CONCLUSION

CWI with local anesthetics after laparoscopic surgery provides good analgesia and reduces rescue analgesics consumption.

The LAPLAP study: a randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial assessing postoperative functional recovery using intraperitoneal local anaesthetic in laparoscopic colorectal surgery

AIM

Postoperative pain remains a major factor in recovery from colorectal resection. There is increasing interest in opioid-sparing analgesia, and intraperitoneal local anaesthetic (IPLA) has recently been shown to be useful in minor laparoscopic and open colorectal procedures. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of IPLA on functional recovery following major laparoscopic surgery. In this controlled trial, mobility, as measured by the De Morton Mobility Index (DEMMI), was used as a surrogate for postoperative functional recovery.

METHOD

Patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal resection were randomized either to continuous ropivacaine (0.2% at 4-6 ml/h) or to saline (0.9%) which were administered via intraperitoneal catheter for 3 days postoperatively. Results were analysed in a double-blind manner. DEMMIs were assessed on postoperative days 1, 2, 3, 7 and 30, and data on pain, opioid consumption, gut and respiratory function, length of stay (LOS) and complications were recorded.

RESULTS

Ninety-six patients were recruited. There was no difference in primary outcome (i.e., functional recovery) between IPLA and placebo groups. Opioid consumption and LOS were similar between groups, and no differences were found for any secondary outcome measure. There were no adverse events related to ropivacaine.

CONCLUSION

Infusional intraperitoneal local anaesthetic appears to be safe but does not improve functional recovery or analgesic consumption following elective laparoscopic colorectal surgery, in the setting of an established enhanced recovery programme.

Opioid Use in the Postoperative Arena: Global Reduction in Opioids After Surgery Through Enhanced Recovery and Gynecologic Surgery

Enhanced recovery programs aim to reduce surgical stress to improve the patient perioperative experience. Through a combination of multimodal analgesia and maintaining a physiological state, postoperative recovery is improved. Many analgesic adjuncts are available that improve postoperative pain control and limit opioid analgesia requirements. Adjuncts are often used in combination, but different interventions may be incorporated for patient-specific and procedure-specific needs. Postoperative pain control can be optimized by continuing nonopioid adjuncts, and prescribing opioid analgesia to address breakthrough pain. Prescribing practices should balance optimizing pain relief, minimizing the risk of chronic pain, while limiting the potential for opioid misuse.

Comparison of Topical and Subcutaneous Bupivacaine Infiltration with Subcutaneous Ketamine on Postoperative Pain in Total Abdominal Hysterectomy

INTRODUCTION

Hysterectomy is one of the most common surgical procedures. Problems such as severe pelvic pain, irregular or heavy bleeding and uterine cancer from those that may be used to treat them no choice but to remove the uterus by surgery. Abdominal pain after abdominal hysterectomy, the most common complaints of patients undergoing this type of surgery is considered.

AIM

This study aimed to compare the effects of bupivacaine into the subcutaneous tissue and skin ketamine for pain control after surgery in patients undergoing abdominal hysterectomy was performed under general anesthesia.

METHODS

This study is a randomized, double-blind clinical trial involving 99 women scheduled for TAH referred to tertiary centers was performed. Group A: 5 mL of 0.25% bupivacaine into the subcutaneous tissue and, Group II: 100 mg ketamine skin and subcutaneous tissue with cc5 volume injection, groups of three: cc5 distilled water was injected into the subcutaneous tissue and. The average duration of analgesia and pain and pain score were recorded.

RESULTS

The average duration of analgesia in group K 65.1±8.8, in the bupivacaine group 65.4±8.7 and in the placebo group 57.6±5.5, which, according to P Value≤0.01 is a significant difference between the three groups were observed, so that the pain in the placebo group for a significant period of ketamine and bupivacaine groups is lower, while that between ketamine and bupivacaine in terms of the average duration of analgesia was no significant difference not.

CONCLUSION

The results of our study indicate that the use of bupivacaine and ketamine effective in reducing postoperative pain in patients undergoing abdominal hysterectomy tissue and further doses of ketamine and bupivacaine single dose resulted in a significant reduction of postoperative pain patients were compared to the placebo group.

Comparison of intradermal Dexmedmotidine and subcutaneous Ketamine for post-surgical pain management in patients with abdominal hysterectomy

Hysterectomy after cesarean section is the second most commonly used surgery for women in the United States. One of the most common problem after hysterectomy is pain. We decided to compare the effects of dexmedmotidine or ketamine on pain in patients by a double blind randomized clinical trial on 126 female candidates for abdominal hysterectomy in three groups of 42 persons referred to Taleghani hospital in Arak. For the first group, 50 micrograms of intradermal dexmedmotidine were injected, while in the second group, patients were injected with 100 mg of subcutaneous ketamine and the third group received 5 cc normal saline. Data were next analyzed by SPSS version 19. The mean age and body mass index of the patients were not significantly different in the three groups. The mean scores of pain during recovery of patients in ketamine, dexmedmotidine and placebo groups were 4.2±0.77, 2.6±0.89 and 1.3±0.87, respectively (p = 0.001). Scores of pain in patients at 4 and 8 hours after surgery showed also significant differences. In conclusion, ketamine and dexmedmotidine significantly reduce the severity of pain, but ketamine has a lower effect.

Intraperitoneal Local Anesthetic Instillation and Postoperative Infusion Improves Functional Recovery Following Colectomy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Intraperitoneal local anesthetic is an analgesic technique for inclusion in the polypharmacy approach to postoperative pain management in enhanced recovery after surgery programs. Previously, augmentation of epidural analgesia with intraperitoneal local anesthetic was shown to improve functional postoperative recovery following colectomy.

OBJECTIVE

This study determines whether intraperitoneal local anesthetic improves postoperative recovery in patients undergoing colectomy, in the absence of epidural analgesia, with standardized enhanced recovery after surgery perioperative care.

DESIGN

This is a multisite, double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT02449720).

SETTINGS

This study was conducted at 3 hospital sites in South Australia.

PATIENTS

Eighty-six adults undergoing colectomy were stratified by approach (35 open; 51 laparoscopic), then randomly assigned to intraperitoneal local anesthetic (n = 44) and control (n = 42) groups.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients in the intraperitoneal local anesthetic group received an intraoperative intraperitoneal ropivacaine 100-mg bolus both pre- and postdissection and 20 mg/h continuous postoperative infusion for 48 hours. Patients in the control group received a normal saline equivalent.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Functional postoperative recovery was assessed by using the surgical recovery scale for 45 days; postoperative pain was assessed by using a visual analog scale; and opioid consumption, use of rescue ketamine, recovery of bowel function, time to readiness for discharge, and perioperative complications were recorded.

RESULTS

The intraperitoneal local anesthetic group reported improved surgical recovery scale scores at day 1 and 7, lower pain scores, required less rescue ketamine, and passed flatus earlier than the control group (p < 0.05). The improvement in surgical recovery scale at day 7 and pain scores remained when laparoscopic colectomy was considered separately. Opioid consumption and time to readiness for discharge were equivalent.

LIMITATIONS

This study was powered to detect a difference in surgical recovery scale, but not the other domains of recovery, when the intraperitoneal local anesthetic group was compared with control.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that instillation and infusion of intraperitoneal ropivacaine for patients undergoing colectomy, including by the laparoscopic approach, decreases postoperative pain and improves functional postoperative recovery. We recommend routine inclusion of intraperitoneal local anesthetic into the multimodal analgesia component of enhanced recovery after surgery programs for laparoscopic colectomy. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A698.

Efficacy of Intraperitoneal Bupivacaine on Pain Relief After Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Introduction: Patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy do experience postoperative pain, especially in the abdomen. Postoperative pain management remains a major challenge after laparoscopic procedures. Administration of intraperitoneal local anesthetic (IPLA) after surgery is used as a method of reducing postoperative pain. In this study, we evaluated the effect of intraperitoneal infiltration of local anesthetic (bupivacaine) for pain relief after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Material and methods: In this prospective, controlled, and randomized study were included 50 patients aged 25-60 years (35 female and 15 male), scheduled to laparoscopic cholecystectomy with ASA classification 1 and 2. Patients were classified randomly into two groups: group A, which included 25 patients who received intraperitoneal instillation of bupivacaine 0.5% 20 ml; and group B, which included 25 patients who didn’t receive any intraperitoneal instillation. Postoperative pain was recorded using the visual analogue scale (VAS) for 24 hours after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Results: There was no significant difference with respect to age, weight, and sex; duration of surgery; and anesthesia time. VAS scores at different time intervals were statistically significantly lower at all times in group A compared to group B. There were statistically significant differences in VAS scores between group A and group B at all postoperative time points - 1hr,4 hr,8 hr,12hr and 24hr (p < 0.00001).

Conclusion: Intraperitoneal instillation of bupivacaine provides good analgesia in the postoperative period after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Intraperitoneal dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to bupivacaine for postoperative pain management in children undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy: A prospective randomized trial

Background and Aims:

Intraperitoneal local anesthetic is an effective analgesic approach in laparoscopic appendectomy in adults. The aim of the study was to compare the postoperative pain when intraperitoneal bupivacaine is administered alone versus the addition of dexmedetomidine to it in children undergoing a laparoscopic appendectomy.

Methods:

In this prospective randomized trial, 52 children were randomly allocated to Group B who received intraperitoneal bupivacaine 0.25% (2 mg/kg) or Group BD who received intraperitoneal bupivacaine 0.25% (2 mg/kg) plus dexmedetomidine (1 mcg/kg) for postoperative analgesia in children undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy. Postoperative pethidine consumption at day 1 was recorded and considered the primary outcome of the study. Patients were evaluated for pain scores at 0, 2, 4, 6, 12, and 24 h, time to first request of pethidine, sedation scores at 0, 2, 4, and 6 h, length of hospital stay, and parents’ satisfaction. Chi-square, Fisher's exact, Student's t-test, and Mann–Whitney U-tests were used for analysis.

Results:

Postoperative visual analog scale scores were lower in Group BD at 2, 4, and 6 h (mean = 3, 3, 3, respectively) compared with Group B (mean = 4, 5, 4, respectively) (P < 0.05). Patients in Group BD had more sedation scores at 0, 2, and 4 h (P < 0.05), longer time to first rescue analgesia (P = 0.03), lesser rescue analgesic consumption (P = 0.02), shorter length of hospital stay (P = 0.02), and higher parents’ satisfaction (P = 0.01).

Conclusion:

Adding dexmedetomidine to intraperitoneal bupivacaine provides adequate postoperative analgesia in children undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy.

Essential Elements of Multimodal Analgesia in Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Guidelines

Perioperative multimodal analgesia uses combinations of analgesic medications that act on different sites and pathways in an additive or synergistic manner to achieve pain relief with minimal or no opiate consumption. Although all medications have side effects, opiates have particularly concerning, multisystemic, long-term, and short-term side effects, which increase morbidity and prolong admissions. Enhanced recovery is a systematic process addressing each aspect affecting recovery. This article outlines the evidence base forming the current multimodal analgesia recommendations made by the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Society (ERAS). We describe current evidence and important future directions for effective perioperative multimodal analgesia in enhanced recovery pathways.

Intraperitoneal Instillation of Lidocaine Improves Postoperative Analgesia at Cesarean Delivery: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Cesarean delivery is a commonly performed procedure worldwide. Despite improvements in balanced multimodal analgesia, there remains a proportion of women for whom postoperative pain relief and patient satisfaction are still inadequate. Intraperitoneal instillation of local anesthetic has been shown to be effective in reducing postoperative pain after abdominal surgery. We sought to investigate the effect of intraperitoneal instillation of lidocaine on postcesarean delivery pain as part of a multimodal analgesia regimen.

METHODS

We studied women scheduled for elective cesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia. Spinal anesthesia was performed with 0.75% hyperbaric bupivacaine, fentanyl, and morphine. At the end of the cesarean delivery, immediately before parietal peritoneum or fascia closure, patients were randomized to receive either lidocaine (20 mL 2% lidocaine with epinephrine) or placebo (20 mL normal saline) instilled into the peritoneal cavity. The primary outcome was pain score on movement at 24 hours. Secondary outcomes were pain score at rest and on movement at 2, 24, and 48 hours; maternal satisfaction score; analgesic consumption; incidence of nausea, vomiting, and itching; and return of bowel function.

RESULTS

Two hundred four women were recruited. Baseline characteristics were similar between the lidocaine and placebo groups. Pain scores at 24 hours postcesarean delivery on movement (parameter estimate 0.02 [95% confidence interval {CI} -0.14 to 0.18]; P = .823) and at rest (parameter estimate 0.00 [95% CI -0.32 to 0.33]; P = .986) were similar in both groups. Pain scores at 2 hours postcesarean delivery on movement (parameter estimate -0.58 [95% CI -0.90 to -0.26]; P = .001) and at rest (parameter estimate -1.00 [95% CI -1.57 to -0.43]; P = .001) were lower in the lidocaine group. Subgroup analysis of patients with peritoneum closure revealed significantly lower pain scores at 24 hours on movement (parameter estimate -0.33 [95% CI -0.64 to -0.03]; P = .032) in the lidocaine group. The number of women requesting postoperative opioids for breakthrough pain was significantly lower in the lidocaine group compared with that of the placebo (40 [40%] vs 61 [65%], respectively, relative risk 0.59 [95% CI 0.43-0.81]; P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of intraperitoneal instillation of lidocaine improves early postoperative pain management after cesarean delivery. Furthermore, it reduces the number of women requesting systemic opioids in the immediate postpartum period. Women undergoing peritoneal closure may particularly benefit from this intervention.

Post-operative pain relief using local infiltration analgesia during open abdominal hysterectomy: a randomized, double-blind study

BACKGROUND

Post-operative pain is common and often severe after open abdominal hysterectomy, and analgesic consumption high. This study assessed the efficacy of local infiltration analgesia (LIA) injected systematically into different tissues during surgery compared with saline on post-operative pain and analgesia.

METHODS

Fifty-nine patients were randomized to Group LIA (n = 29) consisting of 156 ml of a mixture of 0.2% ropivacaine + 30 mg ketorolac + 0.5 mg (5 ml) adrenaline, where the drugs were injected systematically in the operating site, around the proximal vagina, the ligaments, in the fascia and subcutaneously, or to saline and intravenous ketorolac, Group C (Control, n = 28), in a double-blind study. Post-operative pain, analgesic consumption, side-effects, and home discharge were analysed.

RESULTS

Median dose of rescue morphine given 0-24 h after surgery was significantly lower in group LIA (18 mg, IQR 5-25 mg) compared with group C (27 mg, IQR 15-43 mg, P = 0.028). Median time to first analgesic injection was significantly longer in group LIA (40 min, IQR 20-60 min) compared with group C (20 min, IQR 12-30 min, P = 0.009). NRS score was lower in the group LIA compared with group C in the direct post-operative period (0-2 h). No differences were found in post-operative side-effects or home discharge between the groups.

DISCUSSION

Systematically injected local infiltration analgesia for pain management was superior to saline in the primary endpoint, resulting in significantly lower rescue morphine requirements during 0-24 h, longer time to first analgesic request and lower early post-operative pain intensity.

Peritoneal Nebulization of Ropivacaine during Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Dose Finding and Pharmacokinetic Study

Background. Intraperitoneal nebulization of ropivacaine reduces postoperative pain and morphine consumption after laparoscopic surgery. The aim of this multicenter double-blind randomized controlled trial was to assess the efficacy of different doses and dose-related absorption of ropivacaine when nebulized in the peritoneal cavity during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Methods. Patients were randomized to receive 50, 100, or 150 mg of ropivacaine 1% by peritoneal nebulization through a nebulizer. Morphine consumption, pain intensity in the abdomen, wound and shoulder, time to unassisted ambulation, discharge time, and adverse effects were collected during the first 48 hours after surgery. The pharmacokinetics of ropivacaine was evaluated using high performance liquid chromatography. Results. Nebulization of 50 mg of ropivacaine had the same effect of 100 or 150 mg in terms of postoperative morphine consumption, shoulder pain, postoperative nausea and vomiting, activity resumption, and hospital discharge timing (>0.05). Plasma concentrations did not reach toxic levels in any patient, and no significant differences were observed between groups (P > 0.05). Conclusions. There is no enhancement in analgesic efficacy with higher doses of nebulized ropivacaine during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. When administered with a microvibration-based aerosol humidification system, the pharmacokinetics of ropivacaine is constant and maintains an adequate safety profile for each dosage tested.

Analgesia with interfascial continuous wound infiltration after laparoscopic colon surgery: A randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

For major laparoscopic surgery, as with open surgery, a multimodal analgesia plan can help to control postoperative pain. Placing a wound catheter intraoperatively following colon surgery could optimize the control of acute pain with less consumption of opioids and few adverse effects.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective, randomized, study of patients scheduled to undergo laparoscopic colon surgery for cancer in Galdakao-Usansolo Hospital from January 2012 to January 2013. Patients were recruited and randomly allocated to wound catheter placement plus standard postoperative analgesia or standard postoperative analgesia alone. A physician from the acute pain management unit monitored all patients for pain at multiple points over the first 48 hours after surgery. The primary outcome variables were verbal numeric pain scale scores and amount of intravenous morphine used via patient controlled infusion.

RESULTS

92 patients were included in the study, 43 had a wound catheter implanted and 49 did not. Statistically significant differences in morphine consumption were observed between groups throughout the course of the treatment period. The mean total morphine consumption at the end of the study was 5.63±5.02mg among wound catheter patients and 21. 86±17.88mg among control patients (P=.0001). Wound catheter patients had lower pain scale scores than control patients throughout the observation period. No adverse effects associated with the wound catheter technique were observed. The wound catheter group showed lower hospital stays with statistically significant difference (P=.02).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients undergoing laparoscopic colon surgery, continuous infusion of local anaesthetics through interfascial wound catheters during the first 48h aftersurgery reduced the level of perceived pain and also reduced parenteral morphine consumption with no associated adverse effects and lower hospital stays.

Effectiveness and safety of continuous wound infiltration for postoperative pain management after open gastrectomy

AIM: To prospectively evaluate the effectiveness and safety of continuous wound infiltration (CWI) for pain management after open gastrectomy.

METHODS: Seventy-five adult patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Physical Status Classification System (ASA) grade 1-3 undergoing open gastrectomy were randomized to three groups. Group 1 patients received CWI with 0.3% ropivacaine (group CWI). Group 2 patients received 0.5 mg/mL morphine intravenously by a patient-controlled analgesia pump (PCIA) (group PCIA). Group 3 patients received epidural analgesia (EA) with 0.12% ropivacaine and 20 µg/mL morphine with an infusion at 6-8 mL/h for 48 h (group EA). A standard general anesthetic technique was used for all three groups. Rescue analgesia (2 mg bolus of morphine, intravenous) was given when the visual analogue scale (VAS) score was ≥ 4. The outcomes measured over 48 h after the operation were VAS scores both at rest and during mobilization, total morphine consumption, relative side effects, and basic vital signs. Further results including time to extubation, recovery of bowel function, surgical wound healing, mean length of hospitalization after surgery, and the patient’s satisfaction were also recorded.

RESULTS: All three groups had similar VAS scores during the first 48 h after surgery. Group CWI and group EA, compared with group PCIA, had lower morphine consumption (P < 0.001), less postoperative nausea and vomiting (1.20 ± 0.41 vs 1.96 ± 0.67, 1.32 ± 0.56 vs 1.96 ± 0.67, respectively, P < 0.001), earlier extubation (16.56 ± 5.24 min vs 19.76 ± 5.75 min, P < 0.05, 15.48 ± 4.59 min vs 19.76 ± 5.75 min, P < 0.01), and earlier recovery of bowel function (2.96 ± 1.17 d vs 3.60 ± 1.04 d, 2.80 ± 1.38 d vs 3.60 ± 1.04 d, respectively, P < 0.05). The mean length of hospitalization after surgery was reduced in groups CWI (8.20 ± 2.58 d vs 10.08 ± 3.15 d, P < 0.05) and EA (7.96 ± 2.30 d vs 10.08 ± 3.15 d, P < 0.01) compared with group PCIA. All three groups had similar patient satisfaction and wound healing, but group PCIA was prone to higher sedation scores when compared with groups CWI and EA, especially during the first 12 h after surgery. Group EA had a lower mean arterial pressure within the first postoperative 12 h compared with the other two groups.

CONCLUSION: CWI with ropivacaine yields a satisfactory analgesic effect within the first 48 h after open gastrectomy, with lower morphine consumption and accelerated recovery.

Presumptive intraperitoneal envenomation resulting in hemoperitoneum and acute abdominal pain in a dog

OBJECTIVE

To describe the clinical features, diagnostic findings, treatment, and outcome of a dog with acute abdominal pain and hemoperitoneum secondary to a presumptive intraperitoneal (IP) snakebite.

CASE SUMMARY

A 10-month-old castrated male mixed-breed dog was evaluated for suspected snake envenomation. The dog presented recumbent and tachycardic with signs of severe abdominal pain. Two cutaneous puncture wounds and hemoperitoneum were discovered during evaluation. Ultrasonographic examination revealed communication of the wounds with the peritoneal cavity. The dog was treated with supportive care, parenteral analgesia, packed red blood cell and fresh frozen plasma transfusions, crotalid antivenom, and placement of an IP catheter to provide local analgesia. The dog recovered fully and was discharged 5 days after initial presentation.

NEW OR UNIQUE INFORMATION PROVIDED

To our knowledge, this is the first report of IP envenomation accompanied by hemorrhage treated with continuous IP analgesia in the veterinary literature.

Efficacy and safety of intraperitoneal dexmedetomidine with bupivacaine in laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery, a randomized trial

OBJECTIVE

Our objective is to investigate the efficacy and safety of intraperitoneal dexmedetomidine (Dex) combined with bupivacaine in patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery.

DESIGN

Randomized double-blind study.

SETTING

Academic medical center.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Forty-five patients scheduled for laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery were randomly assigned for intraperitoneal administration of 50 mL saline (control group; GI, n = 15), 50 mL bupivacaine 0.25% (125 mg; GII, n = 15), or 50 mL bupivacaine 0.25% (125 mg) +1 μg/kg Dex (GIII, n = 15). Patients were assessed during the first 24 hours postoperatively for hemodynamics, visual analogue scale (VAS), time to first request of analgesia, total analgesic consumption, shoulder pain, and side effects.

RESULTS

A significant reduction was observed in VAS in GIII at base line, 2, 4, and 24 hours postoperatively in comparison to GI and GII (P < 0.05). The time to first analgesic requirement was significantly prolonged in GIII (P < 0.05). The mean total consumption of rescue analgesia was significantly reduced in GIII.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that intraperitoneal administration of Dex 1 μg/kg combined with bupivacaine improves the quality and the duration of postoperative analgesia and provides an analgesic sparing effect compared to bupivacaine alone without significant adverse effects in patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery.

Evidence-based anesthesia for major gynecologic surgery

Studies on enhanced recovery after gynecological surgery are limited but seem to report outcome benefits similar to those reported after colorectal surgery. Regional anesthesia is recommended in enhanced recovery protocols. Effective regional anesthetic techniques in gynecologic surgery include spinal anesthesia, epidural analgesia, transversus abdominis plane blocks, local anesthetic wound infusions and intraperitoneal instillation catheters. Non-opioid analgesics including pregabalin, gabapentin, NSAIDs, COX-2 inhibitors, and paracetamol reduce opioid consumption after surgery. This population is at high risk for PONV, thus, a multimodal anti-emetic strategy must be employed, including strategies to reduce the baseline risk of PONV in conjunction with combination antiemetic therapy.

Intraperitoneal local anesthetics have predominant local analgesic effect: a randomized, double-blind study

BACKGROUND

It remains unclear whether analgesia from intraperitoneal local anesthetics is via local or central mechanisms. This double-blind clinical trial tests the hypothesis that intraperitoneal local anesthetic is superior to continuous IV infusion for pain management. Primary outcome was morphine consumption during 0 to 24 h.

METHODS

Informed consent was obtained from 60 patients, age 30 to 75 yr, American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I to II, undergoing abdominal hysterectomy. A computer-generated program randomized patients in parallel arms to group IV: continuous infusion of lidocaine 50 mg/h (10 ml) IV and saline 10 ml/h intermittently intraperitoneal; group IP: injection of lidocaine 50 mg/h (10 ml) once every hour intraperitoneally and continuous infusion of saline 10 ml/h intravenously; and group P (placebo): saline 10 ml/h both intravenously and intermittent intraperitoneal injection. Postoperative morphine consumption, pain intensity, recovery, home discharge, and lidocaine concentrations were measured.

RESULTS

Morphine consumption during 0 to 24 h was lower in group IP versus group IV, mean difference -22.6 mg (95% CI, 11.4 to 33.8; P < 0.01). No difference was seen between group IV and group P. The total mean plasma concentration of lidocaine in group IP was significantly lower than group IV, 0 to 4.5 h postoperatively (P = 0.03) with no evidence of systemic toxicity. Pain intensity and other recovery parameters were similar between the groups.

CONCLUSION

The lower supplemental morphine consumption and plasma lidocaine concentration in group IP would confirm that the effects of local anesthetics are likely to be predominant via local intraperitoneal receptors or anti-inflammatory effects and not via central mechanisms alone.

Continuous infusion of local anaesthetic following laparoscopic hysterectomy--a randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To estimate whether a continuous infusion of intraperitoneal local anaesthetic for 48 hours following laparoscopic hysterectomy reduced the need for opioids delivered with a patient-controlled analgesia pump.

DESIGN

Double-blind randomised placebo-controlled trial.

SETTING

District general hospital in the UK.

POPULATION

Women undergoing a laparoscopic hysterectomy for a benign indication.

METHODS

Women were randomised to receive either 0.5% levobupivicaine or 0.9% normal saline via an ON-Q elastomeric pump for 48 hours postoperatively. The amount of opioids used via the patient-controlled analgesia pump was recorded and pain was measured using an 11-point Box Scale.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was the amount of patient-administered morphine used over the first 48 postoperative hours. Secondary outcomes were length of hospital stay, oral analgesia use and level of patient-reported pain.

RESULTS

Sixty women participated and completed the trial. There was no difference (P = 0.59) in the median amount of patient-administered morphine used between the levobupivicaine (23 mg) and placebo (18.5 mg) groups; median group difference 3.0 (95% CI -7.0 to 14.0). There was also no difference in the length of hospital stay with 40% of the treatment group remaining in hospital >48 hours compared with 30% of the placebo group (P = 0.08). Pain scores at all postoperative time points remained similar, with a median group difference in pain scores of 1.0 (95% CI -1.0 to 2.0) at the end of the first postoperative day.

CONCLUSIONS

Continuous infusion of 0.5% levobupivicaine into the peritoneal cavity following laparoscopic hysterectomy does not have any opioid-sparing effects.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of continuous local anaesthetic wound infiltration versus epidural analgesia for postoperative pain following abdominal surgery

BACKGROUND

Local anaesthetic wound infiltration techniques reduce opiate requirements and pain scores. Wound catheters have been introduced to increase the duration of action of local anaesthetic by continuous infusion. The aim was to compare these infiltration techniques with the current standard of epidural analgesia.

METHODS

A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) evaluating wound infiltration versus epidural analgesia in abdominal surgery was performed. The primary outcome was pain score at rest after 24 h on a numerical rating scale. Secondary outcomes were pain scores at rest at 48 h, and on movement at 24 and 48 h, with subgroup analysis according to incision type and administration regimen(continuous versus bolus), opiate requirements, nausea and vomiting, urinary retention, catheter-related complications and treatment failure.

RESULTS

Nine RCTs with a total of 505 patients were included. No differences in pain scores at rest 24 h after surgery were detected between epidural and wound infiltration. There were no significant differences in pain score at rest after 48 h, or on movement at 24 or 48 h after surgery. Epidural analgesia demonstrated a non-significant a trend towards reduced pain scores on movement and reduced opiate requirements. There was a reduced incidence of urinary retention in the wound catheter group.

CONCLUSION

Within a heterogeneous group of RCTs, use of local anaesthetic wound infiltration was associated with pain scores comparable to those obtained with epidural analgesia. Further procedure-specific RCTs including broader measures of recovery are recommended to compare the overall efficacy of epidural and wound infiltration analgesic techniques.

Wound infusion of bupivacaine following radical retropubic prostatectomy: a randomised placebo-controlled clinical study

CONTEXT

The effectiveness of postoperative analgesia through a wound catheter is subject to considerable debate.

OBJECTIVE

To test the hypothesis that local wound infusion with bupivacaine followed by continuous infusion could reduce postoperative need for opioids in patients undergoing retropubic prostatectomy.

DESIGN

Single-centre prospective, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial.

SETTING

A major university hospital in Denmark.

PATIENTS

Following written informed consent, 60 patients scheduled for prostatectomy were recruited to the study and 50 completed the protocol to reach data analysis.

INTERVENTIONS

Thirty millilitre bolus of bupivacaine (2.5 mg ml) or isotonic saline was injected through a subfascially placed wound catheter followed by continuous infusion at 5 ml h during the following 48 h. All patients were prescribed paracetamol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, morphine and oxycodone if needed.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary outcome was the opioid requirement. Secondary outcomes included pain scores at rest and with activity, and nausea and vomiting scores.

RESULTS

The total amount of morphine required during the postoperative period was not significantly higher (P=0.49) in the placebo group (12 mg, 25 to 75% percentile 5 to 18) than the bupivacaine group (10 mg, 25 to 75% percentile 0 to 16). Similarly, the total amount of oxycodone required was not significantly different (P=0.99) and was equal among the groups (5 mg, 25 to 75% percentile 5 to 10). At 2 h postoperatively, a significantly (P=0.0488) higher number of patients required additional morphine in the placebo group. No differences between the groups were detected at any time point regarding pain scores or the presence of nausea and vomiting.

CONCLUSION

Additional use of a wound catheter in patients undergoing prostatectomy in the present perioperative setting appears superfluous.

The ON-Q pain management system in elective gynecology oncologic surgery: Management of postoperative surgical site pain compared to intravenous patient-controlled analgesia

Objective

The goal of this study was to compare postoperative surgical site pain in gynecologic cancer patients who underwent elective extended lower midline laparotomy and managed their pain with either the ON-Q pain management system (surgical incision site pain relief system, ON-Q pump) or an intravenous patient-controlled analgesia pump (IV PCA).

Methods

Twenty gynecologic cancer patients who underwent elective extended lower midline laparotomy were divided into two groups. One group received a 72-hour continuous wound perfusion of the local anesthetic ropivacaine (0.5%, study group) into the supraperitoneal layer of the abdominal incision through the ON-Q pump. The other group received intravenous infusion pump of patient-controlled analgesia (fentanyl citrate 20 mg/mL · kg+ondansetron hydrochloride 16 mg/8 mL+normal saline). Postoperative pain was assessed immediately and at 6, 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours after surgery using the visual analogue scale.

Results

Postoperative surgical site pain scores at 24, 48, and 72 hours after surgery were lower in the ON-Q group than the IV PCA group. Pain scores at 24 hours and 48 hours after surgery were significantly different between the two groups (P=0.023, P<0.001). Overall painkiller administration was higher in the ON-Q group but this difference was not statistically significant (5.1 vs. 4.3, P=0.481).

Conclusion

This study revealed that the ON-Q pain management system is a more effective approach than IV PCA for acute postoperative surgical site pain relief after extended lower midline laparotomy in gynecologic cancer patients.

A randomized, multicenter, pilot study comparing the efficacy and safety of a bupivacaine-collagen implant (XaraColl(®)) with the ON-Q PainBuster(®) Post-op Pain Relief System following open gynecological surgery

Background

XaraColl^®, a collagen-based intraoperative implant that delivers bupivacaine to the site of surgical trauma, is under development for postoperative analgesia. We compared the efficacy and safety of XaraColl for the prevention of postsurgical pain versus a slow postoperative perfusion of bupivacaine to the wound environment via the ON-Q PainBuster^® Post-op Pain Relief System (ON-Q).

Methods

We randomized 27 women undergoing open gynecological surgery to receive either three XaraColl implants (each containing 50 mg bupivacaine hydrochloride) or ON-Q (900 mg bupivacaine hydrochloride perfused over 72 hours) in a 1:1 ratio. Following surgery, patients had access to intravenous morphine via a patient-controlled analgesia pump as rescue analgesia for the first 24 hours and to oral opioid medication thereafter. Total use of opioid analgesia was compared through 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours after surgery. Patients also evaluated overall pain control over the 96-hour period using a five-point numeric rating scale. Safety was assessed for 30 days after surgery.

Results

XaraColl was non-inferior to ON-Q in total use of opioid analgesia for the first 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours after surgery, with a statistical trend towards reduced opioid use in favor of XaraColl over 24, 48, and 72 hours (P = 0.067, 0.100, and 0.089, respectively). The time to first use of opioid analgesia was also significantly delayed in patients treated with XaraColl (P = 0.024). There was no significant difference between groups in patients’ evaluation of pain control or their satisfaction with the treatment in general. Both treatments were considered safe and well tolerated.

Conclusion

Despite using only 17% of the ON-Q dose, XaraColl is as effective as ON-Q in providing postoperative analgesia for 4 days after open gynecological surgery. These preliminary findings suggest that XaraColl offers great potential for the management of postoperative pain and warrants further definitive studies.

[Postoperative analgesia: comparing continuous epidural catheter infusion of local anesthetic and opioid and continuous wound catheter infusion of local anesthetic]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Continuous wound infusion has been investigated as a method of postoperative pain control and its efficacy has been demonstrated when compared to saline infusion. The objective of this study was to compare the quality of postoperative analgesia, the use of opioids as rescue analgesia, patient satisfaction, and the incidence of complications between epidural catheter infusion of local anesthetic and opioids and continuous wound infusion of local anesthetic.

METHODS

Thirty-eight patients undergoing elective laparotomy under general anesthesia, randomly divided into two groups, participated in this study. Group I (GI) received postoperative patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) with continuous infusion of ropivacaine and fentanyl, while Group II (GII) receive postoperative patient-controlled continuous wound catheter infusion of ropivacaine. In the postoperative period, the following parameters were assessed: quality of analgesia through the Visual Analogue Scale; use of rescue opioids; and adverse effects driving patient satisfaction.

RESULTS

Decreased pain at rest and with movements (p < 0.05) and lower consumption of rescue opioids (p < 0.05) were observed in GI in all intervals evaluated, as well as greater patient satisfaction in the post anesthesia care unit (PACU). The incidence of complications was similar in both groups except for pruritus which prevailed in GI between 6 (p < 0.05) and 24 (p < 0.001) postoperative hours.

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative analgesia with opioids and local anesthetics via PCEA was superior to the patient-controlled local anesthetic infusion into surgical wound. The incidence of side effects was similar in both groups.

Intraperitoneal local anesthetic improves recovery after colon resection: a double-blinded randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Two wounds are created after abdominal surgery. The surgical insult to the peritoneal cavity and viscera has not been emphasized as a target for interventions. In animal models vagotomy blunts the intraperitoneal response to induced inflammation. This is not feasible in humans. However a transient chemical afferentectomy after colectomy by using neuraxial blockade (epidural) and intraperitoneal blockade may be possible. We investigated the effects of intraoperative instillation and postoperative infusion of intraperitoneal local anesthetic (IPLA) on recovery parameters after colectomy, in the setting of an established enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) program.

METHODS

Double blinded, randomized, placebo controlled design. The study group (IPLA) received instillation of intraperitoneal ropivacaine (75 mg) before dissection and postoperative infusion of 0.2% solution at 4 mL/hour for 3 days continuously. The placebo group (NS) was treated as above with 0.9% saline solution. All patients were cared for under ERAS standardized perioperative care. Epidural infusion was stopped on day 2. Patients were discharged from day 3 onwards once criteria met. Perioperative data, surgical recovery score (SRS), complications, and length of stay were recorded. Systemic cytokines response, neuroendocrine parameters, pain measures and opioid use data were collected. Patients were followed up for 60 days.

RESULTS

Sixty patients were recruited. Patients were equivalently matched at baseline. There were no local anesthetic related adverse events. The complication rate, including anastomotic leak rate, was equivalent between groups. IPLA group had better SRS scores for the duration of intraperitoneal infusion. Pain and opioid use was reduced in the IPLA group. Systemic cytokine and cortisol response was diminished in the IPLA group. IPLA group had consistently higher systemic ropivacaine levels than placebo group.

CONCLUSION

Instillation and infusion of intraperitoneal ropivacaine after colectomy improves early surgical recovery. This was associated with a blunting of postsurgical systemic cytokines and cortisol. Patients also had significantly reduced pain and opioid use over and above the effect of an epidural infusion. Therefore a transient chemical afferentectomy with clinical benefit is possible with this method. A longer IPLA infusion duration needs to be studied. This study is registered at clinicaltrials.gov and carries the ID number NCT00722709.

Effects of gabapentin on postoperative pain, nausea and vomiting after abdominal hysterectomy: a double blind randomized clinical trial

PURPOSE

Gabapentin has demonstrated analgesic effects in some studies. This double blind randomized clinical trial (RCT) was conducted to evaluate whether the pre-emptive use of gabapentin 600 mg could reduce postoperative pain, nausea and vomiting, and meperidine consumption in patients after hysterectomy.

METHODS

Between 2009 and 2010, a total of 170 patients who were candidates for abdominal hysterectomy were assessed for eligibility to enter the study. Thirty patients were excluded for different reasons; and 140 included patients were randomly assigned to one of two groups according to the method of treatment, gabapentin or placebo, in a double-blind manner before hysterectomy. Postoperatively, the pain was assessed on a visual analogue scale (VAS) at 1, 4, 8, 12 and 24 h at rest. Meperidine intramuscularly was used to treat postoperative pain on VAS score and patients demand. Total meperidine and anti emetic drug consumption in the first 24 h after surgery was also recorded. The trial is registered at irct.ir, number IRCT201106186829N1.

RESULTS

Patients in the gabapentin group had significantly lower VAS scores at all time intervals, than those in the placebo group. The total meperidine consumed in the gabapentin group was significantly less than in the placebo group. Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and anti emetic drug consumption were significantly decreased in gabapentin group.

CONCLUSION

Pre-emptive use of gabapentin 600 mg orally, significantly decreases postoperative pain and PONV, and also rescues analgesic and anti emetic drug requirements in patients who undergo abdominal hysterectomy.

[Continuous infusion of local anesthetic at the site of the abdominal surgical wound for postoperative analgesia: a systematic review]

OBJECTIVES

We present a systematic review of clinical trials to evaluate the efficacy of infusing local anesthetic through a catheter placed in the abdominal surgical wound.

METHODS

The Jadad (Oxford) scoring system was used to select trials. The variables considered in relation to each trial selected were as follows: type of intervention and incision; type, dose, and concentration of local anesthetic; site where the catheter was placed; rescue analgesia required; opioid use; and incidence of adverse events.

RESULTS

Fifteen clinical trials with a mean Jadad score of 4.6 were selected. The 1139 patients enrolled in the trials were grouped according to catheter placement: subfascial (6 trials), subcutaneous (8 trials), and both (1 trial). Six additional unpublished trials registered at ClinicalTrials.gov were also located.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical wound analgesia is a safe technique whose effectiveness has been observed in cesarean sections and hysterectomies performed with Pfannenstiel incisions. Outcomes for other types of surgery are inconsistent. There is a lack of studies of the optimal site for catheter placement as well as of adequate anesthetic concentration and volume.

Pain control infusion pumps: a prospective randomized evaluation in bilateral total knee arthroplasty

We prospectively monitored pain scores on 24 patients who underwent bilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Patients were blinded to receiving either a functional or placebo pain control infusion pumps. After 3 days, pump volume was recorded, and patients were asked to identify which knee they believed received the functional pain control infusion pump. Fourteen patients (58%) correctly identified their knee with the functional pain control infusion pump. Pump volumes ranged from 70 to 310 mL, with an average flow rate of 4.3 mL/hour. Positive identification rates were similar to rates routinely generated from standard placebo symptom treatment pain trials (0%-60%). Our data suggest that the placebo effect plays at least a partial role in pain control infusion pump effectiveness, and that pain control infusion pump use for TKA unpredictably contributes to postoperative pain management. [corrected]

Patient controlled regional analgesia after carpal tunnel release: a double-blind study using distal perineural catheters

This study was done to assess the efficacy of a perineural catheter for pain relief following carpal tunnel release (CTR). Sixty-six patients undergoing open CTR under local anaesthesia (LA) were randomly divided into three groups: Groups A and B had a perineural catheter and Group C served as non-blinded control group. Postoperative pain relief was by self-administration of either ropivacaine (Group A) or saline (Group B) via an elastometric pump and by oral paracetamol in Group C. Patients in Group A had a significantly greater difference in summed pain intensity than Group B. Fewer patients in Group A requested supplementary analgesics than in Group C. Patient satisfaction was higher in Group A than in Group B on day 1. However better analgesia was not associated with better functional recovery.

Wound infiltration with local anaesthetics in ambulatory surgery

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Wound infiltration analgesia using local anaesthetics has been used for several decades. Recently, newer techniques to prolong analgesia have developed, including the use of catheters and injection of local anaesthetics or other adjuvants, and local infiltration analgesia using large volumes of local anaesthetics injected into different tissue planes. The aim of this review is to present the current status of wound infiltration analgesia in management of postoperative pain and to highlight the risks of this technique in clinical practice.

RECENT FINDINGS

Several studies have shown beneficial effects of local anaesthetics, with or without adjuvant drugs, in the management of postoperative pain. Specifically, the use of local anaesthetics injected via catheters to prolong analgesia reduces postoperative pain, albeit to a limited extent. The use of large volumes of local anaesthetics into tissue planes during surgery is also beneficial in pain management. Single doses of local anaesthetics provide pain relief, but the short duration of effect can be a limiting factor. There is a growing concern about some side-effects associated with the use of local anaesthetics, specifically toxicity when drugs are injected in large doses, chondrotoxicity when bupivacaine is injected intra-articularly in higher concentrations and over a period and finally, infection when using catheters that are retained in situ.

SUMMARY

Used correctly and in adequate doses, wound infiltration analgesia can be used in a multimodal analgesic regime without major complications. It offers the benefit of providing analgesia at a low cost when used as a single injection.