Predicting Severity of Acute Pain After Cesarean Delivery: A Narrative Review

Enhanced recovery after caesarean section: Implementation of an ERAC protocol in a tertiary obstetric hospital

OBJECTIVE

Assess safety and efficacy of an Enhanced Recovery After Caesarean protocol.

BACKGROUND

Caesarean sections are among the most commonly performed surgeries worldwide, but have been associated with postoperative chronic pain and opioid abuse.

METHODS

ASA 2 females, over 18 years, non-primiparous, repeat elective LSCS. Primary outcomes were length of stay and opioid consumption. Secondary outcomes were pain scores, functional assessment scores, pruritus, nausea and vomiting.

RESULTS

A total of 579 women divided into standard care (389 patients) and enhanced recovery after caesarean groups (190 patients). Enhanced recovery after caesarean associated with reduced length of stay, 50.8 hours (interquartile range 48.6, 53.6) versus 72.2 hours (interquartile range 53.2, 75.7) in standard care. Enhanced recovery after caesarean associated with reduced opioid consumption, median 10 (interquartile range 0, 27.5mg) versus 120mg (interquartile range 90, 145mg) in standard care at 24 hours and 30 (interquartile range 7.7, 67.5mg) versus 177.5mg (interquartile range 132.5, 222.5 mg) at 48 hours. Pain scores reduced from moderate to mild in the enhanced recovery after caesarean. functional assessment scores trend towards improved function in the enhanced recovery after caesarean group (Functional assessment scores B 8.9% in enhanced recovery after caesarean versus 147% in standard care). Increased pruritus in the enhanced recovery after caesarean with 41.6% compared with 9.3% in standard care. Nausea and vomiting increased in enhanced recovery after caesarean group 48.9% versus 11.6% in standard care.

CONCLUSION

Enhanced recovery after caesarean associated with a reduction in length of stay, opioid consumption and improved pain scores with an increase in side effects.

Transversus Abdominis Plane Block versus Epidural Anesthesia for Pain Management Post-Caesarean Delivery: A Pilot Study

Background

Effective post-operative analgesia profoundly influences patient recovery and outcomes after caesarean delivery. The Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) block represents a potential alternative, potentially offering greater effectiveness than epidural analgesia while causing fewer adverse effects.

Objective

To assess if the abdominal transverse block provides superior postoperative pain relief in patients undergoing caesarean delivery compared to epidural analgesia.

Methods

Participants were divided into parallel groups: an experimental group receiving TAP block (n=25) and a control group receiving epidural analgesia (n=24). All patients received a 10 mg dose of hyoscine at the end of the surgery. Experimental Group received a total of 20 mL of 0.2% ropivacaine. In Epidural group received 0.2% ropivacaine at 4 mL/h for 24 hours. All participants were administered combined with neuroaxial block anesthesia. The patients selected for epidural analgesia received the mentioned dose, while the other group block had the epidural catheter removed after the cesarean section. The primary outcome was post-caesarean pain, evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) at four intervals (0, 6, 12, and 24 hours). Also, surgical bleeding and residual motor were evaluated. VAS pain scores between the groups were compared using the Friedman test and Generalized Linear Model (GLM) for non-normally distributed data. The effect size was estimated with Eta Square ([Formula: see text]), considering values ≥0.38 as indicative of large effects. A two-tailed p-value < 0.05 was deemed statistically significant.

Results

Statistically significant differences in pain scores were noted at 0 and 6 hours post-surgery (p<0.01). The TAP block group reported lower pain scores at 0 hours (mean=0.04) and 6 hours (mean=1.16) compared to the epidural group, reflecting a substantial effect size.

Conclusion

The TAP block proves advantageous in mitigating postoperative pain for women post-caesarean delivery, particularly in the initial 6 postpartum hours. This relief promotes early mother-infant bonding and facilitates breastfeeding.

Brief Assessment of Patient Phenotype to Explain Variability in Postsurgical Pain and Opioid Consumption after Cesarean Delivery: Performance of a Novel Brief Questionnaire Compared to Long Questionnaires

BACKGROUND

Understanding factors that explain why some women experience greater postoperative pain and consume more opioids after cesarean delivery is crucial to building an evidence base for personalized prevention. Comprehensive psychosocial assessment with validated questionnaires in the preoperative period can be time-consuming. A three-item questionnaire has shown promise as a simpler tool to be integrated into clinical practice, but its brevity may limit the ability to explain heterogeneity in psychosocial pain modulators among individuals. This study compared the explanatory ability of three models: (1) the 3-item questionnaire, (2) a 58-item questionnaire (long) including validated questionnaires (e.g., Brief Pain Inventory, Patient Reported Outcome Measurement Information System [PROMIS]) plus the 3-item questionnaire, and (3) a novel 19-item questionnaire (brief) assessing several psychosocial factors plus the 3-item questionnaire. Additionally, this study explored the utility of adding a pragmatic quantitative sensory test to models.

METHODS

In this prospective, observational study, 545 women undergoing cesarean delivery completed questionnaires presurgery. Pain during local anesthetic skin wheal before spinal placement served as a pragmatic quantitative sensory test. Postoperatively, pain and opioid consumption were assessed. Linear regression analysis assessed model fit and the association of model items with pain and opioid consumption during the 48 h after surgery.

RESULTS

A modest amount of variability was explained by each of the three models for postoperative pain and opioid consumption. Both the brief and long questionnaire models performed better than the three-item questionnaire but were themselves statistically indistinguishable. Items that were independently associated with pain and opioid consumption included anticipated postsurgical pain medication requirement, surgical anxiety, poor sleep, pre-existing pain, and catastrophic thinking about pain. The quantitative sensory test was itself independently associated with pain across models but only modestly improved models for postoperative pain.

CONCLUSIONS

The brief questionnaire may be more clinically feasible than longer validated questionnaires, while still performing better and integrating a more comprehensive psychosocial assessment than the three-item questionnaire.

EDITOR’S PERSPECTIVE

Continuous wound infusion catheter as part of a multimodal analgesia regimen for post-Caesarean delivery pain: a quality improvement impact study

Background

The role of continuous wound infusion catheters as part of a multimodal analgesia strategy after Caesarean delivery is unclear. We introduced continuous wound infusion catheters to our multimodal analgesia regimen to evaluate the impact on analgesic outcomes after Caesarean delivery.

Methods

After institutional review board (IRB) approval, a 4-month practice change was instituted as a quality improvement initiative. In addition to multimodal analgesia, continuous wound infusion catheters for up to 3 days were offered on alternate weeks for all women undergoing Caesarean deliveries. The primary outcome was postoperative in-hospital opioid consumption. Secondary outcomes were static and dynamic pain scores at 24 and 72 h, time until first analgesic request, opioid-related side-effects, length of stay, satisfaction (0-100%), and continuous wound infusion catheter-related complications.

Results

All women scheduled for Caesarean delivery (n=139) in the 4-month period were included in the analysis, with 70 women receiving continuous wound infusion catheters, and 69 in the control group. Opioid consumption (continuous wound infusion catheter group 11.3 [7.5-61.9] mg morphine equivalents vs control group 30.0 [11.3-48.8] mg morphine equivalents), pain scores (except 24 h resting pain scores which were higher in the control group 2 [1-3] vs 1.5 [0-3] in the continous wound infusion catheters group; P=0.05), side-effects, length of stay, and complications were similar between groups. Satisfaction scores at 24 h were higher with continuous wound infusion catheters (100% [91-100%] vs 90% [86-100%]; P=0.003) with no differences at 72 h. One patient demonstrated symptoms of systemic local anaesthetic toxicity which resolved without significant harm.

Conclusions

The addition of continuous wound infusion catheters to a multimodal analgesia regimen for post-Caesarean delivery pain management demonstrated minimal clinically significant analgesic benefits. Future studies are needed to explore the use of continuous wound infusion catheters in populations that may benefit most from this intervention.

Effect of Personality and Pain Catastrophizing on Postoperative Analgesia Following Cesarean Section: A Prospective Cohort Study

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the effects of different psychological personalities and pain catastrophizing levels on postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing cesarean section.

Patients and Methods

Puerperas who underwent cesarean section at our hospital between January and August 2023 were recruited into the study and assessed using the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire-Revised Short Scale (EPQRSC) and Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS). Data on the numerical pain intensity at rest and during activity 24 h after surgery, number and dosage of analgesia pumps, and satisfaction with analgesia were recorded. According to the numerical pain score during activity 24 h post-operation, the patients were divided into the analgesia incomplete group (≥4) and control group (<4). Univariate analysis, Spearman correlation analysis, and binary logistic regression analysis were used to evaluate the influence of personality characteristics and PCS on postoperative analgesia.

Results

A total of 778 women were included in the study. The incidence of inadequate analgesia was 89.8%. The satisfaction rate of analgesia was 66.8%. Univariate analysis showed that extraversion; neuroticism; PCS; numbers of previous cesarean delivery; ASA; analgesic satisfaction; and 24-h analgesia pump compressions and dosage were associated with postoperative analgesia after cesarean section (P<0.05). Using binary logistic regression analysis, the first cesarean section (odds ratio [OR]=0.056, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.913-19.174), the number of 24-h analgesic pump compressions (OR=8.464, 95% CI=0.356-0.604), extraversion (OR=0.667, 95% CI=0.513-0.866), neuroticism (OR=1.427, 95% CI=1.104-1.844), and PCS (OR=7.718, 95% CI=0.657-0.783) were factors affecting postoperative analgesia.

Conclusion

The incidence of inadequate analgesia after a cesarean section was high (89.8% on the first day after surgery). Formulating accurate analgesia programs for women undergoing cesarean section with extraversion, neuroticism personality characteristics, and pain catastrophizing behaviors is necessary for improving their postoperative analgesia effects and satisfaction and promoting postpartum comfort.

Ultrasound-Guided Bilateral Erector Spinae Plane Block vs. Ultrasound-Guided Bilateral Posterior Quadratus Lumborum Block for Postoperative Analgesia after Caesarean Section: An Observational Closed Mixed Cohort Study

ESP block (ESPB) and posterior Quadratus Lumborum Block (pQLB) have been proposed as opioid-sparing techniques for the management of pain after abdominal surgery. Between December 2021 and October 2022, we conducted a retrospective comparative study at the delivery suite of Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy, to compare the efficacy of ESPB and pQLB in preventing postoperative pain after an elective caesarean section (CS). The primary outcome was total morphine consumption in the first 24 h. Secondary outcomes were time to first opioid request; Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) at 0, 2, 6, 12 and 24 h; vital signs; adverse events. Fifty-two women were included. The total cumulative dose of morphine was not significantly different between the two groups of patients (p = 0.897). Time to first dose of morphine, NPRS values and haemodynamic parameters were not statistically different between the two groups. NPRS values significantly increased (p < 0.001) at the different time intervals considered. The need for rescue doses of morphine was lower in the ESPB group compared to the pQLB group (hazard ratio of 0.51, 95% CI (0.27 to 0.95), p = 0.030). No adverse event was reported. ESPB seems to be as effective as pQLB in providing analgesia after CS.

Effect of Using Silver Nylon Dressings on Postoperative Pain after Cesarean Delivery

OBJECTIVE

Silver dressings have been associated with a decrease in postoperative pain in selected populations, but it is unknown if the benefit can be observed after cesarean deliveries. We sought to evaluate the impact of silver nylon dressings in reducing postoperative pain after cesarean delivery.

STUDY DESIGN

A secondary analysis of data from a blinded randomized clinical trial of women undergoing cesarean delivery scheduled and unscheduled at a single site was conducted. Women were recruited for participation from a single site and randomized to a silver nylon dressing or an identical-appearing gauze wound dressing. Wounds were evaluated in the outpatient clinic at 1 and 6 weeks after delivery and patient responded to the modified patient scar assessment scale. The primary outcome of this analysis was inpatient opioid and nonopioid analgesic dispensed. The secondary outcome was patient-reported pain at the 1- and 6-week postpartum visits. Data were analyzed using chi-square test, Student's t-test, Fisher's exact test, Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney's test, and logistic regression where appropriate. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

Among the 649 participants, women allocated to the silver nylon dressing group, when compared with the gauze group, were similar in the amount of dispensed opioid and nonopioid analgesic medications (morphine equivalent milligrams of opioids dispensed [82.5 vs. 90 mg, p = 0.74], intravenous nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) [120 vs. 120 mg, p = 0.55], and oral NSAIDs [4,800 vs. 5,600 mg in the gauze group, p = 0.65]). After adjusting for confounding variables, postoperative wound infection (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 11.70; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.51-30.31) at 1-week postoperative and again at 6-week postoperative (aOR: 5.59; 95% CI: 1.03-30.31) but not gauze dressing was associated with patient-reported postoperative pain.

CONCLUSION

Among women undergoing cesarean delivery, silver nylon dressing was not associated with a reduction in postoperative pain.

KEY POINTS

· Silver dressings showed no decrease in pain medications.. · Wound infection is associated with pain postoperatively.. · Silver dressings did not reduce postoperative pain..

Inflammatory changes in the plasma and cerebrospinal fluid of patients with persistent pain and postpartum depression after elective Cesarean delivery: an exploratory prospective cohort study

PURPOSE

Severe acute pain after Cesarean delivery increases the risk of developing persistent pain (~20% incidence) and postpartum depression (PPD) (~15% incidence). Both conditions contribute to maternal morbidity and mortality, yet early risk stratification remains challenging. Neuroinflammation has emerged as a key mechanism of persistent pain and depression in nonobstetric populations. Nevertheless, most studies focus on plasma cytokines, and the relationship between plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cytokine levels is unclear. Our primary aim was to compare inflammatory marker levels between patients who developed the composite outcome of persistent pain and/or PPD vs those who did not.

METHODS

We recruited term patients with singleton pregnancies undergoing elective Cesarean delivery under neuraxial anesthesia into an exploratory prospective cohort study. We collected baseline demographic, obstetric, and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale information, and performed quantitative sensory tests. Plasma was collected preoperatively and 48 hr postoperatively. In the operating room, 10 mL of CSF was collected, followed by a standardized anesthetic. Intra- and postoperative management were according to standard practice. We obtained Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and pain scores at six weeks and three months after delivery. The primary outcome was persistent pain and/or PPD at three months. We analyzed the difference in inflammatory marker levels between the groups (primary aim) using two-sided Mann-Whitney tests.

RESULTS

Eighty participants were enrolled, and 63 patients completed the study; 23 (37%) experienced the primary outcome at three months. Preoperative plasma transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) concentration was higher in patients who developed the primary outcome compared with those who did not (median [interquartile range (IQR)], 2,879 [2,241-5,494] vs 2,292 [1,676-2,960] pg·mL-1; P = 0.04), while CSF IL-1β concentration was higher in patients who developed the primary outcome than in those who did not (median [IQR], 0.36 [0.29-0.39] vs 0.30 [0.25-0.35] pg·mL-1; P = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

We observed differential levels of plasma and CSF inflammatory biomarkers in patients who developed persistent pain and PPD compared with those who did not. We showed the feasibility of collecting plasma and CSF samples at Cesarean delivery, which may prove useful for future risk-stratification.

STUDY REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04271072); registered 17 February 2020.

The effectiveness of erector spina plane, quadratus lumborum blocks, and intrathecal morphine for analgesia after cesarean: a randomized study

OBJECTIVE

This prospective randomized study was conducted at Ataturk University Medical Faculty Hospital, Department of Anesthesia and Reanimation, from June 2022 to May 2023. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane block, quadratus lumborum block, and intrathecal morphine to decrease postoperative pain after cesarean section.

METHODS

Sixty-term pregnant women who were scheduled for elective cesarean sections with spinal anesthesia were included. Patients were randomly divided into three groups (n=20 for each group): Group 1: Patients were administered intrathecal morphine during spinal anesthesia; Group 2: Patients performed bilateral erector spinae plane block postoperatively; and Group 3: Patients performed bilateral quadratus lumborum block postoperatively. In the postpartum care unit, patients received intravenous Patient-Controlled Analgesia. The Patient-Controlled Analgesia devices were set to administer an intravenous bolus of 25 μg fentanyl, with a lockout interval of 10 min. Opioid consumption and maximum pain score in the 24 postoperative hours were recorded.

RESULTS

Patients in Group 1 had a longer time to first analgesic requirement compared to Group 2 (p=0.017). Opioid consumption and resting and moving visual analog score scores in the first 24 h postoperatively were similar between groups.

CONCLUSION

All three methods, including intrathecal morphine, erector spinae plane block, and quadratus lumborum block, are efficacious and comparable in providing postoperative analgesia after cesarean under spinal anesthesia.

Peripheral Nerve Blocks for Cesarean Delivery Analgesia: A Narrative Review

Effective postoperative analgesia using multimodal approach improves maternal and neonatal outcomes after cesarean delivery. The use of neuraxial approach (local anesthetic and opioids) and intravenous adjunctive drugs, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and acetaminophen, currently represents the standard regimen for post-cesarean delivery analgesia. Peripheral nerve blocks may be considered in patients who are unable to receive neuraxial techniques; these blocks may also be used as a rescue technique in selected patients. This review discusses the relevant anatomy, current evidence, and advantages and disadvantages of the various peripheral nerve block techniques. Further research is warranted to compare the analgesic efficacy of these techniques, especially newer blocks (e.g., quadratus lumborum blocks and erector spinae plane blocks). Moreover, future studies should determine the safety profile of these blocks (e.g., fascial plane blocks) in the obstetric population because of its increased susceptibility to local anesthetic toxicity.

Maternal psychosocial factors associated with postpartum pain

BACKGROUND

The experience of pain is shaped by a host of psychological, cultural, and social factors. Although pain is the most common postpartum complaint, data on its relationship with psychosocial factors and postpartum pain are limited.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to examine the relationship between self-reported postpartum pain scores and patient-level psychosocial factors, including relationship status, pregnancy intendedness, employment, education, and psychiatric diagnosis.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a secondary analysis of data from a prospective observational study of postpartum patients at 1 institution (May 2017 to July 2019) who used an oral opioid at least once during their postpartum hospitalization. Enrolled participants completed a survey, which included questions regarding their social situation (including relationship status), psychiatric diagnoses, and perceptions of their pain control during their postpartum hospitalization. The primary outcome was self-reported overall pain during the postpartum hospitalization (score of 0-100). Multivariable analyses accounted for age, body mass index, nulliparity, and mode of delivery.

RESULTS

In this cohort of 494 postpartum patients, most patients (84.0%) underwent cesarean delivery, and 41.3% of patients were nulliparous. In a pain score of 0 to 100, participants reported a median pain score of 47. On bivariable analyses, there was no significant difference in pain score between patients with and without an unplanned pregnancy or a psychiatric diagnosis. Patients who were unpartnered, those without a college education, and those who were unemployed reported significantly higher pain scores (57.5 vs 44.8 [P<.01], 52.6 vs 44.6 [P<.01], and 53.6 vs 44.6 [P<.01], respectively). In multivariable analyses, patients who were unpartnered and unemployed reported significantly higher adjusted pain scores than patients who were partnered and employed (adjusted beta coefficients: 7.93 [95% confidence interval, 2.29-13.57] vs 6.67 [95% confidence interval, 2.28-11.05]).

CONCLUSION

Psychosocial factors, such as relationship and employment statuses, which are indicators of social support, are associated with the experience of pain postpartum. These findings suggest that addressing social support, such as via enhanced support from the health care team, warrants exploration as a nonpharmacologic means of improving the postpartum pain experience.

Women's experiences of breastfeeding after a cesarean section: A meta-synthesis

AIM

The World Health Organization and United Nations Children's Fund recommend the early initiation of breastfeeding within the first hour postpartum for successful exclusive breastfeeding. However, cesarean section is a risk factor for unsuccessful early initiation of breastfeeding. Herein, we aim to explore women's experiences of breastfeeding after a cesarean section.

METHODS

We used the Joanna Briggs Institute framework in this meta-synthesis. We searched articles published from 1990 to 2022 on PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane library, PsycInfo, and EMBASE to identify qualitative studies on women's experiences of breastfeeding after a cesarean section. We used the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist for qualitative studies to assess the quality of the included studies.

RESULTS

Seven qualitative studies from five countries met the inclusion criteria, representing the views of 194 women who underwent cesarean sections. Six new categories were integrated into the women's experiences of breastfeeding after a cesarean section as follows: (i) Perceived values of breastfeeding, (ii) Emotional vulnerability in breastfeeding, (iii) Physical difficulties in breastfeeding, (iv) Inconvenient conditions in breastfeeding, (v) Inadequate resources for breastfeeding, and (vi) Support systems to enable breastfeeding.

CONCLUSIONS

We provide evidence showing that knowledge of the specific breastfeeding mechanism and provision of the most appropriate postsurgical care by healthcare providers just after a cesarean section can reduce the barriers to post-cesarean breastfeeding. Moreover, effective hospital policies and family support can result in the initiation of positive breastfeeding outcomes. Future studies that consider the cultural aspects of breastfeeding practice may generate additional insights into providing optimal postpartum care.

Clinical evaluation of preoperative three -item questionnaire and pain experienced on infiltration of local anesthetics to predict severity of acute pain after caesarean section

Background and Aims

Several studies have attempted to identify patients at risk of developing severe pain after caesarean section (CS) by utilizing preoperative experimental pain application and clinical tests. The three-item questionnaire and reported pain intensity on infiltration of local anesthetic (LA) on the back of patient just before administration of spinal anesthesia, are two simple tests previously shown to be promising. We aimed to study utility of these two tools in Indian patients undergoing CS and find their correlation with postoperative pain and analgesic consumption.

Material and Methods

A total of 150 parturients undergoing elective CS were enrolled. Preoperatively patients were asked to rate their level of anxiety, anticipated postoperative pain and analgesic need after surgery (three-item questionnaire). The pain intensity reported by patient upon LA injection for spinal anesthesia were recorded. In the postoperative period, pain intensity at rest, evoked pain and need for rescue analgesics were recorded. The correlation between three item questionnaire and pain on LA infiltration to postoperative pain were evaluated. To see relationship between the predictor variables to outcome, a multiple regression analysis was performed.

Results

The predictors variables and postoperative pain were found to have mild correlation (r = 0.124 to 0.239). The predictor variables were significantly correlated with postoperative pain at rest but their association was not significant to evoked pain intensity. Multiple regression analysis showed that change in the predictors explains only 7-8% variance in postoperative pain outcomes.

Conclusion

The three -item questionnaire and pain intensity reported upon LA infiltration for spinal anesthesia have mild correlation to postoperative pain in Indian parturients undergoing CS. As these variables predicts only 8% variance in pain experienced after CS, further studies are required for accurate prediction and targeted treatment of post CS pain.

Efficacy of intravenous dexamethasone on postoperative pain after caesarean delivery under spinal anaesthesia with an intrathecal long-acting opioid: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Intravenous dexamethasone is recommended in elective caesarean delivery to decrease postoperative pain. However, the efficacy of spinal anaesthesia with an intrathecal long-acting opioid such as morphine or diamorphine for caesarean delivery has not been systematically investigated.

METHODS

We searched all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of pregnant women undergoing caesarean delivery under spinal anaesthesia with an intrathecal morphine or diamorphine via MEDLINE, CENTRAL, EMBASE, ICTRP, and ClinicalTrials.gov on May 18, 2022. Primary outcomes were time to first rescue analgesia, consumption of oral morphine equivalents, and incidence of drug-related adverse reactions. We evaluated the risk of bias for each outcome using the Risk of Bias 2. We conducted a meta-analysis using a random effects model. We evaluated the certainty of evidence with the GRADE approach.

RESULTS

Five RCTs (455 patients) were included. The results of intravenous dexamethasone were as follows: time to first rescue analgesia (mean difference [MD] 0.99 h, 95% confidence interval [CI] - 0.86 to 2.84; very low certainty) and consumption of oral morphine equivalents (MD - 6.55 mg, 95% CI - 17.13 to 4.02; moderate certainty). No incidence of drug-related adverse reactions was reported (very low certainty).

CONCLUSION

The evidence was very uncertain about the efficacy of intravenous dexamethasone on time to first rescue analgesia and the incidence of drug-related adverse reactions. Intravenous dexamethasone probably reduces the consumption of oral morphine equivalents. Anaesthesiologists might want to consider intravenous dexamethasone for postoperative pain after caesarean delivery under spinal anaesthesia with an intrathecal long-acting opioid.

Efficacy of electroacupuncture combined with intravenous patient-controlled analgesia after cesarean delivery: a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Electroacupuncture is a nonpharmacologic intervention for analgesia that is widely recognized as therapy for pain. However, the clinical efficacy of electroacupuncture combined with patient-controlled intravenous analgesia for postoperative analgesia after cesarean delivery remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the efficacy of electroacupuncture + patient-controlled intravenous analgesia for postoperative analgesia after cesarean delivery, determine the optimal frequency for the best analgesic effect, and explore the underlying mechanism of action.

STUDY DESIGN

This single-center, randomized, single-blinded, sham acupuncture controlled clinical trial was conducted at a tertiary university hospital in China. Female patients who underwent cesarean delivery and received fentanyl as patient-controlled intravenous analgesia for postoperative analgesia were enrolled. Patients were after surgery randomized to receive 2 Hz electroacupuncture treatment (n=53), 20/100 Hz electroacupuncture treatment (n=53), or sham electroacupuncture treatment (n=52) (controls). The 2 electroacupuncture groups received electroacupuncture treatment at 2 or 20/100 Hz at the ST36 and SP6 points, whereas, in the sham electroacupuncture group, sham electroacupuncture was performed at nonmeridian points with nonenergized electroacupuncture instruments. Of note, 4 electroacupuncture treatments were performed in all groups at 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours after surgery. The primary outcome was the number of analgesic pump compressions at 48 hours after surgery. The secondary outcomes included number of analgesic pump compressions at 6, 12, and 24 hours after surgery; pain scores at 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours after surgery; fentanyl consumption at 48 hours after surgery; interleukin 6 and procalcitonin levels at 12 and 48 hours after surgery; and time to first exhaust.

RESULTS

Overall, 174 primigravida women were included in the intention-to-treat analysis. The number of analgesic pump compressions and pain scores at all 4 time points and fentanyl consumption at 48 hours after surgery were significantly lower in the electroacupuncture treatment groups than in the sham electroacupuncture group (P<.001).

CONCLUSION

Electroacupuncture + patient-controlled intravenous analgesia had a significantly better analgesic effect than sham electroacupuncture + patient-controlled intravenous analgesia within 48 hours after surgery. Thus, electroacupuncture can be considered safe and effective and may improve the efficacy of patient-controlled intravenous analgesia for pain management after cesarean delivery. Electroacupuncture can be recommended as a routine complementary therapy for pain control after cesarean delivery.

Does the pain sensitivity questionnaire correlate with tourniquet pain in patients undergoing ankle surgery?

Background

Tourniquet pain is the most prominent problem in ankle surgery, and there is no proper method to predict it. It was reported that pain sensitivity questionnaires could evaluate the pain sensitivity of subjects. Its potential to predict tourniquet pain in ankle surgery is constructive and meaningful.

Methods

One hundred and twenty patients undergoing ankle surgery were included in this study. The pain sensitivity questionnaire (PSQ) and self-rating anxiety scale (SAS) were completed before the operation. The methods included an ultrasound-guided popliteal sciatic, a femoral nerve block, and a proximal thigh tourniquet. The pressure of the tourniquet was set according to the systolic blood pressure (SBP + 100 mmHg). A visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to assess the tourniquet pain. Also, the onset time of tourniquet pain ≥4 VAS units was recorded.

Results

The PSQ-total and PSQ-minor scores were significantly correlated with the onset time when the tourniquet pain ≥4 VAS units (r = -0.763, r = -0.731, P < 0.001). The PSQ-total score <6.5 group gave significantly lower ratings for items 3, 4, 14, and 16 in the PSQ survey compared to the PSQ-total score ≥6.5 group (P < 0.05). Patients with high pain sensitivity have a higher need for analgesic drugs (P < 0.001). PSQ-total score ≥6.5 (OR = 185.8, 95% CI = 39.8-1,437.6, P < 0.001), sex (male, OR = 0.11, 95% CI = 0.018-0.488, P < 0.05), and age (OR = 0.92, 95% CI = 0.842-0.995, P < 0.05) were risk factors for reporting a tourniquet pain ≥4 VAS units within 30 min.

Conclusion

The PSQ score is found to be correlated with intraoperative tourniquet pain. In addition, sex and age also affect the time of having intraoperative tourniquet pain.

Anxiety and Psychological Flexibility in Women After Childbirth in the Rooming-in Unit during the COVID-19 Pandemic

INTRODUCTION

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has intensified perinatal anxiety disorders. Psychological flexibility (PF), considered a specific mental toughness, has not been examined with regard to its relationship with anxiety in women after childbirth. We aimed to compare levels of anxiety, PF, and pain in women depending on the mode of birth, parity, and the magnitude of risk of developing an anxiety disorder. We also investigated the association of anxiety with PF and pain.

METHODS

A total of 187 women after childbirth completed validated questionnaires for anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Anxiety, Numerical Rating Scale for anxiety [NRS-A]), PF, and pain (Numerical Rating Scale for pain). Specific postpartum anxieties were assessed with a numerical scale from 0 to 10. The relationship of anxiety with PF and pain was examined. Women at low and high risk of developing anxiety disorder were compared in terms of PF, anxiety, and pain.

RESULTS

On the second postpartum day, women after cesarean birth demonstrated significantly greater anxiety on NRS-A and pain than those after vaginal birth. Primiparous women experienced significantly greater anxieties and pain compared to multiparous women. The higher the PF patients demonstrated, the less anxiety and pain they had. Patients at high risk of developing an anxiety disorder had a lower level of PF (P < .001) and higher levels of anxiety (P < .001) and pain (P < .01) than patients at low risk of developing an anxiety disorder. No difference in the anxiety of getting COVID-19 was observed between the groups (P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

PF is an important psychological construct related to the mental and physical condition of women after childbirth. Increasing PF in women after childbirth may be considered as an important goal of preventive and intervention measures.

Comparison of Post-Cesarean Pain Perception of General Versus Regional Anesthesia, a Single-Center Study

Background and Objectives: Pain during and after the procedure remains the leading concern among women undergoing cesarean section. Numerous studies have concluded that the type of anesthesia used during a cesarean section undoubtedly affects the intensity and experience of pain after the operation. Materials and Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted at the Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics, Clinical Center "Dragisa Misovic-Dedinje", Belgrade, Serbia. Patients at term pregnancy (37-42 weeks of gestation) with an ASA I score who delivered under general (GEA) or regional anesthesia (RA) by cesarean section were included in the study. Following the procedure, we assessed pain using the Serbian McGill questionnaire (SF-MPQ), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the pain attributes questionnaire at pre-established time intervals of 2, 12, and 24 h after the procedure. Additionally, time to patient's functional recovery was noted. We also recorded the time to the first independent mobilization, first oral intake, and lactation establishment. Results: GEA was performed for 284 deliveries while RA was performed for 249. GEA had significantly higher postoperative sensory and affective pain levels within intervals of 2, 12, and 24 h after cesarean section. GEA had significantly higher postoperative VAS pain levels. On pain attribute scale intensity, GEA had significantly higher postoperative pain levels within all intervals. Patients who received RA had a shorter time to first oral food intake, first independent mobilization, and faster lactation onset in contrast to GEA. Conclusions: The application of RA presented superior postoperative pain relief, resulting in earlier mobilization, shorter time to first oral food intake, and faster lactation onset in contrast to GEA.

Incidence and associated factors of acute postoperative pain within the first 24 h in women undergoing cesarean delivery at a resource-limited setting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: A prospective observational study

Objective:

This study aimed to assess the incidence and associated factors of acute postoperative pain after cesarean section within the first 24 h of postoperative period.

Methods:

An institutional-based prospective observational study was conducted on parturients who had undergone cesarean section in Gandhi Memorial Hospital from 1 December 2019 to 28 February 2020. A numerical rating scale was used to evaluate the incidence of acute postoperative pain. Patients having a pain score of >4 were considered having moderate-to-severe pain on numerical rating scale. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression were used to assess the association of variables. A p value of less than 0.05 was taken as significant association with dependent variables.

Result:

In total, 290 parturients participated in the study with a response rate of 98%. Moderate-to-severe acute postoperative pain after cesarean section was 76.2% (95% confidence interval: 71%, 81%) in the first 24 h postoperatively. On multivariable analysis, previous cesarean section history (adjusted odds ratio: 2.80, 95% confidence interval: 1.40, 5.55; p = 0.003), preoperative anxiety (adjusted odds ratio: 2.70, 95% confidence interval: 1.45, 5.05; p = 0.003), transverse incision type (adjusted odds ratio: 3.35, 95% confidence interval: 1.67, 6.72; p = 0.002), and incision length (adjusted odds ratio: 2.46, 95% confidence interval: 1.24, 4.85; p = 0.009) were identified as risk factors for postoperative moderate-to-severe acute pain.

Conclusion:

The incidence of moderate-to-severe postoperative pain was high in the first 24-h postoperative period; this indicates that pain management after cesarean section was treated inadequately. History of previous cesarean section, preoperative anxiety, transverse incision, and incision length >10 cm were the factors of postoperative acute pain after cesarean section. Therefore, we suggest the study institution develop a protocol for pain management.

Risk factors for postpartum depression in women undergoing elective cesarean section: A prospective cohort study

Background

Postpartum depression (PPD) has adverse effects on maternal and child health. Cesarean section (CS) is suggested to be associated with PPD, but no study has examined the risk factors for PPD in women who underwent CS. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate this association.

Methods

A prospective observational study was conducted between December 2020 and September 2021. In total, 590 women who underwent elective CS participated in this study. Data were collected using a questionnaire through a face-to-face interview at three time points: 32nd week of gestation, 2 days postpartum, and 6 weeks postpartum. PPD was defined by an Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) score of ≥ 11 at 6 weeks postpartum. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the risk factors for PPD.

Results

Among the 590 women, 25.4% had PPD (142/590). After adjustment for the confounding factors, high antenatal self-rating anxiety scale score (OR = 1.10, 95% CI = 1.04–1.16), PPD symptoms (EPDS ≥ 11) at 2 days postpartum (OR = 6.17, 95% CI = 1.35–28.31), and pain at 6 weeks postpartum (OR = 2.14, 95% CI = 1.24–3.69) were independently associated with PPD.

Conclusion

Prenatal anxiety, PPD symptoms occurring at an early postoperative stage, and pain at 6 weeks postpartum may be associated with an increased risk of PPD among women who undergo CS.

Traditional Chinese Acupressure Massage of the Quadriceps Femoris Can Relieve Flexion Pain after Undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty

Objective

To reduce the pain of quadriceps during knee flexion after total knee arthroplasty and increase range motion of knee flexion.

Design

Three-month prospective before/after quality improvement project. Setting. Department of Bone and Joint Surgery. Participants. A total of 80 patients who met the surgical indications were admitted to the outpatient department for surgery. They were randomly grouped by computer in advance, and the patients were divided into two groups according to the time of admission, each with 40 cases. Intervention. The intervention group performed routine rehabilitation exercises and received quadriceps acupoint massages for 20 minutes twice a day for two consecutive weeks. The control group performed routine rehabilitation exercises, such as gentle quadriceps massage for 20 minutes twice a day for two consecutive weeks. Main Outcome Measures. PPT (pressure pain threshold) of quadriceps femoris/VAS (visual analog scale) of knee flexion and motion of knee flexion.

Results

The VAS score, range of motion, and tenderness threshold during flexion were significantly better in the intervention group than in the control group at 1, 2, and 4 weeks after surgery. But the VAS score, range of motion, and tenderness threshold did not significantly differ between groups at 12 weeks after surgery.

Conclusion

Acupoint massage of the quadriceps femoris can relieve early flexion pain in patients after total knee arthroplasty. The trial was registered at clinical trials.gov.

Predicting pain after Cesarean delivery: pressure algometry, temporal summation, three-item questionnaire

PURPOSE

Approximately one in five women will experience severe postoperative pain after Cesarean delivery (CD). Previously, a bedside three-item questionnaire (3-IQ) has shown to predict women experiencing higher evoked pain intensity after CD, with an area under the receiver operator characteristics (ROC) curve of 0.72. We hypothesized that the addition of psychophysical pain tests to the existing 3-IQ would improve the ability to predict severe pain in women undergoing elective CD under spinal anesthesia METHODS: This was a prospective cohort study on women undergoing elective CD under spinal anesthesia. Women were assessed preoperatively using the 3-IQ, pressure algometry (PA) and mechanical temporal summation (TS) response. All women received standard perioperative care, including a multimodal analgesia regimen that included intrathecal fentanyl and morphine. A 0-100 mm visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to assess the severity of pain at rest (VASr) and on movement (VASm) at 24 and 48 hr after surgery. Patient satisfaction and opioid consumption were also recorded. We performed ROC curve analyses to assess whether we could improve the ability to predict our primary outcome of severe pain on movement at 24 hr (VASm24 ≥ 70).

RESULTS

We studied 195 women. Median [interquartile range] VASm24 was 53 [32-72] and 28% of patients experienced a VASm24 ≥ 70. The ability to predict a VASm24 ≥ 70 assessed by the area under the ROC curve was 0.64 using the 3-IQ and 0.67 using the 3-IQ combined with TS and PA.

CONCLUSION

The addition of PA and TS to the 3-IQ model resulted in a predictive model that performed similarly to the 3-IQ model alone. Further research is warranted in this area to better predict women at risk of severe pain post CD.

The effects of acupressure on post-cesarean pain and analgesic consumption: a randomized single-blinded placebo-controlled study

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of P6 and LI4 acupressure on post-caesarean pain and analgesic consumption.

DESIGN

This was a randomized, single-blinded, placebo-controlled study conducted in a university-affiliated obstetrics clinic between July 2017 and July 2018.

PARTICIPANTS

Women (n = 132) were randomly assigned to acupressure (n = 44), placebo (n = 44) and control (n = 44) groups.

SETTING

All groups received routine nursing care and analgesia protocol for post-cesarean pain. Acupressure was performed in two sessions, the postpartum second and fourth hours, with the following protocol: bilaterally to P6 (point on wrist) and LI4 (point on hand) points (for 3 minutes on each point). In the placebo group, it was just touched without the pressure on acupressure points, but the main difference was that touching was too superficial to have a therapeutic effect. The control group received only routine nursing care and analgesia protocol for post-cesarean pain.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The post-caesarean pain was evaluated four times before and after each session using Visual Analog Scale for pain. Also, the analgesia protocol for post-cesarean pain was recorded for all women.

RESULTS

The acupressure group experienced the lowest level of post-cesarean pain compared with the placebo and control groups (P = 0.000). The consumption of pethidine hydrochloride and paracetamol was statistically lower in the acupressure group compared with the placebo and control groups (respectively, P = 0.002 and P = 0.040).

CONCLUSION

Acupressure is an effective method for reducing post-cesarean pain and analgesic consumption. Clinical trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04337801.

A Quality Improvement Project to Reduce Postcesarean Opioid Consumption

BACKGROUND

The opioid epidemic is a public health emergency in the United States, stemming in part from widespread misuse and overprescribing of opioids following surgery. Approximately 1 in 300 women with no prior exposure to opioids develops an opioid use disorder following cesarean birth. Effective management of postcesarean pain requires individualized treatment and a balance of the woman's goals for optimal recovery and ability to safely care for her newborn. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends a multimodal approach to pain management after cesarean birth.

METHODS

In April 2019, a multidisciplinary team was formed at New York University Langone Health to study opioid use postcesarean. The team used the Plan, Do, Study, Act process model for continuous quality improvement to launch a postcesarean pathway called "Your Plan After Cesarean," a standardized visual tool with quantifiable milestones. It facilitates integration of women's preferences in their postcesarean care, and emphasizes providers' routine use of nonpharmacological interventions to manage pain.

RESULTS

During the pilot period of the project, postcesarean high consumption of 55 to 120 mg of opioids was reduced from 25% to 8%. By January 2020, 75% of women postoperative cesarean took little-to-no opioids during their hospital stay. By February 2021, the total number of opioids consumed by women after cesarean birth in-hospital was reduced by 79%. Satisfaction among women with pain management after cesarean continued to be high.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Reduction in postcesarean opioid administration and the number of opioids prescribed at hospital discharge can be accomplished without having a negative effect on women's perceptions of post-op pain relief. These changes can potentially be a factor in helping to avoid an opioid-naive woman who has a cesarean birth from developing an opioid use disorder.

The Efficacy and Safety of Local Anesthetic Techniques for Postoperative Analgesia After Cesarean Section: A Bayesian Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Objective

Cesarean section (CS) is one of the most frequently performed major surgical interventions. Local anesthetic techniques, a universal component of perioperative multimodal analgesia, are reportedly effective in reducing pain scores and opioid requirements. However, the optimal local anesthetic technique for postoperative CS pain remains unclear.

Methods

Six databases were searched, and a Bayesian network meta-analysis was performed. The outcomes included cumulative morphine consumption and pain scores at four time points, time to first analgesic request, postoperative nausea and vomiting, pruritus, and sedation.

Results

Sixty-eight studies with 5039 pregnant women were included. Six local anesthetic techniques were involved, including transversus abdominis plane block (TAPB), ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerve block, quadratus lumborum blocks, transversalis fascia plane block, erector spinae block, and wound infiltration. Compared to inactive controls, TAPB reduced cumulative morphine consumption at 6, 12, 24, and 48 h, pain scores at 6, 12, and 24 h (with the exception of 24 h at rest), the risk of postoperative nausea and vomiting, and sedation. Compared with inactive controls, ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerve block reduced cumulative morphine consumption at 6 and 24 h and pain scores at 6, 12, and 24 h during movement. Compared with inactive controls, quadratus lumborum blocks reduced cumulative morphine consumption at 24 and 48 h and pain scores at 6 and 12 h and lengthened the time to first analgesic request. Compared with inactive controls, wound infiltration reduced cumulative morphine consumption at 12 and 24 h, pain scores at 12 and 24 h during movement, and risk of sedation. Compared with inactive controls, erector spinae block reduced pain scores at 6 and 12 h. Transversalis fascia plane block was found to have similar outcomes to inactive controls.

Conclusion

TAPB is the most comprehensive local anesthetic technique for postoperative CS analgesia in the absence of intrathecal morphine.

The effectiveness of the abdominal binder in relieving pain after cesarean delivery: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Abdominal binder is a non-pharmacological method of relieving pain after surgical procedures.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness of the abdominal binder in relieving pain and distress scores after cesarean delivery (CD).

SEARCH STRATEGY

The following terms were searched: cesarean section, cesarean, caesarean, abdominal deliveries, C-section, abdominal delivery, abdominal binding, binder, and abdominal binder.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with patients undergoing CD receiving an abdominal binder compared with non-users of the abdominal binder.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Five electronic databases were searched until November 2019. Records were screened for eligibility. Data were extracted independently and analyzed. The main outcomes were pain and distress scores.

RESULTS

The final analysis included six RCTs. Overall effect estimate favored the abdominal binder group over the control group in the following outcomes: VAS pain scores after 24 h (mean difference [MD] -1.76; 95% confidence interval [CI] -3.14 to -0.39; P = 0.01), VAS scores after 48 h (MD -1.21; 95% CI -1.51 to -0.90; P < 0.001), distress score after 24 h (MD -1.87; 95% CI -3.01 to -0.73; P = 0.001), and distress score after 48 h (MD -1.87; 95% CI -3.07 to -0.67; P = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

The abdominal binder could be an effective, simple, non-pharmacological option of relieving pain and distress after CD.

Predicted Versus Non-Predicted Opioid Administration Using Preoperative Pain Sensitivity in Patients Undergoing Gynecological Surgery: A Randomized-Controlled Trial

Individualized administration of opioids based on preoperative pain sensitivity may improve postoperative pain profiles. This study aimed to examine whether a predicted administration of opioids could reduce opioid-related adverse effects after gynecological surgery. Patients were randomized to the predicted group or control group. Participants received a preoperative sensory test to measure pressure pain thresholds. Patients were treated with a higher or lower (15 or 10 μg/mL) dose of fentanyl via intravenous patient-controlled analgesia. The opioid dose was determined according to pain sensitivity in the predicted group, while it was determined regardless of pain sensitivity in the control group. The primary outcome was the incidence of nausea over the first 48 h postoperative period. Secondary outcomes included postoperative pain scores and opioid requirements. There was no difference in the incidence of nausea (40.0% vs. 52.5% in predicted and control groups, respectively; p = 0.191) and postoperative pain scores (3.3 vs. 3.5 in predicted and control groups, respectively; p = 0.691). However, opioid consumptions were lower in the predicted group compared to the control group (median 406.0 vs. 526.5 μg; p = 0.042). This study showed that offering a predicted dose of opioids according to pain sensitivity did not affect the incidence of nausea and pain scores.

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

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

Women Construct Their Birth Narratives and Process Unplanned Cesarean Births Through Storytelling

OBJECTIVE

To examine birth narratives of primiparous women who experienced unplanned cesarean births to improve nursing care.

DESIGN

Descriptive, qualitative.

SETTING

The family/newborn units of a large teaching hospital in the Northeast United States.

PARTICIPANTS

Fourteen women who experienced unplanned cesarean births of singleton infants at term.

METHODS

We used semistructured interviews to analyze the participants' birth narratives. Within 48 hours of birth, participants answered the prompt: "Tell us your birth story." Four perinatal nurse experts in consultation with a qualitative research expert ordered, analyzed, and coded data into themes and subthemes.

RESULTS

We identified the following four themes: Changing Reality: Transition to Labor, Expectations Meeting Reality: Navigating the Unknown, Transition to Motherhood: The Cesarean Birth Experience, and Accepting the New Reality.

CONCLUSION

Childbearing women need time immediately after birth to process their experiences. Our findings highlight avenues for changes in clinical care to optimize women's experiences of unplanned cesarean births. Participants wanted clearer communication with the maternity care team, voices in the decision-making process, and inclusion of support persons to optimize their birth experiences. Because negative birth experiences affect maternal and child well-being, it is important to understand women's perceptions and develop strategies to assist them in the construction of their birth narratives.

A prospective observational study to investigate the relationship between local anesthetic infiltration pain before spinal anesthesia and acute and chronic postsurgical pain in women undergoing elective cesarean delivery

BACKGROUND

Cesarean delivery is one of the most common procedures performed worldwide. We conducted this prospective cohort study to evaluate the association between local anesthetic infiltration (LAI) pain prior to spinal anesthesia and pain and morphine consumption within 24 h after cesarean delivery (primary outcomes). A secondary objective was to assess the association between LAI pain and pain at one month postoperatively.

METHODS

Recruitment of 216 eligible women scheduled for elective cesarean delivery. Local infiltration before spinal anesthesia was performed using a 24-gauge needle and 3 mL 2% plain lidocaine. All subjects received 2.2 mL 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine with 200 µg morphine for spinal anesthesia. A 0-10 verbal numerical rating scale was used to assess LAI pain severity, and subsequent pain at 24 h, 1, 3 and 12 months.

RESULTS

We found a moderate correlation between LAI pain intensity and severity of acute pain at rest (rho=0.56, P <0.001) and with movement (rho=0.58, P <0.001) and a weak correlation with morphine consumption (rho=0.17, P=0.01) within 24 h postoperatively. We also found a positive correlation between LAI pain and the severity of persistent wound pain at rest (rho=0.30, P <0.001) and with movement (rho=0.52, P <0.001) at 1 month. The incidence of wound pain at 1, 3 and 12 months postoperatively was 37.1%, 7.0% and 1.4%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Pain from LAI prior to spinal anesthesia is significantly associated with subsequent postoperative pain both acutely and at one month in women scheduled for elective cesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia.

Patient anxiety of verticalization on day 0 after a Cesarean section

Purpose

The ERAS protocol recommends fast mobilization of a patient along with providing psychological comfort; however, early verticalization can generate mental discomfort. In the post-operative period after Caesarean section (CC), a patient may experience pain, anxiety and negative affect. The main aim of the study was to investigate levels of patient anxiety concerning verticalization on day 0 after CC using. Also, the dependence between anxiety of verticalization and the following: pain, anxiety as a permanent disposition, resistance to pain, negative and positive emotions, and positive orientation was described.

Methods

The study included 150 women on day 0 after their CC. The measurement of anxiety concerning verticalization, pain, and also negative and positive emotions was conducted twice. During the first measurement, variables such as anxiety levels as a constant disposition, level of pain resistance and positive orientation were also monitored.

Results

Patients upon arrival at the post-operative room declared a higher level of anxiety of verticalization (p < 0.05) (Median = 4; IQR = 5) when compared to 6 h after surgery (Median = 3; IQR = 4). A weak correlation of anxiety and pain was noted (r = 0.264; p < 0.01) in the second measurement. In both measurements, negative emotions and pain resistance proved to be the strongest variables explaining anxiety concerning verticalization.

Conclusions

Low levels of pain experienced by a patient after CC do not explain the variance in anxiety of verticalization. The use of the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) of anxiety allows care givers to gain patients' psychological perspective in different moments after CC.

Analgesic use after vaginal delivery in women with perineal lacerations: a retrospective cohort study

Objective: To evaluate opioid consumption among parturients with varying degrees of perineal lacerations.Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of women who delivered vaginally at our institution from 1 January 2014 to 12 April 2015. We collected information regarding the degree of perineal lacerations (no lacerations, first-/second-degree, third-/fourth-degree), analgesic consumption, and postpartum pain scores. The primary outcome was opioid use from 0-48 h postpartum. Univariate and multivariable regression analyses were performed to test for the association of laceration severity with opioid use.Results: We included 5598 women in the analysis; 1948 had no lacerations, 3434 had first-/second-degree lacerations, and 216 had third-/fourth-degree lacerations. In univariate analysis, parturients with third-/fourth-degree lacerations had significantly higher use of opioids within 48 h postpartum (53.2%) compared to women with no lacerations (30.03%) or first-/second-degree lacerations (28.6%) (p < .001). In the multivariable analysis, women with third-/fourth-degree lacerations had higher odds of opioid use than those without laceration [OR (95% CI) = 2.61 (1.75-3.85), p < .001]. In pairwise comparisons, those with third-/fourth-degree lacerations had higher odds of opioid use than those without lacerations [OR (95% CI) = 3.55 (2.20-5.74)], and those with first-/second-degree lacerations [OR (95% CI) = 2.15 (1.49-3.10)] (p < .001). Oxycodone equivalent consumption was significantly different among groups with a median (IQR) of 5.00 mg (0.00-27.50), 0.00 mg (0.00-5.00) and 0.00 mg (0.00-5.00) in women with third-/fourth-degree, first-/second-degree, and no lacerations, respectively, during the 0-48 h postpartum (p < .001).Conclusion: The use of opioids and opioid doses are higher in women with third-/fourth-degree perineal lacerations compared to those with first-/second-degree or no lacerations.

Application of preoperative assessment of pain induced by venous cannulation in predicting postoperative pain in patients under laparoscopic nephrectomy: a prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Postoperative pain is the most prominent concern among surgical patients. It has previously been reported that venous cannulation-induced pain (VCP) can be used to predict postoperative pain after laparoscopic cholecystectomy within 90 mins in the recovery room. Its potential in predicting postoperative pain in patients with patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) is worth establishing. The purpose of this prospective observational study was to investigate the application of VCP in predicting postoperative pain in patients with PCIA during the first 24 h after laparoscopic nephrectomy.

METHODS

One hundred twenty patients scheduled for laparoscopic nephrectomy were included in this study. A superficial vein on the back of the hand was cannulated with a standard-size peripheral venous catheter (1.1 × 3.2 mm) by a nurse in the preoperative areas. Then the nurse recorded the VAS score associated with this procedure estimated by patients, and dichotomized the patients into low response group (VAS scores < 2.0) or high response group (VAS scores ≥2.0). After general anesthesia and surgery, all the patients received the patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) with sufentanil. The VAS scores at rest and on coughing at 2 h, 4 h, 8 h, 12 h, 24 h, the effective number of presses and the number of needed rescue analgesia within 24 h after surgery were recorded.

RESULTS

Peripheral venous cannulation-induced pain score was significantly correlated with postoperative pain intensity at rest (rs = 0.64) and during coughing (rs = 0.65), effective times of pressing (rs = 0.59), additional consumption of sufentanil (rs = 0.58). Patients with venous cannulation-induced pain intensity ≥2.0 VAS units reported higher levels of postoperative pain intensity at rest (P < 0.0005) and during coughing (P < 0.0005), needed more effective times of pressing (P < 0.0005) and additional consumption of sufentanil (P < 0.0005), and also needed more rescue analgesia (P = 0.01) during the first 24 h. The odds of risk for moderate or severe postoperative pain (OR 3.5, 95% CI 1.3-9.3) was significantly higher in patients with venous cannulation-induced pain intensity ≥2.0 VAS units compared to those <2.0 VAS units.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative assessment of pain induced by venous cannulation can be used to predict postoperative pain intensity in patients with PCIA during the first 24 h after laparoscopic nephrectomy.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

We registered this study in a Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR) center on July 6 2019 and received the registration number: ChiCTR1900024352.

Predicting Opioid Use Following Discharge After Cesarean Delivery

PURPOSE

Although cesarean delivery is the most common surgical procedure in the United States, postoperative opioid prescribing varies greatly. We hypothesized that patient characteristics, procedural characteristics, or both would be associated with high vs low opioid use after discharge. This information could help individualize prescriptions.

METHODS

In this prospective cohort study, we quantified opioid use for 4 weeks following hospital discharge after cesarean delivery. Predischarge characteristics were obtained from health records, and patients self-reported total opioid use postdischarge on weekly questionnaires. Opioid use was quantified in milligram morphine equivalents (MMEs). Binomial and Poisson regression analyses were performed to assess predictors of opioid use after discharge.

RESULTS

Of the 233 patients starting the study, 203 (87.1%) completed at least 1 questionnaire and were included in analyses (86.3% completed all 4 questionnaires). A total of 113 patients were high users (>75 MMEs) and 90 patients were low users (≤75 MMEs) of opioids postdischarge. The group reporting low opioid use received on average 44% fewer opioids in the 24 hours before discharge compared with the group reporting high opioid use (mean = 33.0 vs 59.3 MMEs, P <.001). Only a minority of patients (11.4% to 15.8%) stored leftover opioids in a locked location, and just 31 patients disposed of leftover opioids.

CONCLUSIONS

Knowledge of predischarge opioid use can be useful as a tool to inform individualized opioid prescriptions, help optimize nonopioid analgesia, and reduce opioid use. Additional studies are needed to evaluate the impact of implementing such measures on prescribing practices, pain, and functional outcomes.

Comparison of Postoperative Opioid Consumption and Pain Scores in Primary Versus Repeat Cesarean Delivery in Opioid Naïve Patients

Background: Cesarean deliveries represent a large percentage of deliveries worldwide. Patients undergoing repeat cesarean deliveries are known to have increased risks for surgical complications. However, little is known regarding potential differences in pain. We sought to compare postoperative opioid consumption and pain scores in opioid naïve patients undergoing primary versus repeat non-emergent cesarean delivery. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study. Patient inclusion criteria included: having a non-emergent cesarean delivery, receiving a spinal procedure for surgical anesthesia without general anesthesia, and following the same postoperative pain management protocols. Exclusion criteria included: history of opioid tolerance, illicit drug use, or prior, non-obstetric, major abdominal surgery. The primary outcome marker was total morphine equivalents consumed 0–72 h post-procedure compared between the primary versus repeat cesarean delivery groups. Secondary outcome markers were opioid consumption and pain scores in 24-h period increments for the first 72 h postoperatively. Results: 1617 patients were screened. 217 primary and 377 repeat cesarean deliveries met criteria for comparison. Reduced opioid consumption was demonstrated for the total opioid consumption 0–72 h for the repeat cesarean delivery group (median = 35) compared to the primary cesarean delivery group (median = 58), p = 0.0005. When divided into 24-h periods, differences were demonstrated for the 24–48 and 48–72 h periods but not the 0–24 h period. Pain scores did not differ statistically. Conclusion: Opioid naïve obstetric patients who undergo non-emergent repeat cesarean delivery demonstrate lower opioid consumption in the postoperative period. Providers should be aware of this potential difference in order to better educate patients and provide adequate pain management. Highlights: The study reviewed differences in opioid consumption between primary and repeat cesarean deliveries. All patients received the same protocol for spinal dosage and pain management. Repeat cesarean deliveries were associated with lower opioid consumption.

Post-caesarean delivery analgesia in resource-limited settings: a narrative review

Post-caesarean pain is an important and often neglected outcome. It causes suffering, affects breastfeeding and is associated with postpartum depression and the development of chronic pain syndromes. Pain control is often difficult even in resource-rich environments; it is likely far worse in resource-limited settings, where emphasis is on reducing the high maternal mortality rate. Lack of adequate staffing, education, and postoperative monitoring severely limit the options in resource-limited settings. Resource-limited settings are further compromised by limited access to essential analgesic drugs and equipment for their administration. Solutions using affordable and accessible medications as part of a multimodal analgesic strategy are possible, supplemented by education and training programmes. More research is required, both to establish current practice and to test methods for improving maternal pain control. While government involvement is necessary to improve infrastructure and resources in individual countries, other solutions should also be sought, empowering local institutions and harnessing individual cultural characteristics.

Systematic Review and Meta-analysis: Sometimes Bigger Is Indeed Better

Clinicians encounter an ever increasing and frequently overwhelming amount of information, even in a narrow scope or area of interest. Given this enormous amount of scientific information published every year, systematic reviews and meta-analyses have become indispensable methods for the evaluation of medical treatments and the delivery of evidence-based best practice. The present basic statistical tutorial thus focuses on the fundamentals of a systematic review and meta-analysis, against the backdrop of practicing evidence-based medicine. Even if properly performed, a single study is no more than tentative evidence, which needs to be confirmed by additional, independent research. A systematic review summarizes the existing, published research on a particular topic, in a well-described, methodical, rigorous, and reproducible (hence "systematic") manner. A systematic review typically includes a greater range of patients than any single study, thus strengthening the external validity or generalizability of its findings and the utility to the clinician seeking to practice evidence-based medicine. A systematic review often forms the basis for a concomitant meta-analysis, in which the results from the identified series of separate studies are aggregated and statistical pooling is performed. This allows for a single best estimate of the effect or association. A conjoint systematic review and meta-analysis can provide an estimate of therapeutic efficacy, prognosis, or diagnostic test accuracy. By aggregating and pooling the data derived from a systemic review, a well-done meta-analysis essentially increases the precision and the certainty of the statistical inference. The resulting single best estimate of effect or association facilitates clinical decision making and practicing evidence-based medicine. A well-designed systematic review and meta-analysis can provide valuable information for researchers, policymakers, and clinicians. However, there are many critical caveats in performing and interpreting them, and thus, like the individual research studies on which they are based, there are many ways in which meta-analyses can yield misleading information. Creators, reviewers, and consumers alike of systematic reviews and meta-analyses would thus be well-served to observe and mitigate their associated caveats and potential pitfalls.

Enhanced recovery after cesarean delivery

Enhanced recovery after surgery is a concept initially developed for patients undergoing colorectal surgery but has been adopted by other surgical specialties with similar positive outcomes. The adoption of enhanced recovery after surgery in the obstetric patient population is rapidly gaining popularity. This review highlights perioperative interventions that should be considered in an enhanced recovery after surgery protocol for women undergoing cesarean delivery.