Intravenous non-opioid analgesia for peri- and postoperative pain management: a scientific review of intravenous acetaminophen and ibuprofen

Effect of an intravenous acetaminophen/ibuprofen fixed-dose combination on postoperative opioid consumption and pain after video-assisted thoracic surgery: a double-blind randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) often induces significant postoperative pain, potentially leading to chronic pain and decreased quality of life. This study aimed to evaluate the acetaminophen/ibuprofen combination effectiveness in reducing analgesic requirements and pain intensity in patients undergoing VATS.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a double-blinded randomized controlled trial.

METHODS

Adult patients scheduled for elective VATS for lung resection were randomized to receive either intravenous acetaminophen and ibuprofen (intervention group) or 100 mL normal saline (control group). Treatments were administered post-anesthesia induction and every 6 h for three cycles. The primary outcome was total analgesic consumption at 24 h postoperatively. Secondary outcomes were cumulative analgesic consumption at 2 and 48 h; analgesic-related side effects at 2, 24, and 48 h; quality of recovery at 24 h and 48 h postoperatively; pain intensity at rest and during coughing; and rescue analgesics use. Chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP) was assessed through telephone interviews 3 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

The study included 96 participants. The intervention group showed significantly lower analgesic consumption at 24 h and 48 h postoperatively (24 h: median difference: - 100 µg equivalent intravenous fentanyl [95% confidence interval (CI) - 200 to - 5 μg], P = 0.037; 48 h: median difference: - 140 μg [95% CI - 320 to - 20 μg], P = 0.035). Compared to the controls, the intervention group exhibited a significantly lower quality of recovery 24 h post-surgery, with no significant difference at 48 h. All pain scores except for coughing at 48 h post-surgery were significantly lower in the intervention group compared to the controls. No significant differences were observed between the groups in postoperative nausea and vomiting occurrence, hospital stay length, and CPSP.

CONCLUSION

Perioperative administration of acetaminophen/ibuprofen significantly decreased analgesic needs in patients undergoing VATS, providing an effective postoperative pain management strategy, and potentially minimizing the need for stronger analgesics.

The nuts and bolts of multimodal anaesthesia in the 21st century: a primer for clinicians

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review article explores the application of multimodal anaesthesia in general anaesthesia, particularly in conjunction with locoregional anaesthesia, specifically focusing on the importance of EEG monitoring. We provide an evidence-based guide for implementing multimodal anaesthesia, encompassing drug combinations, dosages, and EEG monitoring techniques, to ensure reliable intraoperative anaesthesia while minimizing adverse effects and improving patient outcomes.

RECENT FINDINGS

Opioid-free and multimodal general anaesthesia have significantly reduced opioid addiction and chronic postoperative pain. However, the evidence supporting the effectiveness of these approaches is limited. This review attempts to integrate research from broader neuroscientific fields to generate new clinical hypotheses. It discusses the correlation between high-dose intraoperative opioids and increased postoperative opioid consumption and their impact on pain indices and readmission rates. Additionally, it explores the relationship between multimodal anaesthesia and pain processing models and investigates the potential effects of nonpharmacological interventions on preoperative anxiety and postoperative pain.

SUMMARY

The integration of EEG monitoring is crucial for guiding adequate multimodal anaesthesia and preventing excessive anaesthesia dosing. Furthermore, the review investigates the impact of combining regional and opioid-sparing general anaesthesia on perioperative EEG readings and anaesthetic depth. The findings have significant implications for clinical practice in optimizing multimodal anaesthesia techniques (Supplementary Digital Content 1: Video Abstract, http://links.lww.com/COAN/A96 ).

Opioid-Free Analgesia Provides Pain Control Following Thumb Carpometacarpal Joint Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

We hypothesized that an opioid-free (OF), multimodal pain management pathway for thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) joint arthroplasty would not have inferior pain control compared with that of a standard opioid-containing (OC) pathway.

METHODS

This was a single-center, randomized controlled clinical trial of patients undergoing primary thumb CMC joint arthroplasty. Patients were randomly allocated to either a completely OF analgesic pathway or a standard OC analgesic pathway. Patients in both cohorts received a preoperative brachial plexus block utilizing 30 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine that was administered via ultrasound guidance. The OF group was given a combination of cryotherapy, anti-inflammatory medications, acetaminophen, and gabapentin. The OC group was only given cryotherapy and opioid-containing medication for analgesia. Patient-reported pain was assessed with use of a 0 to 10 numeric rating scale at 24 hours, 2 weeks, and 6 weeks postoperatively. We compared the demographics, opioid-related side effects, patient satisfaction, and Veterans RAND 12-Item Health Survey (VR-12) results between these 2 groups.

RESULTS

At 24 hours postoperatively, pain scores in the OF group were statistically noninferior to, and lower than, those in the OC group (median, 2 versus 4; p = 0.008). Pain scores continued to differ significantly at 2 weeks postoperatively (median, 2 versus 4; p = 0.001) before becoming more similar at 6 weeks (p > 0.05). No difference was found between groups with respect to opioid-related side effects, patient satisfaction, or VR-12 results.

CONCLUSIONS

A completely opioid-free perioperative protocol is effective for the treatment of pain following thumb CMC joint arthroplasty in properly selected patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level I . See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Comparative Evaluation of Postoperative Pain Scores and Opioid Consumption in Septorhinoplasty After Administration of Single-Dose Preemptive Paracetamol and Ibuprofen: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Introduction  Septorhinoplasty operates on the nose's bone and cartilage and is ensued by severe postoperative pain. Objective  The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of preoperative administration of intravenous (IV) paracetamol and ibuprofen on postoperative pain scores in patients undergoing septorhinoplasty. Methods  A total of 150 patients undergoing septorhinoplasty were randomly assigned into 3 groups with 50 patients in each group. The control group (group A) was administered 100 ml saline solution; the paracetamol group (group B) was administered 1,000 mg of IV paracetamol in 100 ml of saline solution; and the ibuprofen group (group C) was administered 800 mg of IV ibuprofen in 100 ml of saline solution before surgery. Opioid analgesics were employed to achieve postoperative analgesia. Postoperative pain was evaluated using the visual analogue scale (VAS). Postoperative opioid consumption and adverse effects were also recorded for each patient. Results  In comparison with group A, the score in the VAS of groups B and C was statistically lower in all the time intervals ( p  < 0.05). In the 1 st and 6 th hours postoperatively, group C's score in the VAS in was lower than that of group B ( p  < 0.05). In the control group, total opioid consumption was highest in all time intervals ( p  < 0.05). In group C, total opioid consumption was significantly lower than in group B in the 0 to 6 and 6 to 12 hours intervals. ( p  < 0.05). Conclusion  The single-dose preemptive administration of ibuprofen has a more profound postoperative analgesic effect than paracetamol in the first 6 hours after septorhinoplasty. After the first 6 hours postsurgery, there is no difference between ibuprofen and paracetamol in terms of analgesic effect.

Impact of Acetazolamide on Perioperative Pain Control in Robotic Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of peri-operative acetazolamide for pain control in robotic assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP). Prior studies have demonstrated that preoperative acetazolamide decreased postoperative referred pain in the postsurgical period for laparoscopic procedures. The proposed mechanism is acetazolamide mediated inhibition of carbonic anhydrase, thereby preventing formation of carbonic acid and subsequent peritoneal acidosis with referred pain. This has yet to be demonstrated in the setting of RALP.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Patients undergoing RALP were randomized to receive either preoperative saline or acetazolamide prior to the procedure. Overall pain scores were recorded at multiple time points post operatively, as well as total morphine equivalents administered for adjunctive pain control.

RESULTS

Thirty-one patients were included in the study: 16 patients (51.6%) received perioperative acetazolamide, and 15 patients (48.4%) received perioperative saline as placebo. Overall pain scores were similar for patients receiving acetazolamide compared to placebo at various time points: first responsive (3.5 ± 3.1 vs 4.1 ± 1.7, P = .28), immediately prior to leaving PACU (2.8 ± 2.9 vs 2.9 ± 2.9, P = .48), at 4 hours post-procedure (3.1 ± 3.0 vs 2.9 ± 1.8, P = .362), or at 24 hours post-procedure (2.3 ± 1.7 vs 2.2 ± 1.6, P = .5). Shoulder tip pain was not present in either cohort. No statistically significant difference was observed for total morphine equivalents delivered between acetazolamide and placebo (17.3 vs 20.5, P= .2, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Acetazolamide does not appear to impact overall pain or shoulder tip pain in the observed cohort of patients undergoing RALP.

Clinical effect of preoperative intravenous non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs on relief of postoperative pain in patients after laparoscopic cholecystectomy: Intravenous ibuprofen vs. intravenous ketorolac

Backgrounds/Aims

Postoperative pain management is a key to enhanced recovery after surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical effect of preoperative intravenous (IV) non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) on relief of postoperative pain in patients after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Methods

This single center, retrospective study was conducted between September 2019 and May 2020. A total of 163 patients were divided into two groups: Ibuprofen group (preoperative IV ibuprofen, n = 77) and Ketorolac group (preoperative IV ketorolac, n = 86). The primary outcome was postoperative pain score measured immediately in the recovery room.

Results

There was no difference in demographic characteristics between the two groups of patients. Postoperative pain score measured immediately in the recovery room was significantly higher in the Ibuprofen group than in the Ketorolac group (mean value: 5.09 vs. 4.61; p = 0.027). The number of patients who needed analgesics immediately in the recovery room was also higher in the Ibuprofen group than in the Ketorolac group (28 [36.4%] vs. 18 [20.9%]; p = 0.036).

Conclusions

In this study, preoperative IV injection with ketorolac reduced postoperative pain and analgesic requirement in the recovery room more effectively than that with ibuprofen. However, both showed similar effects on peak pain and pain at discharge. Numbers of patients requiring additional analgesics were also similar between the two groups.

Efficacy of Intravenous Paracetamol and Ibuprofen on Postoperative Pain and Morphine Consumption in Lumbar Disc Surgery: Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

OBJECTIVES

Effective postoperative pain management after lumbar disc surgery reduces complications and improves postoperative care. The purpose of this prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study is to evaluate the effects of IV paracetamol and ibuprofen on postoperative pain, morphine consumption and side effects of morphine in patients who underwent lumbar disc surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Seventy-five patients aged 18-85 years scheduled for lumbar disk surgery with a single level laminectomy included in this study. All patients received morphine with an IV patient-controlled analgesia device during the first postoperative 24hour. The patients were divided randomly and double-blinded into three groups (control, paracetamol and ibuprofen). The demographic characteristics and procedure data, VAS score, cumulative morphine consumption, opioid-related side effects were recorded.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference regarding to demographic characteristics, comorbidities, and durations of anesthesia and surgery. There was a significant difference between all groups regarding to total morphine consumption (P<0.001). IV ibuprofen significantly reduced the total morphine consumption in comparison with control and paracetamol (P<0.001). Repeated measures ANOVA showed in all periods of the study that VAS score was significantly lower in ibuprofen (P<0.001), but not in paracetamol (P=0.394) in comparison with control. There was no difference between groups regarding postoperative heart rate, mean arterial pressure, nausea-vomiting, pruritus and urinary retention.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that pain scores and morphine consumption, but not the side effects of patient-controlled analgesia during 24hours after the lumbar disk surgery, were significantly reduced by IV ibuprofen as a supplemental analgesic when compared with controls and paracetamols.

Safety of treatment options available for postoperative pain

IntroductionPostoperative pain is one of the most common adverse events after surgery and has been shown to increase the risk of other complications. On the other hand, liberal opioid use in the perioperative period is also associated with risk of adverse events. The current consensus is therefore to provide multimodal, opioid minimizing analgesia after surgery.Areas CoveredIn this review, we will discuss the benefits and risks associated with non-opioid analgesics, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, gabapentinoids, ketamine, α-2 agonists, and corticosteroids. In addition, we will discuss the general and block-specific risks associated with regional anesthestic techniques.Expert OpinionAdverse events associated with non-opioid analgesics are rare outside their specific contraindicated patient groups, especially when dosed appropriately. α-2 agonists can cause transient hypotension and bradycardia, and gabapentinoids may cause sedation in higher risk patient populations. Regional anesthesia techniques are generally safe when done by an experienced practitioner. We therefore encourage the development of standardized multimodal analgesic protocols, which may facilitate opioid minimization and lead to better patient outcomes.

Multimodal Analgesia in Spine Surgery: An Umbrella Review

OBJECTIVE

In recent years, there has been a growing interest regarding the implementation of multimodal analgesia as an important component of the ideal perioperative patient management. The aim of the current umbrella review was to establish the role of multimodal analgesia in patients undergoing spine surgery during the immediate postoperative period.

METHODS

A systematic review of the pertinent literature was performed. The evaluation was based on a multitude of primary endpoints including the postoperative requirements for patient-controlled analgesia, pain intensity, back-related disability, overall functionality, patient satisfaction, complications, length of hospitalization, and costs.

RESULTS

The results were summarized using a meta-analysis in the presence of quantitative data or in a narrative review, otherwise. There was a large body of high-quality evidence supporting that the implementation of multimodal analgesia improves patient outcome in terms of the intensity of postoperative pain, the requirements for postoperative opioid analgesia, and the opioid-associated side effects. Similarly, limited high-quality evidence supported that multimodal analgesia improved patients' functionality and satisfaction while decreasing the length of hospitalization and overall costs of surgery. However, the results were inconclusive as far as the disability was concerned.

CONCLUSIONS

Multimodal analgesia seems to have an essential role for the optimal management of patients undergoing spine surgery. Future research is required to optimize the multimodal analgesia protocols in this group of patients.

Study protocol: randomized controlled trial of opioid-free vs. traditional perioperative analgesia in elective orthopedic surgery

BACKGROUND

The medical community is beginning to recognize the contribution of prescription opioids in the growing national opioid crisis. Many studies have compared the safety and efficacy of alternative analgesics to opioids, but none utilizing a completely opioid-free perioperative protocol in orthopedics.

METHODS

We developed and tested an opioid-free perioperative analgesic pathway (from preoperative to postoperative period) among patients undergoing common elective orthopedic procedures. Patients will be randomized to receive either traditional opioid-including or completely opioid-free perioperative medications. This study is being conducted across multiple orthopedic subspecialties in patients undergoing the following common elective orthopedic procedures: single-level or two-level ACDF/ACDA, 1st CMC arthroplasty, Hallux Valgus/Rigidus corrections, diagnostic knee arthroscopies, total hip arthroplasty (THA), and total shoulder arthroplasty/reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA/RTSA). The primary outcome measure is pain score at 24 h postoperatively. Secondary outcome measures include pain scores at additional time points, medication side effects, and several patient-reported variables such as patient satisfaction, quality of life, and functional status.

DISCUSSION

We describe the methods for a feasibility randomized controlled trial comparing opioid-free perioperative analgesics to traditional opioid-including protocols. We present this study so that it may be replicated and incorporated into future studies at other institutions, as well as disseminated to additional orthopedic and/or non-orthopedic surgical procedures. The ultimate goal of presenting this protocol is to aid recent efforts in reducing the impact of prescription opioids on the national opioid crisis.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The protocol was approved by the local institutional review board and registered with clinicaltrials.gov (Identifier: NCT04176783 ) on November 25, 2019, retrospectively registered.

Is the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) in acute pain a good measure of analgesic efficacy in regional anesthesia?

In the field of acute pain medicine research, we believe there is an unmet need to incorporate patient related outcome measures that move beyond reporting pain scores and opioid consumption. The term “minimal clinically important difference” (MCID) defines the clinical benefit of an intervention as perceived by the patient, as opposed to a mathematically determined statistically significant difference that may not necessarily be clinically significant. The present article reviews the concept of MCID in acute postoperative pain research, addresses potential pitfalls in MCID determination and questions the clinical validity of extrapolating MCID determined from chronic pain and non-surgical pain studies to the acute postoperative pain setting. We further suggest the concepts of minimal clinically important improvement, substantial clinical benefit and patient acceptable symptom state should also represent aspirational outcomes for future research in acute postoperative pain management.

Opioid-free shoulder arthroplasty: a prospective study of a novel clinical care pathway

BACKGROUND

Opioid therapy has been a cornerstone of perioperative pain control for decades in the United States, despite our increased understanding of the morbidity and mortality linked to opioids. The purpose of this study is to explore the safety, efficacy, and feasibility of an entirely opioid-free perioperative pathway in patients undergoing elective shoulder arthroplasty.

METHODS

Thirty-five patients undergoing elective total shoulder arthroplasty with a mean age of 71 (range, 50-87) years elected into a comprehensive opioid-free, multimodal pain management protocol. Opioid use was completely eliminated for all points in the perioperative period including during regional and general anesthesia. Data were collected regarding patient-reported pain, opioid consumption in the perioperative period, postoperative delirium, nausea, constipation, and falls.

RESULTS

Pain level at the primary outcome point of 24 hours or discharge was rated at 2.5 on the numeric rating scale. Stable, low pain scores were demonstrated at all time points postoperatively. Low rates of nausea, falls, and constipation were reported. Only 1 patient required "rescue" opioid medications during the in-patient stay, and an additional patient was given a low-dose opioid prescription at the 2-week postoperative appointment.

CONCLUSIONS

An opioid-free, multimodal pain management pathway is a safe and effective option in properly selected patients undergoing shoulder arthroplasty with a very low risk of requiring rescue opioids. This study is the first such study to present a surgical protocol entirely free of opioids at all portions of the patient care pathway.

The effects of intra-articular injection of ibuprofen on knee joint cartilage and synovium in rats

Objective

The aim of this animal study was to investigate the short and long-term local histomorphologic effects and the utility of intra-articular application of ibuprofen.

Methods

Forty-six Wistar Albino rats were used in the study. The rats were randomized into 5 groups of 8 and a sham group of 6. The 40 rats in the study groups were anaesthetised with 60 mg/kg of ketamine, then 0.25 ml ibuprofen (25 mg) was injected to the right knee joint of each rat (ibuprofen group) and 0.25 ml 0.9% saline to the left knee joint as the control group. To the 6 rats in the sham group, only puncture was applied to both knee joints. The rats in each of the 5 study groups were sacrificed on days 1, 2, 7, 14 and 21 respectively. The histomorphologic changes were graded on a 6-point scale regarding inflammation of the synovia, cartilage tissue, and subchondral bone. Inflammation scores were compared using the Mann Whitney U-test and comparisons of the sacrifice day and drug used were evaluated with the Kruskal Wallis test. The p values below 0.05 were considered as significant.

Results

Statistically significant difference was found between the ibuprofen injected knees (10/40) and the saline injected (0/40) and sham knees (0/12) in respect of hematoma positivity (p = 0.002). Significantly higher inflammation scores were found in ibuprofen injected knees on the 1st, 2nd, 7th and 14th days compared to controls and sham (p < 0.05). Inflammation scores were similar in ibuprofen injected knees with and without hematoma (p > 0.05). Inflammation of the ibuprofen injected group was most severe on day one and the severity of inflammation reduced gradually throughout the 3 weeks.

Conclusion

Our results show that intra-articular injection of ibuprofen can cause intra-articular hematoma. It also leads to transient inflammation of the synovia that is more severe in the early period, which gradually recovers.

Hypotensive Response to IV Acetaminophen in Pediatric Cardiac Patients

OBJECTIVES

Acetaminophen is ubiquitously used as antipyretic/analgesic administered IV to patients undergoing surgery and to critically ill patients when enteral routes are not possible. Widely believed to be safe and free of adverse side effects, concerns have developed in adult literature regarding the association of IV acetaminophen and transient hypotension. We hypothesize that there are hemodynamic effects after IV acetaminophen in the PICU and assess the prevalence of such in a large pediatric cardiovascular ICU population using high-fidelity data.

DESIGN

Observational study analyzing an enormous set of continuous physiologic data including millions of beat to beat blood pressures surrounding medication administration.

SETTING

Quaternary pediatric cardiovascular ICU between January 1, 2013, and November 13, 2017.

PATIENTS

All patients less than or equal to 18 years old who received IV acetaminophen. Mechanical support devices excluded.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Physiologic vital sign data were analyzed in 5-minute intervals starting 60 minutes before through 180 minutes after completion. Hypotension defined as mean arterial pressure -15% from baseline and relative hypotension defined -10%. Only doses where patients received no other medications, including vasopressors, within the previous hour were included. t test and a correlation matrix were used to eliminate correlated factors before a logistic regression analysis was performed. Six-hundred eight patients received 777 IV acetaminophen doses. Median age was 8.8 months (interquartile range, 2-62 mo) with a dose of 12.5 mg/kg (interquartile range, 10-15 mg/kg). Data were normalized for age and reference values. One in 20 doses (5%) were associated with hypotension, and one in five (20%) associated with relative hypotension. Univariate analysis revealed hypotension associated with age, baseline mean arterial pressure, and skin temperature (p = 0.05, 0.01, and 0.09). Logistic regression revealed mean arterial pressure (p = 0.01) and age (p = 0.05) remained predictive for hypotension.

CONCLUSIONS

In isolation of other medication, a hemodynamic response to IV acetaminophen has a higher prevalence in critically ill children with cardiac disease than previously thought and justifies controlled studies in the perioperative and critical care setting. The added impact on individual patient hemodynamics and physiologic instability will require further study.

Optimal Pain Control in Abdominal Wall Reconstruction

Lack of physician familiarity with alternative pain control strategies is a major reason why opioids remain the most commonly used first-line treatment for pain after surgery. This is perhaps most problematic in abdominal wall reconstruction, where opioids may delay ambulation and return of bowel function, while negatively affecting mental status. In this article, we discuss multimodal strategies for optimal pain control in abdominal wall reconstruction. These strategies are straightforward and are proven to improve pain control while minimizing opioid-associated side effects.

Comparing the Efficacy of IV Ibuprofen and Ketorolac in the Management of Postoperative Pain Following Arthroscopic Knee Surgery. A Randomized Double-Blind Active Comparator Pilot Study

Introduction: Acute postoperative pain following knee arthroscopy is common in orthopedic surgeries. Managing pain postoperatively combines usage of opioids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The aim of this clinical study was to assess the efficacy of two different analgesic treatment regimens: intravenous (IV) ibuprofen and IV ketorolac for the treatment of postoperative pain pertaining to arthroscopic knee surgery. Methods: This was a single center, randomized, double-blind, parallel, active comparator clinical pilot study. Subjects were randomized to receive either IV ibuprofen, administered as two 800 mg doses or IV ketorolac, administered as a single 30 mg dose. Subjects in the ibuprofen group received 800 mg of IV ibuprofen within 2 h prior to surgery and a repeated second dose 4 h after the initial dose if they had not been discharged. Subjects in the ketorolac group received IV ketorolac 30 mg at the end of surgery, as per the manufacturer's recommendations. Pain assessments and opioid consumption data were collected up to 24 h postoperatively. Results: Of 53 randomized subjects, 51 completed the study. There were 20 subjects in the ibuprofen group and 31 subjects in the ketorolac group. The median (IQR) visual analog scale (VAS) pain score at resting upon post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) arrival was 33 (12, 52) vs. 9 (2, 25) (p = 0.0064) for the ketorolac and ibuprofen group, respectively. The median (IQR) visual analog scale (VAS) pain score at movement upon PACU arrival was 38 (20, 61) vs. 15 (6, 31) (p = 0.0018) for the ketorolac and ibuprofen group, respectively. Median VAS pain scores during movement taken at subsequent 30 min intervals in the ibuprofen group were less than half that of those reported in the ketorolac group for up to 90 min after arriving in PACU. The median VAS pain scores at rest and movement in the course of 120 min-24 h after PACU arrival was not statistically significant in both groups. Rescue opioid medication during PACU stay was required in 55.0% (N = 11) and 83.9% (N = 26), with a mean amount of narcotic consumption (oral morphine conversion) of 5.53 ± 5.89 mg vs. 19.92 ± 15.63 mg for the ibuprofen and ketorolac group, respectively (P < 0.001). However, opioid consumption during the first 24 h after PACU discharge was not statistically significant (p-value = 0.637). The mean time to first rescue medication was 77.62 ± 33.03 and 55.78 ± 35.37 for the ibuprofen and ketorolac group, respectively (p-value = 0.0456). There were no significant differences in patient satisfaction and documented adverse events during the first 24 h. Conclusion: This pilot study showed that the use of preemptive IV ibuprofen 800 mg could be considered to reduce postoperative pain and opioid consumption. Future prospective clinical trials using similar regimens should be conducted in order to gain a better understanding of how to best provide perioperative analgesic regimens. Clinical Trial Registration: www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT01650519.

Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction Induced by Different Surgical Methods and Its Risk Factors

The aim of the present study was to compare the effect of different surgical methods on postoperative cognitive function in patients undergoing abdominal surgery, determine the risk factors of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) by logistic regression, and investigate these risk factors through different surgical methods. A total of 70 patients undergoing selective abdominal surgery were selected into this study. The age of these patients ranged within 32 to 85 years. The cognitive function of these patients was assessed by the mini-mental state examination at one day before the operation, and at the first and seventh day after the operation. The temperature of the tympanic membrane, PETCO2 values, visual analogue scale scores, educational level, and operation time were recorded. Logistic regression analysis was used to analyze related factors of POCD. The incidence rate of perioperative hypothermia in groups O and L were 31.2 and 10.5 per cent, respectively; and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The difference in visual analogue scale scores at the first and seventh day after the operation between these two groups were statistically significant (P < 0.01). The incidence of POCD in group O was significantly higher than that in group L at the first and seventh day after the operation (P < 0.05). According to logistic regression results, it was found that age, perioperative hypothermia, and postoperative pain were risk factors of POCD. The difference in POCD for the patients undergoing abdominal surgery through different surgical methods was statistically significant, and this was closely correlated to perioperative hypothermia and postoperative pain.

The comparison of single-dose preemptive intravenous ibuprofen and paracetamol on postoperative pain scores and opioid consumption after open septorhinoplasty: a randomized controlled study

PURPOSE

Septorhinoplasty is performed in combination with septoplasty and rhinoplasty operations and is characterized by severe postoperative pain. The aim of this study is to evaluate preemptive effects of intravenous (IV) ibuprofen and IV paracetamol on opioid consumption and pain scores after open septorhinoplasty.

METHODS

The study included 150 patients who had undergone elective open septorhinoplasty. Patients were randomly assigned into three groups; Group Control (Group C, n = 50) received 100 ml saline solution, Group Paracetamol (Group P, n = 50) received 1000 mg IV paracetamol in 100 ml solution, and Group Ibuprofen (Group I, n = 50) received 800 mg IV ibuprofen in 100 ml saline before surgery. Postoperative analgesia was achieved by opioid administration via patient-controlled analgesia. Visual analog scores (VASs), postoperative opioid consumption, additional analgesic requirements, and side effects were recorded.

RESULTS

Compared with Group C, VASs in Group P and Group I were statistically lower at all time points (p < 0.05). VAS was lower in Group I than in Group P at postoperative, 1st and 6th hours (p < 0.05). Opioid consumption in Group C was highest in all groups at all time periods (p < 0.05). At the 0-6 and 6-12 time intervals, total opioid consumption was significantly lower in Group I compared to Group P (p < 0.05). Total opioid consumption was highest in Group C (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study has indicated that ibuprofen has more analgesic effect than paracetamol during first 12 h, but there is a non-inferiority between ibuprofen and paracetamol after first 12 h.

Effect of Fentanyl Nasal Packing Treatment on Patients With Acute Postoperative Pain After Nasal Operation: A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial

PURPOSE

Nasal packing is an option for bleeding control after endoscopic sinus surgery and septoplasty. Although new packing materials have been developed, patients still suffer from pain and require additional analgesics treatments. In this study, a prospective, randomized, and double-blind controlled trial was designed to evaluate the effect of fentanyl-soaked packing on pain after endoscopic sinus surgery and septoplasty.

METHODS

One hundred fifty-two patients who underwent nasal surgeries due to chronic rhinosinusitis or nasal septal deviation were enrolled in this study. At the end of operation, 50 mcg fentanyl-soaked biodegradable synthetic polyurethane foams packing Nasopore or Merocel were applied to a group of 79 patients, and saline-soaked ones were applied to another group of 73 patients. To evaluate the influence of fentanyl on postoperative nasal pain, patients' conditions were assessed via means of Numeric Rating Scale, patient satisfaction, and Ramsay Sedation Scale. In addition, symptoms of headache or sore throat and any signs of cardiopulmonary-relevant indicators were monitored.

RESULTS

The fentanyl group had significantly decreased Numeric Rating Scale and increased patient satisfaction in every operation type for the majority of postoperative time periods ( P < .05) with reduced postoperative headache and sore throat compared to the control group. The fentanyl group showed a higher score on Ramsay Sedation Scale than the control group ( P < .05 in group including endoscopic sinus surgery). There were no significant differences in cardiopulmonary-relevant indicators between the 2 groups ( P > .05).

CONCLUSION

Fentanyl group showed significantly reduced postoperative pain without serious adverse effects. We suggest that topical fentanyl application to nasal packs can be a useful method to reduce pain during the early postoperative period after endoscopic sinus surgery and septoplasty.

Consensus Statement for Clinical Pathway Development for Perioperative Pain Management and Care Transitions

The perioperative surgical home (PSH) model has been created with the intention to reduce costs and to improve efficiency of care and patient experience in the perioperative period. The PSH is a comprehensive model of care that is team-based and patient-centric. The team in each facility should be multidisciplinary and include the input of perioperative services leadership, surgical services, and support personnel in order to provide seamless care for the patient from the preoperative period when decision to undergo surgery is initially made to discharge and, if needed after discharge from the hospital, until full recovery is achieved. PSH is discussed in this consensus article with the emphasis on perioperative care coordination of patients with chronic pain conditions. Preoperative optimization can be successfully undertaken through patient evaluation, screening, and education. Many important positive implications in the PSH model, in particular for those patients with increased potential morbidity, mortality, and high-risk populations, including those with a history of substance abuse or anxiety, reflect a more modern approach to health care. Newer strategies, such as preemptive and multimodal analgesic techniques, have been demonstrated to reduce opioid consumption and to improve pain relief. Continuous catheters, ketamine, methadone, buprenorphine, and other modalities can be best delivered with the expertise of an anesthesiologist and a support team, such as an acute pain care coordinator. A physician-led PSH is a model of care that is patient-centered with the integration of care from multiple disciplines and is ideally suited for leadership from the anesthesia team. Optimum pain control will have a significant positive impact on the measures of the PSH, including lowering of complication rates, lowering of readmissions, improved patient satisfaction, reduced morbidity and mortality, and shortening of hospital stays. All stakeholders should work together and consider the PSH model to ensure the best quality of health care for patients undergoing surgery in the future. The pain management physician's role in the postoperative period should be focused on providing optimal analgesia associated with improved patient satisfaction and outcomes that result in reduced health care costs.

The Comparison of Preventive Analgesic Effects of Ketamine, Paracetamol and Magnesium Sulfate on Postoperative Pain Control in Patients Undergoing Lower Limb Surgery: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background

In considering the importance of postoperative pain management and its consequences on its related secondary outcomes including nausea, vomiting, and operation-related complications, we aimed to compare the effectiveness of the three analgesic agents including ketamine, paracetamol, and magnesium sulfate for postoperative pain relief and associated consequences in this trial.

Materials and Methods

In this double-blinded randomized control clinical trial, patients scheduled for elective lower extremity orthopedic surgery under general anesthesia were enrolled and randomized into four groups for receiving intravenous ketamine (0.25 mg/kg), paracetamol (15 mg/kg), magnesium sulfate (7.5 mg/kg), and placebo (normal saline), immediately after the induction of anesthesia. Postoperative pain scores, analgesic, and metoclopramide use, and frequency of vomiting and satisfaction score of studied patients in the four studied groups during the 6 h, 6-12 h, and 12-24 h after recovery were recorded and compared.

Results

In this trial, thirty patients randomized in each studied groups. Mean of postoperative pain score was significantly lower in ketamine group than others during 24 h after recovery (P < 0.001). Mean of additive analgesic use was significantly lower in ketamine group during 12 h after recovery (P < 0.001), but it was not significantly different during 12-24 h after recovery (P = 0.12). Mean of vomiting frequency and metoclopramide use was not different between groups (P > 0.05). Excellent and good satisfaction score were significantly higher in ketamine group than other groups (P = 0.04).

Conclusions

Ketamine has more superior effect for during recovery and postoperative pain controlling and analgesic use than paracetamol and magnesium sulfate.

Preoperative intravenous ibuprofen does not influence postoperative narcotic use in patients undergoing elective hernia repair: a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled prospective trial

Introduction

Inguinal and umbilical hernia repairs are among the most common surgical procedures performed in the US. Optimal perioperative pain control regimens remain challenging and opioid analgesics are commonly used. Preoperative nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) administration has been shown to reduce postoperative narcotic requirements. This study sought to evaluate the efficacy of perioperative intravenous (IV) ibuprofen on postoperative pain level and narcotic use in patients undergoing open or laparoscopic inguinal and/or umbilical hernia repair.

Methods

A single center, randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial involving patients ≥18 years undergoing inguinal and/or umbilical hernia repair was performed. Patients were randomized to receive 800 mg of IV ibuprofen or placebo preoperatively. Outcomes assessed included postoperative pain medication required and visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores.

Results

Forty-eight adult male patients underwent inguinal and/or umbilical hernia repair. Patients receiving IV ibuprofen used more oxycodone/acetaminophen (32% vs 13%) and IV hydromorphone (12% vs 8.7%), and fewer combinations of pain medications (44% vs 65.2%) in the first two postoperative hours compared to placebo (p=0.556). The IV ibuprofen group had more patients pain free (28% vs 8.7%, p=0.087) and lower VAS scores (3.08±2.14 vs 3.95±1.54, p=0.134) at 2 hours postoperatively, compared to the placebo group, however, this was not statistically significant. Similar pain levels at 1, 3, and 7 days, postoperative and similar use of rescue medications in both groups were observed.

Conclusion

Preoperative administration of IV ibuprofen did not significantly reduce postoperative pain among patients undergoing elective hernia repair. Considerable variability in postoperative narcotic analgesic requirement was noted, and larger scale studies are needed to better understand the narcotic analgesic requirements associated with IV ibuprofen in inguinal/umbilical hernia repair patients.

Effect of Intravenous Acetaminophen on Postoperative Pain in Vitrectomy: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Clinical Trial

Background

Nowadays, pain, nausea, and vomiting are regarded as important complications of anesthesia and surgery. The current study aimed at assessing the effect of preemptive intravenous acetaminophen on control of pain, nausea, vomiting, shivering, and drowsiness following the general anesthesia for retina and/or vitrectomy surgeries.

Methods

In a randomized, double-blind, clinical trial, 83 candidates for retina or vitrectomy eye surgery under general anesthesia were distributed into 3 groups: A) 41 patients in the control group who received 100 mL of normal saline just before the surgery and 100 mL of normal saline 20 minutes before the end of surgery; B) 21 patients in the preemptive group who received acetaminophen 15 mg/kg in 100 mL normal saline just before the surgery and 100 mL normal saline 20 minutes before the end of surgery; C) 21 patients in the preventive group who received 100 mL normal saline just before the surgery and acetaminophen 15 mg/kg in 100 mL normal saline 20 minutes before the end of surgery. Pain, nausea, vomiting, and shivering were assessed at the recovery and 2, 4, and 24 hours after the operation. Anesthesia emergence situation was assessed after arrival in the recovery room by the Richmond agitation-sedation scale (RASS) questionnaire. Blood pressure and heart rate were recorded before anesthesia induction, just after intubation, before extubation, and on discharge from the recovery room.

Results

Total intraoperative fentanyl, duration of operation, and duration of anesthesia were not different among the studied groups. Vital signs were not statistically different among the groups at before anesthesia induction, just after intubation, before extubation, and on discharge from the recovery room. Thirty-three patients in the control group (87.8%), 11 in preemptive (52.4%), and 14 in preventive groups (66.7%) needed acetaminophen in the first 24 hours after the surgery (P value = 0.008). Pain scores measured by visual rating scale (VRS) was lower in the preemptive and preventive groups, compared with those of the control group, in the recovery (P value = 0.006), 2 hours after the surgery (P value = 0.008), and 4 hours after the surgery (P value = 0.012), but not in 24 hours after the operation (P value = 0.1).

Conclusions

Intravenous acetaminophen administered as preemptive or preventive medication was effective and safe to control acute postoperative pain and analgesic request after the vitrectomy eye surgery.

Pharmacological advances in the multimodal management of perioperative analgesia

The concept of multimodal analgesia is currently widespread in our clinical practice. The aim of multimodal analgesia is to reduce the side effects derived from the drugs or techniques used for the control of pain together with greater effectiveness (combination of multiple mechanisms of action) with the maximum efficiency, that is, to combine different pharmacodynamics (synergistic or additive effects) and pharmacokinetics, in the context of a predictable acute pain model, thus allowing a prior strategy such as the model of acute postoperative pain. Pain is a complex physiological phenomenon. Postoperative pain involves multiple pathways including nociceptive, inflammatory, and neuropathic sources. In the transmission of pain therefore, different molecules participate, which means that there are multiple pharmacological targets on which to act, and therefore a wide range of drugs to be used following the physiology of pain.

Pharmacology of Acetaminophen, Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs, and Steroid Medications: Implications for Anesthesia or Unique Associated Risks

Acetaminophen, nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and corticosteroids, historically used in perioperative management, are potent analgesic medications. They primarily inhibit the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme, decreasing the synthesis of prostaglandins, and modulating pain and temperature. Acetaminophen does not inhibit this synthesis at the inflammatory site. The primary mechanism of action of corticosteroids involves regulation of nuclear expression of genes involved in inflammatory pathways and other systemic effects. Metaanalyses have added purposeful perioperative indications, clarified misconceptions, and established protocols for administering these drugs. Some indications, doses, clinical considerations, and adverse effects need to be further studied.

Influence of the Time of Intravenous Administration of Paracetamol on its Pharmacokinetics and Ocular Disposition in Rabbits

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Paracetamol is one of the most common analgesics and antipyretics applied in health care. The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of the time-of-day administration on the paracetamol pharmacokinetics and its penetration into aqueous humour (AH).

METHODS

Rabbits were divided into three groups: I-receiving paracetamol at 08.00 h, II-receiving paracetamol at 16.00 h, and III-receiving paracetamol at 24.00 h. Paracetamol was administered intravenously at a single dose of 35 mg/kg. The concentrations of paracetamol and its metabolite (paracetamol glucuronide) in the plasma, as well as in AH were measured with the validated HPLC-UV method.

RESULTS

No significant differences in the pharmacokinetic parameters of paracetamol was observed. When the drug was administered at 24.00 h,  elimination half-life (t _1/2kel) of paracetamol glucuronide was longer than when the drug was administered 08.00 h (P = 0.0193). In addition, a statistically significant increase in the paracetamol glucuronide/paracetamol ratio was observed when the drug was administered at 08.00 vs. 16.00 h (P ≤ 0.0001) and 24.00 h (P ≤ 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

There was no chronobiological effect on the pharmacokinetic parameters of paracetamol.

Acetazolamide reduces postoperative pain following laparoscopic inguinal herniorrhaphy

BACKGROUND

Carbonic acid accumulation, which results from CO2 insufflation, can produce visceral and referred pain in the postoperative setting. Acetazolamide inhibits carbonic anhydrase, an enzyme that accelerates carbonic acid formation. We hypothesized that preoperative administration of acetazolamide would decrease postoperative pain in patients undergoing laparoscopic inguinal herniorrhaphy.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted of patients who underwent laparoscopic preperitoneal inguinal herniorrhaphy at the Medical College of Wisconsin between October 2012 and September 2014. Beginning in January 2014, patients began receiving 250 mg of acetazolamide preoperatively; patients prior to that time did not. The visual analog scale (range 0-10) was used to assess both preoperative pain and postoperative pain.

RESULTS

A total of 66 patients underwent laparoscopic inguinal herniorrhaphy during the study interval. Of these, 22 (33 %) patients received acetazolamide preoperatively, and 44 (67 %) were included as controls. Overall mean pain scores were lower in the acetazolamide group (1.9 ± 1.45 vs 2.9 ± 1.5, p = 0.04). Specifically, patients who received acetazolamide reported lower pain scores immediately after surgery (0.6 ± 1.2 vs 1.9 ± 2.3, p = 0.01) and on post-op day one (2.3 ± 0.9 vs 4.0 ± 2.1, p = 0.04). Total morphine equivalents administered to manage postoperative pain were significantly less for the acetazolamide group (4.3 ± 4.8 mg) when compared to the control group (8.9 ± 8.4 mg), p = 0.04. Perioperative complications did not differ between the groups (p = 0.16).

CONCLUSIONS

Acetazolamide appears to reduce pain in the immediate postoperative setting. Patients who received acetazolamide had lower pain scores postoperatively and required fewer narcotics for pain management prior to discharge.