Postoperative nausea and vomiting: A simple yet complex problem

Essential oils for clinical aromatherapy: A comprehensive review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Aromatherapy, a holistic healing practice utilizing the aromatic essences of plant-derived essential oils, has gained significant attention for its therapeutic potential in promoting overall well-being. Use of phytoconstituent based essential oil has played a significant role in the evolving therapeutic avenue of aromatherapy as a complementary system of medicine.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This comprehensive review article aims to explore the usage of essential oils for aromatherapy, shedding light on their diverse applications, scientific evidence, and safety considerations. Furthermore, the growing interest in using essential oils as complementary therapies in conjunction with conventional medicine is explored, underscoring the significance of collaborative healthcare approaches.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Literature search was performed from databases like PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Bentham using keywords like Aromatherapy, Aromatic Plants, Essential oils, Phytotherapy, and complementary medicine. The keywords were used to identify literature with therapeutic and mechanistic details of herbal agents with desired action.

RESULTS

The integration of traditional knowledge with modern scientific research has led to a renewed interest in essential oils as valuable tools in contemporary healthcare. Various extraction methods used to obtain essential oils are presented, emphasizing their impact on the oil's chemical composition and therapeutic properties. Additionally, the article scrutinizes the factors influencing the quality and purity of essential oils, elucidating the significance of standardization and certification for safe usage. A comprehensive assessment of the therapeutic effects of essential oils is provided, encompassing their potential as antimicrobial, analgesic, anxiolytic, and anti-inflammatory agents, among others. Clinical trials and preclinical studies are discussed to consolidate the existing evidence on their efficacy in treating diverse health conditions, both physical and psychological. Safety considerations are of paramount importance when employing essential oils, and this review addresses potential adverse effects, contraindications, and best practices to ensure responsible usage.

CONCLUSIONS

This comprehensive review provides valuable insights into the exploration of essential oils for aromatherapy, emphasizing their potential as natural and potent remedies for a wide range of ailments. By amalgamating traditional wisdom and modern research, this article aims to encourage further investigation into the therapeutic benefits of essential oils while advocating for their responsible and evidence-based incorporation into healthcare practices.

Effect of herbal medicine on postoperative nausea and vomiting after laparoscopic surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Traditionally, herbal medicines have been used to alleviate nausea and vomiting; however, a comprehensive clinical evaluation for postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), especially after laparoscopic surgery, remains limited. This review aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of herbal medicine as an alternative therapy to prevent and manage nausea and vomiting after laparoscopic surgery compared with untreated, placebo, and Western medicine groups.

METHODS

We searched 11 databases, including EMBASE, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library, to collect randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of herbal medicines on PONV after laparoscopic surgery on July 7, 2022. Two independent reviewers screened and selected eligible studies, extracted clinical data, and evaluated the quality of evidence using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. The primary outcome was the incidence of PONV, whereas the secondary outcomes included the frequency and intensity of PONV, symptom improvement time, antiemetic requirement frequency, and incidence of adverse events. Review Manager Version 5.3. was used for the meta-analysis.

RESULTS

We identified 19 RCTs with 2726 participants comparing herbal medicine with no treatment, placebo, and Western medicine. The findings showed that compared with no treatment, herbal medicine demonstrated significant effects on vomiting incidence (risk ratio [RR] = 0.43, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.32-0.57, P < .00001). Compared with placebo, herbal medicine revealed a significant effect on the severity of nausea 12 hours after laparoscopic surgery (standardized mean difference = -2.04, 95% CI -3.67 to -0.41, P = .01). Herbal medicines showed similar effects with Western medicine on the incidence of postoperative nausea (RR = 0.94, 95% CI 0.63-1.42, P = .77) and vomiting (RR = 0.68, 95% CI 0.25-1.84, P = .45). Furthermore, comparing the experimental group containing herbal medicine and control group excluding herbal medicine, adverse events were considerably lower in the group with herbal medicine (RR = 0.45, 95% CI 0.27-0.72, P = .001).

CONCLUSION

Herbal medicine is an effective and safe treatment for nausea and vomiting secondary to laparoscopic surgery. However, the number of studies was small and their quality was not high; thus, more well-designed RCTs are warranted in the future.

Cannabinoid Analgesia in Postoperative Pain Management: From Molecular Mechanisms to Clinical Reality

Postoperative pain (POP) is a challenging clinical phenomenon that affects the majority of surgical patients and demands effective management to mitigate adverse outcomes such as persistent pain. The primary goal of POP management is to alleviate suffering and facilitate a seamless return to normal function for the patient. Despite compelling evidence of its drawbacks, opioid analgesia remains the basis of POP treatment. Novel therapeutic approaches rely on multimodal analgesia, integrating different pharmacological strategies to optimize efficacy while minimizing adverse effects. The recognition of the imperative role of the endocannabinoid system in pain regulation has prompted the investigation of cannabinoid compounds as a new therapeutic avenue. Cannabinoids may serve as adjuvants, enhancing the analgesic effects of other drugs and potentially replacing or at least reducing the dependence on other long-term analgesics in pain management. This narrative review succinctly summarizes pertinent information on the molecular mechanisms, clinical therapeutic benefits, and considerations associated with the plausible use of various cannabinoid compounds in treating POP. According to the available evidence, cannabinoid compounds modulate specific molecular mechanisms intimately involved in POP. However, only two of the eleven clinical trials that evaluated the efficacy of different cannabinoid interventions showed positive results.

High dose glucocorticoids for treatment of postoperative pain: A systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis

STUDY OBJECTIVE

Glucocorticoids as a component of multimodal analgesia have been studied for many years and their post-operative analgesic effects appear to be dose-dependent. We conducted a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the evidence of peri-operative high dose corticosteroid therapy in comparison to placebo (placebo drug) or control group (no treatment) for improving the quality of post-operative analgesia as indicated by a reduction of 10 mm in 100 mm Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) or reduction of 1 point in a 0-10 point VAS scale, or a reduction of 1 point in an 11-point Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) score, or reduction of rescue opioid analgesia, in patients undergoing all types of surgery.

DESIGN

Systematic review of RCTs with meta-analysis.

SETTING

Acute postoperative pain treatment in non-obese adult population.

INTERVENTIONS

Perioperative administration of high dose of Dexamethasone (≥ 0,2 mg/Kg or ≥ 15 mg), or a corresponding dose of a systemic glucocorticoid.

MEASUREMENTS

Primary outcomes were postoperative pain measured in 0-100 mm VAS score at 24 h after surgery upon rest and movement. Secondary outcomes were postoperative pain 0-100 mm VAS score 48 h after surgery, postoperative rescue analgesic requirement, postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), relevant adverse events.

MAIN RESULTS

47 RCT's were included (3943 patients). The Mean Difference (MD) of 100 mm VAS scores for pain at rest 24 h after surgery was -6.18 mm 95% CI [-8.53, -3.83], at motion -8.86 mm 95% CI [-11.82, -5.89]. Opioid analgesic requirements evaluated in Oral Morphine Equivalents (OME) was -10.00 mg 95% CI [-13.65, -6.34]. PONV events Odds Ratio of 0.29 95%CI [0.24, 0.36]. Major adverse events OR was 0.88 95% CI [0.65, 1.19]. Minor adverse events OR 1.29 95% CI [0.86, 1.92].

CONCLUSION

High doses of glucocorticoids are one of the many possible tools available in multimodal postoperative analgesia, possibly reducing opioids consumption and recurrence of PONV but with no relevant effects in terms of reduction of postoperative VAS score. Available data show a safe therapeutic profile, without increase adverse events.

PROTOCOL REGISTRATION

CRD42020137119.

Spinal Anesthesia Reduces Perioperative Polypharmacy and Opioid Burden in Patients Over 65 Who Undergo Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion

BACKGROUND

Polypharmacy and opioid administration are thought to increase the risk of postoperative cognitive dysfunction and delirium in elderly patients. Spinal anesthesia (SA) holds potential to reduce perioperative polypharmacy in spine surgery. As more geriatric patients undergo spine surgery, understanding how SA can reduce polypharmacy and opioid administration is warranted. We aim to compare the perioperative polypharmacy and dose of administered opioids in patients ≥65 years who undergo transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) under SA versus general anesthesia (GA).

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 200 patients receiving a single-surgeon TLIF procedure at a single academic center (2014-2021) was performed. Patients underwent the procedure with SA (n = 120) or GA (n = 80). Demographic, procedural, and medication data were extracted from the medical record. Opioid consumption was quantified as morphine milligram equivalents (MME). Statistical analyses included χ2 or Student's t-test.

RESULTS

Patients receiving SA were administered 7.45 medications on average versus 12.7 for GA patients (P < 0.001). Average perioperative opioid consumption was 5.17 MME and 20.2 MME in SA and GA patients, respectively (P < 0.001). The number of patients receiving antiemetics and opioids remained comparable postoperatively, with a mean of 32.2 MME in the GA group versus 27.5 MME in the SA group (P = 0.14). Antiemetics were administered less often as a prophylactic in the SA group (32%) versus 86% in the GA group (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

SA reduces perioperative polypharmacy in patients ≥65 years undergoing TLIF procedures. Further research is necessary to determine if this reduction correlates to a decrease the incidence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction and delirium.

Prevalence and associated factors of postoperative nausea and vomiting among adult patients undergoing elective surgery

Background

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a surgical complication defined as any nausea, and vomiting with in the first 24-48 h after surgery in inpatients. Nausea is the unpleasant desire and urge to vomit, while vomiting is a forcing of gastric contents through the mouth. Nausea and vomiting is the most common complication associated anaesthesia and surgery in the postoperative period. It is considered one of the most common causes of morbidity, and it has significant effects on patient satisfaction.

Objective

The study aimed to assess the incidence and associated factors of postoperative nausea and vomiting.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from 1 February to 30 April 2022. All adult, elective patients who underwent elective surgery under anaesthesia during the study period were included. A total of 677 patients underwent elective surgery at the time of the study, of which 634 patients were included in the study. Data collection method included chart review and patient interview.

Result

The overall prevalence of postoperative nausea and vomiting among post-surgical patients was 35.4%. Factors that had statistically significant relationship with PONV were history of motion sickness [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 4.04, 95% CI 1.486-10.988], smoking history (AOR 0.37, 95% CI 0.128-1.042) and intraoperative opioid use (AOR 3.59, 95% CI 1.345-9.618).

Conclusion

The prevalence of this study is higher than studies conducted in the recent years. This result showed that the appropriate practice of PONV prophylactic regimens and anaesthesia management are required to decrease the risk of PONV.

Nausea and Vomiting After Posterior Spinal Fusion in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Systematic and Critical Analysis Review

BACKGROUND

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) affects patient satisfaction, health care costs, and hospital stay by complicating the postoperative recovery period after adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) spinal fusion surgery. Our goal was to identify recommendations for optimal management of PONV in AIS patients undergoing posterior spinal fusion (PSF).

METHODS

We performed a systematic review in June 2022, searching the PubMed and Embase electronic databases using search terms "(Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis) AND (Postoperative) AND (Nausea) AND (Vomiting)." Three authors reviewed the 402 abstracts identified from January 1991 to June 2022. Studies that included adolescents or young adults (<21 years) with AIS undergoing PSF were selected for full-text review by consensus. We identified 34 studies reporting on incidence of PONV. Only 6 studies examined PONV as the primary outcome, whereas remaining were reported PONV as a secondary outcome. Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery Grades of recommendation were assigned to potential interventions or clinical practice influencing incidence of PONV with respect to operative period (preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative period) on the basis that potential guidelines/interventions for PONV can be targeted at those periods.

RESULTS

A total of 11 factors were graded, 5 of which were related to intervention and 6 were clinical practice-related. Eight factors could be classified into the operative period-1 in the intraoperative period and 7 in the postoperative period, whereas the remaining 3 recommendations had overlapping periods. The majority of grades of recommendations given were inconclusive or conflicting. The statement that neuraxial and postoperative systemic-only opioid therapy have a similar incidence of PONV was supported by good (Grade A) evidence. There was fair (Grade B) and poor evidence (Grade C) to avoid opioid antagonists and nonopioid local analgesia using wound catheters as PONV-reducing measures.

CONCLUSION

Although outcomes after spinal fusion for AIS have been studied extensively, the literature on PONV outcomes is scarce and incomplete. PONV is most commonly included as a secondary outcome in studies related to pain management. This study is the first to specifically identify evidence and recommendations for interventions or clinical practice that influence PONV in AIS patients undergoing PSF. Most interventions and clinical practices have conflicting or limited data to support them, whereas others have low-level evidence as to whether the intervention/clinical practice influences the incidence of PONV. We have identified the need for expanded research using PONV as a primary outcome in patients with AIS undergoing spinal fusion surgery.

Development and validation of an instrument to predict prolonged length of stay in the postanesthesia care unit following ambulatory surgery

PURPOSE

We sought to develop and validate an Anticipated Surveillance Requirement Prediction Instrument (ASRI) for prediction of prolonged postanesthesia care unit length of stay (PACU-LOS, more than four hours) after ambulatory surgery.

METHODS

We analyzed hospital registry data from patients who received anesthesia care in ambulatory surgery centres (ASCs) of university-affiliated hospital networks in New York, USA (development and internal validation cohort [n = 183,711]) and Massachusetts, USA (validation cohort [n = 148,105]). We used stepwise backwards elimination to create ASRI.

RESULTS

The model showed discriminatory ability in the development, internal, and external validation cohorts with areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.82 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.82 to 0.83), 0.82 (95% CI, 0.81 to 0.83), and 0.80 (95% CI, 0.79 to 0.80), respectively. In cases started in the afternoon, ASRI scores ≥ 43 had a total predicted risk for PACU stay past 8 p.m. of 32% (95% CI, 31.1 to 33.3) vs 8% (95% CI, 7.9 to 8.5) compared with low score values (P-for-interaction < 0.001), which translated to a higher direct PACU cost of care of USD 207 (95% CI, 194 to 2,019; model estimate, 1.68; 95% CI, 1.64 to 1.73; P < 0.001) The effects of using the ASRI score on PACU use efficiency were greater in a free-standing ASC with no limitations on PACU bed availability.

CONCLUSION

We developed and validated a preoperative prediction tool for prolonged PACU-LOS after ambulatory surgery that can be used to guide scheduling in ambulatory surgery to optimize PACU use during normal work hours, particularly in settings without limitation of PACU bed availability.

Development of multidisciplinary, evidenced-based protocol recommendations and implementation strategies for anterior lumbar interbody fusion surgery following a literature review

The anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) procedure involves several surgical specialties, including general, vascular, and spinal surgery due to its unique approach and anatomy involved. It also carries its own set of complications that differentiate it from posterior lumbar fusion surgeries. The demonstrated benefits of treatment guidelines, such as Enhanced Recovery after Surgery in other surgical procedures, and the lack of current recommendations regarding the anterior approach, underscores the need to develop protocols that specifically address the complexities of ALIF. We aimed to create an evidence-based protocol for pre-, intra-, and postoperative care of ALIF patients and implementation strategies for our health system. A 12-member multidisciplinary workgroup convened to develop an evidence-based treatment protocol for ALIF using a Delphi consensus methodology and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system for rating the quality of evidence and strength of protocol recommendations. The quality of evidence, strength of the recommendation and specific implementation strategies for Methodist Health System for each recommendation were described. The literature search resulted in 295 articles that were included in the development of protocol recommendations. No disagreements remained once the authors reviewed the final GRADE assessment of the quality of evidence and strength of the recommendations. Ultimately, there were 39 protocol recommendations, with 16 appropriate preoperative protocol recommendations (out of 17 proposed), 9 appropriate intraoperative recommendations, and 14 appropriate postoperative recommendations. This novel set of evidence-based recommendations is designed to optimize the patient's ALIF experience from the preoperative to the postoperative period.

Effect of dexamethasone administration for postoperative nausea and vomiting prophylaxis on glucose levels in adults with diabetes undergoing elective surgery: a systematic review with meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this review was to evaluate the effect of intravenous dexamethasone given intraoperatively for postoperative nausea and vomiting prophylaxis on maximal blood glucose level within the initial 24 hours following elective surgery for patients with diabetes.

INTRODUCTION

Postoperative nausea and vomiting is a prevalent adverse effect of anesthesia that leads to morbidity, increased health care costs, and unanticipated hospital admissions. Dexamethasone is an effective prophylactic agent that confers secondary analgesic and anti-inflammatory benefits. However, its use in patients with diabetes remains controversial due to the potential for increased postoperative blood glucose levels.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

This review considered studies with participants 18 years of age or older with type 1 or 2 diabetes undergoing an elective surgical procedure. Eligible studies reported postoperative blood glucose levels in adults with diabetes after receiving a single 4-10 mg prophylactic dose of intravenous dexamethasone intraoperatively for postoperative nausea and vomiting. The primary outcome was maximum blood glucose level in the first 24 hours after surgery. All study designs were eligible for inclusion. Studies were excluded if they lacked a control group with diabetes or if they did not report maximum blood glucose values in both groups.

METHODS

A search of MEDLINE, CINAHL Complete, Embase, Web of Science, TRIP database, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews was completed in October 2021. Gray literature resources were also searched. No date or language restrictions were applied. Methodological quality was assessed using JBI appraisal tools for randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and case-control studies. A meta-analysis of maximal postoperative blood glucose level within 24 hours of surgery was performed, as well as subgroup analyses by dexamethasone dose, insulin treatment, and study design type.

RESULTS

Eleven studies (4 randomized controlled trials, 6 cohort studies, and 1 case-control study) were included in this review, with 1 study excluded from meta-analysis and results reported narratively. The total sample size of studies included in meta-analysis was 2567. The administration of dexamethasone significantly increased maximal blood glucose levels in the 24 hours immediately following surgery compared with control groups with diabetes, as demonstrated by randomized controlled trials (mean difference [MD] 39.56 mg/dL; 95% CI 16.18 to 62.94; P < 0.001; I2 = 87%) and observational studies (MD 26.31 mg/dL; 95% CI 7.10 to 45.52; P = 0.007; I2 = 92%). This increase in blood glucose was significant for all doses of dexamethasone: 4 mg (MD 40.81 mg/dL; 95% CI 2.42 to 79.19; P = 0.001; I2 = 91%), 8 mg (randomized controlled trials only; MD 39.45 mg/dL; 95% CI 15.32 to 63.58; P = 0.001; I2 = 86%), and mixed 4-10 mg dose (MD 30.82 mg/dL; 95% CI 6.75 to 54.88; P < 0.012; I2 = 93%). Postoperative hyperglycemia persisted in studies using insulin treatment as well as those not using insulin protocols. The overall certainty of the findings ranged from very low for outcomes that included cohort studies to moderate when outcomes from randomized controlled trials were analyzed separately. However, the quantitative findings of the experimental and observational studies were clinically similar. Risk of bias presented minimal concerns in all included studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Dexamethasone leads to transient postoperative hyperglycemia in patients with diabetes undergoing elective surgery when given as a single 4-10 mg intravenous dose for postoperative nausea and vomiting prophylaxis. The clinical relevance of hyperglycemia is debatable given its small magnitude and transient nature. Without more tightly controlled data, methodological consistency, and baseline blood glucose values, it is impossible to test causal links between hyperglycemia and pre-existing patient factors (eg, hemoglobin A1C levels) or postoperative complications.

REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42020185607.

Effect of Preoperative Carbohydrate Drink and Postoperative Chewing Gum on Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting in Patients Undergoing Day Care Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) causes an unexpected prolonged hospital stay after ambulatory surgery. Novel measures such as preoperative loading of oral carbohydrates and postoperative chewing gum have recently gained momentum for postoperative recovery. This study evaluated the effects of preoperative carbohydrate loading and postoperative chewing gum (CG) on PONV after daycare laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC).

METHODS

A total of 100 patients were randomized to group A (preoperative carbohydrate loading with 200 ml of water with 25 g of carbohydrate and postoperative chewing gum (CG) when the patient responded to his/her name) and group B (standard care). The incidence of PONV and pain was assessed by using visual analogue scale. Quality of recovery (QoR-15) was assessed by using QoR15 questionnaire at 6 h, 24 h and 48 h after surgery.

RESULTS

The incidence of PONV and pain was lower in group A; however, it was not significant (p > 0.05). The severity of PONV, pain and the need for rescue antiemetic was significantly lower in group A (p < 0.05). The episodes of PONV and required dose of antiemetic were less in group A. Group A also had a significantly higher QoR-15 score at all time points (p < 0.001). Preoperative dyspepsia was also noticed as a significant confounding predictor for postoperative vomiting.

CONCLUSION

Preoperative carbohydrate drinks and early postoperative CG reduces the severity of PONV and requirement of antiemetics in patients undergoing LC. Hence, these simple measures can be used as a standard of care to optimize perioperative care in patients undergoing daycare surgery.

Incidence of Acute Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding and Related Risk Factors among Elderly Patients Undergoing Surgery for Major Limb Fractures: An Analytical Cohort Study

(1) Background: Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB), a major postoperative complication after surgical fixation of major limb fractures, can be fatal but is often neglected. This study determined the incidence rates of and related risk factors for perioperative UGIB among older patients with major upper limb fractures but without a history of peptic ulcer disease (PUD). (2) Methods: We collected the data of patients aged more than 65 years who underwent surgery for major limb fracture between 1 January 2001 and 31 December 2017, from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database and excluded those with a history of UGIB and PUD before the date of surgery. The primary outcome was the incidence of UGIB requiring panendoscopy during hospitalization. A multiple logistic regression model was used to identify the independent predictors of UGIB, with adjustment for confounding factors. The final model included variables that were either statistically significant in univariate analyses or deemed clinically important. (3) Results: The incidence of UGIB was 2.8% among patients with major limb fractures. Male sex, older age, major lower limb fracture, and a history of chronic renal disease were significant risk factors for the increased incidence of perioperative UGIB. (4) Conclusions: Patients with major limb fractures who underwent surgery exhibited a higher rate of stress ulceration with UGIB, even when they had no history of PUD. Perioperative preventive protocols (e.g., protocols for the administration of proton-pump inhibitors) may be necessary for patients with these major risk factors.

Factors associated with gastrointestinal dysmotility in critically ill patients

Critical illness may disrupt nutritional, protective, immune, and endocrine functions of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to a state of gastrointestinal dysmotility. We aimed to identify factors associated with the occurrence of gastrointestinal dysmotility in critically ill patients. A cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted, using patient files as a source of data. The study included 185 critically ill patients treated in the intensive care unit of the University Clinical Center, Kragujevac, Serbia, from January 1, 2016, to January 1, 2022. Significant risk factors associated with some form of gastrointestinal dysmotility were acute kidney injury (with paralytic ileus, nausea, vomiting, and constipation), recent abdominal surgery (with ileus, nausea, vomiting, and constipation), mechanical ventilation (with ileus, and nausea), age (with ileus and constipation), and use of certain medication such as opioids (with ileus, gastro-esophageal reflux, nausea, vomiting, and constipation), antidepressants (with ileus, nausea, and vomiting), and antidiabetics (with ileus). On the other hand, Charlson comorbidity index had divergent effects, depending on the form of gastrointestinal dysmotility: it increased the risk of gastro-esophageal reflux but protected against ileus, nausea, and vomiting. In clonclusion, recognition of factors associated with gastrointestinal dysmotility should initiate preventative measures and, thus, accelerate the recovery of critically ill.

Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting Prediction: Machine Learning Insights from a Comprehensive Analysis of Perioperative Data

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) are common complications after surgery. This study aimed to present the utilization of machine learning for predicting PONV and provide insights based on a large amount of data. This retrospective study included data on perioperative features of patients, such as patient characteristics and perioperative factors, from two hospitals. Logistic regression algorithms, random forest, light-gradient boosting machines, and multilayer perceptrons were used as machine learning algorithms to develop the models. The dataset of this study included 106,860 adult patients, with an overall incidence rate of 14.4% for PONV. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of the models was 0.60-0.67. In the prediction models that included only the known risk and mitigating factors of PONV, the AUROC of the models was 0.54-0.69. Some features were found to be associated with patient-controlled analgesia, with opioids being the most important feature in almost all models. In conclusion, machine learning provides valuable insights into PONV prediction, the selection of significant features for prediction, and feature engineering.

Enhanced recovery after surgery, current, and future considerations in head and neck cancer

Objectives

Review of the current and relevant literature to develop a list of evidence-based recommendations that can be implemented in head and neck surgical practices. To provide rationale for the multiple aspects of comprehensive care for head and neck surgical patients. To improve postsurgical outcomes for head and neck surgical patients.

Methods

Extensive review of the medical literature was performed and relevant studies in both the head and neck surgery and other surgical specialties were considered for inclusion.

Results

A total of 18 aspects of perioperative care were included in this review. The literature search included 276 publications considered to be the most relevant and up to date evidence. Each topic is concluded with recommendation grade and quality of evidence for the recommendation.

Conclusion

Since it's conception, enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols have continued to push for comprehensive and evidence based postsurgical care to improve patient outcomes. Head and neck oncology is one of the newest fields to develop a protocol. Due to the complexity of this patient population and their postsurgical needs, a multidisciplinary approach is needed to facilitate recovery while minimizing complications. Current and future advances in head and neck cancer research will serve to strengthen and add new principles to a comprehensive ERAS protocol.

Level of Evidence

2a.

Body Mass Index Affects Delayed Chemotherapy-induced Vomiting in Pediatric Malignancy Patients

BACKGROUND

Delayed chemotherapy-induced vomiting (DCIV) is a problem for children undergoing chemotherapy for malignant tumors. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between body mass index (BMI) and DCIV in children.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Clinical data were collected from patients with malignancies who underwent chemotherapy at our center. Independent risk factors for DCIV derived by logistic regression. The Youden Index, which calculates BMI, divides patients into a high-risk group and a low-risk group, and the difference in DCIV between the two groups was analyzed. The relationship between BMI and DCIV was assessed by calculating the frequency of vomiting episodes and the severity of vomiting.

RESULTS

A total of 283 patients were included in this cohort study. BMI (odds ratio [OR]: 0.811; 95% CI: 0.699-0.941), age (OR: 1.014; 95% CI: 1.006-1.021), and emetogenic grade (OR: 2.858, 95% CI: 1.749-4.671) were independent risk factors for the development of DCIV in children. Patients in the high-risk group experienced vomiting more frequently and with greater severity than those in the low-risk group ( P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

BMI in children with malignancy is associated with DCIV, and the incidence of DCIV decreases as BMI increases. Physicians may be able to arrange a more elaborate antiemetic prevention regimen based on the patient's BMI.

Comparative Efficacy of Granisetron and Droperidol After Orthognathic Surgery for Prophylaxis of Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting: A Retrospective Study

BACKGROUND

In the fall of 2021, granisetron was approved for postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) management in Japan. However, the comparative efficacy of droperidol and granisetron in the field of orthognathic surgery has not been determined.

PURPOSE

We compare the efficacy of droperidol and granisetron for PONV prophylaxis following orthognathic surgery.

STUDY DESIGN, SETTING, SAMPLE

We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent orthognathic surgery at a single institution from September 2020 to December 2022. Patients who had undergone Le Fort I osteotomy with sagittal split ramus osteotomy or isolated sagittal split ramus osteotomy were included. Patients were divided into three groups; the isolated droperidol (D), isolated granisetron (G), and droperidol with granisetron (DG) groups. General anesthesia was performed using total intravenous anesthesia for all patients; however, droperidol and granisetron were administered at the anesthesiologist's discretion.

PREDICTOR VARIABLE

PONV prophylactic therapy included isolated droperidol, isolated granisetron, and droperidol with granisetron administration.

OUTCOME VARIABLES

Postoperative nausea (PON) and postoperative vomiting (POV) were determined through medical examination within 48 hours following surgery. Secondary outcomes included complications due to droperidol and/or granisetron administration.

COVARIATES

Age, sex, body mass index, Apfel's score, duration of surgery, duration of anesthesia, intraoperative blood loss, and type of surgery.

ANALYSES

Statistical analysis was conducted using Fisher exact test, Mann-Whitney U test with Bonferroni correction for univariate comparison, and modified Poisson regression for comparison of PON and POV prophylactic efficacy for multivariate analyses. P values <.05 were considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Our study included 218 participants. There were no significant differences in covariates between groups D (n = 111), G (n = 52), and DG (n = 55). No significant difference in PON incidence was observed between groups. However, POV incidence was significantly lower in group DG than group D (relative risk, 0.21; 95% confidence interval, 0.05 to 0.86; P = .03). No significant difference in complication incidence was observed between groups.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Granisetron was as effective as droperidol for PONV management, while droperidol combined with granisetron was more effective than isolated droperidol for POV management. As compared to the use of each drug separately, their combination was considered safe, with no increase in complication rates.

Transdermal scopolamine and urinary retention following urogynecologic surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Both urogynecologic surgeries and transdermal scopolamine (TDS) patches are independently associated with postoperative urinary retention (POUR). It is unclear if the risk of POUR increases when these interventions are used in combination. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to synthesize current evidence to optimize clinical management and outcomes for patients undergoing urogynecologic procedures.

METHODS

This systematic review was conducted in concordance with the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. MEDLINE, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Cochrane Library were searched. Publications were filtered by inclusion and exclusion criteria. Inclusion criteria required: (1) preoperative or perioperative application of TDS, (2) surgery indicated for stress urinary incontinence and/or pelvic organ prolapse, (3) results given for postoperative voiding trials, and (4) were available in English. Exclusion criteria included: (1) oral or parenteral formulations of scopolamine, (2) administration of alternative preoperative antiemetics, and (3) use of combination antiemetic therapy. Quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Checklist. Publication bias was evaluated via the ROBINS-I assessment tool, and Egger regression and Begg and Mazumumdar rank correlation tests. A meta-analysis was conducted using Meta-Essentials Excel Workbook.

RESULTS

Four publications were identified which complied with inclusion and exclusion criteria. Included studies comprised 752 patients (237 experimental group, 515 control group). All were retrospective cohort studies conducted via chart review in America. Meta-analysis revealed a risk ratio (RR) of 2.35 with a confidence interval (CI) of 0.61 to 9.07, indicating a positive association between TDS and POUR, but without statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

Current evidence suggests that TDS application may be associated with increased risk of POUR following urogynecologic procedures. While research on this topic is greatly limited, this systematic review and meta-analysis highlights that alternative antiemetic therapy may be necessary for patients undergoing such interventions in effort to limit the risk of POUR.

Effect of sevoflurane, propofol and propofol with dexmedetomidine as maintenance agent on intracranial pressure in the Trendelenburg position during laparoscopic surgeries

Background and Aim

Pneumoperitoneum (PP) and the Trendelenburg position (TP) in laparoscopic surgeries are associated with rise in intracranial pressure (ICP). The optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) is a surrogate marker of ICP. The study aimed to evaluate the effect of sevoflurane, propofol and propofol with dexmedetomidine as maintenance agent on ICP in TP during laparoscopic surgeries.

Material and Methods

A total of 120 American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I/II patients, aged 18-65 years were randomly allocated into three groups: sevoflurane as group S, propofol as group P, and propofol with dexmedetomidine as group PD. The intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) was kept in the range of 12-14 mmHg and TP varied between 15°- 45° angle. The primary objective was comparison of ICP and secondary objectives were IOP, intraoperative hemodynamic and postoperative recovery characteristics among groups. The ONSD and IOP were measured in both eyes 10 min after endotracheal intubation (T0), 5 min after CO2 insufflation (T1), 5 min after TP (T2) and 5 min after deflation of gas (T3). The data were analyzed by using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 23.

Results

ONSD and IOP at T1 and T2 were significantly higher than T0 in all groups, but no significant difference was found among the intergroup groups. Significantly lower heart rate and mean blood pressure were observed in PD group at T1 and T2 compared to group S and group P.

Conclusion

The rise in ICP was comparable among sevoflurane, propofol, and propofol-dexmedetomidine combination as a maintenance agent during laparoscopic surgeries in TP.

The impact of the Apfel scoring system for prophylaxis of post-operative nausea and vomiting: A randomized controlled trial

Background and Aims

Post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is common, undesirable, and stressful following surgery. By focusing attention and resources on those groups of patients most likely to develop PONV, the quality of care provided to the patients can be improved. The primary objective was to compare the incidence of PONV after implementation of the Apfel scoring system with the control group receiving prophylaxis for every surgery. The secondary objective was to identify the effect on the patient's expenditure/savings with respect to management of PONV.

Material and Methods

This prospective randomized controlled double-blinded study enrolled 70 patients undergoing surgeries under general anesthesia. Patients were randomized to group A (control group - all received PONV prophylaxis) and group B (Apfel stratification performed for PONV prophylaxis). Based on the Apfel system, the risk of PONV was classified as the grades low, moderate, and high risk. Patients at moderate and high risk received PONV prophylaxis in group B. Patients were monitored for PONV during 24 h after surgery and rescue medication given as required. The effect of implementing Apfel risk stratification on the incidence of PONV (primary outcome measure) and on patient expenditure was compared.

Results

Compared to administering prophylaxis for all patients, the incidence of PONV [group A-5 patients (14.3%)] did not increase (P = 0.428) after implementing the Apfel scoring system [group B-2 patients (5.7%)]. The number of patients spending on prophylaxis for PONV in group A [35 (100%)] was higher than that in group B [17 (48%)], without increasing expenditure on PONV treatment.

Conclusion

Withholding prophylaxis on the basis of the Apfel scoring system did not increase the incidence of PONV compared to providing prophylaxis for all the patients. The overall cost of prevention and treatment of PONV is less when the Apfel scoring system is used.

A Randomized Control Trial to Compare Hemodynamic Parameters of Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy Under Combined Spinal-Epidural and General Anesthesia in a Tertiary Hospital

Background and Aim

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) under epidural anesthesia has been reported to have few advantages over general anesthesia, like lower postoperative pain and less need for analgesics. There are limited studies on PCNL being performed under neuraxial anesthesia in supine position. Hence the present study was conceived to compare hemodynamic parameters in patients undergoing percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) in the supine position under combined spinal-epidural with general anesthesia (GA).

Material and Methods

A prospective, randomized control trial was conducted among 90 patients who were posted to undergo elective percutaneous nephrolithotomy in the the supine position, after obtaining Institutional Ethical Committee (IEC) approval and CTRI (Clinical Trial Registry - India) registration. Patients were randomly allotted to undergo surgery either under general anesthesia (group GA) or combined spinal epidural anesthesia (group CSE) by computer-generated random number method. Hemodynamic parameters, postoperative analgesic requirement and incidence of blood transfusion were recorded and analyzed.

Results

There was no significant difference between the two groups with respect to gender, ASA grade, surgery duration, calculus size and pulse rate. There was a statistically significant reduction in mean arterial pressure from 5 to 50 minutes of surgery and less incidence of blood transfusion in patients in the CSE group. Patients who underwent PCNL in the supine position under CSE required lesser analgesics postoperatively compared to those under general anesthesia.

Conclusion

Combined spinal epidural analgesia can be used as an alternative to general anesthesia for patients undergoing PCNL in the supine position in view of less MAP and reduced postoperative analgesic and blood transfusion requirement.

Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting After Orthopaedic Surgery: Prevalence and Associated Factors

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a common complication after surgery and can lead to additional complications and delayed discharge. This descriptive, cross-sectional study assessed the prevalence of PONV and its associated factors in patients undergoing orthopaedic surgery. The study was conducted between November 2020 and July 2021 with 149 patients in a public hospital in the Central Anatolia region of Turkey. In the first 48 hours after surgery, 40.9% of the patients had nausea and 17.4% had vomiting. Gender, age, medical diagnosis, surgical procedure, operative time, postoperative opioid use, and anxiety were identified as significant risk factors for PONV after orthopaedic surgery (p < .05). These factors should be considered during postoperative follow-up, and patients who are older, female, and have prolonged operative time or anxiety should be monitored more closely for PONV.

Characterization of Bioactive Compounds and Novel Proteins Derived from Promising Source Citrullus colocynthis along with In-Vitro and In-Vivo Activities

Herbal products are preferable to synthetic medicines, and the use of traditional medicines is increasing day-by-day. The current study was designed to evaluate the potentials of bioactive compounds from Citrullus colocynthis by performing FTIR, HPLC, and GC-MS analyses, which explore the good concentration of the secondary metabolites, such as gallic acid (74.854 ppm), vanillic acid (122.616 ppm), and ferulic acid (101.045 ppm) with considerable bioactivities. Antimicrobial protein was estimated by performing SDS-PAGE, ranging from 15 to 70 kDa in all protein fractions. The current study also checked the cytotoxicity of the bioactive compounds in the active fraction of C. colocynthis, and to perform this activity, the groups of rats were arranged with 16 rats randomly divided into four groups (three experimental and one control) by administering various dosage of methanolic fractions in dose-dependent manner. Histopathology was conducted on the livers of the rats after 15 days of sacrifice under deep anesthesia. In liver cell slides examined at the maximum dose of 600 mg/kg, minimal morphological changes, such as slight ballooning, nuclear variation, vacuolar degeneration, and hydropic degeneration, were observed. Furthermore, the in silico analysis identified bioactive compounds as potential drug candidates.

Perioperative intravenous dexamethasone for patients undergoing colorectal surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Dexamethasone is a glucocorticoid that is often administered intraoperatively as prophylaxis for postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have examined its use in colorectal surgery. This systematic review aims to assess the postoperative impacts of dexamethasone use in colorectal surgery.

METHODS

MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL were searched from database inception to January 2023. Articles were included if they compared perioperative intravenous dexamethasone to a control group in patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery in terms of postoperative morbidity. The primary outcomes were prolonged postoperative ileus (PPOI) and PONV. Secondary outcomes included postoperative infectious morbidity and return of bowel function. A pair-wise meta-analysis and GRADE assessment of the quality of evidence were performed.

RESULTS

After reviewing 3476 relevant citations, seven articles (five RCTs, two retrospective cohorts) met the inclusion criteria. Overall, 1568 patients received perioperative dexamethasone and 1459 patients received a control. Patients receiving perioperative dexamethasone experienced significantly less PPOI based on moderate-quality evidence (three studies, OR 0.46, 95%CI 0.28-0.74, p < 0.01). Time to first flatus was significantly reduced with intravenous dexamethasone. There was no difference between groups in terms of PONV (four studies, OR 0.90, 95%CI 0.64-1.27, p = 0.55), postoperative morbidity (OR 0.93, 95%CI 0.63-1.39, p = 0.74), or rate of postoperative infectious complications (seven studies, OR 0.74, 95%CI 0.55-1.01, p = 0.06).

CONCLUSION

This review presents moderate-quality evidence that perioperative intravenous dexamethasone may reduce PPOI and enhance the return of bowel function following elective colorectal surgery. There was no significant observed effect on PONV or postoperative infectious complications.

Application of opioid-free general anesthesia for gynecological laparoscopic surgery under ERAS protocol: a non-inferiority randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) is now widely used in various surgical fields including gynecological laparoscopic surgery, but the advantages of opioid-free anesthesia (OFA) in gynecological laparoscopic surgery under ERAS protocol are inexact.

AIMS

This study aims to assess the effectiveness and feasibility of OFA technique versus traditional opioid-based anesthesia (OA) technique in gynecological laparoscopic surgery under ERAS.

METHODS

Adult female patients aged 18 ~ 65 years old undergoing gynecological laparoscopic surgery were randomly divided into OFA group (Group OFA, n = 39) with esketamine and dexmedetomidine or OA group (Group OA, n = 38) with sufentanil and remifentanil. All patients adopted ERAS protocol. The primary outcome was the area under the curve (AUC) of Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores (AUC_VAS) postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included intraoperative hemodynamic variables, awakening and orientation recovery times, number of postoperative rescue analgesia required, incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) perioperatively.

RESULTS

AUC_VAS was (Group OFA, 16.72 ± 2.50) vs (Group OA, 15.99 ± 2.72) (p = 0.223). No difference was found in the number of rescue analgesia required (p = 0.352). There were no between-group differences in mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) (p = 0.211 and 0.659, respectively) except MAP at time of surgical incision immediately [(Group OFA, 84.38 ± 11.08) vs. (Group OA, 79.00 ± 8.92), p = 0.022]. Times of awakening and orientation recovery in group OFA (14.54 ± 4.22 and 20.69 ± 4.92, respectively) were both longer than which in group OA (12.63 ± 3.59 and 18.45 ± 4.08, respectively) (p = 0.036 and 0.033, respectively). The incidence of PONV in group OFA (10.1%) was lower than that in group OA (28.9%) significantly (p = 0.027). The postoperative PSQI was lower than the preoperative one in group OFA (p = 0.013).

CONCLUSION

In gynecological laparoscopic surgery under ERAS protocol, OFA technique is non-inferior to OA technique in analgesic effect and intraoperative anesthesia stability. Although awakening and orientation recovery times were prolonged compared to OA, OFA had lower incidence of PONV and improved postoperative sleep quality.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ChiCTR2100052761, 05/11/2021.

Acute pain management after thoracoscopic lung resection: a systematic review and explorative meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Pain after thoracoscopic surgery may increase the incidence of postoperative complications and impair recovery. Guidelines lack consensus regarding postoperative analgesia. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the mean pain scores of different analgesic techniques (thoracic epidural analgesia, continuous or single-shot unilateral regional analgesia and only systemic analgesia) after thoracoscopic anatomical lung resection.

METHODS

Medline, Embase and Cochrane databases were searched until 1 October 2022. Patients undergoing at least >70% anatomical resections through thoracoscopy reporting postoperative pain scores were included. Due to a high inter-study variability an explorative meta-analysis next to an analytic meta-analysis was performed. The quality of evidence has been evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation system.

RESULTS

A total of 51 studies comprising 5573 patients were included. Mean 24, 48 and 72 h pain scores with 95% confidence interval on a 0-10 scale were calculated. Length of hospital stay, postoperative nausea and vomiting, additional opioids and the use of rescue analgesia were analysed as secondary outcomes. A common-effect size was estimated with an extreme high heterogeneity for which pooling of the studies was not appropriate. An exploratory meta-analysis demonstrated acceptable mean pain scores of Numeric Rating Scale <4 for all analgesic techniques.

CONCLUSIONS

This extensive literature review and attempt to pool mean pain scores for meta-analysis demonstrates that unilateral regional analgesia is gaining popularity over thoracic epidural analgesia in thoracoscopic anatomical lung resection, despite great heterogeneity and limitations of current studies precluding such recommendations.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION

ID number 205311.

Incidence and risk factors of postoperative nausea and vomiting following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and its relationship with Helicobacter pylori: A propensity score matching analysis

BACKGROUND

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) are common after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), affecting patient satisfaction and postoperative recovery. The purpose of this study was to investigate the incidence and severity of PONV after LSG and the relationship between Helicobacter pylori (HP) and PONV.

METHODS

Patients undergoing LSG in our center from June 1, 2018, to May 31, 2022, were divided into HP-positive and HP-negative groups for retrospective analysis. The independent risk factors of PONV were determined by univariate and binary logistic regression analysis using a 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM) method.

RESULTS

A total of 656 patients was enrolled, and 193 pairs of HP-positive and negative groups were matched after PSM. Both groups of patients had similar clinical features and surgical procedures. PONV occurred in 232 patients (60.1%) after LSG, and the incidence of PONV in HP-positive patients was 61.10%. The incidence and severity of PONV were statistically similar in both groups (P=0.815). Multivariate analysis showed that the female sex (OR=1.644, P=0.042), postoperative pain (OR=2.203, P=0.001) and use of postoperative opioid (OR=2.229, P=0.000) were independent risk factors for PONV after LSG, whereas T2DM (OR=0.510, P=0.009) and OSAS (OR=0.545, P=0.008) independently reduced the incidence rate of PONV. There was no difference either in smoking (P=0.255) or alcohol drinking (P=0.801). HP infection did not affect PONV (P=0.678).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of PONV following LSG was relatively high. Female sex, postoperative pain and use of postoperative opioid predicted a higher incidence of PONV. Patients with T2DM and OSAS were less likely to have PONV. There was no clear association between HP infection and PONV after LSG.

Combination of dexamethasone and ondansetron in prophylaxis nausea and vomiting in gynecological operation

BACKGROUND

Postoperative nausea and vomiting occur in about 20-30% of women; however, some reports have estimated the rate at 70% in at-risk individuals. Gynecological and obstetrical operations are among the most frequent types of surgeries to be associated with nausea and vomiting postoperatively. Ondansetron and dexamethasone have been compared in a variety of studies for postoperative prophylaxis.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was conducted in order to compare the efficacy and safety of dexamethasone and ondansetron, alone or in combination, for prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting in a sample of Iraqi women undergoing gynecological surgeries.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study was conducted in Al-Diwaniyah Province, a region belonging to the Mid-Euphrates sector of Iraq, at the Child and Maternity Teaching Hospital. The study started in June 2021 and the work with the research was accomplished in September 2022. The study included a total of 100 women undergoing different gynecological surgeries such as ovarian cystectomy, oophorectomy, ectopic pregnancy, total abdominal hysterectomy, and myomectomy. All participants involved in the study were categorized randomly into four groups, namely, dexamethasone, ondansetron, combined, and placebo groups.

RESULTS

The rates of nausea in the different groups were analyzed. The rates of nausea in dexamethasone, ondansetron, and combined groups revealed a significant decrease compared with that of placebo group (P < 0.05), and the rate was significantly lower in combined group when compared with dexamethasone and ondansetron groups (P < 0.05). The rate of nausea in combined group was significantly lower than that of dexamethasone and ondansetron groups. The rate of vomiting in combined group was significantly lower than that of placebo group and less than that of the dexamethasone group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Based on our study and previous reports, both dexamethasone and ondansetron are efficient and safe in preventing nausea and vomiting in gynecological operations; however, combination of both provides the best results.

Multimodal analgesic protocol for cervical disc replacement in the ambulatory setting: Clinical case series

Background

Effective pain management is paramount for outpatient surgical success. This study aims to report a case series of patients undergoing cervical disc replacement (CDR) in an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) with the use of an enhanced multimodal analgesic (MMA) protocol.

Methods

Primary, single-/2-level CDR procedures at an ASC with an enhanced MMA protocol were included. ASC patients were discharged day of surgery. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were administered at preoperative/6-week/12-week/6-month/1-year/2-year timepoints and included Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) neck, VAS arm, Neck Disability Index (NDI), Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-Physical Function (PROMIS-PF), and 12-Item Short-Form Physical and Mental Composite Score (SF-12 PCS/SF-12 MCS). A t-test assessed postoperative PROM improvement from baseline. MCID achievement was determined by comparing ΔPROM scores to previously established thresholds.

Results

106 patients were included, 76 single-level and 30 2-level. Most single-levels occurred at C5-C6, most 2-levels at C5-C7. One 2-level patient developed a hematoma 5 days postoperatively and underwent revision for evacuation. Five patients reported postoperative dysphagia; all were quickly resolved. One patient had an episode of seizure secondary to serotonin syndrome from concealed drug use. Patient was reintubated, transferred, and treated for serotonin syndrome. Two patients experienced postoperative nausea/vomiting. Cohort significantly improved from baseline for all PROMS at all timepoints except SF-12 MCS at 1-year/2-years and SF-12 PCS at 2 years (p < 0.047, all). Overall MCID achievement rates were: VAS arm (48.7%), VAS neck (69.1%), NDI (98.9%), SF-12 MCS (50.0%), SF-12 PCS (54.6%), and PROMIS-PF (73.4%).

Conclusion

Outpatient CDR, incorporating an enhanced MMA protocol, can be safely and effectively performed with proper patient selection and surgical technique. Patients saw timely discharge, well-controlled postoperative pain, and favorable long-term outcomes.

Predicting Length of Stay using machine learning for total joint replacements performed at a rural community hospital

Background

Predicting patient’s Length of Stay (LOS) before total joint replacement (TJR) surgery is vital for hospitals to optimally manage costs and resources. Many hospitals including in rural areas use publicly available models such as National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) calculator which, unfortunately, performs suboptimally when predicting LOS for TJR procedures.

Objective

The objective of this research was to develop a Machine Learning (ML) model to predict LOS for TJR procedures performed at a Perioperative Surgical Home implemented rural community hospital for better accuracy and interpretation than the NSQIP calculator.

Methods

A total of 158 TJR patients were collected and analyzed from a rural community hospital located in Montana. A random forest (RF) model was used to predict patient’s LOS. For interpretation, permuted feature importance and partial dependence plot methods were used to identify the important variables and their relationship with the LOS.

Results

The root mean square error for the RF model (0.7) was lower than the NSQIP calculator (1.21). The five most important variables for predicting LOS were BMI, Duke Activity Status-Index, diabetes, patient’s household income, and patient’s age.

Conclusion

This pilot study is the first of its kind to develop an ML model to predict LOS for TJR procedures that were performed at a small-scale rural community hospital. This pilot study contributes an approach for rural hospitals, making them more independent by developing their own predictions instead of relying on public models.

Impact of Ambulatory Setting for Workers' Compensation Patients Undergoing One-Level Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion and Review of the Literature

OBJECTIVE

To compare perioperative characteristics and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in workers' compensation (WC) patients undergoing minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF) in either the inpatient/outpatient setting.

METHODS

Patients with WC undergoing 1-level MIS-TLIF were included. Patients were separated into inpatient/outpatient groups and demographically propensity score matched. PROMs included visual analog scale (VAS) back/VAS leg/Oswestry Disability Index (ODI)/12-item Short Form Physical Composite Score (SF-12 PCS)/Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Physical Function (PROMIS-PF) preoperatively and 6 weeks, 12 weeks, 6 months, and 1 year postoperatively. Results were compared preoperatively and postoperatively and between cohorts. Minimum clinically important difference (MCID) achievement was determined through comparison with values established in the literature.

RESULTS

A total of 216 patients were included (184 inpatient). The inpatient cohort (IC) showed worse perioperative outcomes in multiple measures (P < 0.034; all). The IC improved in all PROMs (P < 0.038; all), besides ODI at 6 weeks, SF-12 PCS at 6 weeks/6 months/1 year, and PROMIS-PF at 6 weeks. The outpatient cohort (OC) improved in VAS back at all time points and VAS leg at 6 months (P < 0.033; all). Between cohorts, the OC showed better scores with VAS leg/ODI/SF-12 PCS/PROMIS-PF at multiple time points (P < 0.031; all). Most of the IC achieved MCID, aside from ODI, whereas the OC achieved MCID in SF-12 PCS. MCID achievement between cohorts was higher in the IC at PROMIS-PF at 1 year and VAS back overall (P < 0.034; all).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite more comorbidities and worse perioperative measures, the IC showed improved PROMs from preoperative to ≥1 follow-up visit, whereas the OC had improvement with only VAS back and leg. The IC showed multiple MCID achievements, whereas the OC showed MCID in only SF-12 PCS. These findings may help guide a surgeon's decision making between inpatient/outpatient lumbar surgery in the WC population.

The effects of acupressure on postoperative nausea and vomiting among patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Laparoscopic surgery is one of the most commonly performed surgeries in general surgery, with fewer side effects and rapid recovery. Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) remains the main challenge that confronts the prognosis of this minimally invasive surgery. We aimed to evaluate the effect of acupressure, a nonpharmacological non-invasive method, on the incidence of nausea and vomiting following laparoscopic surgery within the early phase (first six hours postoperatively) and the extended phase (for at least 24 h postoperatively).

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Cochran, Scopus, Web of Science, Google scholar, and Wiley for randomized controlled trials that evaluated the effect of acupressure on PONV in patients undergoing laparoscopy. Data were extracted and analyzed in a random model, and pooled risk ratios (RRs) with their respective 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.

RESULTS

Eleven trials were included in the meta-analysis, comprising 941 patients. Most of the included patients were females undergoing gynecological laparoscopy or laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Acupressure significantly lowered the incidence of nausea and vomiting, within the early phase (RR = 0.62, 95% CI [0.44 to 0.88]; p = 0.008), (RR = 0.5, 95% CI [0.30 to 0.84]; p = 0.008), and the extended phase (RR = 0.65, 95% CI [0.52 to 0.83]; p = 0.0003), (RR = 0.44, 95% CI [0.32 to 0.61]; p < 0.00001), respectively. Moreover, acupressure significantly reduced the need for rescue antiemetic drugs in both phases (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Acupressure is an effective procedure for reducing nausea, vomiting, and the need for antiemetic drugs after laparoscopic surgery.

The Clinical Observation on PONV with the Intervention of Thumbtack Needles Combined with Chinese Medicine Ironing Therapy

Objective

This study aimed to analyze the clinical efficacy of the intervention of thumbtack needles (applicable to subcutaneous embedding) combined with Chinese medicine ironing therapy on postoperation nausea and vomiting (PONV).

Methods

106 patients who scheduled elective surgery were enrolled and randomized into control group and experimental group, with 53 cases in each group. The control group received modern medication, while the experimental group was given thumbtack needles combined with Chinese medicine ironing therapy based on the control group. The PONV score, incidence rate, gastrointestinal hormone level, Functional Living Index-Emesis (FLIE), and General Comfort Questionnaire (GCQ) of the two groups were compared.

Results

After treatment, the incidence of PONV and GCQ in the experimental group was observed to be remarkably lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05), while the levels of gastrointestinal hormones and the level in the FLIE of the experimental group were comparatively higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Thumbtack needles combined with Chinese medicine ironing therapy can be utilized to reduce the incidence of PONV, to improve the level of gastrointestinal hormones, and to improve the comfort and quality of patients' lives.

A Clinical Study to Compare the Antiemetic Efficacy of Prophylactic Ondansetron Versus Ondansetron with Dexamethasone Combination Therapies in Women Undergoing Breast Surgeries: A Randomized Control Trial

Background:

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a patient-specific concern. Ambulatory breast surgeries are on the rise with higher chances of PONV among the recipient women. PONV remains one of the concerns of unanticipated readmission leading to additional cost of surgery along with patient dissatisfaction. There are limited works of literature about PONV and its prevention in breast surgeries. The primary objective of this study was to compare the prophylactic antiemetic efficacy of ondansetron monotherapy with that of the combination of ondansetron and dexamethasone in the prevention on PONV in breast surgeries by observing the incidence of PONV. Secondary objectives were to assess the percentage of participants requiring rescue antiemetics, know the side effects of drugs, and analyze the effect of the surgical duration of breast surgeries in both groups.

Methods:

Group ondansetron (O) received 0.1 mg/kg IV ondansetron and group ondansetron and dexamethasone (OD) received 0.1 mg/kg IV ondansetron and 0.1 mg/kg of dexamethasone. The incidence of PONV in the first 24 h, percentage of population receiving rescue antiemetics, surgical duration, and hemodynamic parameters were noted.

Results:

In the 0 h to 6 h postoperative period, 38.9% of participants of group O had PONV, whereas only 13.9% in group OD had PONV, which was statistically significant ( P < .016). About 30.6% of study population in group O and 8.3% in group OD required rescue antiemetics which was statistically significant ( P = .017). Surgical duration of more than 120 min had a statistically significant higher incidence of PONV in the O group with a P-value of .048.

Conclusion:

The combination of prophylactic ondansetron with dexamethasone is more efficacious than ondansetron alone for the prevention of PONV in women undergoing breast surgeries.

Is Preemptive Oral Tizanidine Effective on Postoperative Pain Intensity after Bimaxillary Orthognathic Surgery? A Triple-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial

Background:

We aimed to investigate the effect of preoperative administration of oral tizanidine on postoperative pain intensity after bimaxillary orthognathic surgery.

Methods:

All healthy skeletal class III patients who were candidates for bimaxillary orthognathic surgery were enrolled in this triple-blind randomized clinical trial. The study was carried out in the Maxillofacial Surgery Department of Qaem Hospital, Mashhad, Iran; from January 2021 to November 2021. The consecutive patients were randomly divided into tizanidine and placebo groups. One hour prior to anesthesia induction, the tizanidine group received 4 mg Tizanidine dissolved in 10 ml apple juice, whereas the placebo group received an identical glass of plain apple juice. All operations were performed by the same surgical team, under the same general anesthesia protocol. Postoperative pain was measured using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) at 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 hours. For statistical analysis; the significance level was set at 0.05 using SPSS 23.

Results:

A total of 60 consecutive patients, consisting of 36 females (60%) and 24 males (40%) with an average age of 25.4 ± 6.0 were recruited. An increasing trend was noticed in the amount of perceived postoperative pain from the 3^rd till 12^th hour, and then decreased afterward. Nevertheless, the average amount of pain was significantly lower in the tizanidine compared to the placebo group, in all the evaluated time intervals (P<0.001). Moreover, there was a significantly higher requirement for postoperative opioid analgesics in the placebo compared to the tizanidine group (P=0.011).

Conclusion:

The addition of oral tizanidine was effective in reducing postoperative pain following bimaxillary orthognathic surgery. Further studies are necessary for more relevancy.

Incidence and risk factors of postoperative nausea and vomiting in lung cancer patients following lobectomy and application of analgesic pumps

Objective

To investigate the occurrence rate and risk factors of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in lung cancer patients following lobectomy and application of analgesic pumps.

Methods

This retrospective study reviewed clinical data from patients that had undergone lobectomy for lung cancer under general anaesthesia. The risk factors of PONV were analysed using binary logistic regression models.

Results

A total of 203 patients (97 females) were enrolled. The rate of PONV was 29.6% (60 of 203 patients) for all patients, 42.3% (41 of 97 patients) for female patients and 17.9% (19 of 106 patients) for male patients. Female patients undergoing thoracotomy (odds ratio [OR] 7.770, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.747, 34.568) or having surgery durations ≥120 min (OR 4.493, 95% CI 1.502, 12.851) were significantly more susceptible to PONV. The risk of PONV in female patients that received postoperative dolasetron (100 mg, once a day) was significantly lower (OR 0.075, 95% CI 0.007, 0.834). For male patients, the risk of PONV was significantly lower in those with a body mass index ≥24 kg/m² (OR 0.166; 95% CI 0.035, 0.782).

Conclusion

Female and male patients have different risk factors for PONV following lobectomy for lung cancer and application of analgesic pumps.

Effects of Sugammadex and Neostigmine on Post-operative Nausea and Vomiting in ENT Surgery

We aim to compare the effects of sugammadex on postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) with those of neostigmine–atropine mixture. A total of 136 American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) I or II patients, aged 18 to 65 years who underwent ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgery under general anesthesia, were recruited in this prospective, randomized, double-blind study to receive either sugammadex 2 mg/kg or neostigmine 2.5 mg with atropine 1 mg for reversal of neuromuscular blockade. PONV scores and the need for the rescue of anti-emetic were assessed upon arrival in the post-anesthesia recovery unit and at 1-, 6-, 12-, and 24-h post-reversal. The incidence of PONV was significantly lower in patients who received sugammadex (3%) compared to patients who received neostigmine–atropine mixture (20%) at 6 h postoperative (p = 0.013). The incidence of PONV was comparable at other time intervals. None of the sugammadex recipients require rescue antiemetic whereas two patients from the neostigmine–atropine group required rescue antiemetic at 1 and 6 h post-reversal, respectively. The need for the rescue antiemetic was not statistically significant. We concluded that reversal of neuromuscular blockade with sugammadex showed lower incidence of PONV compared to neostigmine–atropine combination in the first 6 h post-reversal.

In Silico Prediction of Skin Permeability Using a Two-QSAR Approach

Topical and transdermal drug delivery is an effective, safe, and preferred route of drug administration. As such, skin permeability is one of the critical parameters that should be taken into consideration in the process of drug discovery and development. The ex vivo human skin model is considered as the best surrogate to evaluate in vivo skin permeability. This investigation adopted a novel two-QSAR scheme by collectively incorporating machine learning-based hierarchical support vector regression (HSVR) and classical partial least square (PLS) to predict the skin permeability coefficient and to uncover the intrinsic permeation mechanism, respectively, based on ex vivo excised human skin permeability data compiled from the literature. The derived HSVR model functioned better than PLS as represented by the predictive performance in the training set, test set, and outlier set in addition to various statistical estimations. HSVR also delivered consistent performance upon the application of a mock test, which purposely mimicked the real challenges. PLS, contrarily, uncovered the interpretable relevance between selected descriptors and skin permeability. Thus, the synergy between interpretable PLS and predictive HSVR models can be of great use for facilitating drug discovery and development by predicting skin permeability.

Single surgeon versus co-surgeon bilateral mastectomy: Comparing outcomes and costs based on health economic modeling from the perspective of the hospital system

INTRODUCTION

Co-surgeon approach for bilateral mastectomy may lead to shorter operative times and improved outcomes compared with single-surgeon approach, but cost differences remain unclear. Economic models were applied to determine whether either approach offered a lower cost opportunity.

METHODS

A retrospective review of 409 patients undergoing single-surgeon or co-surgeon bilateral mastectomy between January 1, 2010 through April 30, 2016 was conducted. Outcomes included narcotic and antinausea doses, length of stay (LOS), and operative time. Analyses stratified by reconstruction and no reconstruction included Wilcoxon tests, Poisson regression, generalized linear models, and a cost calculator.

RESULTS

Of 409 patients, 310 had reconstruction and 99 had no reconstruction. Compared with single-surgeon approach, co-surgeon approach was associated with less operative time and shorter LOS (233 vs. 250 min and 1.0 vs. 1.8 days no reconstruction; and 429 vs. 493 min and 2.2 vs. 2.8 days reconstruction). Economic analysis demonstrated less operative time, shorter LOS, and lower average cost for co-surgeon approach ($32,400 vs. $34,400 no reconstruction; and $76,700 vs. $79,400 reconstruction).

CONCLUSION

Compared with the single-surgeon, the co-surgeon approach with reconstruction was associated with a statistically significant decrease in operative time and LOS. Economic analysis estimated the co-surgeon approach could lead to lower costs.

Incidence of Hypotension, Bradycardia, and Post-operative Nausea and Vomiting with Spinal Anesthesia in Cesarean Section Patient

Background. Cesarean section is performed through an open abdominal incision (laparotomy) and an incision through the uterus (hysterotomy). Generally, cesarean section is performed with regional anesthesia techniques, with spinal anesthesia being the primary choice. Complications that often occur after the administration of spinal anesthesia include hypotension, bradycardia, and postoperative nausea and vomiting. The aim of this study was thus to identify the incidence of hypotension, bradycardia, and postoperative nausea and vomiting caused by spinal anesthesia during cesarean section procedures. Methods. This was a cross-sectional study with a descriptive, quantitative design. Data were obtained from the medical records of patients undergoing cesarean section procedures. Univariate analysis was performed to analyze data using IBM SPSS software version 28. Results. Univariate results showed that of the 297 samples, the incidence of hypotension based on mean arterial pressure was 1.7%, the incidence of bradycardia was 0.7%, and the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting was 3%. Conclusions. There was a 1.7% incidence of hypotension in patients undergoing cesarean section after spinal anesthesia, with 98.3% not experiencing hypotension. The incidence of bradycardia was 0.7% in cesarean section patients after spinal anesthesia, with 99.3% not experiencing bradycardia. The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting was 3% in cesarean section patients after spinal anesthesia, with 97% not experiencing postoperative nausea and vomiting.

Non-intubated video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery under combination of erector spinae plane block and thoracic paravertebral block

Background

The use of anesthetics and analgesic drugs and techniques in combination yields a multimodal effect with increased efficiency. In this case series, we aimed to evaluate the anesthetic effect of the thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB) and erector spinae plane block (ESPB) combination in patients, who underwent non-intubated video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (NIVATS).

Methods

Medical records of 16 patients, who underwent NIVATS for wedge resection under the combination of ESPB and TPVB were reviewed retrospectively. Demographic data of patients, duration of the sensory block, amount of the anesthetic agent used for premedication and sedo-analgesia, any presence of perioperative cough, operative times, postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) scores in the postoperative follow-up period, the need for additional analgesia, and patient satisfaction were reviewed.

Results

Of the patients included in the study, 12 were men and 4 were women. The mean age was 48.6 years and the mean BMI was 24.7 kg/m². The mean time needed for the achievement of the sensorial block was 14 min and the mean skin-to-skin operative time was 21.4 min. During the procedure, patients received 81.5 ± 27.7 mg of propofol and 30 ± 13.6 micrograms of remifentanil infusions, respectively. The mean dose of ketamine administered in total was 58.1 ± 12.2 mg. Only 2 patients needed an extra dose of remifentanil because of recurrent cough. No patients developed postoperative nausea vomiting. During the first 24 h, the VAS static scores of the patients were 3 and below, while VAS dynamic scores were 4 and below. Morphine consumption in the first postoperative 24 h was 13.2 mg.

Conclusions

In conclusion, combined ESPB and TPVB with added intravenous sedo-analgesia in the presence of good cooperation between the surgical team and the anesthesiologist in the perioperative period can provide optimal surgical conditions including the prevention of cough in NIVATS. It is not sufficient to state that this combination is superior to alone ESPB or alone TPVB, as it is a preliminary study with a limited number of cases.

Effect of intravenous scopolamine before stapling, on postoperative nausea and vomiting in sleeve gastrectomy patients: a randomized controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a common complication of general anesthesia that is further potentiated in an obese patient undergoing a bariatric procedure. Literature shows trials of myriad of drugs used alone or in combination, as a prophylaxis for this cohort of patients with varied benefits.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to determine the effect of intravenous scopolamine prior to stapling in obese patients undergoing sleeve gastrectomy.

METHODOLOGY

A prospective randomized controlled trial of consecutive patients with BMI > 35 kg/m², undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) was performed after approval of the hospital's ethical committee, explanation of trial to the patients and obtaining a consent. Patients were randomized into two groups; patients receiving intravenous scopolamine just before firing first stapler (Group 1) and patients receiving placebo (Group 2). Primary outcome parameter was PONV. The secondary outcome parameters were use of rescue antiemetic and time to oral intake.

RESULTS

In our study, out of 100 cases of patients undergoing LSG, 50 received scopolamine before stapling and 50 were assigned to the control group. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of PONV. The group receiving scopolamine had lesser use of rescue antiemetic but no difference in time to oral intake.

CONCLUSION

We concluded that incidence of PONV in obese patients undergoing LSG is not affected by scopolamine. Further trials are needed to validate the results.

Same Day Discharge Protocol for Robotic Assisted Radical Prostatectomy: the experience of a High-Volume Referral Center

Objective As the COVID-19 global pandemic continues, there is increased value in performing same-day discharge (SDD) protocols to minimize viral exposure and maintain the appropriate surgical treatment for oncological patients. In this scenario, we performed a prospective analysis of outcomes of our patients undergoing SDD protocol after robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). Material and Methods The SDD criteria included patients with no intraoperative complications, stable postoperative hemoglobin levels (compared to preoperative values), stable vital signs, normal urine output, ambulation with assistance and independently without dizziness, tolerance of clear liquids without nausea or vomiting, pain control with oral medication, and patient/family confidence with SDD. Patients older than 70 years, concomitant general surgery operations, multiple comorbidities, and complex procedures such as salvage surgery were excluded from our protocol. Results Of the 101 patients who met the criteria for SDD, 73 (72%) had a successful SDD. All SDF (Same day discharge failure) patients were discharged one day after surgery. Intraoperative characteristics were not statistically different with a median operative time of 92 (81-107) vs 103 (91-111) minutes for SDD and SDF respectively. Of the 28 SDF patients, the most common reasons for staying were anesthesia-related factors of nausea (35%), drowsiness (7%), patient/caregiver preference (25%), pain (14%), labile blood pressure (7%), arrhythmia (7%), and dizziness (7%). There was no significant difference in readmission rates, complication rates, or post-operative pain scores between SDD and SDF patients. Conclusions In our experience, SDD for patients undergoing RARP can be safely and feasibly incorporated into a clinical care pathway without increasing readmission rates. We were successful in 72% of cases due to coordinated care between anesthetics, nursing staff, and appropriate patient selection. We also believe that incorporating pre-and postoperative patient education and assurance is crucial to minimize their exposure to COVID-19 during the surgical treatment for prostate cancer.

Effects of Ramosetron on Nausea and Vomiting Following Spinal Surgery: A Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Spinal surgery is associated with severe pain within the first few days after surgery. Opioids are commonly used to control postoperative pain, but these can lead to postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). Therefore, use of more effective and better-tolerated agents would be beneficial for these patients. Serotonin receptor antagonists, such as ramosetron, have been used to reduce PONV in patients receiving anesthesia.

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a meta-analysis of published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to compare the efficacy and tolerance of ramosetron to prevent PONV after spinal surgery.

METHODS

Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Science Citation Index databases were systematically searched for relevant RCT articles published between January 1979 and November 2020. Full text articles restricted to English language that described RCTs comparing the use of ramosetron with other serotonin antagonists to treat PONV following spinal surgery in adult patients were considered for meta-analysis. Two reviewers independently performed study selection, quality assessment, and data extraction of all articles. Differences were resolved by a third reviewer.

RESULTS

The search identified 88 potentially relevant articles, of which only 3 met our selection criteria. Study drugs were administered at the end of spinal surgery in all 3 included articles. The meta-analysis revealed that ramosetron (0.3 mg) reduced the pain score (mean difference = -0.66; 95% CI -1.02 to -0.30), lowered the risk of PONV (risk ratio = 0.86; 95% CI, 0.76-0.97), and postoperative vomiting (risk ratio = 0.32; 95% CI, 0.17-0.60), and limited the use of rescue antiemetics (risk ratio = 0.66; 95% CI, 0.45-0.96) after spinal surgery. However, there were no significant differences in the incidence of postoperative nausea, the use of rescue pain medications, the number of rescue analgesics required, and the risk of discontinuation of patient-controlled analgesia between ramosetron and palonosetron (0.075 mg) or ondansetron (4 mg). There were no statistically significant differences in the risk of adverse events among the 3 medications.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis of 3 RCTs showed that ramosetron reduced the risk of PONV and POV, limited the use of rescue antiemetics, reduced the postoperative pain score, and did not increase the risk of discontinuing patient-controlled analgesia compared with palonosetron or ondansetron after spinal surgery in 3 RCTs. Therefore, this meta-analysis indicates that ramosetron is an effective and well tolerated antiemetic that can be used to prevent PONV following spinal surgery in adult patients. PROSPERO identifier: CRD42020223596 (Curr Ther Res Clin Exp. 2022; 83:XXX-XXX)© 2022 Elsevier HS Journals, Inc.

The therapeutic antiemetic and hemodynamic effects of dexmedetomidine, ephedrine, and dexamethasone in combination with midazolam on laparoscopic cholecystectomy patients: A randomised clinical trial

Objective:

The objective was to compare the hemodynamic and antiemetic effects of the combination of midazolam with ephedrine, dexamethasone, and dexmedetomidine in laparoscopic cholecystectomy surgical patients.

Materials and Methods:

This randomised, parallel-group, double-blind clinical trial was conducted by enrollment of 96 patients who were referred for laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Patients assigned into three equal-sized intervention arms having received anaesthesia induction with midazolam-ephedrine, midazolam-dexamethasone, and midazolam-dexmedetomidine using a block randomisation method. Frequency and severity of nausea and vomiting were observed from recovery to 24 h later, adverse events, and sedation on Ramsay sedation scale at recovery, 1, 2, and 4 h postoperatively. Data were recorded and analysed at a significance level lower than 0.05 in SPSS software.

Results:

The clinical parameters including mean blood pressure at all times and heart rate in 60–90 min were lower in the dexmedetomidine group when compared with other groups. The lowest severity of postsurgery nausea occurrence was observed in the midazolam-dexamethasone group and those receiving midazolam-dexmedetomidine from 4 to 24 h. In addition, vomiting scores were lower throughout recovery up to postoperative 4 h in the dexamethasone and dexmedetomidine groups (all P < 0.05). The highest sedation score was observed in the dexmedetomidine group during recovery up to 2 h (P = 0.001), reflecting a more clinically superior effect than dexamethasone (P = 0.01).

Conclusions:

A positive implication of dexmedetomidine was observed in attenuating postoperative nausea and vomiting and potentiating sedation. Nevertheless, it is providing a drop in the blood pressure and heart rate. Lending support to the potent adjuvant efficacy of dexamethasone following dexmedetomidine, consequently, a hypothesis can be put forward, stating that the dexmedetomidine and dexamethasone as adjuvants to midazolam are expected to bring the advantages of avoiding the adverse events and improving postoperative sedation.

Impacts of intrathecal fentanyl on the incidence of postoperative nausea/vomiting: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized studies

Post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is an event of multifactorial origin with an incidence of 30% in the general population. Opioids such as fentanyl are being used as adjuvant to local anesthetic for its antiemetic effect. In this context, with this study we aimed to evaluate the impact of spinal fentanyl as an adjuvant on the incidence of PONV compared with a placebo, and shivering. A systematic search of randomized controlled trials that evaluated the use of spinal fentanyl in the prevention of PONV and shivering was conducted in different databases, of which 32 studies met the inclusion criteria. A total of 2116 patients scheduled for various surgeries, including cesarean section, orthopedic surgery in the lower limb, hysterectomy, and transurethral resection of the prostate, were included in the final analysis. The meta-analysis estimated the relative risk of incidence of PONV in the first 24 hours after surgery and secondary outcomes included the shivering symptom. The use of intrathecal fentanyl was associated with lower incidence of PONV, but not statistically significant when compared to the placebo (RR: 0.74 CI95%: 0.55-1.01 P = 0.06). Subgroup analysis showed a statistically significant reduction in PONV incidences with lower doses between 10 and 15 μg (RR: 0.44 CI95%: 0.35-0.55 P < 0.00001, I² = 0%) but not with higher doses 20-25 μg. Secondary outcomes showed a decrease in incidence with the use of fentanyl vs the placebo (RR: 0.49, CI95% 0.33-0.72 P = 0.0003). Current evidence shows that the use of spinal fentanyl decreases the incidence of PONV, an effect favored using low doses.