Alternativa factible para la neuroestimulación intraoperatoria durante la cirugía del plexo braquial / Feasible alternative for intraoperative neurostimulation during brachial plexus surgery

Introducción: La neuroestimulación intraoperatoria constituye una técnica esencial durante la cirugía del plexo braquial, pues permite la identificación específica de las estructuras neurales. En determinadas circunstancias, la intensidad precisa de la estimulación nerviosa y la respuesta motora evocada, las cuales son fundamentales para la toma de decisiones críticas durante el acto quirúrgico. Objetivo: Describir la utilización de un neuroestimulador de anestesia regional para la localización neural intraoperatoria durante la cirugía del plexo braquial en dos pacientes. Presentación de casos: Caso 1: paciente con diagnóstico de lesión del fascículo lateral del plexo braquial derecho y lesión alta del nervio radial homolateral. La estimulación neural, con estímulos graduales y progresivos, permite la diferenciación adecuada de los nervios mediano, cubital, musculocutáneo y cutáneo braquial lateral, el fascículo motor del nervio cubital que inerva el músculo cubital anterior, y el fascículo motor del nervio musculocutáneo que inerva el bíceps, lo que posibilita la neurotización entre ambos fascículos. Caso 2: paciente con diagnóstico de lesión total del plexo braquial izquierdo, posganglionar. Luego de la exploración y neurólisis, se identificó el tronco superior, se efectuó la estimulación eléctrica gradual, lo que requirió una elevada intensidad, y se registó, únicamente, como respuesta motora evocada la contracción débil del músculo pectoral mayor ipsilateral. Conclusiones: La utilización de un neuroestimulador de anestesia regional para la localización neural durante la cirugía del plexo braquial, presenta ventajas prácticas relevantes en relación con los neuroestimuladores desechables, así como una relación costo-beneficio apropiada para su implementación en entornos y naciones de recursos limitados(AU)

Introduction: Intraoperative neurostimulation is an essential technique during brachial plexus surgery, as it allows the specific identification of neural structures. In certain circumstances, the precise intensity of nerve stimulation and the evoked motor response are fundamental for making critical decisions during the surgical act. Objective: Describe the use of a neurostimulator of regional anaesthesia for intraoperative neural localization during brachial plexus surgery in two patients. Case presentation: Case 1: patient diagnosed with lesion of the lateral fasciculus of the right brachial plexus and high lesion of the homolateral radial nerve. Neural stimulation, with gradual and progressive stimuli, allows the adequate differentiation of the median, ulnar, musculocutaneous and lateral brachial cutaneous nerves, the motor fasciculus of the ulnar nerve that innervates the anterior ulnar muscle, and the motor fasciculus of the musculocutaneous nerve that innervates the biceps, which enables neurotization between both fascicles. Case 2: patient diagnosed with total lesion of the left brachial plexus, postganglionic. After the exploration and neurolysis, the upper trunk was identified, the gradual electrical stimulation was carried out, which required a high intensity, and the weak contraction of the ipsilateral pectoralis major muscle was recorded only as an evoked motor response. Conclusions: The use of a neurostimulator of regional anesthesia for neural localization during brachial plexus surgery presents relevant practical advantages in relation to disposable neurostimulators, as well as an appropriate cost-benefit ratio for their implementation in environments and nations of limited resources(AU)

Survey of neuromuscular monitoring and assessment of postoperative residual neuromuscular block in a postoperative anaesthetic care unit

INTRODUCTION@#The use of neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) is common during general anaesthesia. Neuromuscular monitoring with a peripheral nerve stimulator (PNS) is essential to prevent postoperative residual neuromuscular block (PRNB), defined as a train-of-four (TOF) ratio < 0.9. PRNB remains a common complication and may contribute to morbidity in the postoperative anaesthetic care unit (PACU).@*METHODS@#An online survey was sent to anaesthesiologists in our department to assess their knowledge and clinical practices related to neuromuscular blockade. Next, a study was conducted on adult patients scheduled for elective surgery under general anaesthesia requiring NMBAs. Upon admission to the PACU, TOF monitoring was performed.@*RESULTS@#A large proportion of anaesthesiologists showed a lack of knowledge of neuromuscular blockade or non-adherence to the best clinical practices associated with it. The majority (98.7%) stated that they did not routinely use PNS monitoring. In the clinical study, TOF monitoring was only used in 17.9% of the 335 patients who were assessed. The prevalence of PRNB was 33.4% and was associated with the elderly (age ≥ 65 years), a higher dose of NMBA used, a shorter duration of surgery, and a shorter duration between the last dose of NMBA and measurement of PRNB in the PACU. The incidence of adverse symptoms in the PACU was observed to be higher in patients with PRNB.@*CONCLUSION@#PRNB remains a clinically significant problem, but routine PNS monitoring is rare in our institution. This is compounded by inadequate knowledge and poor adherence to best clinical guidelines related to neuromuscular blockade.

Ultrasonography-Combined with Nerve Stimulator Technique for Injection of the Genitofemoral Nerve in a Patient with Chronic Postoperative Inguinal Pain

Chronic postoperative inguinal pain (CPIP) is a major complication after inguinal herniorrhaphy. We report the treatment of CPIP using ultrasonography-combined with nerve stimulator for injection of the genitofemoral nerve (GFN). A 59-year-old man underwent laparoscopic herniorrhaphy and presented with numbness from the inguinal region to the scrotum after operation. In the pain clinic, ultrasonography-guided GFN block and pharmacological treatments had little effect. Six month after operation, patient was referred to the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, and ultrasonography-combined with nerve stimulator for GFN injection underwent to enhance the accuracy of neural approach. The induction of scrotal contraction and paresthesia on the GFN distribution was monitored by nerve stimulator and local anesthetic was injected. After the block, pain relief lasted for 6 months without analgesic use. Ultrasonography-combined with nerve stimulator is an effective approach to treat CPIP as it enhances precise localization and injection of small peripheral nerve like GFN.

Comparative study between dexamethasone and dexmedetomidine in supraclavicular block

Background: With the addition of adjuvants to local anaesthetics the onset, duration and quality of brachial plexus block improves to a marked extent. The intent of this study was to compare onset, duration of sensory and motor block along with duration of analgesia when an ?-2 agonist dexmedetomidine or a steroid dexamethasone was added to a mixture of 2% lignocaine with adrenaline and 0.5% bupivacaine.Methods: 100 patients belonging to ASAI and ASAII were included in the study scheduled for upper limb surgeries after taking informed consent. These patients were divided in to two groups having 50 patients in each group. Group D received 20ml of 2% lignocaine with adrenaline plus 18ml of 0.5% bupivacaine plus 50?g of dexmedetomidine and group X received 20ml of 2% lignocaine with adrenaline plus 18ml of 0.5% bupivacaine plus 8mg of dexamethasone. Onset of sensory and motor block, duration of block, quality of intraoperative analgesia and duration of analgesia were recorded.Results: Our study revealed similar onset of sensory block in group D and X. Group D showed early onset and longer duration of motor block compared to group X. Intraoperative haemodynamics were similar in both groups.Conclusions: Our study concludes that using dexmedetomidine as adjuvant prolongs the duration of block and postoperative analgesia compared to dexamethasone with minimal or negligible adverse events.

Cardiac surgery in a patient with implanted vagal nerve stimulator

The prevalence of epilepsy worldwide is around 0.5%–2% of the population. Antiepileptic medications are the first line of treatment in most of the cases but approximately 25%–30% epilepsy patients are refractory to the single or combination therapy. The surgical option for temporal lobe epilepsy is temporal lobectomy, which has its inherent risk of neurological deficits after the surgery. Patients who are either refractory to combination therapy or do not want surgical temporal lobectomy are the candidates for electrical stimulation therapy. Refractory cases require implantable device such as vagal nerve stimulator (VNS). We are reporting perioperative management of a patient, with an implanted VNS, posted for pericardiectomy. It is important for the anesthesiologist to be familiar with the mechanism of VNS for proper perioperative care.

Predictors of Nerve Stimulator Success in Patients With Overactive Bladder / 대한배뇨장애요실금학회지

PURPOSE: To identify factors associated with successful sacral nerve stimulator (SNS) trial after SNS implantation for the treatment of medication refractory overactive bladder (OAB). METHODS: Patients undergoing treatment for OAB at Lahey Hospital and Medical Center between 2004 and 2016 were identified. Patients undergoing SNS placement were identified; SNS success was defined as permanent implantation of the SNS. Demographic, clinical and treatment data were extracted from patient charts; uni- and multivariate analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with SNS treatment success. RESULTS: A total of 128 patients were included. On univariate analysis, male sex, prior diagnosis of benign prostatic hyperplasia, and lower volume at first urge on urodynamics (UDS) were associated with unsuccessful SNS trial. On multivariate analysis, male sex (odds ratio [OR], 0.145; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.036–0.530) and lower volume at first urge on UDS (OR, 0.982; 95% CI, 0.967–0.995) were associated with unsuccessful SNS trial. A threshold value of 100 mL at first urge during preoperative UDS had a specificity of 0.86 in predicting SNS success in men. CONCLUSIONS: SNS is frequently successful at relieving OAB symptoms. Male patients and those with lower volumes at first urge on UDS, particularly below 100 mL, are more likely to have an unsuccessful SNS trial. Patients in these groups should be counseled on the lower likelihood of SNS success.

Adjunct role of nerve stimulator in ultrasound- guided axillary brachial plexus block / 实用医学杂志

Objective To evaluate the adjunct role of nerve stimulator in ultrasound- guided axillary bra-chial plexus block. Methods 50 patients undergoing lower elbow surgery in our hospital were selected from Sep-tember 2016 to November 2017. They were randomly divided into two groups with 25 cases each,which are guid-ance of ultrasound combined with nerve stimulator group(group US)and ultrasound alone group(group U). 32 mL of 0.4% ropivocaine were administered in both groups. The onset time and duration of sensory blockade in mus-culocutaneous,radial,median and ulnar nerve were recorded. The extent of sensory block of each in nervated re-gion and the anesthetic effect of surgical field(rated as excellent,good and failure)were both assessed. The anes-thetic complications were also observed and recorded. Results There were no significant differences in the onset time and duration of sensory blockade in both groups(P > 0.05). The anesthetic effects of surgical field were 92%in group US and 84% in group U(P > 0.05). No major anesthetic complications occurred in two groups. Conclu-sion Ideal anesthetic effects are achieved in both groups,and the successful rate of anesthesia in group US is not significantly increased. The role of nerve stimulator as an adjunct to ultrasound - guided axillary brachial plexus block may be very limited.

Effect of lumbar plexus-sacral plexus block combined with dexmedetomidine on rehabilitation of elderly patients undergoing PFNA / 重庆医学

Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of lumbosacral plexus block combined with the use of dexmedetomidine in elderly patients undergoing proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA).Methods A total of 60 patients received elective PFNA were divided into tracheal intubation combined with inhalation anesthesia group (group G) and ultrasound and nerve stimulator-guided lumbosacral plexus block following with dexmedetomidine infusion group (group N).Then we observed HR,SBP,DBP for both groups at the time entering the theater (T0),immediately after tracheal intubation or after dexmedetomidine infusion (T1),skin incision moment (T2) and 30 minutes after skin incision (T3).Visual analogue scale (VAS) scores were assessed for both groups at the time point of 2,6,12,24 and 48 hours after surgery.The number of use of patient controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA),assessment of consciousness status 1-3 days after surgery,adverse reactions were recorded for both groups as well.The following post-surgery data were recorded:the time of first feeding,first urination and first ambulation,the length of hospitalization,the expense of hospital stay.Results HR,SBP,DBP of the group G changed more significantly at T1,T2,T3 than those of T0 (P＜0.05).The VAS scores and the number of use of PCIA of group N were lower than those of group G at all time points after operation (P＜0.05).The group N had lower CAM-CR scores and less adverse reactions of nausea and vomiting and dizziness than those of group G on days 1 to 3 after surgery (P＜0.01).Compare to group G,the group N were early in terms of post-operation first feeding,first urination and first ambulation (P＜0.01).The length of hospitalization was shorter and the cost of the hospital stay was lower in the group N than the group G (P＜0.01).Conclusion Ultrasound and nerve stimulator-guided lumbosacral plexus block combined with low dose of dexmedetomidine could meet the needs of elderly patients undergoing PFNA.

Bloqueo del nervio femoral con estimulador de nervio periférico en la artroscopia de rodilla / Femoral nerve block with peripheral nerve stimulator in knee arthroscopy

Introducción: el bloqueo del nervio femoral es una de las técnicas básicas del bloqueo nervioso. Objetivo: describir los resultados del bloqueo del nervio femoral con estimulador de nervio periférico en pacientes intervenidos de artroscopia de rodilla. Método: estudio observacional, descriptivo, prospectivo de corte longitudinal. La muestra estuvo integrada por 84 pacientes intervenidos de artroscopia de rodilla en los cuales se utilizó el bloqueo del nervio femoral como técnica anestésica. Se incluyeron pacientes mayores de 18 años, con estado físico I-III según la Sociedad Americana de Anestesiología (ASA), sin alergia conocida a los anestésicos locales y sin contraindicaciones para las técnicas regionales; se excluyeron del estudio aquellos pacientes con intervención quirúrgica ilioinguinal previa, con tumoraciones en región inguinal o neuropatía femoral. Resultados: la calidad del bloqueo fue buena en 90,5 por ciento, de los pacientes, regular en 7,1 por ciento y mala en el 2,4 por ciento. La media del tiempo de analgesia al movimiento fue de 15,17 h (DE 10,52), con un mínimo de 4,17 y un máximo de 28,40 h. Las complicaciones fueron escasas (9,52 por ciento). La más frecuente resultó la parestesia y el bloqueo insatisfactorio en 4,8 y 2,4 por ciento respectivamente. El grado de pacientes satisfechos fue el 95,2 por ciento del total. Conclusiones: el tiempo de analgesia en más de la mitad de los pacientes fue mayor de 12 h y la intensidad del dolor en el rango de dolor leve-moderado, tanto en reposo como al realizar algún movimiento. Las complicaciones fueron escasas, la más frecuente fue la parestesia. La técnica se asocia con elevados niveles de satisfacción por parte de los pacientes(AU)

Introduction: The femoral nerve block is one of the basic nerve block techniques. Objective: To describe the results of femoral nerve block with peripheral nerve stimulator in patients undergoing knee arthroscopy. Method: Observational, descriptive, prospective and longitudinal study. The sample consisted of 84 patients undergoing knee arthroscopy, in whom femoral nerve block was used as an anesthetic technique. Patients older than 18 years were included, with physical status I-III according to the American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA), without known allergy to local anesthetics and without contraindications for regional techniques; patients with previous ilioinguinal surgery, and with tumors in the inguinal region or femoral neuropathy, were excluded from the study. Results: The block quality was good in 90.5 percent of the patients, regular in 7.1 percent, and poor in 2.4 percent. The average time of analgesia to movement was 15.17 hours (SD 10.52), with a minimum of 4.17 and a maximum of 28.40 hours. Complications were minimal (9.52 percent). The most frequent was paresthesia and the unsatisfactory block, in 4.8 and 2.4 percent, respectively. The degree of satisfied patients was 95.2 percent of the total. Conclusions: The analgesic time in more than half of the patients was greater than 12 hours, while the pain intensity was in the range of mild to moderate, both at rest and when performing some movement. Complications were minimal, the most frequent was paresthesia. The technique is associated with high levels of satisfaction as expressed by the patients(AU)

Effect Observation of Ultrasound-guided Clavicular Brachial Plexus Block in Upper Limb Surgery / 中国药师

Objective: To observe the effect of ultrasound-guided clavicular brachial plexus block in upper limb surgery.Methods: Eighty patients undergoing upper limb surgery were enrolled and randomly divided into two groups: ultrasound-guided clavicular brachial plexus block group (ultrasound guidance group, n=40) and nerve stimulator-assisted positioning of the supraclavicular brachial plexus block group (nerve stimulator group,n =40).The block effect, anesthesia effect, anesthesia completion time, nerve block onset time, nerve block duration and complication were compared and analyzed statistically between the groups.Results: The completed rate of block was 97.5%in the ultrasound guidance group, which was significantly higher than that in the nerve stimulator group (65.0%) (P<0.05);the uncompleted rate was significantly lower than that in the nerve stimulator group.The fine/excellent rate of anesthesia was 95.0% , which was significantly higher than that of the nerve stimulator group (75.0%, 30/40) (P<0.05);the complete time of anesthesia and nerve block onset time were significantly shorter than those in the nerve stimulator group (P<0.05);the duration of nerve block was significantly longer than that in the nerve stimulator group (P<0.05);the incidence of complications was 7.5%), which was significantly lower than that of the nerve stimulator group (37.5%, 15/40) (P<0.05).Conclusion: In upper limb surgery, ultrasound-guided nerve stimulator assisted positioning of clavicular brachial plexus block is better than nerve stimulator assisted positioning of clavicular brachial plexus block.

A Comparative Evaluation of Techniques in Interscalene Brachial Plexus Block: Conventional blind, Nerve Stimulator Guided and Ultrasound Guided.

Background: This study was conducted to compare the three technique Conventional blind, Nerve stimulator guided and Ultrasound guided for Interscalene brachial plexus block in surgeries of upper limb. Methods: Total 60 patients were included in our study which were randomly allotted by closed envelope technique into either of the three groups namely Conventional blind (group CB), US-guided (group US) or NS-guided (group NS). The drug bupivacaine 0.5% (2 mg/kg) was used and diluted with normal saline to make a total volume of 30 ml. Results: Comparison between the Conventional blind (CB), Nerve Stimulator (NS) and Ultrasound guided (US) technique of interscalene brachial plexus block revealed that the block execution time, time of onset of sensory and motor block was significantly less in ultrasound group as compare to other groups. The mean duration of analgesia too, was significantly higher in both NS and US group (3 hr & 23 min ,3 hrs 30 min respectively), while it was 2 hr 47 min in CB group. The incidence of patchy effect (3 cases) and blockade failure requiring general anesthesia (4 cases) were significantly higher in CB group compared to NS group (2 cases each) and US group (1 case each). Conclusion: The success rate and effective quality of the block were more satisfactory with ultrasound technique than the nerve stimulator or conventional blind technique.

Effect of ultrasound-guided interscalene brachial plexus block and nervre stimulator on operation around shoulder joints / 实用医学杂志

Objective To evaluate the effect of ultrasound-guided interscalene brachial plexus block and nerve stimulator on operation around shoulder joints. Methods Sixty cases of patients scheduled for operation around shouler joints were randomly divided into group A and B , with 30 cases in each group. Patients in group A underwent interscalend brachial plexus block guided by nerve stimulator with 0.5% ropivacaine and those in group B interscalend brachial plexus block guided by ultrasound and nerve stimulator with 0.5% ropivacaine 30 mL. The number of puncture, the effect of anesthesia and complication of anesthesia in both groups were recorded. Results The number of puncture of group B was less than that of group A (P﹤0.05) while the effect of anesthesia and the duration of anesthesia of group B were similar to those of group A (P﹥0.05). There was no serious complications in two groups. Conclusion With definite anesthesia effect and less pain , ultrasound-guided interscalene brachial plexus block and nerve stimulator is simple and safe for operation around shouler joints.

Ultrasound Guided Low Approach Interscalene Brachial Plexus Block for Upper Limb Surgery

BACKGROUND: The interscalene brachial plexus block is widely used for pain control and anesthetic purposes during shoulder arthroscopic surgeries and surgeries of the upper extremities. However, it is known that interscalene brachial plexus block is not appropriate for upper limb surgeries because it does not affect the lower trunk (C8-T1, ulnar nerve) of the brachial plexus. METHODS: A low approach, ultrasound-guided interscalene brachial plexus block (LISB) was performed on twenty-eight patients undergoing surgery of the upper extremities. The patients were assessed five minutes and fifteen minutes after the block for the degree of block in each nerve and muscle as well as for any complications. RESULTS: At five minutes and fifteen minutes after the performance of the block, the degree of the block in the ulnar nerve was found to be 2.8 +/- 2.6 and 1.1 +/- 1.8, respectively, based on a ten-point scale. Motor block occurred in the median nerve after fifteen minutes in 26 of the 28 patients (92.8%), and in all of the other three nerves in all 28 patients. None of the patients received additional analgesics, and none experienced complications. CONCLUSIONS: The present study confirmed the achievement of an appropriate sensory and motor block in the upper extremities, including the ulnar nerve, fifteen minutes after LISB, with no complications.

Clinical application of the obturator nerve block beside vessel in transurethral resection of bladder tumor / 中国内镜杂志

Objective To compare the operational feasibility and efficacy of inguinal obturator nerve block (ONB) beside the vessel by ultrasound combined with nerve stimulation and traditional ONB guided by nerve stimulation preventing obturator nerve reflex. Methods Forty patients with American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA)Ⅰ or Ⅱ, aged 35~91 years who underwent transurethral electric excision of bladder tumor in our hospital in 2014 were ran-domly divided into beside vessel group (group V, = 20) and traditional group (group T, = 20). Adductor strength was measured before and after the block. Frequencies of obturator nerve block puncture, operation time, visual ana-log scale (VAS) pain score, and incidence of complications were recorded during and after ONB. Results The suc-cess rate of the first puncture was significantly higher in group V than that in group T ( <0.01). The operation time in group V was significantly shorter than that in group T ( < 0.01). The decreased degree of adductor strength has significant difference of the two groups ( < 0.05 or < 0.01). The VAS pain score in group T was higher than that in groups V ( < 0.01). There are two cases contract blood vessel in group T, while none in group V ( < 0.01). There was no case with the local anesthetic toxicity and paresthesia in the area of the obturator nerve and the obtu-rator nerve injury in the two groups. Conclusion Compared with traditional ONB guided by nerve stimulation, in-guinal ONB beside the vessel by ultrasound combined with nerve stimulation showed more accurate positioning, less adjustment, less puncture time, more comfortable and safe.

Comparison between interscalene brachial plexus combined with ulnar nerve and axillary brachial plexus block guided by nerve stimulator / 中国医师进修杂志

Objective To compare the anesthetic effects of interscalene brachial plexus combined with ulnar nerve and axillary brachial plexus block guided by nerve stimulator. Methods Eighty patients belonging to ASA ⅠorⅡ and undergoing replantation of severed palm or wrist were divided randomly into 2 groups, Each group had 40 patients. Nerve stimulator guided nerve block. Patients in groupⅠreceived interscalene brachial plexus combined with ulnar nerve block, and those in groupⅡreceived axillary brachial plexus block. The onset time, hold time, tourniquet tolerance of radial nerve, median nerve and ulnar nerve of two groups was recorded. The phrenic nerve block, Horner′s syndrome and recurrent laryngeal nerve block was compared between two groups. Results The onset time of radial nerve, median nerve and ulnar nerve in group Ⅰwas (5.13 ± 0.76), (7.13 ± 1.04), (3.23 ± 0.62) min , in group Ⅱ was (9.23 ± 1.61), (12.35 ± 1.76), (8.83 ± 1.13) min, and there were significant differences (P<0.05). The excellent rates of sensory block of radial nerve, median nerve and ulnar nerve in group Ⅰ were 90.0%(36/40), 85.0%(34/40), 97.5%(39/40), in group Ⅱ were 72.5%(29/40), 65.0%(26/40), 70.0%(28/40), and there were significant differences (P<0.05). The full rates of motor block of radial nerve, median nerve and ulnar nerve in groupⅠwere 75.0%(30/40), 37.5%(27/40), 80.0%(32/40), in groupⅡ were 47.5%(19/40), 40.0%(16/40), 45.0%(18/40), and there were significant differences (P < 0.05). The tourniquet tolerance rate in group Ⅰwas significantly higher than that in groupⅡ:90.0%(36/40) vs. 62.5%(25/40) , P<0.05. In groupⅠ, phrenic nerve block occurred in 2 patients, and Horner syndrome occurred in 1 patient. None had laryngeal recurrent nerve block in both group. Conclusions The interscalene brachial plexus combined with ulnar nerve block guided by nerve stimulator is more suitable for a long time microsurgery of the palm or wrist, because it takes action faster, has better sensory and motor block effects, improves the rate of tourniquet tolerance without increasing untoward reaction.

Ultrasound and nerve stimulator guided continuous femoral nerve block analgesia after total knee arthroplasty: a multicenter randomized controlled study / Bloqueio contínuo do nervo femoral guiado por ultrassom e estimulador de nervo para analgesia após artroplastia total de joelho: estudo multicêntrico, randomizado e controlado / Bloqueo continuo del nervio femoral guiado por ultrasonido y estimulador de nervio para analgesia posterior a la artroplastia total de rodilla: estudio multicéntrico, aleatorizado y controlado

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Postoperative analgesia is crucial for early functional excise after total knee arthroplasty. To investigate the clinical efficacy of ultrasound and nerve stimulator guided continuous femoral nerve block analgesia after total knee arthroplasty. METHODS: 46 patients with ASA grade I-III who underwent total knee arthroplasty received postoperative analgesia from October 2012 to January 2013. In 22 patients, ultrasound and nerve stimulator guided continuous femoral nerve block were performed for analgesia (CFNB group); in 24 patients, epidural analgesia was done (PCEA group). The analgesic effects, side effects, articular recovery and complications were compared between two groups. RESULTS: At 6 h and 12 h after surgery, the knee pain score (VAS score) during functional tests after active exercise and after passive excise in CFNB were significantly reduced when compared with PCEA group. The amount of parecoxib used in CFNB patients was significantly reduced when compared with PCEA group. At 48 h after surgery, the muscle strength grade in CFNB group was significantly higher, and the time to ambulatory activity was shorter than those in PCEA group. The incidence of nausea and vomiting in CFNB patients was significantly reduced when compared with PCEA group. CONCLUSION: Ultrasound and nerve stimulator guided continuous femoral nerve block provide better analgesia at 6 h and 12 h, demonstrated by RVAS and PVAS. The amount of parecoxib also reduces, the incidence of nausea and vomiting decreased, the influence on muscle strength is compromised and patients can perform ambulatory activity under this condition. .

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Analgesia pós-operatória é fundamental para o exercício funcional precoce logo após a artroplastia total de joelho. O objetivo foi investigar a eficácia clínica do bloqueio contínuo do nervo femoral guiado por ultrassom e estimulador de nervo em analgesia após artroplastia total do joelho. MÉTODOS: Receberam analgesia pós-operatória, de outubro de 2012 a janeiro de 2013, 46 pacientes, estado físico ASA I-III, submetidos à artroplastia total de joelho. Em 22 pacientes, o bloqueio femoral contínuo foi guiado por ultrassom e estimulador de nervo para analgesia (grupo BFC); em 24 pacientes, analgesia foi administrada por via epidural (grupo ACP). Os efeitos analgésicos, efeitos colaterais, a recuperação articular e as complicações foram comparados entre os dois grupos. RESULTADOS: Às seis e 12 horas após a cirurgia, os escores de dor no joelho (escore EVA) durante os testes funcionais após exercício ativo e passivo foram significativamente menores no grupo BFC do que no grupo ACP. A quantidade usada de parecoxib nos pacientes do grupo BFC foi significativamente menor em comparação com o grupo ACP. Quarenta e oito horas após a cirurgia, o grau de força muscular no grupo BFC foi significativamente maior e o tempo de atividade ambulatória foi menor do que no grupo ACP. A incidência de náusea e vômito em pacientes do grupo BFC foi significativamente menor em comparação com o grupo ACP. CONCLUSÃO: O bloqueio femoral contínuo guiado por ultrassom e estimulador do nervo proporcionou melhor analgesia às seis e 12 horas, demonstrada por EVA-R e EVA-P. A quantidade de parecoxib também foi menor, a incidência de náusea e vômito diminuiu, a influência sobre a força muscular é comprometida e os pacientes podem fazer atividade ambulatorial sob essa condição. .

JUSTIFICACIÓN Y OBJETIVOS: La analgesia postoperatoria es fundamental para el ejercicio funcional precoz posteriormente a la artroplastia total de rodilla. El objetivo fue investigar la eficacia clínica del bloqueo continuo del nervio femoral guiado por ultrasonido y estimulador de nervio en analgesia después de la artroplastia total de la rodilla. MÉTODOS: Cuarenta y seis pacientes, con estado físico ASA I-III, sometidos a artroplastia total de rodilla recibieron analgesia postoperatoria de octubre de 2012 a enero de 2013. En 22 pacientes, el bloqueo femoral continuo fue guiado por ultrasonido y estimulador de nervio para analgesia (grupo BFC); en 24 pacientes, la analgesia fue administrada por vía epidural (grupo ACP). Los efectos analgésicos, efectos colaterales, recuperación articular y las complicaciones fueron comparados entre los 2 grupos. RESULTADOS: A las 6 y 12 h después de la operación, las puntuaciones de dolor en la rodilla (puntuación EVA) durante los test funcionales después del ejercicio activo y pasivo fueron significativamente menores en el grupo BFC que en el grupo ACP. La cantidad usada de parecoxib en los pacientes del grupo BFC fue significativamente menor en comparación con el grupo ACP. Cuarenta y ocho horas después de la operación, el grado de fuerza muscular en el grupo BFC fue significativamente mayor y el tiempo de actividad ambulatoria fue menor que en el grupo ACP. La incidencia de náuseas y vómitos en pacientes del grupo BFC fue significativamente menor en comparación con el grupo ACP. CONCLUSIÓN: El bloqueo femoral continuo guiado por ultrasonido y estimulador del nervio proporcionaron una mejor analgesia a las 6 y 12 horas, lo que quedó demostrado por EVA-R y EVA-P. La cantidad de parecoxib también fue menor, la incidencia de náuseas y vómito disminuyó, la influencia sobre la fuerza muscular está comprometida y los pacientes pueden realizar una actividad ambulatoria bajo esa condición. .

Feasibility of Nerve Stimulator as a Supplemental Aid for Lumbar Transforaminal Epidural Block

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical feasibility of an electric nerve stimulator in a lumbar transforaminal epidural block. METHODS: Using an electric nerve stimulator, transforaminal epidural blocks were performed in 105 segments of 49 patients who presented with lower back pain with radiating pain to lower extremities. The contrast medium was injected to delineate the nerve root after positioning an insulated needle at the intervertebral foramen under fluoroscopic guidance. Then, the nerve root was electrically stimulated with the insulated needle to confirm whether or not the same radiating pain was evoked. RESULTS: Of the 105 foraminal segments, the same radiating pain was evoked at 0.5 mAh in 47 segments (44.8%), at 1.0 mAh in 22 (21.0%), at 1.5 mAh in 3 (2.9%), at 2.0 mAh in 15 (14.3%), at 2.5 mAh in 4 (3.8%), and at 3.0 mAh in 5 (4.8%). No response was observed in 9 segments (8.6%). The fluoroscopy revealed successful positioning of the needle in the patients with an evoked radiating pain over 2.0 mAh. The visual analogue scale (VAS) obtained for pain improved from a mean of 7.5 to 2.7 after the block (p = 0.001). In the 9 cases without response to electrical stimulation, the patients showed an improvement on VAS from 7.8 to 3.4 (p = 0.008) also. CONCLUSIONS: A nerve stimulator can help to predict the accuracy of needle positioning as a supplemental aid for a successful lumbar transforaminal epidural block. It is sufficient to initiate a proper stimulation amplitude of the nerve at 2 mAh.

Comparison of the effects between the modified and classic coracoid approach in infraclavicular brachial plexus nerve block / 中国医师进修杂志

Objective To investigate the effects between the modified and classic coracoid approach in infraclavicular brachial plexus nerve block.Methods Sixty patients scheduled for elective surgical procedures under infraclavicular brachial plexus block were divided into observation group and control group by table of random digit method with 30 cases each.The puncture point of control group was approach via the point 2 cm medial and caudal to the coracoid process.The puncture point of observation group was modified by surface projection of the brachial plexus.Peripheral nerve stimulator was used to confirm the proper localization of the plexus.The performance time,number of puncture,anesthesia success rate,incidence of complications and 24 h patient satisfaction were recorded.Results The performance time in observation group was less than that in control group [(3.2 ± 1.1) min vs.(4.3 ± 1.4) min](P＜ 0.05).The chance of locating the brachial plexus in a single puncture without adjusting the block needle in observation group was significantly higher than that in control group [73.3％ (22/30) vs.50.0％ (15/30)] (P ＜ 0.05).There were no statistical differences in anesthesia success rate,incidence of complications and 24 h patient satisfaction between two groups (P ＞ 0.05).Conclusions The modified coracoid approach can significantly improve the probability of locating the nerve in one puncture that reduces the performance time.It can improve the accuracy of puncture point position on the body surface.

Clinical observation of interscalene joint axillary brachial plexus block guided by nerve stimulator in elderly patients / 中国医师进修杂志

Objective To compare the anesthetic effect of interscalene joint axillary brachial plexus block guided by nerve stimulator or conventional paresthesia in elderly patients with upper extremity surgery.Methods Sixty cases of ASA grade Ⅱ-Ⅲ elderly patients with upper extremity surgery were divided into two groups by random number table.Nerve stimulator group (30 cases) received interscalene joint axillary brachial plexus block guided by nerve stimulator.Paresthesia group (30 cases) received interscalene joint axillary brachial plexus block guided by conventional paresthesia.Both groups used the same local anesthetic:0.375％ ropivacaine,the dosage was 0.4 ml/kg.Anesthetic dose between interscalene and axillary in two groups in half.The operating time,block onset time,duration of analgesia,anesthetic effect [used by visual analogue scale (VAS) scores] and adverse reaction in two groups were observed and recorded.Results The operating time and block onset time in nerve stimulator group were significantly shorter than those in paresthesia group[(5.2 ± 1.7) min vs.(8.6 ± 2.2) min and (19.4 ± 3.2) min vs.(29.0 ± 3.9) min],VAS scores was lower than that in paresthesia group [(0.7 ± 0.4) scores vs.(2.3 ± 0.8) scores],there were significant differences (P ＜ 0.01).There was no significant difference in duration of analgesia between two groups [(12.4 ± 3.6) h vs.(13.1 ± 3.8) h,P ＞0.05].Nerve stimulator group without adverse reactions.Paresthesia group had 5 cases of adverse reactions,including local hematoma in 2 cases,laryngeal recurrent nerve paralysis in 1 case,horner syndrome in 2 cases.Conclusion Interscalene joint axillary brachial plexus block guided by nerve stimulator in elderly patients is accurate positioning,high success rate,good anaesthesia effect,less adverse reaction,and worth promoting in clinical.

Comparison of analgesic effect of ultrasound-guided continuous femoral nerve block after total knee ath-roplasty / 临床麻醉学杂志

Objective To observe the analgesic effect of ultrasound-guided and nerve stimulator after artificial total knee athroplasty(TKA).Methods Forty elective cases receiving TKA under gen-eral anesthesia were randomly allocated into the ultrasound group (group C)and stimulator group (group S).The time for nerve block,onset time and complications were recorded in both groups. Results Compared to group S,the time for nerve block and onset time was significantly shortened in group C (P <0.05).There was no statistical difference in times of pressing analgesic pump and VAS score in postoperative 48 h.One patient suffered from nerve injury and two underwent vascular dam-age and hematoma in group S,while no complication was found in group C.Conclusion Compared to nerve stimulator,ultrasound-guided continuous femoral nerve block(CFNB)may reduce nerve block time and onset time and decrease complications,so that to increase safety of CFNB.