Effectiveness of tibial transverse transport combined with modified neurolysis in treatment of diabetic foot ulcers / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the effectiveness of tibial transverse transport (TTT) combined with modified neurolysis in treatment of diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) through a prospective randomized controlled study.@*METHODS@#The patients with DFU and diabetic peripheral neuropathy, who were admitted between February 2020 and February 2022, were selected as the research objects, of which 31 cases met the selection criteria and were included in the study. The patients were divided into two groups by random number table method. The 15 patients in the trial group were treated with TTT combined with modified neurolysis, and the 16 patients in the control group received treatment with TTT alone. There was no significant difference in gender, age, duration of DFU, ulcer area, Wagner classification, as well as preoperative foot skin temperature, visual analogue scale (VAS) score, ankle-brachial index (ABI), motor nerve conduction velocity (MNCV) of the common peroneal nerve, MNCV of the tibial nerve, MNCV of the deep peroneal nerve, two-point discrimination (2-PD) of heel, and cross-sectional area (CSA) of the common peroneal nerve between the two groups ( P>0.05). The time for ulcer healing, foot skin temperature, VAS scores, ABI, 2-PD of heel, and CSA of the common peroneal nerve before operation and at 6 and 12 months after operation were recorded and compared between groups. The differences in MNCV of the common peroneal nerve, MNCV of the tibial nerve, and MNCV of the deep peroneal nerve between pre-operation and 12 months after operation were calculated.@*RESULTS@#All patients in both groups were followed up 12-24 months (mean, 13.9 months). The surgical incisions in both groups healed by first intention and no needle tract infections occurred during the bone transport phase. Ulcer wounds in both groups healed successfully, and there was no significant difference in the healing time ( P>0.05). During the follow-up, there was no ulcer recurrences. At 12 months after operation, the MNCV of the common peroneal nerve, the MNCV of the tibial nerve, and the MNCV of the deep peroneal nerve in both groups accelerated when compared to preoperative values ( P<0.05). Furthermore, the trial group exhibited a greater acceleration in MNCV compared to the control group, and the difference was significant ( P<0.05). The foot skin temperature, VAS score, ABI, 2-PD of heel, and CSA of the common peroneal nerve at 6 and 12 months after operation significantly improved when compared with those before operation in both groups ( P<0.05). The 2-PD gradually improved over time, showing significant difference ( P<0.05). The 2-PD of heel and VAS score of the trial group were superior to the control group, and the differences were significant ( P<0.05). There was no significant difference in ABI, foot skin temperature, and CSA of the common peroneal nerve between groups after operation ( P>0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#Compared with TTT alone, the TTT combined with modified neurolysis for DFU can simultaneously solve both microcirculatory disorders and nerve compression, improve the quality of nerve function recovery, and enhance the patient's quality of life.

Internal Neurolysis (Nerve Combing) for Trigeminal Neuralgia without Neurovascular Compression

Objective The aim of the present study was to describe and evaluate the initial and the long-term clinical outcome of internal neurolysis (IN) for trigeminal neuralgia (TN) without neurovascular compression (NVC). Methods A total of 170 patients diagnosed with TN were treated by posterior fossa exploration, during the period between April 2012 and October 2019. The patients were divided into two groups: Group A (50 patients)was treated by IN and Group B (120 patients) received microvascular decompression (MVD). Surgical outcomes and postoperative complications were compared between the two groups. Pain intensity was assessed by the Barrow Neurological Institute (BNI) pain intensity score and BNI facial numbness score. Pain recurrence was statistically evaluated with Kaplan-Meier analysis. Results Pain was completely relieved in 44 patients (88%) who underwent IN (group A); 3 (6%) experienced occasional pain but did not require medication (BNI 2). In group B, 113 (94%) experienced immediate pain relief after MVD. The median duration of follow-ups was 4 years (6 months to 7.5 years). In Group A, there was a meantime recurrence of 27 months in 3 patients (6%). The recurrence in Group B was of 5.8% during the follow-up period. There were no statistically significant differences in the surgical outcomes between the two groups. All patients with IN experienced some degree of numbness, 88% of the cases resolved in 6 months, on average. Conclusion Internal neurolysis is an effective, safe and durable treatment option for trigeminal neuralgia when NVC is absent.

CT Scan guided interscalene brachial plexus neurolysis using 95% alcohol in a patient with Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: A case report

@#A number of patients with thoracic outlet syndrome experience intractable pain unresponsive to pharmacologic treatment. In this case, a brachia! plexus neurolysis was performed to address the patient's pain secondary to an enlarging left supraclavicular node. Guided under CT scan, 3 ml of 95% alcohol was injected in between the anterior and middle scalene muscles onto the trunks of the left brachia! plexus, affording immediate pain relief. Particular concerns of motor blockade, phrenic nerve palsy, stellate ganglion blockade, and bleeding did not occur. Therefore, brachia! plexus neurolysis can be safely done at a lower volume, without the above debilitating complications. It can be an option in relieving intractable upper extremity pain.

Anesthesia upstream of the alcoholic lesion point alleviates the pain of alcohol neurolysis for intercostal neuralgia: a prospective randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVES: Alcohol for intercostal neuralgia may induce severe injection pain. Although nerve block provided partial pain relief, alcohol might be diluted, and the curative effect decreased when the local anesthetic and alcohol were given at the same point. Therefore, we observed the modified method for intercostal neuralgia, a Two-point method, in which the local anesthetic and alcohol were given at different sites. METHOD: Thirty patients diagnosed with intercostal neuralgia were divided into 2 groups: Single-point group and Two-point group. In the Single-point group, alcohol and local anesthetic were injected at the same point, named the "lesion point", which was the lower edge of ribs and 5 cm away from the midline of the spinous process. In the Two-point group, alcohol was injected at the lesion point, whereas the local anesthetic was administered at the "anesthesia point", which was 3 cm away from the midline of spinous process. RESULTS: After alcohol injection, visual analog scale (VAS) in the Two-point group was lower than the Single-point group, and the satisfaction ratio of patients in the Two-point group was higher (p<0.05). The degree of numbness in the Two-point group was greater than the Single-point group at 1 month and 3 months after operation (p<0.05). However, the long-term effects did not differ. CONCLUSIONS: Local anesthetic was given upstream of the point where alcohol was administered, was a feasible and safe method to relieve pain during the operation, and improved the satisfaction of the patients and curative effect.

Anatomical localization of motor entry points of hamstring muscles - for neurolysis in hamstring spasticity

Objectives: To study the motor entry points of hamstring muscles of lower limb and to suggest ideal sites formotor point procedures for treatment of spasticity in the above muscles.Materials and Methods: The study was done after approval from Institutional Review Board. Sample size wasestimated using Population mean-Absolute precision method. A total of 10 adult lower limbs were chosen. Thenerve branches to hamstring muscles were dissected up to its motor entry point. Position of proximal and distalmotor entry points were marked and following variables measured: a) The length of muscle; b)Number of motorentry points; c)The distance of proximal entry point (PEP) and distal entry point (DEP) from the origin of muscle;e)The position of PEP and DEP as a fraction of length of muscle; f) Ideal site of motor entry point injection; g) Idealsite of motor point injection expressed as a percentage of muscle length.Results: The proximal and distal motor entry points of long head of Biceps Femoris were located at 35% and 51%of the total length of muscle. Most of the motor entry points of Semitendinosus were located between 43% and48% of muscle length ie, in the third-fifth of total muscle length. Semimembranosus had its motor entry pointslocated between 52% and 70% of the total muscle length ie, in the third-fifth and fourth-fifth of muscle length.Conclusion: The interventions done for relief of spasticity will have the best outcomes if planned at the abovementioned areas of the respective muscles

Neurolisis del plexo celiaco en cáncer de páncreas / Neurolysis of the celiac plexus in pancreas cancer

Introducción: El cáncer en Cuba constituye la primera causa de mortalidad en edades de 15 a 64 años y la segunda en mayores de 65, los tumores digestivos ocupan la tercera posición en las neoplasias malignas y la afección pancreática el cuarto lugar dentro de estas. Objetivo: Presentar la evolución de un paciente con un tumor de páncreas y una supervivencia de más de 6 meses al cual se le realizó neurolisis del plexo celiaco. Presentación del caso: Paciente masculino de 64 años de edad con el diagnóstico de adenocarcinoma de cuerpo y cola de páncreas sin criterio quirúrgico con dolor de severa intensidad que imposibilita el inicio del tratamiento adyuvante para lo cual se le realizó neurolisis del plexo celiaco bilateral, con 7 mL de fenol al 10 por ciento por cada lado, vía posterior retrocrural bajo seguimiento con intensificador de imágenes, y se administró tratamiento coadyuvante vía oral a base de antidepresivos tricíclicos, analgésicos y ansiolíticos debido al componente mixto del dolor oncológico. Conclusiones: El bloqueo neurolitico del plexo celiaco asociado a terapia farmacológica analgésica convencional por vía oral proporcionó un alivio total del dolor por neoplasia de páncreas de forma inmediata y duradera, se logró mejorar el estado general del paciente lo cual facilitó el inicio de la terapia adyuvante oncológica(AU)

Introduction: In Cuba, cancer is the leading cause of death at ages 15-64 and the second at ages over 65, digestive tumors occupy the third position among malignancies and pancreatic affection the fourth place among these. Objective: To present the evolution of a patient with a pancreatic tumor and survival of more than 6 months who underwent neurolysis of the celiac plexus. Case presentation: A 64-year-old male patient diagnosed with adenocarcinoma of the body and tail of the pancreas without surgical criteria, with pain of severe intensity that made it impossible to start adjuvant treatment, for which he underwent neurolysis of the bilateral celiac plexus, with 7 mL of phenol-10 percent per side, through the retrocrural posterior space with follow-up with image intensifier, and oral adjuvant treatment was administered with tricyclic, analgesic and anxiolytic antidepressants due to the mixed component of oncological pain. Conclusions: The neurolytic block of the celiac plexus associated with conventional oral analgesic pharmacological therapy provided total relief of pain from pancreatic cancer in an immediate and lasting way. It was possible to improve the general state of the patient, which facilitates the start of adjuvant oncology therapy(AU)

Single needle versus double needle celiac trunk neurolysis in abdominal malignancy pain management: a randomized controlled trial / Neurólise do tronco celíaco com o uso de agulha única versus agulha dupla no manejo da dor abdominal maligna: estudo randômico controlado

Abstract Background: Computerized tomography-guided celiac plexus neurolysis has become almost a safe technique to alleviate abdominal malignancy pain. We compared the single needle technique with changing patients' position and the double needle technique using posterior anterocrural approach. Methods: In Double Needles Celiac Neurolysis Group (n = 17), we used two needles posterior anterocrural technique injecting 12.5 mL phenol 10% on each side in prone position. In Single Needle Celiac Neurolysis Group (n = 17), we used single needle posterior anterocrural approach. 25 mL of phenol 10% was injected from left side while patients were in left lateral position then turned to right side. The monitoring parameters were failure block rate and duration of patient positioning, technique time, Visual Analog Scale, complications (hypotension, diarrhea, vomiting, hemorrhage, neurological damage and infection) and rescue analgesia. Results: The failure block rate and duration of patient positioning significantly increased in double needles celiac neurolysis vs. single needle celiac neurolysis (30.8% vs. 0%; 13.8 ± 1.2 vs. 8.9 ± 1; p = 0.046, p ≤ 0.001 respectively). Also, the technique time increased significantly in double needles celiac neurolysis than single needle celiac neurolysis (24.5 ± 5.1 vs. 15.4 ± 1.8; p ≤ 0.001). No significant differences existed as regards Visual Analog Scale: double needles celiac neurolysis = 2 (0-5), 2 (0-4), 3 (0-6), 3 (2-6) and single needle celiac neurolysis = 3 (0-5), 2 (0-5), 2 (0-4), 4 (2-6) after 1 day, 1 week, 1 and 3 months respectively. However, Visual Analog Scale in each group reduced significantly compared with basal values (p ≤ 0.001). There were no statistically significant differences as regards rescue analgesia and complications (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Single needle celiac neurolysis with changing patients' position has less failure block rate, less procedure time, shorter duration of patient positioning than double needles celiac neurolysis in abdominal malignancy.

Resumo Introdução: A neurólise do plexo celíaco guiada por tomografia computadorizada tornou-se uma técnica quase segura para aliviar a dor abdominal maligna. Comparamos a técnica de agulha única mudando o posicionamento do paciente e a técnica de agulha dupla usando a abordagem anterocrural posterior. Métodos: No grupo designado para neurólise celíaca com agulha dupla (n = 17), a técnica de abordagem anterocrural posterior foi utilizada com duas agulhas para injetar 12,5 mL de fenol a 10% de cada lado em decúbito ventral. No grupo designado para neurólise celíaca com agulha única (n = 17), a abordagem anterocrural posterior foi utilizada com uma única agulha para injetar 25 mL de fenol a 10% do lado esquerdo com o paciente em decúbito lateral esquerdo e posteriormente virado para o lado direito. Os parâmetros de monitorização foram a taxa de falha dos bloqueios e a duração do posicionamento dos pacientes, o tempo da técnica, os escores da escala visual analógica, as complicações (hipotensão, diarreia, vômitos, hemorragia, dano neurológico e infecção) e a analgesia de resgate. Resultados: A taxa de falha dos bloqueios e a duração do posicionamento dos pacientes aumentaram significativamente na neurólise celíaca com o uso de agulha dupla vs. agulha única (30,8% vs. 0%,13,8 ± 1,2 vs. 8,9 ± 1; p = 0,046, p ≤ 0,001, respectivamente). Além disso, o tempo da técnica foi significativamente maior na neurólise celíaca com agulha dupla que na neurólise celíaca com agulha única (24,5 ± 5,1 vs. 15,4 ± 1,8; p ≤ 0,001). Não houve diferença significativa em relação aos escores da escala visual analógica: neurólise celíaca com agulha dupla = 2 (0-5), 2 (0-4), 3 (0-6), 3 (2-6) e neurolise celíaca com agulha única = 3 (0-5), 2 (0-5), 2 (0-4), 4 (2-6) após um dia,uma semana, um e três meses, respectivamente. No entanto, os escores da escala visual analógica para cada grupo foram significativamente menores comparados aos valores basais (p ≤ 0,001). Não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa quanto à analgesia de resgate e complicações (p > 0,05). Conclusão: A neurólise celíaca com o uso de agulha única e a alteração do posicionamento do paciente apresenta uma taxa menor de falha do bloqueio, menos tempo de procedimento e menor duração do posicionamento do paciente que o uso de duas agulhas para neurólise celíaca em malignidade abdominal.

Validation of targeted microsurgical spermatic cord denervation: Comparison of outcomes to traditional complete microsurgical spermatic cord denervation / 亚洲男科学杂志(英文版)

The aim of this study was to validate the effectiveness of targeted microsurgical spermatic cord denervation (MSCD) of the trifecta nerve complex in comparison to traditional full MSCD with complete skeletonization of the spermatic cord in men with chronic orchialgia. Retrospective chart review was performed by a single fellowship-trained microsurgeon between 2011 and 2016. Patients had follow-ups at 6 weeks, 6 months, and 1 year postoperatively. Thirty-nine men with chronic orchialgia underwent full MSCD between 2011 and 2013. In July 2013, after the publication of an anatomic study with identification of Wallerian degeneration of the trifecta nerve complex in men with chronic orchialgia, the technique was changed to targeted MSCD. From July 2013 to March 2016, 43 men underwent targeted MSCD. When comparing the full MSCD group to the targeted MSCD group, there was no significant difference in resolution of pain (66.7% vs 69.8%, P = 0.88), no difference in partial relief of pain (17.9% vs 23.3%, P = 0.55), and no difference in failure to respond rates (15.4% vs 7.0%, P = 0.22) between the two groups. There was no difference in mean change of visual analog pain scale scores between the two groups (P = 0.27). Targeted MSCD had a shorter operative time (53 min vs 21 min, P = 0.0001). Targeted MSCD offers patients comparable outcomes to traditional full MSCD, with a shorter operative time, a less technically challenging surgery, and potentially less risk to cord structures which should be preserved.

Validation of targeted microsurgical spermatic cord denervation: comparison of outcomes to traditional complete microsurgical spermatic cord denervation / 亚洲男科学杂志(英文版)

The aim of this study was to validate the effectiveness of targeted microsurgical spermatic cord denervation (MSCD) of the trifecta nerve complex in comparison to traditional full MSCD with complete skeletonization of the spermatic cord in men with chronic orchialgia. Retrospective chart review was performed by a single fellowship-trained microsurgeon between 2011 and 2016. Patients had follow-ups at 6 weeks, 6 months, and 1 year postoperatively. Thirty-nine men with chronic orchialgia underwent full MSCD between 2011 and 2013. In July 2013, after the publication of an anatomic study with identification of Wallerian degeneration of the trifecta nerve complex in men with chronic orchialgia, the technique was changed to targeted MSCD. From July 2013 to March 2016, 43 men underwent targeted MSCD. When comparing the full MSCD group to the targeted MSCD group, there was no significant difference in resolution of pain (66.7% vs 69.8%, P = 0.88), no difference in partial relief of pain (17.9% vs 23.3%, P = 0.55), and no difference in failure to respond rates (15.4% vs 7.0%, P = 0.22) between the two groups. There was no difference in mean change of visual analog pain scale scores between the two groups (P = 0.27). Targeted MSCD had a shorter operative time (53 min vs 21 min, P = 0.0001). Targeted MSCD offers patients comparable outcomes to traditional full MSCD, with a shorter operative time, a less technically challenging surgery, and potentially less risk to cord structures which should be preserved.

Iatrogenic Injury to the Sciatic Nerve due to Intramuscular Injection: A Case Report / 대한신경손상학회지

Iatrogenic injuries due to intramuscular (IM) injection, although less frequently reported than before, are still common. The sciatic nerve is the most commonly injured nerve because of an IM injection owing to its large size and the buttock being a common injection site. Iatrogenic injury to the sciatic nerve resulting from a misplaced gluteal IM injection is a persistent problem worldwide affecting patients in economically rich and poor countries alike. The consequences of sciatic nerve injection injury (SNII) are potentially devastating and may result in serious neurological and medico-legal problems. A 68-year-old male presented with intractable neuropathic pain from SNII that occurred during gluteal IM injection of an analgesic for post-appendectomy pain. This chronic SNII pain did not improve despite his gradual recovery from weakness in the left foot. Partial improvement was seen following an external neurolysis, performed three months post-appendectomy. SNII is a preventable complication of gluteal IM injection. While the complete avoidance of gluteal IM injection is desirable, should need arise, the use of an appropriate administrative technique is recommended.

Comparison on the efficacy of EUS-guided celiac plexus radiation and celiac plexus neurolysis in treating abdominal pain of advanced pancreatic cancer / 中华胰腺病杂志

Objective To evaluate the efficacy of endoscopic ultrasonography-guided celiac plexus radiation with iodine-125 (125I) seeds and celiac plexus neurolysis with absolute ethanol for pain relief secondary to advanced pancreatic cancer.Methods A retrospective analysis of 43 patients of advanced pancreatic cancer with moderate to severe abdominal pain in the Department of Gastroenterology,Shanghai Changhai Hospital from January 2017 to April 2018 was performed.20 patients underwent EUS-guided celiac plexus neurolysis (CPN),and 23 patients underwent EUS-guided celiac plexus radiation (CPR) with the implantation of 125I seeds around the celiac ganglia.The postoperative VAS score of abdominal pain,mean analgesic (MS Contin [morphine sulfate]) consumption and complications were compared between the two groups.Results There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in the sex ratio (male/female,10/10 vs 14/9),average age [(64 ± 11) vs (64 ± 12)],lesion location (head/tail,7/13 vs 8/15] and TNM stage (Ⅲ/Ⅳ,9/11 vs 7/16),and the two groups were comparable.Compared with preoperative ones,the VAS score (3.0 points vs 5.5 points) and morphine dosage (30 mg vs 52.5 mg) were significantly lower in the CPN group one week after operation.In the CPR group,the VAS score (5.0 points vs 6.0 points) and morphine dosage (50 mg vs 55 mg) at 2 weeks after the operation were lower than those before the operation;the VAS scores of 4,8 and 12 weeks after the operation decreased to 3.0 points,and the dosage of morphine decreased to 30 mg,25 mg and 30 mg,respectively.The differences were statistically significant (P＜0.0001).Compared with the CPR group,at 2 weeks postoperatively the CPN group demonstrated a significantly higher decrease of VAS score (3.0 points vs 2.0 points),degree of morphine reduction (30 mg vs 10 mg) and rate of partial pain relief (70.0％ vs 4.3％).However,from 4 to 12 weeks postoperatively,the decrease in VAS score,the decrease in the dosage of MS Contin and the rate of partial pain relief in the CPR group were all significantly higher than those in the CPN group (P ＜ 0.05).There was no complete relief of pain in the two groups.No procedure-related deaths or serious complications were observed and only mild gastrointestinal adverse reactions occurred.Conclusions Two methods can both relieve abdominal pain in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer safely and effectively.CPR takes effect late but has advantages of good extent and long duration of pain relief.

Comparative study on anterior and posterior approaches of coeliac plexus neurolysis on chronic pancreatitis patients in a tertiary care hospital in Chennai

Introduction: Chronic unrelieved pain is not only a major drain on scarce health care resources, but it is the cause of needless suffering of millions of people worldwide. The direct palpable costs to these patients and their families include loss of job, loss of income, loss of savings, and loss of self-esteem. Clearly, the consequences of intractable pain in respect to both its impact our society is staggering. Finding a solution should be a high priority for healthcare intermediaries and health care workers. Abandoning patients when less costly and less invasive intervention does not work to relieve pain is unethical. The neuropathological effect of glycerol was discovered accidentally' and rapidly led to its use as a neurolytic agent in the management of facial pain. Pathology includes numerous inflammatory cells, myelin swelling and axonolysis. As with all neurolytic injuries, lipid droplets can be seen in the cytoplasm of Schwann cells, in phagocytic cells, and in perineal cells, where these droplets accumulate as a nonspecific manifestation of tissue injury. The aim of the study: Aim of the study was to compare the two approaches namely anterior and posterior for neurolysis of coeliac plexus for intractable pain in pancreatic malignancy and chronic pancreatitis. Comparison between the two approaches is ease of technique, accurate placement of needle tip at the coeliac plexus and complications. Materials and methods: Totally 40 patients with diagnosed unresectable pancreatic malignancy and chronic pancreatitis with intractable pain who attended the surgical gastroenterology department of Govt. Stanley Hospital, Chennai during the period of May 2010 to November B Saravanakumaran, S. Sudhakaran. Comparative study on anterior and posterior approaches of coeliac plexus neurolysis on chronic pancreatitis patients in a tertiary care hospital in Chennai. IAIM, 2017; 4(11): 115-121. Page 116 2010 were selected for neurolytic coeliac plexus block with 100% Alcohol. They were grouped randomly into two comprising 20 each 1. Group A: ultrasound guided neurolysis of coeliac plexus through an anterior approach. Group P: fluoroscopy guided neurolysis of coeliac plexus through a posterior approach.on the day of the procedure, the patient was kept fasting for four hours intravenous access secured with 18g venflon approach to celiac plexus was chosen randomly. During the procedure, the patients' vitals were monitored. After the procedure, the patients were kept in ICU for one day for monitoring. The next day, if stable, discharged from the hospital. They were followed by phone about the intensity of pain and any complications like diarrhoea. They were instructed to attend the SGE department at 1, 4 and 8 weeks for assessment of pain relief. Results: 34 patients with pancreatic malignancy and 6 patients of chronic pancreatitis with pain scores of 8 to 10 were taken up for the study. They were allocated randomly into 2 equal groups of 20 each. Group A underwent celiac plexus neurolysis through anterior approach with ultra-sonogram guidance. Group P underwent celiac plexus neurolysis through a posterior approach with fluoroscopic guidance. All the patients received the same amount of neurolytic agent and were followed for 8 weeks. Pain intensity was less after 1 week in group P when compared to group A. At the end of 4th and 8th week, the pain intensity in both the groups was not statically significant of p-value (0.875) assessed by Wilcox son sum test.Patient discomfort score was more in group A when compared to group P which was statically significant of p value<0.001). In our study group P (19) patients were more prone for hypotension when compared to group A (18) which was found to be less significant of p-value <0.005. In our study group P (17) patients had diarrhoea when compared to group A (13) which was found to be less significant of p-value <0.005. In our study group P (19) patients had a backache when compared to group A (2) which was found to be more significant of p-value <0.001. Conclusion: Both the groups reported a similar incidence of pain while injecting alcohol and complications like diarrhoea and hypotension, which was not significant. Patients in group P reported a significant a backache up to 2 weeks which required painkillers. So the study demonstrates both the techniques are similar in successfulness of the block, but the anterior approach is easier to perform with less discomfort to the patients.

Therapeutic value of endoscopic ultrasound-guided celiac plexus neurolysis for pain associated with advanced pancreatic carcinoma in 29 patients / 中华消化内镜杂志

Objective To evaluate the clinical efficiency of endoscopic ultrasound-guided celiac plexus neurolysis(EUS-CPN)for pain associated with advanced pancreatic carcinoma.Methods EUS-CPN was performed in 29 patients with advanced pancreatic carcinoma in Hangzhou First People′s Hospital from May 2010 to April 2015. The pain status before and after treatment was measured by visual analogue scale (VAS),and the clinical efficacy was assessed by pain anesis rate(PAR). Results All the 29 patients successfully completed EUS-CPN. The mean VAS value of the first day after treatment(3.6±1.5)was lower than that of preoperative(8.2±2.3,P=0.00). The mean VAS value of 1 month after treatment(2.0±0.6) was statistically different compared with the value of the first day after treatment(P=0.00). There were 10, 9,4,and 3 patients who had complete,obvious,moderate and mild relief,respectively. Three patients had no pain relief. The overall efficiency rate was 79.3%(23/29). Conclusion EUS-CPN is a safe and effective method for relieving pain in pancreatic carcinoma.

Intoxicação alcóolica aguda: complicação rara associada a neurólise do plexo celíaco durante procedimento cirúrgico a céu aberto em paciente com dor oncológica refratária. Relato de caso / Acute alcohol intoxication: uncommon complication associated to celiac plexus neurolysis during open surgical procedure in patient with refractory cancer pain. Case report

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: A neurólise do plexo celíaco é uma opção de tratamento da dor para pacientes com câncer abdominal refratário a outras abordagens. É acompanhada de reações adversas que são diagnosticadas e tratadas desde que o paciente receba monitorização e acompanhamento imediato após o procedimento. O objetivo deste estudo foi relatar o caso de uma paciente submetida a neurólise de plexo celíaco, evoluindo com sintomas de intoxicação alcoólica aguda diagnosticada na sala de recuperação pós-anestésica. RELATO DO CASO: Paciente do gênero feminino, 43 anos, com neoplasia de cabeça de pâncreas submetida a neurólise de plexo celíaco intraoperatório com 40mL de álcool a 98%, evolui na sala de recuperação pós-anestésica com hipotensão, hipoxemia e confusão mental, sintomas esses revertidos com hidratação por via venosa e elevação de membros inferiores. CONCLUSÃO: A alcoolização do plexo celíaco bloqueia definitivamente a dor visceral de pacientes com neoplasia de pâncreas, porém não está isenta de reações adversas, as quais podem evoluir para complicações graves caso não sejam prontamente diagnosticadas, tornando-se imprescindível o acompanhamento do paciente na sala de recuperação pós-anestésica.

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Celiac plexus neurolysis is a pain management option for patients with abdominal cancer refractory to other approaches. It is followed by adverse reactions which may be diagnosed and treated, provided patients are monitored and followed up immediately after the procedure. This study aimed at reporting the case of a patient submitted to celiac plexus neurolysis who evolved with acute alcohol intoxication diagnosed in the post-anesthetic care unit. CASE REPORT: Female patient, 43 years old, with pancreatic head cancer, submitted to intraoperative celiac plexus neurolysis with 40 mL of 98% alcohol. Patient evolved in the post-anesthetic care unit with hypotension, hypoxemia and mental confusion, which were reverted with intravenous hydration and elevation of lower limbs. CONCLUSION: Celiac plexus alcoholization permanently blocks visceral pain of pancreatic cancer patients, however it is not free of adverse reactions, which may evolve to severe complications if not promptly diagnosed, making mandatory the follow up of patients in the post-anesthetic care unit.

Clinical Efficiency Analysis of Visceral Nerve Plexus Neurolysis through Post-curs of Diaphragm Approach in Pancreatic Cancer Pain Management / 中国医科大学学报

Objective To evaluate the clinical effect of computed tomography?guided visceral nerve plexus ethanol neurolysis through post?curs of diaphragm approach in the treatment of patients with pancreatic cancer pain using,and study the safety and life quality improvement of patients . Methods A total of 58 patients suffered from pancreatic cancer pain,who were treated in the department of pain medicine of the First Hospital of China Medical University from October 2013 to December 2014,were recruited for the study. The patients were divided into two groups according to the willing of the patients and their families,group A(32 cases)was treated with Visceral Nerve Plexus ethanol Neurolysis,while group B(26 cas?es)was treated with oral opioid drugs. The analgesic effect,changes in the amount of opioid drugs,changes in the PSQI scores and the improvement of quality of life were evaluated before treatment and 1 day(T1),15 days(T15),30 days(T30),60 days(T60)after treatment. Record the adverse reactions in the course of treatment. Results All the patients of group A successfully received visceral nerve plexus ethanol neurolysis,the VAS scores,Karnofsky scores,and PSQI scores of all the observed time points(after the operation)were statistically different compared to those before treatment and group B. Statistically difference was also observed in quality of life between two groups(P<0.05). The amount of opioid drugs of group B was statistically increased than that of group A(P<0.01).The most common side effects in Group A were postural hypotension(6 cases),diar?rhea(2 cases),and intercostal neuralgia,while nausea(20 cases),constipation(11 cases)and dizziness(8 cases)were seen in the Group B. Con?clusion Visceral nerve plexus ethanol neurolysis through post?curs of diaphragm approach by the guide of CT is effective and safe for the patients with pancreatic cancer pain,and the complications were totally acceptable.

Presentation of Neurolytic Effect of 10% Lidocaine after Perineural Ultrasound Guided Injection of a Canine Sciatic Nerve: A Pilot Study

BACKGROUND: Phenol and alcohol have been used to ablate nerves to treat pain but are not specific for nerves and can damage surrounding soft tissue. Lidocaine at concentrations > 8% injected intrathecal in the animal model has been shown to be neurotoxic. Tests the hypothesis that 10% lidocaine is neurolytic after a peri-neural blockade in an ex vivo experiment on the canine sciatic nerve. METHODS: Under ultrasound, one canine sciatic nerve was injected peri-neurally with 10 cc saline and another with 10 cc of 10% lidocaine. After 20 minutes, the sciatic nerve was dissected with gross inspection. A 3 cm segment was excised and preserved in 10% buffered formalin fixative solution. Both samples underwent progressive dehydration and infusion of paraffin after which they were placed on paraffin blocks. The sections were cut at 4 µm and stained with hemoxylin and eosin. Microscopic review was performed by a pathologist from Henry Ford Hospital who was blinded to which experimental group each sample was in. RESULTS: The lidocaine injected nerve demonstrated loss of gross architecture on visual inspection while the saline injected nerve did not. No gross changes were seen in the surrounding soft tissue seen in either group. The lidocaine injected sample showed basophilic degeneration with marked cytoplasmic vacuolation in the nerve fibers with separation of individual fibers and endoneurial edema. The saline injected sample showed normal neural tissue. CONCLUSIONS: Ten percent lidocaine causes rapid neurolytic changes with ultrasound guided peri-neural injection. The study was limited by only a single nerve being tested with acute exposure.

Neural Ablation and Regeneration in Pain Practice

A nerve block is an effective tool for diagnostic and therapeutic methods. If a diagnostic nerve block is successful for pain relief and the subsequent therapeutic nerve block is effective for only a limited duration, the next step that should be considered is a nerve ablation or modulation. The nerve ablation causes iatrogenic neural degeneration aiming only for sensory or sympathetic denervation without motor deficits. Nerve ablation produces the interruption of axonal continuity, degeneration of nerve fibers distal to the lesion (Wallerian degeneration), and the eventual death of axotomized neurons. The nerve ablation methods currently available for resection/removal of innervation are performed by either chemical or thermal ablation. Meanwhile, the nerve modulation method for interruption of innervation is performed using an electromagnetic field of pulsed radiofrequency. According to Sunderland's classification, it is first and foremost suggested that current neural ablations produce third degree peripheral nerve injury (PNI) to the myelin, axon, and endoneurium without any disruption of the fascicular arrangement, perineurium, and epineurium. The merit of Sunderland's third degree PNI is to produce a reversible injury. However, its shortcoming is the recurrence of pain and the necessity of repeated ablative procedures. The molecular mechanisms related to axonal regeneration after injury include cross-talk between axons and glial cells, neurotrophic factors, extracellular matrix molecules, and their receptors. It is essential to establish a safe, long-standing denervation method without any complications in future practices based on the mechanisms of nerve degeneration as well as following regeneration.

Development of a new reagent for endoscopic ultrasound-guided celiac plexus neurolysis and tumor ablation therapy

BACKGROUND: Both endoscopic ultrasound-guided celiac plexus neurolysis (EUS-CPN) and tumor ablation using ethanol are very common procedures, and the utility of these therapies has already been reported in prominent journals. However, their effectiveness appears temporary and insufficient, especially EUS-CPN. We therefore have to consider new reagents for improving the results. The present study examined the best concentration of ethanol and povidone iodine mixed with atelocollagen for more effective therapies. METHODS: The effects of the new reagents were confirmed in three live pigs. At first, we injected three kinds of reagents (including indigo carmine) in three separate areas of para-aortic tissue under EUS guidance in one pig. At more than 4 hours after injection, we checked ethanol injection sites after dissection. In next study, we performed EUS-guided injection of a total of six kinds of reagents (two kinds of ethanol, three kinds of povidone iodine, and control atelocollagen) into the livers of two living pigs. After 2 weeks, we examined tissue damage to the liver in the two pigs. RESULTS: The 75% ethanol (absolute ethanol 3.75 mL + 1% atelocollagen 1.25 mL + a very small amount of indigo carmine) was seen like blue gel, and still remained in the para-aortic tissue. Brownish areas of povidone iodine mixed with 3% atelocollagen exhibited clear, regular borders with greatly reduced infiltration into surrounding tissue compared to others. CONCLUSION: We concluded that 75% ethanol mixed with 1% atelocollagen appears optimal for EUS-CPN. Povidone iodine mixed with 3% atelocollagen may be suitable for small tumor ablation therapy.

Paraplegia Following Intercostal Nerve Neurolysis with Alcohol and Thoracic Epidural Injection in Lung Cancer Patient

The goal of cancer treatment is generally pain reduction and function recovery. However, drug therapy does not treat pain adequately in approximately 43% of patients, and the latter may have to undergo a nerve block or neurolysis. In the case reported here, a 42-year-old female patient with lung cancer (adenocarcinoma) developed paraplegia after receiving T8-10 and 11th intercostal nerve neurolysis and T9-10 interlaminar epidural steroid injections. An MRI results revealed extensive swelling of the spinal cord between the T4 spinal cord and conus medullaris, and T5, 7-11, and L1 bone metastasis. Although steroid therapy was administered, the paraplegia did not improve.

Comparative Study of the Effects of the Retrocrural Celiac Plexus Block Versus Splanchnic Nerve Block, C-arm Guided, for Upper Gastrointestinal Tract Tumors on Pain Relief and the Quality of Life at a Six-month Follow Up

BACKGROUND: The celiac plexus and splanchnic nerves are targets for neurolytic blocks for pain relief from pain caused by upper gastrointestinal tumors. Therefore, we investigated the analgesic effect of a celiac plexus block versus a splanchnic nerve block and the effects of these blocks on the quality of life six months post-intervention for patients with upper GIT tumors. METHODS: Seventy-nine patients with inoperable upper GIT tumors and with severe uncontrolled visceral pain were randomized into two groups. These were Group I, for whom a celiac plexus block was used with a bilateral needle retrocrural technique, and Group II, for whom a splanchnic nerve block with a bilateral needle technique was used. The visual analogue scale for pain (0 to 100), the quality of life via the QLQ-C30 questionnaire, and survival rates were assessed. RESULTS: Pain scores were comparable in both groups in the first week after the block. Significantly more patients retained good analgesia with tramadol in the splanchnic group from 16 weeks onwards (P = 0.005, 0.001, 0.005, 0.001, 0.01). Social and cognitive scales improved significantly from the second week onwards in the splanchnic group. Survival of both groups was comparable. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study demonstrate that the efficacy of the splanchnic nerve block technique appears to be clinically comparable to a celiac block. All statistically significant differences are of little clinical value.