Effectiveness and safety of ultra-low-dose spinal anesthesia versus perineal blocks in hemorroidectomy and anal fistula surgery: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract Background: Ultra-low-dose Spinal Anesthesia (SA) is the practice of employing minimal doses of intrathecal agents so that only the roots that supply a specific area are anesthetized. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness and safety of ultra-low-dose spinal anesthesia with that of Perineal Blocks (PB). Methods: A two-arm, parallel, double-blind randomized controlled trial comparing two anesthetic techniques (SA and PB) for hemorrhoidectomy and anal fistula surgery was performed. The primary outcomes were postoperative pain, complementation and/or conversion of anesthesia, and hemodynamic changes. Results: Fifty-nine patients were included in the final analysis. The mean pain values were similar in the first 48 h in both groups (p > 0.05). The individuals allocated to the SA group did not need anesthetic complementation; however, those in the PB group required it considerably (SA group, 0% vs. PB group, 25%; p = 0.005). Hemodynamic changes were more pronounced after PB: during all surgical times, the PB group showed lower MAP values and higher HR values (p < 0.05). Postoperative urinary retention rates were similar between both groups (SA group 0% vs. PB group 3.1%, p = 0.354). Conclusion: SA and PB are similarly effective in pain control during the first 48 h after hemorrhoidec-tomy and anal fistula surgery. Although surgical time was shorter among patients in the PB group, the SA technique may be preferable as it avoids the need for additional anesthesia. Furthermore, the group that received perineal blocks was under sedation with a considerable dose of propofol.

Sección de catéter epidural durante técnica anestésica espinal epidural combinada / Epidural catheter section during combined epidural spinal anesthetic technique

Estos son empleados con seguridad desde hace varias décadas; sin embargo, algunas complicaciones suelen presentarse. Una poco frecuente es su sección, la cual de no ser manejada adecuadamente genera importante morbilidad. Se presenta el caso de una paciente que recibe anestesia espinal epidural combinada. La técnica empleada, tanto para la colocación del catéter como para su retiro, aparentemente, fue correcta; sin embargo, este sufre una sección al retirarlo. En las imágenes posteriores se evidenciaría que el catéter se situó, accidentalmente, en el espacio paravertebral. Se teoriza un mecanismo de ruptura aun no descrito en la bibliografía. Se publica con el objetivo de mostrar la necesidad de la individualización en el manejo de este accidente, ya sea expectante o quirúrgico según las condiciones clínicas de cada paciente(AU)

The use of epidural catheters is a fundamental pillar of anesthesia. These have been safely employed for several decades; however, some complications usually occur. A rare one is its section, which if not properly managed generates significant morbidity. It is presented the case of a patient receiving combined epidural spinal anesthesia. The technique used, both for the placement of the catheter and for its removal, was apparently correct; however, it suffered a section when removed. In the subsequent images it was evident that the catheter was accidentally placed in the paravertebral space. A mechanism of rupture not yet described in the literature is theorized. It is published with the aim of showing the need for individualization in the management of this accident, whether expectant or surgical according to the clinical conditions of each patient(AU)

Anestesia espinal parte IV. Técnica de la anestesia espinal y sus variaciones / Spinal anesthesia part IV. Spinal anesthesia technique and its variations

Spinal anesthesia is a very important and widely used technique nowadays. In order to obtain successful results and avoid complications, it is essential to perform it with the correct methods. The operator must be familiar with the procedure and prepare correctly for it, including material and drug selections which may vary according to the patient. Risk reduction is fundamental, and it is accomplished by carrying out the previously mentioned preparation and an adequate monitorization of the patient being intervened. Once this is in order, the patient must be positioned into being sited, or placed in supine or lateral position. The chosen approach depends mainly on the characteristics of anatomical repairs and may be medial, paramedian or a Taylor approach. The correct needle must be selected, and these are categorized mainly into those which cut or separate the dura's fibers. In this revision, the correct technique for performing spinal anesthesia is described, along with some of its most important variations such as sectorized anesthesia, continuous spinal anesthesia and combined epidural spinal anesthesia.

La anestesia espinal es una técnica ampliamente utilizada hoy en día. Para obtener resultados exitosos y evitar complicaciones, es fundamental una buena técnica a la hora de realizarla. Debe contarse con un buen conocimiento basal del método a utilizar y una preparación adecuada según el paciente, incluyendo en esto tanto los materiales como los fármacos de elección en cada caso. Es fundamental reducir los riesgos tanto locales como sistémicos del procedimiento, lo cual se logra con la preparación mencionada y una adecuada monitorización del paciente. Una vez listo esto, debe posicionarse al paciente de manera que quede sentado, en decúbito lateral o decúbito prono. El abordaje es elegido principalmente según los reparos anatómicos de cada caso particular y puede ser medio, paramediano o de Taylor. Se debe seleccionar una aguja adecuada, las cuales se dividen principalmente entre aquellas que cortan y aquellas que separan las fibras de la duramadre. En esta revisión se expone la técnica adecuada para realizar el procedimiento de anestesia espinal, junto con algunas de sus variaciones principales como lo son la anestesia sectorizada, la anestesia espinal continua y la anestesia combinada espinal epidural.

Anestesia espinal parte III. Mecanismos de acción / Spinal anesthesia part III. Mechanisms of action

Spinal anesthesia is a widely used technique in medical practice nowadays. Generally, nervous blockage is determined by three main factors. The first of them is the distribution of the local anesthetic in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which can be affected by numerous factors, the most important of them being CSF volume. The second is absorption, which is greatest at the sites with higher drug concentration: this is the result of the accessibility, lipidic content and vascular irrigation of each area. The last of these factors is elimination, mediated mainly by the irrigation of the different compartments, and whose order differs from the mirror image of the onset's action order. The previously mentioned elements are the main sources of variation for the time needed to achieve desired effects, order in which fibers are affected and differential blockage. This text describes the principal mechanisms through which spinal anesthesia works, and the factors which can result in variations of its results.

La anestesia espinal es una técnica ampliamente utilizada en la práctica clínica. Por lo general, el bloqueo nervioso está determinado por tres factores principales. El primero es la distribución del anestésico local en el líquido cefalorraquídeo (LCR), que a su vez se ve afectado por una gran variedad de factores, destacando entre estos el volumen de LCR. El segundo es la absorción, la cual es mayor en los sitios en donde la concentración del fármaco también lo es: para esto afecta la accesibilidad, el contenido lipídico y la irrigación vascular de cada zona. El último factor es la eliminación, mediada principalmente por la irrigación de los distintos compartimentos, y cuyo orden es distinto a la imagen especular del inicio de acción. Los factores mencionados son los principales determinantes de los tiempos de demora de los bloqueos, el orden en el que se logra su acción en las distintas fibras y el bloqueo diferencial. Este texto pretende describir los principales mecanismos de acción mediante los cuales actúa la anestesia espinal y los factores que pueden determinar diferencias en los resultados de esta.

Comparison between subarachnoid morphine and femoral nerve block for analgesia after knee ligament reconstruction: a randomized clinical trial / Comparação entre morfina subaracnoidea e bloqueio do nervo femoral para analgesia após reconstrução ligamentar de joelho: estudo clínico randomizado

Abstract Background and objectives There are no consensus of the ideal technique to provide analgesia in knee ligament reconstructions. The aim of this study was to compare the intensity of postoperative pain in these patients under different modalities of analgesia. Method Randomized and controlled clinical trial of patients undergoing reconstruction of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) with flexor tendons between December 2013 and 2014. All patients underwent spinal anesthesia and rescue analgesia with tramadol. The groups C, M, R0,375 and R0,25 was compared with only the previously described technique, subarachnoid morphine (100░µg), or Femoral Nerve Block (BNF) with 25░mL of 0.375% ropivacaine and 0.25%, respectively. Pain intensity at 6, 12 and 24░hours, age, sex, rescue analgesia, adverse reactions and satisfaction were evaluated. Results Among the 83 eligible patients, a predominance of males (85.7%) was observed, between 28 and 31 years. The group C requested more opioid (27.3%) than the other groups, without significance when compared. There were no significant differences in pain intensity at 6, 12 and 24░hours. There was a higher incidence of urinary retention in the M group (23.8%) than in the R0,375 (0%) and prolonged quadriceps motor block in the R0,375 group (30%) than in the M and C groups (0%), with statistical significance (p░<░0.05). Conclusion There was no difference in the intensity of postoperative pain in patients submitted to ACL reconstruction with flexor tendons under the analgesic modalities evaluated, despite the predominance of urinary retention in the M group and motor block in the R0,375 group.

Resumo Justificativa e objetivos Não há consenso sobre qual é a técnica ideal para prover analgesia em reconstruções ligamentares de joelho. Objetivou‐se comparar a intensidade da dor pós‐operatória desses pacientes sob diferentes modalidades de analgesia. Método Ensaio clínico randomizado e controlado de pacientes submetidos à reconstrução do ligamento cruzado anterior com tendões flexores entre dezembro de 2013 e 2014. Todos os pacientes foram submetidos a raquianestesia e analgesia de resgate com tramadol. Compararam‐se os grupos C, M, R0,375 e R0,25; aos quais se ofertou apenas a técnica anteriormente descrita, morfina subaracnóidea (100 µg) ou bloqueio de nervo femoral com 25 mL de ropivacaína 0,375% e 0,25%, respectivamente. Avaliou‐se intensidade da dor em 6, 12 e 24 horas, idade, sexo, analgesia de resgate, reações adversas e satisfação. Resultados Entre os 83 pacientes elegíveis, observou‐se predomínio do sexo masculino (85,7%) entre 28 e 31 anos. O Grupo C solicitou mais opioide (27,3%) do que os demais grupos, sem significância quando comparados. Não houve diferenças significativas na intensidade da dor em 6, 12 e 24 horas. Houve maior incidência de retenção urinária no Grupo M (23,8%) do que no R0,375 (0%) e de bloqueio motor prolongado do quadríceps no Grupo R0,375 (30%) do que nos Grupos M e C (0%), com significância estatística (p< 0,05). Conclusão Não houve diferença na intensidade da dor pós‐operatória nos pacientes submetidos à reconstrução de ligamento cruzado anterior com tendões flexores sob as modalidades analgésicas avaliadas, apesar do predomínio de retenção urinária no Grupo M e bloqueio motor no Grupo R0,375.

The effect of epinephrine for the treatment of spinal-hypotension: comparison with norepinephrine and phenylephrine, clinical trial / O efeito de epinefrina, norepinefrina e fenilefrina no tratamento da hipotensão pós-raquianestesia: estudo clínico comparativo

Abstract Background and objectives: Limited data are present on safety and efficiency of epinephrine for the prophylaxis and treatment of spinal-hypotension. This study was conducted to compare the effect of epinephrine with norepinephrine and phenylephrine on the treatment of spinal-hypotension and ephedrine requirement during cesarean delivery. Methods: One hundred and sixty parturients with uncomplicated pregnancies undergoing elective cesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia were recruited. They were allocated randomly to receive norepinephrine 5 µg.mL−1 (n = 40), epinephrine 5 µg.mL−1 (n = 40), phenylephrine 100 µg.mL−1 (n = 40) or 0.9% saline infusions (n = 40) immediately after induction of spinal anesthesia. Whenever systolic blood pressure drops to less than 80% of baseline, 5 mg of intravenous ephedrine was administered as rescue vasopressor. The incidence of hypotension, total number of hypotension episodes, the number of patients requiring ephedrine, the mean amount of ephedrine consumption and side effects were recorded. Results: There was no statistically significant difference in incidence of maternal hypotension between groups. The number of patients requiring ephedrine was significantly greater in group saline than in group phenylephrine (p< 0.001). However, it was similar between phenylephrine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine groups. The mean ephedrine consumption was significantly higher in group saline than in norepinephrine, epinephrine, phenylephrine groups (p= 0.001). Conclusion: There is no statistically significant difference in incidence of hypotension and ephedrine consumption during spinal anesthesia for cesarean delivery with the use of epinephrine when compared to norepinephrine or phenylephrine. Epinephrine can be considered an alternative agent for management of spinal hypotension.

Resumo Justificativa e objetivos: Existem dados limitados sobre segurança e eficiência da epinefrina na profilaxia e tratamento da hipotensão arterial associada à raquianestesia. O presente estudo foi realizado para comparar o efeito da epinefrina com norepinefrina e fenilefrina no tratamento da hipotensão após raquianestesia e necessidade de efedrina durante o parto cesáreo. Método: Foram recrutadas 160 parturientes com gestações não complicadas, submetidas a cesariana eletiva sob raquianestesia. Elas foram alocadas aleatoriamente para receber norepinefrina 5 µg.mL-1 (n = 40), epinefrina 5 µg.mL-1 (n = 40), fenilefrina 100 µg.mL-1 (n = 40) ou infusão de solução fisiológica NaCl a 0,9% (n = 40) imediatamente após a indução da raquianestesia. Sempre que houvesse redução da pressão arterial sistólica para valor inferior a 80% da linha de base, 5 mg de efedrina iv eram administrados como vasopressor de resgate. A incidência de hipotensão, o número total de episódios de hipotensão, o número de pacientes que necessitaram de efedrina, o consumo médio de efedrina e os efeitos colaterais foram registrados. Resultados: Não houve diferença estatisticamente significante na incidência de hipotensão materna entre os grupos. O número de pacientes que necessitaram de efedrina foi significantemente maior no grupo solução fisiológica do que no grupo fenilefrina (p< 0,001). No entanto, foi semelhante entre os grupos fenilefrina, norepinefrina e epinefrina. O consumo médio de efedrina foi significantemente maior no grupo solução fisiológica do que nos grupos norepinefrina, epinefrina e fenilefrina (p = 0,001). Conclusão: Não houve diferença estatisticamente significante na incidência de hipotensão e consumo de efedrina durante raquianestesia para parto cesáreo com uso de epinefrina quando comparada à norepinefrina ou fenilefrina. A epinefrina pode ser considerada como agente alternativo para o tratamento da hipotensão após raquianestesia.

Risk factors for post-caesarean nausea and vomiting: a prospective prognostic study / Fatores de risco para náusea e vômitos após cesariana: estudo prognóstico prospectivo

Abstract Background: Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting (PONV) risk factors have not been defined for obstetric patients. In this study, our objective was to identify potential risk factors for PONV after cesarean sections performed under spinal anesthesia. Methods: One cohort of patients submitted to cesarean under spinal anesthesia was used to investigate potential risk factors for PONV. The best numerical risk factors were dichotomized using chi-squared method. A conditional independence (incremental association method) casual network was used to select the best predictors for PONV. Results: Two hundred and fifty of 260 patients remained in the study. Odds ratio for PONV of younger maternal age (< 25 years: 2.9 [1.49−5.96]), lower spinal bupivacaine dose (< 13 mg, inf [2.4-inf]), lower spinal morphine dose (< 80 mg, 0.03 [0−0.97]), history of motion sickness (2.5 [1.27−5.25]), significant nausea during the first trimester (0.3 [0.16−0.64]), intraoperative nausea and vomiting (8.2 [3.67−20.47]), and lower gestational age (< 38 weeks, 2.0 [1.01−4.08]) were statistically significant. The causal network selected absence of significant nausea during the first gestational trimester, intraoperative nausea, and gestational age < 38 weeks as the main direct risk factors for PONV. Conclusions: Intraoperative nausea and maternal age < 25 years were the main risk factors for PONV after cesareans under spinal anesthesia. Absence of self-reported nausea during the first trimester was a protective factor for post-cesarean nausea and vomiting.

Resumo Introdução: Os fatores de risco para náusea e vômitos pós-operatórios (NVPO) ainda não foram definidos para pacientes de obstetrícia. Neste estudo, nosso objetivo foi identificar potenciais fatores de risco para NVPO após parto cesariano realizado sob raquianestesia. Método: Uma coorte de pacientes submetidas a cesariana sob raquianestesia foi usada para investigar potenciais fatores de risco para NVPO. Os melhores fatores de risco numéricos foram dicotomizados por meio do método qui-quadrado. Uma rede casual de independência condicional (método de associação adicional) foi usada para selecionar os melhores preditores de NVPO. Resultados: Das 260 pacientes iniciais, 250 completaram o estudo. A razão de chances para NVPO foi estatisticamente significante para menor idade materna (< 25 anos: 2,9 [1,49−5,96]), dose mais baixa de bupivacaina raquidiana (< 13 mg, inf [2,4-inf]), dose mais baixa de morfina raquidiana (< 80 mg, 0,03 [0−0,97]), histórico de enjoo de movimento (2,5 [1,27−5,25]), náuseas importantes durante o primeiro trimestre (0,3 [0,16−0,64]), náusea e vômitos intraoperatórios (8,2 [3,67−20,47]) e menor idade gestacional (< 38 semanas, 2,0 [1,01−4,08]). A rede causal selecionou ausência de náuseas significativas durante o primeiro trimestre gestacional, náusea intraoperatória e idade gestacional < 38 semanas como os principais fatores de risco diretos para NVPO. Conclusões: Náusea intraoperatória e idade materna < 25 anos foram os principais fatores de risco para NVPO após cesariana sob raquianestesia. A ausência de náusea autorreferida durante o primeiro trimestre foi um fator protetor para náusea e vômitos após cesariana.

Implicaciones del COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) para la práctica anestesiológica / Implications of COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) for the anesthesiological practice

El objetivo de este artículo es revisar las características del SARS-CoV-2, los aspectos clínico-epidemiológicos de COVID-19 y las implicaciones que tienen para los anestesiólogos al realizar procedimientos generadores de aerosoles. Se realizó una búsqueda en las bases de datos PubMed, Scopus, SciELO y Web of Science hasta el 9 de abril de 2020, utilizando las palabras: "COVID-19 or COVID19 or SARS-CoV-2 and anesthesiology or anesthesia". Se incluyeron 48 artículos con información sobre el manejo del paciente en el perioperatorio o en la unidad de cuidados intensivos ante la sospecha o confirmación de infección por SARS-CoV-2. En general, se recomienda el aplazamiento de las cirugías electivas por no más de seis a ocho semanas, de acuerdo a las condiciones clínicas de los pacientes. En el caso de cirugías de urgencia o emergencia, se revisan tópicos del sistema de protección personal así como las estrategias recomendadas para la realización de los procedimientos.

The purpose of this article is to review the characteristics of SARS-CoV-2, the clinical-epidemiological aspects of COVID-19, and the implications anesthesiologists when performing aerosol-generating procedures. A search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, SciELO, and Web of Science databases was performed until April 9, 2020, using the words: "COVID-19 or COVID19 or SARS-CoV-2 and anesthesiology or anesthesia". Forty-eight articles with information on the management of the patient in the perioperative period or the intensive care unit when suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection were included. In general, the postponement of elective surgeries for no more than 6 to 8 weeks, depending on the clinical condition of the patients is recommended. In the case of urgent or emergency surgeries, we review the use of personal protection gear, as well as the recommended strategies for carrying out the procedure.

Low dose intrathecal morphine for hip arthroplasty / Dosis baja de morfina intratecal para artroplastía de cadera

OBJETIVES: 100 mcg intrathecal morphine (ITM) for hip arthroplasty provides adequate functional recovery and reduces associated complications but is not exempt from opioid-related adverse effects. We evaluate efficacy of a reduced dose of ITM (80 mcg) in terms of anesthetic quality, postoperative analgesia, complication rates and early recovery. METHODS: Case-control study. Patients under hip arthroplasty were treated on a specific protocol, using neuraxial anesthesia with hyperbaric bupivacaine 10.5-13.5 mg plus 80 mcg ITM versus controls with 100 mcg ITM. Demographic variables, intra and perioperative course were extracted from medical records. Pain severity and morphine associated complications were blindly assessed at regular intervals postoperatively. p < 0.01 were considered significant. RESULTS: 82 patients were analyzed. Mean age was 64.21 years, 62.20% women and 70.73% ASA-2. Main endoprosthesis indication was arthrosis (58.53%). No statistically significant differences in demographic and operative data were found between groups, including surgical time, ambulation time, length of stay, and patient satisfaction for pain management. Mean VAS for pain during first 24 hours was 0.24 for the low ITM group and 0.22 for control. Rescue intravenous morphine was the same between groups. Compared to 80 mcg ITM, 100 mcg showed trends for higher complication rates for respiratory depression (OR 2.58, CI 95% 0.45-14.54, p = 0.28), nausea without vomiting (OR 1.82, CI 95% 0.82-4.01, p = 0.13), urinary retention (OR 2.02, CI 95% 0.88-4.61, p = 0.09) and significantly higher rates of pruritus (OR 3.55, CI 95% 1.61-7.82, p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: 80 mcg ITM during spinal anesthesia for hip arthroplasty provided comparable postoperative analgesia and lower incidence of opioid-related adverse effects.

OBJETIVOS: 100 mcg morfina intratecal (ITM), en artroplastia de cadera, proporciona una recuperación funcional adecuada y reduce complicaciones asociadas, pero no está exento de efectos adversos conocidos asociados a opioides. Evaluamos eficacia de reducir dosis (80 mcg ITM) en términos de calidad anestésica, analgesia, complicaciones y recuperación postoperatoria. MÉTODOS: Estudio de casos y controles. Pacientes sometidos a artroplastia de cadera fueron tratados con anestesia espinal con bupivacaína hiperbárica 10,5-13,5 mg más 80 mcg ITM y controles de manera similar pero con 100 mcg ITM. Variables demográficas, así como intra y perioperatorio, se extrajeron de registros médicos. Severidad del dolor, y complicaciones asociadas a ITM, se evaluaron a ciegas según protocolo, p < 0,01 fue considerado significativo. RESULTADOS: 82 pacientes analizados. Edad promedio fue 64,21 años, 62,20% fueron mujeres y 70,73% ASA-2. Principal indicación de prótesis fue artrosis (58,53%). No se encontraron diferencias estadísticas entre variables demográficas, tiempo quirúrgico, tiempo deambulación, duración hospitalización y satisfacción paciente. EVA promedio dolor, primeras 24 horas, fue 0,24 para grupo 80 mcg ITM y 0,22 para control (100 mcg ITM). Morfina intravenosa de rescate fue similar entre grupos. En comparación con 80 mcg, 100 mcg presentó mayores tasas de complicaciones para depresión respiratoria (OR 2,58, IC95% 0,45-14,54, p = 0,28), náuseas y vómitos (OR 1,82, CI95% 0,82-4,01, p = 0,13), retención urinaria (OR 2,02, CI95% 0,88-4,61, p = 0,09) y prurito (OR 3,55, CI95% 1,61-7,82, p < 0,01). CONCLUSIONES: 80 mcg ITM, en anestesia espinal para artroplastia cadera, proporciona analgesia postoperatoria comparable a 100 mcg pero con menor incidencia de efectos adversos relacionados a opioides.

Intermittent loss of consciousness during cesarean section under spinal anesthesia: a case report / Perda intermitente de consciência durante cesariana sob raquianestesia: relato de caso

Abstract Loss of consciousness during spinal anesthesia is a rare but scary complication. This complication is generally related to severe hypotension and bradycardia, but in this case, the loss of consciousness occurred in a hemodynamically stable parturient patient. We present a 31 years-old patient who underwent an emergency cesarean section. She lost consciousness and had apnea that started 10 minutes after successful spinal anesthesia and repeated three times for a total of 25 minutes, despite the stable hemodynamics of the patient. The case was considered a subdural block, and the patient was provided with respiratory support. The subdural block is expected to start slowly (approximately 15-20 minutes), but in this case, after about 10 minutes of receiving anesthesia, the patient suddenly had a loss of consciousness. After the recovery of consciousness and return of spontaneous respiration, the level of a sensory block of the patient, who was cooperative and oriented, was T4. There were motor blocks in both lower extremities. Four hours after intrathecal injection, both the sensory and motor blocks ended, and she was discharged two days later with no complications. Hence, patients who receive spinal anesthesia should be closely observed for any such undesirable complications.

Resumo A perda de consciência durante a raquianestesia é uma complicação rara, mas assustadora. Essa complicação geralmente está relacionada à grave hipotensão e bradicardia, mas, neste caso, a perda de consciência ocorreu em uma paciente parturiente hemodinamicamente estável. Apresentamos o caso de uma paciente de 31 anos, submetida a uma cesariana de emergência. A paciente perdeu a consciência e apresentou apneia que teve início 10 minutos após a raquianestesia bem-sucedida e repetiu o episódio três vezes por 25 minutos, a despeito de sua hemodinâmica estável. O caso foi considerado como um bloqueio subdural e a paciente recebeu suporte respiratório. Espera-se que o bloqueio subdural inicie lentamente (aproximadamente 15-20 minutos), mas, neste caso, cerca de 10 minutos após a anestesia, a paciente repentinamente perdeu a consciência. Após a recuperação da consciência e o retorno da respiração espontânea, a paciente que estava orientada e cooperativa apresentou nível de bloqueio sensorial em T4. Havia bloqueio motor em ambas as extremidades inferiores. O bloqueio sensório-motor terminou quatro horas após a injeção intratecal e a paciente recebeu alta hospitalar dois dias depois, sem complicações. Considerando o exposto, os pacientes que recebem raquianestesia devem ser atentamente observados para quaisquer complicações indesejáveis.

Anestesia espinal con morfina y bupivacaína en la cirugía de próstata / Spinal anesthesia with morphine and bupivacaine in prostate surgery

Introducción: El dolor posoperatorio constituye la principal causa de dolor agudo en el mundo. Brindar analgesia adecuada en el posquirúrgico garantiza la disminución de la estadía hospitalaria y tiene un impacto positivo en el resultado final de las intervenciones. Objetivo: Evaluar la efectividad de la analgesia posoperatoria con bupivacaína más morfina intratecal en la cirugía de próstata. Métodos: Se realizó una investigación cuasiexperimental, entre enero de 2015 y enero de 2018. La muestra quedó conformada de manera no probabilística por los pacientes que dieron su consentimiento informado y reunieron criterios para entrar en el estudio. Quedaron distribuidos de manera aleatoria en dos grupos denominados bupivacaína (B) y morfina-bupivacaína (MB). Para recolectar la información se emplearon las historias clínicas anestésicas y un formulario elaborado al efecto. Los resultados se mostraron en tablas y gráficos, se expresaron en frecuencias absolutas y en porcientos, se determinaron algunas medidas descriptivas de interés que mostraron el comportamiento de las variables que lo requirieron. Resultados: El resultado más relevante fue el efecto analgésico muy significativo en el grupo MB en las primeras 24 h del posoperatorio. La reacción adversa más frecuente fue el prurito y solo se presentó en el grupo que recibió morfina. Conclusiones: La anestesia espinal con morfina y bupivacaína es efectiva y segura, proporcionando mejor analgesia en el posoperatorio inmediato cuando se compara con bupivacaína sola(AU)

Introduction: Postoperative pain is the main cause of acute pain worldwide. Providing suitable analgesia in the postoperative period guarantees the reduction of hospital stay and has a positive impact on the final outcome of the interventions. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of postoperative analgesia with intrathecal administration of bupivacaine plus morphine in prostate surgery. Methods: A quasiexperimental research was carried out between January 2015 and January 2018. The sample was nonprobabilistic and made up by the patients who gave their informed consent and met criteria to enter the study. They were randomly distributed into two groups called bupivacaine (B) and morphine-bupivacaine (MB). To collect the information, the anesthetic medical records and a form prepared for this purpose were used. The results were shown in tables and graphs, expressed in absolute frequencies and percentages, some descriptive measures of interest were determined which showed the behavior of the variables that required it. Results: The most relevant result was the very significant analgesic effect in the MB group in the first 24 hours after surgery. The most frequent adverse reaction was pruritus and only occurred in the group that received morphine. Conclusions: Spinal anesthesia with morphine and bupivacaine is effective and safe, providing better analgesia in the immediate postoperative period when compared with bupivacaine alone(AU)

Intracranial Subdural Hematoma after Spinal Anesthesia: Report of Two Cases with different Outcomes

Spinal anesthesia is a technique commonly used for local anesthesia and in obstetric surgeries. Rarely, the formation of an intracranial subdural hematoma (SDH) may result from spinal anesthesia, constituting a serious condition that often leads to severe neurological deficits. The presentation and course of this pathology may occur in a completely different way, which makes its diagnosis and management difficult. In the present article, the authors report two cases of patients with intracranial SDH after spinal anesthesia with completely different presentations and outcomes, demonstrating the variability of the manifestations of this condition. A quick review of key points of its pathophysiology, symptomatology, diagnosis, and treatment was also performed.

Comparison of fentanyl and dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to bupivacaine for unilateral spinal anesthesia in lower limb surgery: a randomized trial / Comparação de fentanil e dexmedetomidina como adjuvante à bupivacaína para raquianestesia unilateral em cirurgia de membros inferiores: estudo randômico

Abstract Background and objectives One of the disadvantages of unilateral spinal anesthesia is the short duration of post-operative analgesia, which can be addressed by adding adjuvants to local anesthetics. The aim of current study was to compare the effects of adding dexmedetomidine, fentanyl, or saline to bupivacaine on the properties of unilateral spinal anesthesia in patients undergoing calf surgery. Methods In this double-blind clinical trial, 90 patients who underwent elective calf surgery were randomly divided into three groups. The spinal anesthetic rate in each of the three groups was 1 mL bupivacaine 0.5% (5 mg). In groups BD, BF and BS, 5 µg of dexmedetomidine, 25 µg of fentanyl and 0.5 mL saline were added, respectively. The duration of the motor and sensory blocks in both limbs and the rate of pain during 24 h after surgery were calculated. Hemodynamic changes were also measured during anesthesia for up to 90 min. Results The duration of both of motor and sensory block was significantly longer in dependent limb in the BF (96 and 169 min) and BD (92 and 166 min) groups than the BS (84 and 157 min) group. Visual Analog Scale was significantly lower in the two groups of BF (1.4) and BD (1.3), within 24 h after surgery, than the BS (1.6) group. Conclusions The addition of fentanyl and dexmedetomidine to bupivacaine in unilateral spinal anesthesia can increase the duration of the motor and sensory block in dependent limb and prolong the duration of postoperative pain. However, fentanyl is more effective than dexmedetomidine.

Resumo Justificativa e objetivos Uma das desvantagens da raquianestesia unilateral é a curta duração da analgesia pós-operatória, que pode ser abordada pela adição de adjuvantes aos anestésicos locais. O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar os efeitos da adição de dexmedetomidina, fentanil ou solução salina à bupivacaína sobre as propriedades da raquianestesia unilateral em pacientes submetidos à cirurgia de panturrilha. Métodos Neste ensaio clínico duplo-cego, 90 pacientes submetidos à cirurgia eletiva de panturrilha foram randomicamente divididos em três grupos. A quantidade de anestésico para a raquianestesia nos três grupos foi de 1 mL de bupivacaína a 0,5% (5 mg). Nos grupos BD, BF e BS, 5 µg de dexmedetomidina, 25 µg de fentanil e 0,5 mL de solução salina foram adicionados, respectivamente. Foram calculados a duração dos bloqueios motor e sensorial em ambos os membros e o escore de dor durante 24 horas após a cirurgia. As alterações hemodinâmicas também foram medidas durante a anestesia por até 90 minutos. Resultados A duração de ambos os bloqueios, motor e sensorial, foi significativamente maior no membro dependente nos grupos BF (96 e 169 min) e BD (92 e 166 min) do que no grupo BS (84 e 157 min). Os escores da escala visual analógica foram significativamente menores nos grupos BF (1,4) e BD (1,3) do que no grupo BS (1,6) nas 24 horas após a cirurgia. Conclusões A adição de fentanil e dexmedetomidina à bupivacaína em raquianestesia unilateral pode aumentar a duração dos bloqueios sensorial e motor no membro dependente e prolongar a duração da dor pós-operatória. Contudo, fentanil é mais eficaz do que dexmedetomidina.

Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome a rare cause of post-partum headache: an anesthetic overview / Síndrome de vasoconstrição cerebral reversível, uma causa rara de cefaleia pós-parto: visão da anestesia

Abstract Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome is a cerebrovascular disorder leading to multifocal arterial constriction and dilation. Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome is possibly caused by transient deregulation of cerebral vascular tone. We report a rare case of a patient with chief complain of postpartum headache, was later diagnosed as a case of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome. A young full term primigravida with good uterine contraction admitted to labour room. Later she complained of leaking per vagina and on examination meconium stained liquor was noted. Caesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia was done and intra-operative period was uneventful. Both mother and baby were normal and shifted to postoperative ward and nursery respectively. In postoperative ward, mother complained of severe headache after 1 h and later developed seizure. Midazolam was given intravenously and was intubated and transferred to critical care unit for further investigation and management. Non contrast computerised tomography scan of brain showed right occipital intracerebral as well as subarachnoid bleed. CT angiography showed right vertebral artery narrowing without any other vascular malformation. Patient was managed in critical care unit for 2 days and then extubated and shifted to high dependency ward after a day observation and discharged 3 days later after a full uneventful recovery.

Resumo A síndrome de vasoconstrição cerebral reversível é uma doença cerebrovascular que leva à constrição e dilatação arterial multifocal. A síndrome de vasoconstrição cerebral reversível é possivelmente causada pela desregulação transitória do tônus vascular cerebral. Relatamos um caso raro de uma paciente com queixa principal de cefaleia pós-parto, posteriormente diagnosticada como um caso de síndrome de vasoconstrição cerebral reversível. A jovem primigesta a termo apresentando boa contração uterina foi internada em sala de parto. Mais tarde, a parturiente queixou-se de perda de líquido pela vagina e, ao exame, líquido amniótico manchado foi observado. O parto cesariano sob raquianestesia foi realizado, e não houve intercorrência no período intraoperatório. Tanto a mãe quanto o bebê estavam normais e foram transferidos para a sala de recuperação pós-operatória e berçário, respectivamente. Na sala de recuperação, a mãe queixou-se de forte dor de cabeça após uma hora e depois desenvolveu convulsão. Midazolam foi administrado por via intravenosa, e a paciente foi intubada e transferida para uma unidade de terapia intensiva para posterior investigação e tratamento. A tomografia computadorizada sem contraste do cérebro mostrou hemorragia intracerebral occipital direita e subaracnoide. A angiotomografia mostrou estreitamento da artéria vertebral direita, sem qualquer outra malformação vascular. A paciente foi tratada em unidade de terapia intensiva por dois dias e, em seguida, foi extubada e transferida para a ala de alta dependência onde permaneceu um dia em observação, recebendo alta hospitalar três dias depois, após uma recuperação completa e sem intercorrências.

Falla o resistencia en la anestesia espinal para cesárea / Failure or resistance in spinal anesthesia for cesarean section

Introducción: La anestesia regional es la más empleada en la cesárea obstétrica. En particular, el uso de la anestesia intratecal tiene sus ventajas. Aunque la tasa de falla es baja, la aparición de este evento genera dificultades que merecen atención. Objetivo: Describir la conducta anestésica en una paciente obstétrica en la que falla la anestesia regional intratecal. Caso clínico: Paciente femenina, de 20 años a la que se le administró anestesia intratecal por el especialista. No hubo errores en la punción lumbar, esta se realizó con trócar 25 punta Whitacre. No se constató bloqueo sensitivo, motor ni simpático, por lo que se realizó anestesia general endotraqueal, la cual transcurrió sin dificultades. En el posoperatorio inmediato se observa hiperlaxitud articular lo que llevó a sospechar el diagnóstico. Este fue positivo conjuntamente con el servicio de Neurología, se determinó Síndrome de Ehlers danlos tipo III. Conclusiones: El índice de falla es muy bajo en anestesia suaracnoidea pero si se presenta un paciente de este tipo, debe descartarse por completo. Existen pocos casos documentados de resistencia a la anestesia local; pero si así fuera, debe estudiarse exhaustivamente para buscar estrategias que permitan un acto anestésico óptimo(AU)

Introduction: Regional anesthesia is the most used in obstetric caesarean section. In particular, the use of intrathecal anesthesia has its advantages. Although the failure rate is low, the onset of this event generates difficulties that deserve attention. Objective: To describe the anesthetic management in an obstetric patient with failure of regional intrathecal anesthesia. Clinical case: Female patient, aged 20 years, who was administered intrathecal anesthesia by the specialist. There were no errors in the lumbar puncture, this was done with a trocar 25 of Whitacre tip. No sensory, motor or sympathetic block was observed, so general endotracheal anesthesia was performed, which went on smoothly. In the immediate postoperative period, joint hypermobility was observed, leading to suspicion of the diagnosis. This was positive in conjunction with the Neurology service, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome type 3 was determined. Conclusions: The failure rate is very low for subarachnoid anesthesia. However, for a patient of this type, it should be completely ruled out. There are few documented cases of resistance to local anesthesia. If it were the case, it should be studied exhaustively to look for strategies that allow an optimal anesthetic management(AU)

Anestesia espinal unilateral para cirugía ortopédica ambulatoria: evaluación de una dosis mínima de bupivacaína hiperbara asociada a lateralización: ¿es posible el éxito? / Unilateral spinal anaesthesis for orthopaedic ambulatory surgery: evaluation of a mininal dose of hyperbaric bupivacaine associated with side positioning: Is success posible?

INTRODUCCIÓN: la anestesia espinal unilateral (AEU) es una alternativa para el desarrollo de la cirugía ortopédica ambulatoria (COA). el OBJETIVO de este ensayo clínico fue el evaluar una dosis baja de bupivacaína hiperbara (BHB), asociada a fentanilo intratecal (FI) para obtención de AEU en COA. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: ensayo clínico, prospectivo, controlado en pacientes ASA I a II. la AEU se efectuó con el paciente en decúbito lateral (DL), con el lado operatorio hacia abajo, a nivel de L3-L4. se inyectó 5 mg de BHB 0,75% asociado a 20 µg de FI. se evaluó el bloqueo sensitivo (BS) y motor (BM) cada 3 minutos, los primeros 20 minutos y luego cada 15 minutos. Se midió el nivel máximo alcanzado, el tiempo de regresión a T12 y el tiempo de regresión de dos segmentos. se registró la incidencia de complicaciones. RESULTADOS: 50 pacientes fueron incluidos, 66% de sexo masculino. Se obtuvo anestesia unilateral en el 84% y BM total unilateral en el 86%. La altura del BS osciló entre T9 y T11. la duración del BS fue 116 min. (SD± 23). la regresión a T12 fue de 47 min (SD±19). No se encontró correlación entre talla, dosis y duración de bloqueo. ningún paciente necesitó anestesia general. 1 paciente presentó bradicardia. DISCUSIÓN: la AEU con dosis bajas de BHB asociado a FI es eficiente en COA. se obtuvo adecuados BS y BM en la mayoría de los pacientes. la AEU mostró ser confiable, permitiendo una alta precoz y segura.

INTRODUCTION: The unilateral spinal anesthesia (USA) is an alternative for orthopedic ambulatory surgery (OAS). The AIM of this study was to evaluate a low dose of hyperbaric bupivacaine (HB) associated with intrathecal fentanyl (ITF) to produce USA. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Prospective, controlled clinical trial in ASA I ­II patients. The USA was developed in lateral position with the operating side downwards between L3-L4 space with 5 mg of HB + 20 µg ITF. We evaluated sensitive level block (SB), motor level block (MB), maximum level obtained, discharge time (DT) and collateral effects incidence. RESULTS: 50 patients were included, 66% male. The USA was obtained in 84% and total BM was present in 86% of cases. The level obtained of SB was between T9-T11 and the duration was 116 min (SD± 23). No correlation was obtained between patients height, BH dose and block duration. 1 patient presented bradycardia. No general anesthesia was necessary. DISCUSSION: The USA with a low dose of HB and ITF it's safe to developed OAS. Only 11 min were necessary to obtain a good SB and MB.

Eficacia del ondansetron en prevención de hipotensión materna posterior a anestesia raquídea / Efficacy of ondansetron in prevention of maternal hypotension after spinal anesthesia

La hipotensión materna es una complicación común de la anestesia raquídea durante la cesárea. El bloqueo de receptores de serotonina 5-HT podría reducir la incidencia de hipotensión y el uso de vasopresores. Objetivo: eficacia del ondansetron como prevención de hipotensión materna posterior a anestesia raquídea. Métodos: un total de 72 pacientes de forma aleatorizada, ensayo clínico y simple ciego. Se administró ondansetron 5 minutos antes del bloqueo anestésico. Grupo O4 (4 mg), grupo O8 (8 mg) y grupo P (placebo) en jeringa de 10 ml, se midió frecuencia cardiaca, presión arterial media, nivel de dermatoma alcanzado, las puntuaciones de Apgar y complicaciones maternas. Resultados: existe diferencia significativa entre los grupos en cuanto a la incidencia de hipotensión y se observó que el requerimiento de vasopresor fue menor en el grupo O8 (p= 0,000), los eventos adversos maternos (p= 0, 087), fueron menores cuando se aplica ondansetron. Las puntuaciones del APGAR fueron similares en los grupos (p= 0,373). Conclusiones: se determina; que el uso de ondansetron atenúa la incidencia de hipotensión aunque no está claro la dosis exacta en las pacientes obstetras, además queda claro es que también disminuye el requerimiento de vasopresor, los efectos adversos como ser prurito, náuseas y vómitos. Limitaciones cantidad de pacientes de estudio y análisis gasométrico por falta de insumo en el hospital.

Maternal hypotension is a common complication of spinal anesthesia during cesarean section. Blocking serotonin 5-HT receptors could reduce the incidence of hypotension and the use of vasopressors. Objetive: efficacy of ondansetron as prevention of maternal hypotension after spinal anesthesia. Methods: a total of 72 patients randomized, clinic ensay and single-blind. Ondansetron was administered 5 minutes before the spinal anesthetic. Group O4 (4 mg), group O8 (8 mg) and group P (placeb) in a 10 ml syringe were measured heart rate, blood pressure mean, dermatome level reached, Apgar scores and maternal complications. Results: there was significant difference between the groups in terms of the incidence of hypotension and it was observed that the vasopressor requirement was lower in group O8 (p = 0,000), maternal adverse events (p = 0.087) were lower when ondansetron is applied. APGAR scores were similar in the groups (p = 0, 373). Conclusion: use of ondansetron is determined to attenuate the incidence of hypotension although the exact dose in obstetric patients is not clear, it is also clear that it also decreases the vasopressor requirement, adverse effects such as pruritus, nausea and vomiting. Limitations number of study patients and gasometric analysis due to lack of input in the hospital.