Study on Analgesic Effects of Combined Thoracic Paravertebral Block Anesthesia or Erector Spinae Plane Block with Ultrasound Guided Transversus Abdominis Plane Block in Endoscopic Esophagectomy: A Clinical Anatomical Approach

SUMMARY: The application effect of transversus abdominis plane block (TAPB) combined with thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB) or erector spinae plane block (ESP) under ultrasound guidance in endoscopic radical resection of esophageal cancer under general anesthesia was studied. From March 2021 to February 2022, patients who underwent endoscopic radical resection of esophageal cancer in our hospital were selected as the research object, and 90 patients were selected as the samples. Patients were divided into groupA and group B according to the difference of blocking schemes. Group A received ESP and Group B received TPVB. The dosage of sufentanil, nerve block time, awakening time and extubation time of the two groups were counted. The postoperative pain, sedation effect, sleep satisfaction and analgesia satisfaction of the two groups were compared, and the complications of the two groups were observed. The nerve block time and extubation time in group A were shorter than those in group B (P0.05). At T2, T3 and T4, the visual analogue scale (VAS) scores of group A at rest and cough were significantly lower than those of group B (P0.05). The satisfaction of sleep and analgesia in group A was higher than that in group B (P0.05). The analgesic effect of ultrasound-guided TAPB combined with ESP is better than that of ultrasound-guided TAPB combined with TPVB, and it can shorten the time of nerve block and extubation, which is worth popularizing.

Se estudió el efecto de la aplicación del bloqueo del plano transverso del abdomen (TAPB) combinado con el bloqueo paravertebral torácico (TPVB) o el bloqueo del plano del erector de la columna (ESP) bajo guía ecográfica en la resección radical endoscópica del cáncer de esófago bajo anestesia general. Desde marzo de 2021 hasta febrero de 2022, en nuestro hospital, se seleccionaron como objeto de investigación pacientes sometidos a resección radical endoscópica de cáncer de esófago, y como muestra se seleccionaron 90 pacientes. Los pacientes se dividieron en el grupo A y el grupo B según la diferencia de esquemas de bloqueo. El grupo A recibió ESP y el grupo B recibió TPVB. Se contaron la dosis de sufentanilo, el tiempo de bloqueo nervioso, el tiempo de despertar y el tiempo de extubación de los dos grupos. Se compararon el dolor posoperatorio, el efecto de la sedación, la satisfacción del sueño y la satisfacción de la analgesia de los dos grupos y se observaron las complicaciones de los dos grupos. El tiempo de bloqueo nervioso y el tiempo de extubación en el grupo A fueron más cortos que los del grupo B (P0,05). En T2, T3 y T4, las puntuaciones de la escala visual analógica (EVA) del grupo A en repo- so y tos fueron significativamente más bajas que las del grupo B (P 0,05). La satisfacción del sueño y la analgesia en el grupo A fue mayor que en el grupo B (P0,05). El efecto analgésico de la TAPB guiada por ecografía combinada con ESP es mejor que el de la TAPB guiada por ecografía combinada con TPVB, y puede acortar el tiempo de bloqueo nervioso y extubación, lo que vale la pena popularizar.

Prevalence of neonatal lupus in a small group of antibody-carrying mothers and frequency of complete atrioventricular block / Prevalencia de lupus neonatal en un pequeño grupo de madres portadoras de anticuerpos y frecuencia de bloqueo auriculoventricular completo

Abstract Background: Neonatal lupus (NL) is extremely rare and is caused by the transplacental passage of maternal IgG autoantibodies against Ro, La, and/or RNP proteins into the fetal circulation, which can cause congenital complete atrioventricular block (CCAB), permanent skin lesions, and liver involvement. Objective: To know the prevalence of NL in patients with CCAB and the clinical course in long-term follow-up. Methods: From January 1992 to December 2017, patients with CCAB were included. The presence of anti-SSA/Ro and anti-SSB/La antinuclear antibodies in maternal serum confirmed NL. Results: Eight patients were included with a follow-up of 10 ± 6 years; NL was concluded in 62.5%; two were male. One of them was diagnosed in utero, two at birth, and a pacemaker was implanted in them, one at 12 years of age and another at 15. The other two cases were diagnosed at 18 and 26 years of age, and permanent pacemakers were implanted 8 and 5 years later, respectively. In one case, a definitive pacemaker was not implanted in a newborn with only 1 year of follow-up. At delivery, 60% of the mothers were free of rheumatic disease, and altogether, they all had 19 children; none of them presented NL manifestations. Conclusions: CCAB is rare and frequently associated with a maternal autoimmune disease, practically all of them will require a definitive pacemaker at some point in their lives.

Resumen Antecedentes: El lupus neonatal (LN) es extremadamente raro y es ocasionado por el paso transplacentario de auto-anticuerpos maternos IgG contra las proteínas Ro, La y/o RNP a la circulación fetal que puede ocasionar bloqueo aurículo-ventricular completo congénito (BAVCC) permanente, lesiones dérmicas y afectación hepática. Objetivo: Conocer la prevalencia de LN en paciente con BAVCC y la evolución clínica en un seguimiento a largo plazo. Métodos: De enero de 1992 a diciembre 2017 se incluyeron paciente con BAVCC. La presencia de anticuerpos antinucleares anti-SSA/Ro y anti-SSB/La en suero materno confirmó LN. Resultados: Ocho pacientes fueron incluidos con seguimiento de 10 ± 6 años, el 62.5 % con LN; dos fueron del sexo masculino. Uno diagnosticado in útero, dos al nacimiento, en ellos se implantó marcapaso; uno a los 12 años de edad y otro a los 15. Los otros dos casos fueron diagnosticados a los 18 y 26 años, se implantó marcapaso definitivo en ellos 8 y 5 años después respectivamente. En un caso no se implantó marcapaso definitivo; un recién nacido con solo un año de seguimiento. Al dar a luz, el 60 % de las madres estaban libres de enfermedad reumática y en conjunto todas tuvieron 19 hijos, ninguno de ellos presentó manifestaciones de LN. Conclusiones: El BAVCC es raro y frecuentemente está asociado a una enfermedad autoinmune materna, prácticamente todos requerirán de marcapaso definitivo en alguna época de su vida.

Mapeamento do Potencial da Superfície Corporal durante a Despolarização Ventricular em Atletas com Intervalo PQ Prolongado após Exercício / Body Surface Potential Mapping during Ventricular Depolarization in Athletes with Prolonged PQ Interval after Exercise

Resumo Fundamento: O prolongamento do intervalo PQ, geralmente associado a um atraso na condução atrioventricular, pode estar relacionado a alterações na propagação do impulso intraventricular. Objetivo: Avaliar, por meio do mapeamento do potencial de superfície corporal (BSPM), o processo de despolarização ventricular em atletas com intervalos PQ prolongados em repouso e após o exercício. Métodos: O estudo incluiu 7 esquiadores cross-country com intervalo PQ superior a 200 ms (grupo PQ Prolongado) e 7 com intervalo PQ inferior a 200 ms (grupo PQ Normal). O BSPM de 64 derivações unipolares do tronco foi realizado antes (Pré-Ex) e após o teste ergométrico de bicicleta (Pós-Ex). Mapas equipotenciais da superfície corporal foram analisados durante a despolarização ventricular. O nível de significância foi de 5%. Resultados: Comparado com atletas com PQ Normal, o primeiro e o segundo períodos de posição estável dos potenciais cardíacos na superfície do tronco foram mais longos, e a formação da distribuição de potencial "sela" ocorreu mais tarde, no Pré-Ex, nos atletas com PQ Prolongado. No Pós-Ex, o grupo PQ Prolongado apresentou um encurtamento do primeiro e segundo períodos de distribuições de potencial estáveis e uma diminuição no tempo de aparecimento do fenômeno "sela" em relação ao Pré-Ex (para valores próximos aos do Normal -Grupo PQ). Além disso, no Pós-Ex, a primeira inversão das distribuições de potencial e a duração total da despolarização ventricular em atletas com PQ Prolongado diminuíram em comparação com o Pré-Ex e com valores semelhantes em atletas com PQ Normal. Em comparação com atletas com PQ Normal, a segunda inversão foi mais longa no Pré-Ex e Pós-Ex em atletas com PQ Prolongado. Conclusão: Atletas com PQ prolongado apresentaram diferenças significativas nas características temporais do BSPM durante a despolarização ventricular, tanto em repouso quanto após o exercício, em comparação com atletas com PQ normal.

Abstract Background: Prolongation of the PQ interval, generally associated with an atrioventricular conduction delay, may be related to changes in intraventricular impulse spreading. Objective: To assess, using body surface potential mapping (BSPM), the process of ventricular depolarization in athletes with prolonged PQ intervals at rest and after exercise. Methods: The study included 7 cross-country skiers with a PQ interval of more than 200 ms (Prolonged-PQ group) and 7 with a PQ interval of less than 200 ms (Normal-PQ group). The BSPM from 64 unipolar torso leads was performed before (Pre-Ex) and after the bicycle exercise test (Post-Ex). Body surface equipotential maps were analyzed during ventricular depolarization. The significance level was 5%. Results: Compared to Normal-PQ athletes, the first and second periods of the stable position of cardiac potentials on the torso surface were longer, and the formation of the "saddle" potential distribution occurred later, at Pre-Ex, in Prolonged-PQ athletes. At Post-Ex, the Prolonged-PQ group showed a shortening of the first and second periods of stable potential distributions and a decrease in appearance time of the "saddle" phenomenon relative to Pre-Ex (to the values near to those of the Normal-PQ group). Additionally, at Post-Ex, the first inversion of potential distributions and the total duration of ventricular depolarization in Prolonged-PQ athletes decreased compared to Pre-Ex and with similar values in Normal-PQ athletes. Compared to Normal-PQ athletes, the second inversion was longer at Pre-Ex and Post-Ex in Prolonged-PQ athletes. Conclusion: Prolonged-PQ athletes had significant differences in the temporal characteristics of BSPM during ventricular depolarization both at rest and after exercise as compared to Normal-PQ athletes.

Continuous erector spinae plane block for analgesia and better pulmonary functions in patients with multiple rib fractures: a prospective descriptive study

Abstract Background: The present study explored the role of continuous erector spinae plane (ESP) block for analgesia as well as its impact on pulmonary functions in patients with multiple rib fractures. Methods: Ten patients with multiple rib fractures were enrolled after getting informed and written consent. Ultrasound-guided ESP block was performed at the level midway between the fractured ribs followed by the insertion of the catheter. Pre- and post-block VAS score, hemodynamics, respiratory rate (RR), peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2), inspiratory capacity (IC), blood gases (PaO2 and PCO2), and complications were compared. Results: Pain scores at rest as well as on movement showed a significant reduction from 5.9 and 7.5 pre block to 1.6 and 2.5 respectively at 96 hours (p < 0.0001). Similarly, RR, SpO2, IC, and PaO2 were significantly better after the block placement (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Continuous ESP block provide adequate analgesia with better respiratory functions in patients with multiple rib fractures.

Minimum effective concentration of ropivacaine for ultrasound-guided transmuscular quadratus lumborum block in total hip arthroplasty: a randomized clinical trial

Abstract Objective: This trial aimed to identify the Minimum Effective Concentration (MEC90, defined as the concentration which can provide successful block in 90% of patients) of 30 mL ropivacaine for single-shot ultrasound-guided transmuscular Quadratus Lumborum Block (QLB) in patients undergoing Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA). Methods: A double-blind, randomized dose-finding study using the biased coin design up-and-down sequential method, where the concentration of local anesthetic administered to each patient depended on the response from the previous one. Block success was defined as a Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) score during motion ≤ 3 at 6 hours after arrival in the ward. If the block was successful, the next subject received either a 0.025% smaller dose (probability of 0.11) or the same dose (probability of 0.89); otherwise, the next subject received a 0.025% higher ropivacaine concentration. MEC90, MEC95 and MEC99 were estimated by isotonic regression, and the corresponding 95% Confidence Intervals (95% CIs) were calculated by the bootstrapping method. Results: Based on the analysis of 52 patients, MEC90, MEC95, and MEC99 of ropivacaine for QLB were estimated to be 0.352% (95% CI 0.334-0.372%), 0.363% (95% CI 0.351-0.383%), and 0.373% (95% CI 0.363-0.386%). The concentration of ropivacaine at 0.352% in a volume of 30 ml can provide a successful block in 90% of patients. Conclusions: For ultrasound-guided transmuscular QLB in patients undergoing THA, 0.352% ropivacaine in a volume of 30 ml can provide a successful block in 90% of patients. Further dose-finding studies and large sample size are required to verify the concentration.

Infraclavicular versus costoclavicular approaches to ultrasound-guided brachial plexus block: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background: The costoclavicular approach to brachial plexus block may have a more favorable anatomy than the classic infraclavicular approach. However, there are conflicting results in the literature regarding the comparative effectiveness of these two techniques. Methods: We systematically searched for Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) comparing costo-clavicular with infraclavicular brachial plexus blocks for upper extremity surgeries on MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Ovid. The outcomes of interest were sensory and motor block onset times, performance times, block failure, and complication rate. We performed statistical analyses using RevMan 5.4 and assessed heterogeneity using the Cochran Q test and I2 statistics. We appraised the risk of bias according to Cochrane's Risk of Bias 2 tool. Results: We included 5 RCTs and 374 patients, of whom 189 (50.5%) were randomized to undergo costoclavicular block. We found no statistically significant differences between the two techniques regarding sensory block onset time in minutes (Mean Difference [MD = −0.39 min]; 95% CI −2.46 to 1.68 min; p = 0.71); motor block onset time in minutes (MD = −0.34 min; 95% CI −0.90 to 0.22 min; p = 0.23); performance time in minutes (MD = −0.12 min; 95% CI −0.89 to 0.64 min; p = 0.75); incidence of block failure (RR = 1.59; 95% CI 0.63 to 3.39; p = 0.63); and incidence of complications (RR = 0.60; 95% CI 0.20 to 1.84; p = 0.37). Conclusion: This meta-analysis suggests that the CCV block may exhibit similar sensory and motor onset times when compared to the classic ICV approach in adults undergoing distal upper extremity surgery, with comparable rates of block failure and complications.

Assessment of the learning curve of peribulbar blocks using the Learning-Curve Cumulative Sum Method (LC-CUSUM): an observational study

Abstract Introduction: This study aimed to assess the learning curves of peribulbar anesthesia and estimate the number of blocks needed to attain proficiency. Methods: Anonymized records of sequential peribulbar blocks performed by first-year anesthesia residents were analyzed. The block sequential number and the outcomes were extracted from each record. Success was defined as a complete sensory and motor block of the eye, and failure was defined as an incomplete block requiring supplemental local anesthetic injections or general anesthesia. Learning curves using the LC-CUSUM method were constructed, aiming for acceptable and unacceptable failure rates of 10% and 20%, and 10% probability of type I and II errors. Simulations were used to determine the proficiency limit h0. Residents whose curves reached h0 were considered proficient. The Sequential Probability Ratio Test Cumulative Sum Method (SPRT-CUSUM) was used for follow-up. Results: Thirty-nine residents performed 2076 blocks (median = 52 blocks per resident; Interquartile Range (IQR) [range] = 27-78 [4-132]). Thirty residents (77%) achieved proficiency after a median of 13 blocks (13-24 [13-24]). Conclusions: The LC-CUSUM is a robust method for detecting resident proficiency at peribulbar anesthesia, defined as success rates exceeding 90%. Accordingly, 13 to 24 supervised double-injection peribulbar blocks are needed to attain competence at peribulbar anesthesia.

A novel comparison of erector spinae plane block and paravertebral block in laparoscopic cholecystectomy

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: Erector spinae plane block is an updated method than paravertebral block, possessing a lower risk of complications. This study aimed to compare erector spinae plane and paravertebral blocks to safely reach the most efficacious analgesia procedure in laparoscopic cholecystectomy cases. METHODS: The study included 90 cases, aged 18-70 years, classified as American Society of Anesthesiologists I-II, who underwent an laparoscopic cholecystectomy procedure. They were randomly separated into three groups, namely, Control, erector spinae plane, and paravertebral block. No block procedure was applied to Control, and a patient-controlled analgesia device was prepared containing tramadol at a 10 mg bolus dose and a 10-min locked period. The pain scores were recorded with a visual analog scale for 24 h postoperatively. RESULTS: The visual analog scale values at 1, 5, 10, 20, and 60 min at rest and 60 min coughing were found to be significantly higher in Control than in paravertebral block. A significant difference was revealed between Control vs. paravertebral block and paravertebral block vs. erector spinae plane in terms of total tramadol consumption (p=0.006). Total tramadol consumption in the first postoperative 24 h was significantly reduced in the paravertebral block compared with the Control and erector spinae plane groups. CONCLUSION: Sonography-guided-paravertebral block provides sufficient postoperative analgesia in laparoscopic cholecystectomy surgery. Erector spinae plane seems to attenuate total tramadol consumption.

Modified thoracoabdominal nerves block through perichondrial approach for laparoscopic cholecystectomy

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: A new block, namely, modified thoracoabdominal nerves block through perichondrial approach, is administered below the costal cartilage. We sought to compare the analgesic efficacy of the modified thoracoabdominal nerves block through perichondrial approach block with local anesthetic infiltration at the port sites in an adult population who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy. METHODS: Patients who will undergo laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomized to receive bilateral ultrasound-guided modified thoracoabdominal nerves block through perichondrial approach blocks or local anesthetic infiltration at the port insertion sites. The primary outcome was the total amount of tramadol used in the first 12 h postoperatively. The secondary outcomes were total IV tramadol consumption for the first postoperative 24 h and visual analog scale scores. RESULTS: The modified thoracoabdominal nerves block through perichondrial approach group had significantly less tramadol use in the first 12 h postoperatively (p<0.001). The modified thoracoabdominal nerves block through perichondrial approach group's visual analog scale scores at rest (static) and with movement (dynamic) were significantly lower compared with the port infiltration group (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Patients who received modified thoracoabdominal nerves block through perichondrial approach block had significantly less analgesic consumption and better pain scores than those who received port-site injections after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Anestesia balanceada em gato palheiro (Leopardus braccatus) para realização de gastrotomia e enterotomia ­ relato de caso / Balanced anesthesia in pamps cat (Leopardus braccatus) for gastrotomy and enterotomy ­ case report / Anestesia balanceada en gato palheiro (Leopardus braccatus) para gastrotomía y enterotomía ­ reporte de caso

Foi atendido no Hospital Veterinária da Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso (HOVET-UFMT) - Campus Cuiabá, um gato palheiro (Leopardus braccatus), macho, filhote e pesando 1,8kg. Após avaliação clínica e exames complementares diagnosticou-se presença de corpo estranho solido gástrico e intestinal. Como medicação pré-anestésica optou-se pela associação de cetamina (1mg/kg) e midazolam (0,2mg/kg), seguiu-se com a indução com propofol (à efeito) e manutenção anestésica por meio do fornecimento de isofluorano. Como técnica adicional utilizou-se epidural, com uma associação de lidocaína (4,5mg/kg) e morfina (0,1mg/kg). Durante o procedimento anestésico notou-se estabilidade das variáveis cardiovasculares e respiratórias, além de recuperação satisfatória ao final do procedimento.

Was attended to in the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Mato Grosso (HOVET-UFMT) - Campus Cuiabá, a pantanal cat (Leopardus braccatus), male, puppy and weighing 1.8 kg. After clinical evaluation and complementary exams, the presence of a solid gastric and intestinal foreign body was diagnosed. As pre-anesthetic medication, the association of ketamine (1mg/kg) and midazolam (0.2mg/kg) was chosen, followed by induction with propofol (for effect) and anesthetic maintenance by supplying isoflurane. As an additional technique, an epidural was used, with an association of lidocaine (4.5mg/kg) and morphine (0.1mg/kg). During the anesthetic procedure, stability of cardiovascular and respiratory variables was observed, in addition to satisfactory recovery at the end of the procedure.

Ingresó en el Hospital Veterinario de la Universidad Federal de Mato Grosso (HOVET-UFMT) · Campus Cuiabá, un gato palheiro (Leopardus braccatus), macho, cachorro y con un peso de 1,8 kg. Luego de evaluación clínica y exámenes complementarios se diagnosticó la presencia de cuerpo extraño sólido gástrico e intestinal. Como medicación preanestésica se optó por la asociación de ketamina (1 mg/kg) y midazolam (0,2 mg/kg), seguida de inducción con propofol (por efecto) y mantenimiento anestésico mediante suministro de isoflurano. Como técnica adicional se utilizó epidural, con asociación de lidocaína (4,5 mg/kg) y morfina (0,1 mg/kg). Durante el procedimiento anestésico se observó estabilidad de variables cardiovasculares y respiratorias, además de recuperación satisfactoria al final del procedimiento.

Effect of Ultrasound-guided Superficial Parasternal Intercostal Plane Block on The Quality of Recovery in Patients Undergoing Sternotomy Cardiac Surgery / 中山大学学报(医学科学版)

ObjectiveThis study aims to explore the effect of ultrasound-guided superficial parasternal intercostal plane block on the quality of recovery and postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing sternotomy cardiac surgery. MethodsA total of 64 patients undergoing sternotomy cardiac surgery were selected for this study. They were randomly divided into two groups： one group received a superficial parasternal intercostal plane block with ropivacaine （the ropivacaine group）， while the other was given normal saline （the normal saline group）. The primary outcome was the Quality of Recovery-15 （QoR-15） score on postoperative day 1 in both groups， accompanied by a comparative analysis of the pain score and opioid usage. ResultsCompared with the normal saline group， the ropivacaine group exhibited a significantly higher QoR-15 score on postoperative day 1［（89.60±13.24） vs （81.18±12.78）， P=0.012］. The numerical rating scale at rest was significantly lower［（3.03±0.72） vs （4.26±0.93）， P<0.001］， and the numerical rating scale during coughing was also significantly reduced ［（4.40±0.89） vs （5.44±1.05）， P<0.001］. Concurrently， the cumulative morphine equivalent consumption during the initial 24 h postoperatively was significantly lower in patients who were administered the ropivacaine ［14.15 （4.95～30.00） mg vs 40.50 （19.25～68.18） mg， P=0.002］， and there was also a notable decrease in the rescue analgesia ［0.00 （0.00～0.00） mg vs 0.00 （0.00～100.00） mg， P=0.007］. ConclusionUltrasound-guided superficial parasternal intercostal plane block can significantly enhance the overall quality of recovery in patients undergoing sternotomy cardiac surgery on postoperative day 1. The technique contributes to improved postoperative analgesic effects and a reduction in opioid usage， thereby facilitating early postoperative recovery.

Stellate Ganglion Block as an Adjunctive Intervention for Chronic Subjective Tinnitus： Efficacy and Predictive Indicators / 中山大学学报(医学科学版)

ObjectiveTo explore the efficacy and predictive indicators of stellate ganglion block （SGB） as an adjunctive intervention for chronic subjective tinnitus and accumulate experience for the application of SGB in the clinical treatment of tinnitus. MethodsA retrospective review was conducted on the data of chronic subjective tinnitus patients who received SGB intervention， with unsatisfactory outcomes otherwise. Pure tone audiometry （PTA）， tinnitus loudness evaluation and Pittsburgh sleep quality index （PSQI） were used. The tinnitus handicap inventory （THI） scores were compared before and after SGB intervention. Correlation analysis and linear regression equations were employed to identify the potential indicators predicting the effectiveness of SGB intervention. Statistical analysis was performed by SPSS 24.0 software. ResultsBy April 2023， a total of 107 patients with chronic subjective tinnitus had undergone SGB intervention， including 67 male and 40 female， with a mean age of （45.32±11.40） years old and an average tinnitus history of （20.32±24.64） months ［16 （12~20）］. Only 7 patients （6.54%） quitted the intervention for personal reasons， which demonstrated good compliance with the intervention. No patients experienced adverse reactions such as infection at the injection site， hematoma， nerve injury， local anesthetic intoxication and so on， which revealed good safety. After SGB intervention， THI scores decreased to below 36 points in 77 patients and decrease by 10 points or more in 12 of the remaining patients， with a total effective rate of 89%. A paired sample t-test showed a significant difference in THI scores before and after SGB intervention （t=15.575， P<0.001）， indicating good improvement. Pearson correlation analysis suggested that pre-intervention THI scores and subjective tinnitus loudness were significantly positively correlated with the improvement level of THI scores （P<0.05）. Further stepwise linear regression analysis found that "pre-intervention THI scores" had statistical significance （P<0.001）， with a regression coefficient of 0.308， predicting a 17.4% improvement level in THI scores. ConclusionsDue to its good and safe short-term effects， SGB intervention can be used as a supplementary option for chronic subjective tinnitus when other interventions are not ideal， especially for patients with higher THI scores. However， further research is needed to clarify the long-term efficacy and underlying mechanisms， in order to establish a more solid theoretical basis for SGB intervention in the treatment of subjective tinnitus.

pH-Responsive polymer boosts cytosolic siRNA release for retinal neovascularization therapy

Small interfering RNA (siRNA) has a promising future in the treatment of ocular diseases due to its high efficiency, specificity, and low toxicity in inhibiting the expression of target genes and proteins. However, due to the unique anatomical structure of the eye and various barriers, delivering nucleic acids to the retina remains a significant challenge. In this study, we rationally design PACD, an A-B-C type non-viral vector copolymer composed of a hydrophilic PEG block (A), a siRNA binding block (B) and a pH-responsive block (C). PACDs can self-assemble into nanosized polymeric micelles that compact siRNAs into polyplexes through simple mixing. By evaluating its pH-responsive activity, gene silencing efficiency in retinal cells, intraocular distribution, and anti-angiogenesis therapy in a mouse model of hypoxia-induced angiogenesis, we demonstrate the efficiency and safety of PACD in delivering siRNA in the retina. We are surprised to discover that, the PACD/siRNA polyplexes exhibit remarkable intracellular endosomal escape efficiency, excellent gene silencing, and inhibit retinal angiogenesis. Our study provides design guidance for developing efficient nonviral ocular nucleic acid delivery systems.

Complete congenital heart block in the offspring of an asymptomatic woman with isolated high titer anti-ro antibody

@#Among pregnant women, 1-2% are anti-Ro positive and while half of them have symptoms of connective tissue disease, the rest are asymptomatic. The presence of anti-Ro is of concern because of the risk of congenital heart block in the child. We report the case of an asymptomatic 27-year-old G2P1(1001) woman, who presented with persistent fetal bradycardia in her 21st week of gestation (AOG) and was found to have elevated titers for anti-Ro (>320 U/ml). Hydroxychloroquine 200 mg/day and prednisone 10 mg/day were given from the 33rd week of gestation up until the delivery. At 37 weeks AOG, she delivered a live male neonate with a complete heart block. On the 6th day of life, the infant remained bradycardic, hence a pacemaker was inserted and heart rate maintained at 100-120 bpm. On subsequent follow-ups, the mother and child did not develop any systemic manifestations and the infant was thriving well. While a diseased condition may not be apparent in a pregnant anti-Ro positive woman, the risk of neonatal lupus (NL) is demonstrated in this patient’s case. This report illustrates how prenatal care of an asymptomatic woman led to the discovery of a fetal abnormality and served to prepare the family and the medical team to ably handle the birth and subsequent care of a neonate with NL.

Application Value of Sevoflurane Combined with Brachial Plexus Block in Children with Humeral Fracture Surgery and its Effect on Hemodynamics: A Clinical and Anatomical Study

SUMMARY: To observe the effect of sevoflurane combined with brachial plexus block (BPB) in children with humeral fracture surgery and its effect on hemodynamics. 84 children who received surgical treatment of humeral fracture in our hospital from September 2019 to September 2022 were selected. According to different anesthesia methods, the children were divided into control group and study group. The control group only received laryngeal mask sevoflurane; the study group received laryngeal mask sevoflurane combined with BPB. The operation situation, hemodynamic indexes, stress level, pain and adverse reactions of children was observed. The postoperative awakening time in the study group was lower than control group, the postoperative pain onset time in the study group was higher than control group (P0.05). Postoperative 2h, the levels of serum cortisol, b-endorpin, norepinephrine and epinephrine in the study group were lower than control group (P0.05). Sevoflurane combined with BPB is helpful to shorten the postoperative awakening time of children with humeral fracture, reduce the degree of postoperative pain, improve hemodynamics, and reduce stress response, and has good safety.

El objetivo fue observar el efecto del sevoflurano combinado con bloqueo del plexo braquial (BPB) en niños con cirugía de fractura de húmero y su efecto sobre la hemodinámica. Se seleccionaron 84 niños que recibieron tratamiento quirúrgico de fractura de húmero en nuestro hospital desde septiembre de 2019 hasta septiembre de 2022. Según diferentes métodos de anestesia, los niños se dividieron en grupo control y grupo de estudio. El grupo control solo recibió sevoflurano en mascarilla laríngea; el grupo de estudio recibió sevoflurano con mascarilla laríngea combinado con BPB. Se observó la situación operatoria, índices hemodinámicos, nivel de estrés, dolor y reacciones adversas de los niños. El tiempo hasta el despertar postoperatorio en el grupo de estudio fue menor que el del grupo control, el tiempo de aparición del dolor postoperatorio en el grupo de estudio fue mayor que el del grupo control (P0,05). A las 2 horas postoperatorias, los niveles séricos de cortisol, β-endorfina, norepinefrina y epinefrina en el grupo de estudio fueron más bajos que los del grupo control (P 0,05). El sevoflurano combinado con BPB es útil para acortar el tiempo de despertar del posoperatorio de los niños con fractura de húmero, reduce el grado de dolor postoperatorio, mejora la hemodinámica y reduce la respuesta al estrés, además de tener buena seguridad.

Anatomic barriers to paraspinal blocks: a cadaver case series

Abstract The paraspinal space is intriguing in nature. There are several needle tip placements described in compact anatomical spaces. This has led to an incertitude regarding the appropriate anatomic locations for needle tip positions. Through our cadaver models we try to resolve the issues surrounding needle tip positions clarifying anatomical spaces and barriers. Further we propose an anatomical classification based on our findings in cadaveric open dissections and cross and sagittal sections.

Supra-inguinal fascia iliaca block in older-old patients for hip fractures: a retrospective study

Abstract Background: Pain management in hip fracture patients is of great importance for reducing postoperative morbidity and mortality. Multimodal techniques, including peripheral nerve blocks, are preferred for postoperative analgesia. Older-old hip fracture patients with high ASA scores are highly sensitive to the side effects of NSAIDs and opioids. Our aim was to investigate the effectiveness of the recently popularized Supra-Inguinal Fascia Iliaca Block (SIFIB) in this population. Methods: Forty-one ASA III-IV patients who underwent SIFIB + PCA (G-SIFIB) or PCA alone (Group Control: GC) after general anesthesia were evaluated retrospectively. In addition to 24-hour opioid consumption, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores, opioid-related side effects, block-related complications, and length of hospital stay were compared. Results: Twenty-two patients in G-SIFIB and 19 patients in GC were evaluated. The postoperative 24-hour opioid consumption was lower in G-SIFIB than in GC (p < 0.001). There was a statistically significant reduction in VAS scores at the postoperative 1st, 3rd, and 6th hours at rest (p < 0.001) and during movement (p < 0.001 for the 1st and 3rd hours, and p = 0.02 for the 6th hour) in G-SIFIB compared to GC. There was no difference in pain scores at the 12th and 24th hours postoperatively. While there was no difference between the groups in terms of other side effects, respiratory depression was significantly higher in GC than in G-SIFIB (p = 0.01). Conclusion: The SIFIB technique has a significant opioid-sparing effect and thus reduces opioid-related side effects in the first 24 hours after hip fracture surgery in older-old patients.

Pericapsular Nerve Group (PENG) block versus fascia iliaca compartment (FI) block for hip surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Abstract Background: This study compares Fascia Iliaca compartment (FI) block and Pericapsular Nerve Group (PENG) block for hip surgery. Methods: Pubmed, Embase and Cochrane were systematically searched in April 2022. Inclusion criteria were: Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs); comparing PENG block versus FI block for hip surgery; patients over 18 years of age; and reporting outcomes immediately postoperative. We excluded studies with overlapped populations and without a head-to-head comparison of the PENG block vs. FI block. Mean-Difference (MD) with 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) were pooled. Trial Sequential Analyses (TSA) were performed to assess inconsistency. Quality assessment and risk of bias were performed according to Cochrane recommendations. Results: Eight RCTs comprising 384 patients were included, of whom 196 (51%) underwent PENG block. After hip surgery, PENG block reduced static pain score at 12h post-surgery (MD = 0.61 mm; 95% CI 1.12 to -0.09; p = 0.02) and cumulative postoperative oral morphine consumption in the first 24h (MD = -6.93 mg; 95% CI -13.60 to -0.25; p = 0.04) compared with the FI group. However, no differences were found between the two techniques regarding dynamic and static pain scores at 6 h or 24 h post-surgery, or in the time to the first analgesic rescue after surgery. Conclusion: The findings suggest that PENG block reduced opioid consumption in the first 24 h after surgery and reduced pain scores at rest at 12 h post-surgery. Further research is needed to fully understand the effects of the PENG block and its potential benefits compared to FI block. PROSPERO registration: CRD42022339628 PROSPERO registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php? RecordID=339628

Dexmedetomidine versus sufentanil as adjuvants to bupivacaine for brachial plexus block during upper extremity surgery: a randomized clinical trial

Abstract Background: Brachial plexus block (BPB) has been accepted as a reliable alternative for general anesthesia in upper limb surgeries. Adding adjuvant drugs like dexmedetomidine and sufentanil has been shown to have clinical and pharmacologic advantages. In this randomized parallel clinical trial, we aim to compare the effects of these two adjuvants for bupivacaine in BPB. Methods: In this double-blinded study, by using computer-assisted block randomization, 40 patients ranged from 20 to 65 years old and scheduled for elective upper limb surgeries were assigned to two equal study groups (n = 20), receiving 1 mL of 5 μg.mL-1 sufentanil (group S) or 1 mL of 100 μg.mL-1 dexmedetomidine (group D) in adjunction to 30 mL of 0.5% bupivacaine for supraclavicular BPB under the guidance of ultrasonography. Characteristics of local anesthesia and postoperative analgesia were evaluated (n = 40). Results: The duration of blocks significantly improved in group S (sensory: estimated median difference (EMD) [95%CI] = 100.0 [70.0~130.0], p < 0.001; motor: EMD [95%CI] = 120.0 [100.0~130.0], p < 0.001). Group S also had significantly longer postoperative analgesia and lower opioid consumption within 24 hours after the surgery (EMD [95%CI] = 4.0 [3.0~7.0], p < 0.001; EMD [95%CI] = -5.0 [-5.0~-5.0], p < 0.001; respectively). None of the patients showed adverse effects concerning vital signs, nausea, or vomiting. Conclusion: Our study showed that during ultrasound-guided supraclavicular BPB, sufentanil is a fairly better choice than dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant for bupivacaine and can provide preferable sensory and motor blocks. No significant side effects were seen in either of the study groups.