Anesthesia training: Are we doing enough in three years? Cross-sectional study

Introduction: The mínimum number of procedures required to be performed during anesthesia training has not been officially defined in Colombia. Although a number is no guarantee of acquired competencies, it does indicate the level of opportunity offered by the different programs. This study describes the practical training afforded to residents in a graduate anesthesia program in Colombia, and compares its results with international standards. Objective: Describe exposure to procedures performed by residents enrolled in a three-year anesthesia specialization program in Colombia between 2015 and 2020, and compare with the standards proposed by ASCOFAME and ACGME. Methods: Descriptive, cross-sectional study which included residents who did their specialization in a Colombian anesthesia program between 2015 and 2020. Complexity, anesthesia techniques, invasive monitoring and airway approach were described. Finally a descriptive comparison was made with the published references of the Colombian Association of Medical Schools (ASCOFAME) and the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). Results: The results for 10 residents were included. Each resident had a median of 978 cases (IQR 942-1120), corresponding to 25 surgical specialties, the most frequent being general surgery (18%), orthopedics (16%), pediatric surgery (19%), and obstetrics (10.8%). According to the American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) classification, the majority of patients were ASA II (39.63%) and ASA III (28.4%). Adequate exposure was achieved in 11 of the 15 categories proposed by ACGME and in 6 of the 15 proposed by ASCOFAME. Conclusions: A detailed description of the practice component acquired by the residents during their three years of training was obtained. This baseline provides insight into the national landscape and allows to describe the relationship with international standards.

Introducción: En Colombia no se encuentra oficialmente definido el número mínimo de procedimientos que se deben realizar durante el entrenamiento en anestesiología. Aunque el número no garantiza la adquisición de competencias de la especialidad, sí es un indicador de la oportunidad ofertada por parte de los programas. Este estudio describe el entrenamiento práctico que tienen los médicos residentes en un programa de posgrado de anestesiología en Colombia y compara sus resultados con estándares internacionales. Objetivo: Describir la exposición a procedimientos realizados por los médicos residentes de un programa de especialización en anestesiología de tres años en Colombia, entre 2015 y 2020, y compararlo con los estándares propuestos por ASCOFAME y el ACGME. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo de corte transversal; se incluyeron los residentes que cursaron su programa de especialidad en un programa colombiano de anestesiología entre 2015 y 2020. Se describieron la complejidad, técnicas anestésicas, monitoría invasiva y abordaje de la vía aérea. Finalmente, se compararon los resultados de manera descriptiva con lo referenciado por la Asociación Colombiana de Facultades de Medicina y el Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). Resultados: Se incluyeron los resultados de 10 médicos residentes. El número de casos por residente tuvo una mediana de 978 casos (RIQ942-1120), correspondientes a 25 especialidades quirúrgicas; cirugía general (18 %), ortopedia (16 %), cirugía pediátrica (19 %) y obstetricia (10,8 %) fueron las más frecuentes. Según la clasificación de la Sociedad Americana de Anestesiología (ASA), la mayoría de los pacientes tenían ASA 2 (39,63 %), ASA 3 (28,4 %). Se alcanzó una exposición adecuada en 11 de las 15 categorías propuestas por el ACGME y en 6 de las 15 propuestas por la Asociación Colombiana de Facultades de Medicina. Conclusiones: Se obtuvo una descripción detallada del aspecto práctico de los residentes de anestesiología durante sus tres años de formación. Esta línea de base permite ampliar el panorama a escala nacional y describir la relación con estándares internacionales.

Children's preoperative stress according to the parental presence evaluated by salivary cortisol and mYPAS: quasi-randomized trial / Estresse pré-operatório em crianças de acordo com a presença dos pais avaliada por cortisol salivar e mYPAS: ensaio quase-randomizado / Estrés preoperatorio en niños según la presencia de los padres evaluado mediante cortisol salival y mYPAS: ensayo cuasi-aleatorio

ABSTRACT Objective: The main objective of this study was to compare stress and anxiety levels in children undergoing surgical procedures with or without parental presence at induction of anesthesia by measuring salivary cortisol levels and applying the mYPAS. Method: Quasi-randomized trial with children aged 5-12 year, with ASA physical status I, II, or III, undergoing elective surgery. According to parents' willingness, the pair were defined as accompanied or unaccompanied group. Chi-square, Fisher's exact tests, Student's t test, Mann-Whitney, Hodges-Lehman and Spearman's tests were used for statistical analyzes. Results: We included 46 children; 63% were preschool children mostly accompanied by their mothers (80%). The median mYPAS score was 37.5 (quartile range, 23.4-51.6) in unaccompanied children, and 55.0 (quartile range, 27.9-65.0) in accompanied children, with an estimated median difference of +11.8 (95% CI of 0 to 23.4; p = 0.044). There were no significant differences in the mean salivary cortisol levels. Conclusion: The level of anxiety was higher in accompanied children. There were no differences in salivary cortisol levels between both groups. Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (ReBEC):RBR-9wj4qvy.

RESUMO Objetivo: O principal objetivo deste estudo foi comparar os níveis de estresse e ansiedade em crianças submetidas a procedimentos cirúrgicos com ou sem presença dos pais na indução da anestesia, medindo os níveis de cortisol salivar e aplicando o mYPAS. Método: Ensaio quaserandomizado com crianças de 5 a 12 anos, com estado físico ASA I, II ou III, submetidas a cirurgia eletiva. De acordo com a disposição dos pais, o par foi definido como grupo acompanhado ou não acompanhado. Foram utilizados testes de qui-quadrado, exato de Fisher, t de Student, Mann-Whitney, Hodges-Lehman e Spearman para as análises estatísticas. Resultados: Foram incluídas 46 crianças; 63% delas em idade préescolar, principalmente acompanhadas por suas mães (80%). A pontuação mYPAS mediana foi de 37,5 (intervalo interquartil, 23,4-51,6) em crianças não acompanhadas e de 55,0 (intervalo interquartil, 27,9-65,0) em crianças acompanhadas, com uma diferença mediana estimada de +11,8 (IC de 95% de 0 a 23,4; p = 0,044). Não houve diferenças significativas nos níveis médios de cortisol salivar. Conclusão: O nível de ansiedade foi maior em crianças acompanhadas. Não houve diferenças nos níveis de cortisol salivar entre os dois grupos. Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos (ReBEC):RBR-9wj4qvy.

RESUMEN Objetivo: El objetivo principal de este estudio fue comparar los niveles de estrés y ansiedad en niños sometidos a procedimientos quirúrgicos con o sin presencia de los padres en la inducción de la anestesia mediante la medición de los niveles de cortisol salival y la aplicación del mYPAS. Método: Ensayo cuasi-aleatorio con niños de 5 a 12 años, con estado físico ASA I, II o III, sometidos a cirugía electiva. Según la disposición de los padres, se definieron como grupo acompañado o no acompañado. Se utilizaron pruebas de chi-cuadrado, exacta de Fisher, t de Student, Mann-Whitney, Hodges-Lehman y Spearman para los análisis estadísticos. Resultados: Se incluyeron 46 niños; el 63% eran niños en edad preescolar, en su mayoría acompañados por sus madres (80%). La puntuación mYPAS mediana fue de 37,5 (rango intercuartílico, 23,4-51,6) en niños no acompañados y de 55,0 (rango intercuartílico, 27,9-65,0) en niños acompañados, con una diferencia mediana estimada de +11,8 (IC del 95% de 0 a 23,4; p = 0,044). No hubo diferencias significativas en los niveles medios de cortisol salival. Conclusión: El nivel de ansiedad fue mayor en los niños acompañados. No hubo diferencias en los niveles de cortisol salival entre ambos grupos. Registro Brasileño de Ensayos Clínicos (ReBEC):RBR-9wj4qvy.

Risk Factors for Postoperative Sore Throat in Patients with a Double-lumen Endotracheal Tube / 中山大学学报(医学科学版)

ObjectiveTo investigate risk factors for postoperative sore throat in patients with double-lumen endotracheal intubation. MethodsThe data used in this post-hoc analysis were prospectively collected from a randomized， controlled trial. Age from 18 to 65 years old， ASAI-Ⅲ patients undergoing general anesthesia with a double-lumen endotracheal tube were enrolled. The perioperative data collected retrospectively were as follows： gender， age， smoking history， endotracheal tube diameter， duration of endotracheal tube， dose of Sufentanil， use of Flurbiprofen Axetil， cough after extubation， etc..Dynamometer was applied to assess extubation force. According to occurrence of postoperative sore throat， patients were divided into two groups： those who experienced sore throats and those who did not. Comparative analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to screen the risk factors. ROC curve was used for predicting the predictive value of risk factors. ResultsAmong the 163 patients ， 74 （45.4%） had postoperative sore throat vs 89 （54.6%） not had. Multivariate logistic regression showed female ［OR95%CI=3.83（1.73， 8.50）， P=0.000 1］ and extubation force ［OR95%CI=1.78（1.45， 2.17）， P＜0.001］ were independent risk factors for postoperative sore throat. AUC value showed the extubation force was 0.773［95%CI（0.701， 0.846）， P＜0.001］. Youden index was 0.447， and the cut-off valve of extubation force was 13N. ConclusionFemale and extubation force were risk factors for sore throat in patients with double lumen endotracheal intubation.

Application of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Transrectal Ultrasound Image Fusion Targeted Transperineal Biopsy Technique Using Electromagnetic Needle Tracking Under Local Anaesthesia / 肿瘤防治研究

Objective To explore the effect and safety of magnetic resonance imaging and transrectal ultrasound (mpMRI-TRUS) image fusion targeted transperineal biopsy technique using electromagnetic needle tracking under local anesthesia. Methods We retrospectively analyzed the clinical and pathological data of 81 patients with mpMRI-TRUS image fusion targeted transperineal prostate biopsy using electromagnetic needle tracking under local anesthesia. Visual analog scale (VAS) and visual numeric scale (VNS) were used to evaluate the pain level and satisfaction of patients during prostate biopsy (VAS-1 and VNS-1), one hour after puncture (VAS-2 and VNS-2), and one day after surgery (VAS-3 and VNS-3). The perioperative clinical data and tumor positive rate of postoperative biopsy were recorded. Results The average prostate volume of 81 patients was 53.39±29.46 cm3. The PSA values of patients with PI-RADS scores of 2, 3, 4, and 5 were 9.14±2.31, 9.95±4.10, 14.77±6.36, and 32.17±24.39 ng/ml, respectively. The scores of VAS-1, VAS-2, and VAS-3 were 1.70±0.73, 1.16±0.58, and 0.53±0.55, respectively; the scores of VNS-1, VNS-2, and VNS-3 were 2.74±0.44, 3.69±0.46, and 3.84±0.37, respectively. The average surgical time was 17.47±3.44 minutes. Postoperative pathological results showed that the tumor positive rate of targeted prostate biopsy was 64.20%. According to the PI-RADS score for subgroup analysis, the tumor positive rates of patients with PI-RADS scores of 2, 3, 4, and 5 were 21.43%, 44.44%, 61.11%, and 96.77%, respectively. After transperineal prostate biopsy, gross hematuria occurred in 19.75% patients, and urinary retention occurred in 3.70%. The latter were relieved after symptomatic treatment. All patients did not experience complications, such as perineal puncture area hematoma, urinary tract infection, hematospermia, hematoma in perineal puncture area, urinary tract infection, hematospermia, vagus nerve reaction, or septic shock. Conclusion For suspected prostate cancer patients, mpMRI-TRUS image fusion targeted transperineal biopsy technique using electromagnetic needle tracking under local anesthesia is a feasible and easily tolerated surgical procedure. It has good safety and high tumor positive-detection rate, indicating that this technique is worthy of further clinical promotion and application.

Effects of remimazolam on early postoperative cognitive function in elderly patients with hip fracture / 中国临床药理学与治疗学

AIM: To evaluate the effect of remimazolam on early postoperative cognitive function in elderly patients with hip fracture based on a randomized controlled trial. METHODS: A total of 106 elderly patients, aged 65-90 years, ASA grade Ⅱ or III, who underwent hip fracture surgery under combined spinal-epidural anesthesia in the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University from December 2022 to June 2023 and met the inclusion criteria, were selected and randomized into remimazolam group (group R) and propofol group (group P) according to the random number table, with 53 cases in each group. Patients in group P received a slow intravenous injection of propofol at a dose of 0.3-0.5 mg / kg (injection time of 1min), followed by a pump infusion at 0.5-3 mg · kg

Incidence and risk factors of post dural puncture headache after spinal anesthesia in Tripoli Hospitals

Post Dural Puncture Headache (PDPH) remains a prominent clinical concern to the present day and common complication seen in the field of anesthesiology and pain medicine. Identification of such risk factors is a crucial step in the rational modification of anesthetic practice and evaluation of therapeutic interventions. This study was conducted to demonstrate the incidence and risk factors of PDPH in patients after spinal Anesthesia during three days' post operations at general hospital in Tripoli, Libya. In this study certain factors related to patient history, baseline clinical state or anesthetic technique might be associated with an increased risk for this side effect, so it was collected historical, physiologic, and technical data to determine their association with PDPH. Out of total of 100 patients distributed over 5 different hospitals admitted over a period (from November 2020 to April 2021) 27% of them have a PDPH, while 92.5% of cases with PDPH are females, that 55.6% of PDPH cases are between 20 and 25 years old, and this percentage getting smaller as patients get older, most of the operations were caesarean section, at a rate of 58%, followed by lower abdominal surgeries with 19% of cases, and orthopedic surgeries with 17% of cases, while the lowest percentage was for the Urologic surgeries. 55% of cases with PDPH are classified as (case I), and 44% of them are classified as (case II), 81.5% of PDPH cases used noncutting needles. In this study the PDPH remains the most problem in hospitalized patients after spinal Anesthesia at Tripoli hospitals can be caused by variety of risk factors, associated with ASA physical states, nonprofessional technique, the females are more common than males and the percentage increasing in early age group

Contamination of equipment and surfaces in the operating room anesthesia workspace: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Contamination of the breathing circuit and medication preparation surface of an anesthesia machine can increase the risk of cross-infection. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the contamination of the anesthetic medication preparation surface, respiratory circuits, and devices used in general anesthesia with assisted mechanical ventilation. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional, quantitative study conducted at the surgical center of a philanthropic hospital, of medium complexity located in the municipality of Três Lagoas, in the eastern region of the State of Mato Grosso do Sul. METHODS: Eighty-two microbiological samples were collected from the breathing circuits. After repeating the samples in different culture media, 328 analyses were performed. RESULTS: A higher occurrence of E. coli, Enterobacter spp., Pseudomonas spp., Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus pneumoniae (P < 0.001) were observed. Variations were observed depending on the culture medium and sample collection site. CONCLUSION: The study findings underscore the inadequate disinfection of the inspiratory and expiratory branches, highlighting the importance of stringent cleaning and disinfection of high-touch surfaces.

Effect of thermo mechanical stimulation duringlocal anesthesia in pediatric dentistry: a pilot randomized clinical trial / Efeito de estimulação termomecânica durante anestesia local em odontopediatria: um ensaio clínico randomizado piloto

Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia de um dispositivo de estimulação termomecânica (Buzzy®) em relação à dor, medo e ansiedade durante anestesia local em crianças. Materiais e métodos: Estudo realizado no período de maio de 2018 a julho de 2019, com crianças de 7 a 11 anos, sem experiência prévia envolvendo anestesia nos últimos 2 anos e que necessitassem de tratamento odontológico (extração, restauração ou endodontia) sob anestesia local em molares decíduos. A amostra foi randomizada em grupo controle, que recebeu anestesia convencional, e grupo intervenção, que recebeu anestesia com Buzzy®. Os níveis de ansiedade, medo e percepção de dor de ambos os grupos foram verificados por meio de: Venham Modified Picture Test (VPTM); frequência cardíaca; Escala Comportamental Venham; Faces Pain Scale ­ Revised (FPS-R) e Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability (FLACC). Resultados: A maioria das crianças (55%) apresentou baixa ansiedade antes e depois do tratamento (P<0,05). A aceitabilidade das crianças ao Buzzy® foi de 100% e a maioria (90%) gostaria de usar novamente. Discussão: O aparelho testado é uma ferramenta interessante para complementar as técnicas de manejo durante as consultas, tendo em vista a excelente aceitabilidade e interesse por parte dos pacientes e familiares. Conclusão: Este estudo demonstrou que o uso da estimulação termomecânica é viável na clínica odontológica, devido ao seu fácil uso e boa aceitabilidade no meio clínico, além de não apresentar riscos em seu uso.

Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of a thermo mechanical stimulation device (Buzzy®) in relation to pain, fear and anxiety during local anesthesia in children. Materials and methods: Study carried out from May 2018 to July 2019, with children aged 7 to 11 years, without previous experience involving anesthesia in the last 2 years and who needed dental treatment (extraction, restoration or endodontic) under local anesthesia in deciduous molars. The sample was randomized into a control group, which received conventional anesthesia, and an intervention group, which received anesthesia with Buzzy®. The levels of anxiety, fear and pain perception of both groups were verified using: Come Modified Picture Test (VPTM); heart rate; Behavioral Scale Come; Faces Pain Scale ­ Revised (FPS-R) and Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability (FLACC). Results: Most children (55%) had low anxiety before and after treatment (P<0.05). The acceptability of the children to Buzzy® was 100% and the majority (90%) would like to use it again. Discussion: The tested device is an interesting tool to complement management techniques during consultations, in view of the excellent acceptability and interest on the part of patients and family members. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that the use of thermo mechanical stimulation is feasible in the dental clinic, due to its easy use and good acceptability in the clinical environment, in addition to not presenting risks in its use.

Effect of upper lip compression on pain reduction during local anesthesia. A split-mouth randomized clinical trial

Objectives: To evaluate the effect of pressure on the skin of upper lip in decreasing pain perception during a local maxillary anesthetic injection. Material and Methods: A split-mouth crossover randomized clinical trial was designed. Seventy-one volunteer students (23.6±1.9 years old, 53.5% women) were selected. A group chosen at random had their left or right side of upper lip compressed by a wooden clothes peg as the compression instrument and 0.6 ml of lidocaine 2% with epinephrine 1:100,000 was administered at the buccal apex level of the lateral incisors tooth. Two weeks later anesthesia was administered on the opposite side of the lip according to the randomization recorded. The intensity of perceived pain level between the two injections using a 100 mm visual analog scale (VAS) and co-variable effect were compared (Wilcoxon test p < 0.05, RStudio). Results: The average of the perceived pain with and without upper lip compression was 27.6±14.5 mm (range 0-80 mm) and 36.33±17.9 mm (range 10-90 mm) respectively (p= 0.002). No significant differences were recorded according the covariance analysis with the sex (p = 0.55) and age (p = 0.89). Conclusion: The upper lip compression significantly reduces the perception of pain during a local maxillary anesthetic technique.

Estado actual de la cefalea postpunción meníngea en un hospital colombiano / Status of post-dural puncture headache in a Colombian hospital

Introducción: La cefalea postpunción meníngea (CPPM) posterior a la anestesia raquídea es una de las complicaciones más frecuentes asociadas a factores intrínsecos del paciente y de la técnica anestésica. Objetivo: Describir la frecuencia y los factores asociados con el desarrollo de la cefalea postpunción meníngea. Materiales y métodos: Serie retrospectiva de pacientes que ingresaron a un hospital de segundo nivel y se les confirmó el diagnóstico de cefalea secundaria a la anestesia raquídea. Resultados: Serie de 49 casos, 88 % de sexo femenino y 12 % de sexo masculino, con una edad media de 27,7 años. Los procedimientos quirúrgicos con desenlace de CPPM fueron: cirugías de ginecología y obstetricia (63 %), cirugías de urgencias de otras especialidades (28 %) y cirugías electivas (8 %). La técnica anestésica se realizó con agujas biseladas tipo Quincke calibre 25 gauge (G) en 14%, calibre 26 G 33 % y 27 G 53 %. El 51 % se realizó en posición de sedestación y el 49 % en decúbito lateral izquierdo. El 10% de los casos se manejó con parche hemático, en tanto que el antecedente de migraña se presentó en el 8 %. Discusión: En la actualidad, el uso de agujas con diseño de punta cónica es el estándar de oro, ya que permite obtener resultados confiables y disminuye complicaciones como la CPPM. Conclusión: La CPPM luego de una anestesia espinal se relacionó con factores como la edad (joven), el sexo (femenino) y el uso de agujas biseladas. Los otros factores de riesgo identificados fueron poco concluyentes, aunque no se pueden descartar, debido a la naturaleza de este estudio.

Introduction: Post dural puncture headache (PDPH) following spinal anesthesia is one of the most frequent complications associated with intrinsic patient and anesthetic technique factors. Objective: To describe the frequency and associated factors related to the development of PDPH. Materials and methods: Retrospective series of patients admitted to a second level hospital with a confirmed diagnosis of headache secondary to spinal anesthesia. Results: Series of 49 cases, 88 % female and 12 % male, mean age 27.7 years. The surgical procedures resulting in CPPM were gynecology and obstetrics surgeries 63 %, emergency surgeries of other specialties 28 % and elective surgeries 8 %. The anesthetic technique was performed with beveled needles Quincke type 25 gauge (G) in 14 %, 26 G gauge 33% and 27 G 53 %. In the seated position 51 % and in the left lateral decubitus position 49% were performed. A blood patch was used in 10 % of the cases and a history of migraine was present in 8 %. Discussion: The use of needles with conical tip design is currently the gold standard, they give reliable results and reduce complications such as PDPH. Conclusion: PDPH after spinal anesthesia was related to factors such as age (young), sex (female) and the use of traumatic needles. The other risk factors identified were inconclusive, although they cannot be ruled out due to the nature of this study.

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.

Rider sitting position widens lumbar intervertebral distance: a prospective observational study

Abstract Background: Reduced lumbar lordosis may make the process of identifying the intervertebral distance easier. The primary aim of this study was to measure the L3-L4 intervertebral space in the same patients undergoing spinal anesthesia in three different sitting positions, including the classic sitting position (CSP), hamstring stretch position (HSP) and rider sitting position (RSP). The secondary aim was to compare ultrasonographic measurements of the depth of the ligamentum flavum and intrathecal space in these three defined positions. Methods: This study is a single-blinded, prospective, randomized study. Ninety patients were included in final analysis. the patients were positioned on the operating table in three different positions to perform ultrasonographic measurements of the spinal canal. The intervertebral distance (IVD), the distance between the skin and the ligamentum flavum (DBSLF) and the intrathecal space (IS) were measured in the L3 -L4 intervertebral space in three different positions. Results: The RSP produced the largest mean distance between the spinous processes. The RSP yielded a significantly larger IVD than did the CSP (p < 0.001) and HSP (p < 0.001). The DBSP was larger in the CSP than in the HSP (p = 0.001). The DBSLF was significantly larger in the RSP than in the HSP (p = 0.009). Conclusions: Positioning the patient in the RSP significantly increased the intervertebral distance between L3 -L4 vertebrae compared to the CSP and HSP, suggesting easier performance of lumbar neuraxial block.

Efficacy of ultrasound-guided infiltration with levobupivacaine and triamcinolone for myofascial pain syndrome of the quadratus lumborum: a retrospective observational study

Abstract Introduction and objectives: Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) of the Quadratus Lumborum muscle (QL) is a frequent cause of chronic low back pain. With this study, we aimed to assess the efficacy of ultrasound-guided infiltration with 0.25% levobupivacaine and 40 mg triamcinolone for MPS of the QL. Methods: Observational and retrospective study of participants submitted to ultrasound-guided infiltration of the QL muscle from January 1, 2015 to June 31, 2019. Pain intensity was assessed using the five-point pain Numeric Rating Scale (NRS): pre-intervention, at 72 hours, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months post-intervention. Additional data collected were demographic characteristics, opioid consumption, and adverse effects. Results: We assessed 90 participants with mean age of 55.2 years. Sixty-eight percent of participants were female. Compared to the pre-intervention assessment, there was an improvement in pain at 72 hours (Mean Difference [MD = 3.085]; 95% CI: 2.200-3.970, p < 0.05), at the 1st month (MD = 2.644; 95% CI: 1.667-3.621, p < 0.05), at the 3rdmonth (MD = 2.017; 95% CI: 0.202-2.729, p < 0.05) and at the 6th month (MD = 1.339; 95% CI 0.378-2.300, p < 0.05), post-intervention. No statistically significant differences in opioid consumption were observed. No adverse effects associated with the technique were reported. Conclusions: Ultrasound-guided infiltration of the QL muscle is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of pain in the QL MPS within 6 months post-intervention.

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.

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.

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.

Quadratus Lumborum block as primary anesthetic technique for colostomy procedure: a case report

Abstract An elderly patient was admitted to the hospital due to an enterovesical fistula and a terminal colostomy was proposed. The patient had a high anesthetic risk and thus a quadratus lumborum block was chosen as the sole anesthetic technique. This block has been described to provide both somatic and visceral analgesia to the abdomen. In fact, it yielded good anesthetic conditions to perform the procedure and allowed the patient to be hemodynamically stable and comfortable throughout the case. The postoperative period was uneventful.

Association between telomere length in the DNA of peripheral blood leukocytes and the propofol dose in anesthesia induction: an observational study

Abstract Introduction: Propofol is a widely used anesthetic and its dose is closely related to aging. Telomere length (TL) is a unique heritable trait, and emerging as a biomarker of aging, health and disease. Telomerase RNA component (TERC) plays an important role in maintaining TL. We proposed a hypothesis that propofol dose in general anesthesia can be predicted by measuring TL before operation, which greatly reduced the risk of anesthesia, especially the elderly. Methods: The association between the propofol dose in anesthesia induction and: TL in the DNA of peripheral blood leukocytes; body weight; sex; difference of the Bispectral Index (BIS) before and after anesthesia induction in patients was evaluated by multivariable linear regression analyses. The mutation at the 5'end or 3'end of TERC was detected. We recruited 100 patients of elective surgery. Results: We found that propofol dose in anesthesia induction was clearly correlated significantly with TL (r = 0.78, p < 0.001), body weight (r = 0.84, p = 0.004), sex (r = 0.83, p= 0.84, p = 0.004), sex (r = 0.83, p = 0.004), and difference of BIS before and after anesthesia induction (r = 0.85, p = 0.029). By comparing the absolute values of standardized regression coefficients (0.58, 0.21, 0.19, and 0.12) of the four variables, it can be seen that TL contributes the most to the propofol dose in anesthesia induction. However, the mutation at the 5' end or 3' end of TERC was not found. Conclusions: These findings provide preliminary evidence that the propofol dose in anesthesia induction was clearly correlated with genetically determined TL. TL may be a promising predictor of the propofol dose, which is beneficial to improve the safety of anesthesia and reduce perioperative complications.

Use of multimodal anesthesia in the treatment of postoperative pain / Uso da anestesia multimodal no tratamento da dor pós-operatória

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Hippocrates already said 2400 years ago: "relieving pain is a divine work". Postoperative pain is an important symptom, because it affects the patient's recovery and because of the risk of pain chronicity. And as a treatment option, there is multimodal analgesia, mentioned in several studies as the best approach, although opioid therapy is still the main treatment for pain after surgical interventions. The objective of this study was to describe the use of multimodal anesthesia in the treatment of pain, especially in the postoperative period. CONTENTS: A literature review was performed on studies that explained multimodal analgesia, its components, and which analyzed therapeutic drug options. The theme was approached from a consultation of articles published in LILACS, Scielo, Medline and Pubmed, in English and Portuguese, between the years 2012 and 2022. The keywords used for research were: "multimodal analgesia", "multimodal anesthesia", "surgical procedures" "postoperative". In the results, examples of drugs that are part of multimodal analgesia in different procedures were listed. CONCLUSION: In this way, multimodal anesthesia has demonstrated its benefits for the treatment of postoperative pain in various surgical procedures. However, further studies are needed so that this modality can be used more widely.

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Hipócrates já dizia há 2400 anos: "aliviar a dor é uma obra divina". A dor pós-operatória é um sintoma importante por causar repercussões na recuperação do paciente e devido ao risco de cronicidade da dor. Como opção de tratamento, tem-se a analgesia multimodal, sendo mencionada em diversos estudos como a melhor conduta, embora a terapia com opioides ainda seja o principal tratamento para a dor após intervenções cirúrgicas. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever o uso da anestesia multimodal no tratamento da dor, em especial no pós-operatório. CONTEÚDO: Foi realizada uma revisão de literatura sobre estudos que explicitaram a analgesia multimodal e seus componentes, ou que analisaram opções terapêuticas de fármacos. O tema foi abordado a partir de uma consulta de artigos publicados nas bases LILACS, Scielo, Medline e Pubmed, na língua inglesa e em português, entre os anos de 2012 e 2022. As palavras-chaves utilizadas para pesquisa foram: "multimodal analgesia", "multimodal anesthesia", "surgical procedures" e "postoperative". Nos resultados, foram listados exemplos de fármacos que fazem parte da analgesia multimodal em diferentes procedimentos. CONCLUSÃO: Nesse sentido, a anestesia multimodal demonstrou seus benefícios para o tratamento da dor no pós-operatório em vários procedimentos cirúrgicos. Contudo, são necessários novos estudos a fim de que esta modalidade seja utilizada de forma mais abrangente.