Postoperative Cesarean Section Pain Management Using Transversus Abdominis Plane Block Versus Intrathecal Morphine: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: Compare and evaluate the effectiveness of transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block versus intrathecal morphine (ITM) on elective postcesarean section pain, opioid consumption, and related side effects. DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS: A search for evidence was conducted in PubMed, Google Scholar, CINAHL, Cochrane Collaboration Database, UpToDate, Health Source, and gray literature. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the study. The methodological quality of evidence assessment was conducted using the Risk of Bias and Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system. The meta-analysis used Review Manager (RevMan 5.4, The Cochrane Collaboration). FINDINGS: A total of 11 RCTs involving 1,129 patients were analyzed. Compared to ITM, TAP has a similar effect on static (mean difference [MD]; 0.37; 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.04 to 0.79; P = .08) and dynamic pain scores (MD, 0.43; 95% CI, -0.06 to 0.92; P = .09) within the first 48 hours after surgery. Additionally, the TAP block had a lower incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (risk ratio, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.31 to 0.66; P < .0001) and increased opioid consumption (MD, 6.78; 95% CI, 3.79 to 9.77; P < .00001). Overall, TAP block and ITM did not differ in the time to first to rescue analgesia, incidence of sedation, and pruritus. CONCLUSIONS: Evidence suggests that TAP blocks are equivalent to ITM in pain scores and more effective at lowering the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting, yet ITM has been shown to be more effective in reducing postoperative opioid consumption.

Intracuff Lidocaine and Postoperative Throat Mucosal Injuries: An Evidence-based Review.

PURPOSE: Examine the effectiveness of using intracuff lidocaine to minimize postoperative complications. DESIGN: Systematic review. METHODS: This review was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Guidelines. PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane, Google Scholar, and gray literature databases were searched to obtain eligible studies and minimize selection bias. The Johns Hopkins Nursing Evidence-Based Practice Model was used to appraise the level of evidence for the varying studies. Only randomized controlled trials (RCT) and systematic reviews with meta-analyses of RCTs were included in the review. FINDINGS: Three RCTs and three systematic reviews with meta-analyses incorporating a total of 2,337 patients were included in this review. Intracuff lidocaine (alkalinized and nonalkalinized) had the lowest incidence of postoperative sore throat in the early and late postoperative periods compared to intracuff air or intracuff saline. Furthermore, the evidence suggested that the use of intracuff lidocaine reduced postextubation cough and the incidence of hoarseness but had little or no effect on dysphagia. All studies were Level 1 and Grade A, indicating clinically solid evidence in analyzing intracuff lidocaine's effect on all outcomes measured. CONCLUSIONS: The current literature suggests the feasibility of using intracuff lidocaine as an effective method to reduce the incidence of postoperative sore throat, postextubation cough, and hoarseness. The implications to practice include improving the norm of postoperative throat mucosal injuries by implementing an evidence-based practice intervention of intracuff lidocaine.

Assessing the Nurse Anesthesiologists' Self-Perceived Preparedness to the Care for Individuals With Intellectual and Development Disability: A Cross Sectional Survey.

Approximately 6.5 million people in the U.S. are affected by an intellectual or developmental disability (IDD). However, their healthcare needs often remain unmet due to the inadequate education and training of healthcare professionals. Given that various procedures may require anesthesia in as many as 40% of individuals with IDD, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Programs need to incorporate IDD training into their curriculum. A cross-sectional survey using a 12-item questionnaire was conducted to assess IDD training. Statistical analyses included the chi-square test and participant demographics were reported as frequencies or percentages. Numerical data were presented as means and standard deviations. A total of 277 respondents completed the survey and most reported (55%) a lack of IDD training at nurse anesthesia programs and 90% recognized the need for additional training. Only 24% felt competent in providing care for patients with IDD, while 52% reported feeling somewhat or very competent. A significant correlation was found between the number of clinical anesthesia experiences and self-rated competence (P < 0.001). Incorporating IDD training into the nurse anesthesia curriculum is critical to preparing competent graduates capable of serving this diverse population. Nurse anesthesia programs should evaluate their curriculum to effectively address this healthcare inequality.

Effects of Gabapentin on Postoperative Pain and Opioid Consumption Following Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: Examine the efficacy of gabapentin on postoperative pain scores and opioid consumption in laparoscopic cholecystectomy. DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS: PubMed, EBSCO, CINAHL, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Google Scholar, and gray literature was used to search the literature. Only randomized controlled trials were included. Outcomes were reported using the risk ratio and mean difference (MD). Risk of bias and the grades of recommendation, assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) system was used to the assessed quality of evidence. FINDINGS: Nineteen trials involving 2,068 patients were analyzed. Compared to placebo, gabapentin reduced the cumulative pain scores in the first 24 hours after surgery (MD, -1.19; 95% CI, -1.39-0.99; P < .00011), opioid consumption (MD, -3.51; 95% CI, -4.67 to -2.35; P < .00001), and the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (risk ratio, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.52-0.78; P < .00001) with prolonged time to first analgesic rescue (MD, 210.9; 95% CI, 76.90-344.91; P = .002). However, gabapentin has little to no effect on the incidence of sedation, somnolence, and respiratory depression. CONCLUSIONS: Gabapentin can be added as part of the multimodal pain management for patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Extrapolation of these findings to clinical settings must take into consideration the limitations identified in this review.

Erector Spinae Plane Block on Postoperative Pain and Opioid Consumption After Lumbar Spine Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

PURPOSE: Evaluate the effectiveness of the erector spinae plane (ESP) block in lumbar spine surgeries. DESIGN: Systematic review with meta-analysis. METHODS: PubMed, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Google Scholar, and other gray literature were searched for eligible studies. Risk ratio (RR), mean difference (MD), and standardized mean difference were used to estimate outcomes with suitable effect models. The quality of evidence was assessed using the Risk of Bias algorithm and the grades of recommendation, assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) approach. FINDINGS: Twenty-two randomized controlled trials involving 1,327 patients were included. The erector spinae plane (ESP) block demonstrated a lower cumulative pain score within the first 48 hours at rest (MD, -1.03; 95% CI, -1.19 to -0.87; P < .00001) and during activity (MD, -1.16; 95% CI, -1.24 to -1.08; P < .00001). In addition, ESP block decreased opioid consumption (MD, -6.25; 95% CI, -8.33 to -4.17; P < .00001) and prolonged the time to first analgesic rescue (MD, 5.66; 95% CI, 3.11-8.20; P < .0001) resulting in fewer patients requesting rescue analgesic (RR, 0.33; 95% CI, 0.13-0.83; P = .02), lower incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (RR, 0.29; 95% CI, 0.10-0.79; P = .02) with improved patient satisfaction score (standardized mean difference, 2.17; 95% CI, 1.40-2.94; P < .00001). CONCLUSIONS: ESP block can provide effective postoperative pain control for lumbar spine surgery, improve patient satisfaction, and reduce the amount of postoperative opioid use.

Quadratus Lumborum Block and Transversus Abdominis Plane Block in Non-emergency Cesarean Delivery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: Investigate the analgesic efficacy of quadratus lumborum (QL) block versus transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block in postoperative pain management in nonemergent cesarean section. DESIGN: Systematic review with meta-analysis. METHODS: PubMed, Cochrane, CINAHL, Google Scholar, and gray literature were searched for evidence. Only randomized controlled trials examining the effects of QL and TAP block for nonemergent cesarean delivery were included. Mean difference (MD) was used to estimate continuous outcomes with appropriate effect models. The quality of evidence was rated using the Risk of Bias and Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) system. FINDINGS: Six studies involving 543 parturients were included. Compared to the TAP block, the cumulative 24-hour pain score at rest (MD, -0.60; 95% CI, -1.03 to -0.17; P = .007) and during activity (MD, -1.05; 95% CI, -1.54 to -0.56; P < .0001) were significantly lower in QL block. Time to the first analgesic rescue (MD, 21.67; 95% CI, -18.58 to 61.91; P = .29) and opioid consumption (MD, -1.96; 95% CI, -4.59 to 0.66; P = .14) were similar in both groups. No difference was found in the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting and sedation. However, patients treated with QL block reported higher patient satisfaction scores. CONCLUSIONS: There is limited evidence to suggest that QL block is superior to TAP block for postoperative pain management in nonemergent cesarean delivery. The study limitations must be considered when extrapolating the review's findings to clinical practice.

Dexmedetomidine versus Opioids on Labor Analgesia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Effective control of labor pain is critical to the birthing experience. Dexmedetomidine is an alternative adjunct to labor analgesia without the risk of opioid-related adverse effects. The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy and safety of neuraxial dexmedetomidine versus neuraxial opioids in labor analgesia. PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane, Google Scholar, and grey literature were searched for evidence. Risk ratio and mean difference (MD) were used to estimate outcomes. The quality of evidence was assessed using the Risk of Bias and GRADE system. Sixteen studies including 1,669 patients were analyzed. Compared with opioids, dexmedetomidine prolonged the duration of analgesia (MD, 47.58 minutes; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.57 to 93.58; P = .04), reduced pain score (MD, -0.71; 95% CI, -1.17 to -0.24; P = .003), and shortened the onset of analgesia (MD, -1.14 minutes; 95% CI, -1.93 to -0.35; P = .005). Dexmedetomidine did not affect the duration of first and second stages of labor, number of spontaneous, assisted, and cesarean delivery. Additionally, dexmedetomidine had little to no effects on maternal and neonatal outcomes. Neuraxial dexmedetomidine is more favorable than neuraxial opioids for labor analgesia. Extrapolation of the findings to clinical practice should take into considerations the review limitations.

Bilateral Erector Spinae Plane Blocks versus Bilateral Transversus Abdominis Plane Blocks in Patients Undergoing Abdominal Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Postoperative pain associated with abdominal surgeries impairs physical function, delays recovery, and decreases quality of life. Regional anesthetic techniques such as transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block and erector spinae plane (ESP) block are used to improve patients' postoperative pain experiences. PubMed, CINAHL, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, and gray literature were searched. Mean difference (MD) and risk ratio were used to estimate continuous and dichotomous variables. Quality of evidence was analyzed using Risk of Bias and GRADE. Sixteen studies involving 934 patients were analyzed. Compared with TAP block, ESP reduced resting (MD, -0.83; 95% confidence interval [CI], -1.02 to -0.64; P < .00001) and dynamic pain intensity (MD, -0.71; 95% CI, -0.93 to -0.50; P < .00001) in the first 24 hours lowered postoperative opioid consumption (MD, -4.52; 95% CI, -5.99 to -3.04; P < .00001) and prolonged the time to first rescue analgesic (MD, 3.18; 95% CI, 2.43 to 3.93; P < .00001). However, ESP was similar to TAP block for intraoperative opioid consumption, and the incidence of nausea or vomiting. Although the ESP block provided statistical superiority over the TAP block for acute pain management, the clinical relevance of the differences was small.

A Qualitative Description of CRNA Clinical Coordinators' and Student Registered Nurse Anesthetists' Perceptions of Clinical Readiness.

The transition from classroom academic environment to clinical patient-focused learning is a celebrated milestone, yet it is a source of stress and anxiety for student registered nurse anesthetists (SRNAs). In nurse anesthesia education, limited information exists on perceptions of clinical readiness, either from the certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) clinical educators' or the SRNAs' experiences. The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions of CRNA clinical coordinators and SRNAs regarding clinical readiness as the students transition from classroom to clinical training. A qualitative descriptive design from a postpositivist philosophical mindset was utilized and a semistructured interview guide and content analysis methodology described by Graneheim and Lundman was used. Seventeen participants were interviewed. Four themes emerged from the analysis of the CRNA clinical coordinators' perceptions: 1) going in with good attitudes and professionalism, 2) the expectation of clinical readiness, 3) mental preparedness, and 4) solid simulation experiences. Additionally, four themes emerged from the content analysis of students' perception: 1) expectations of readiness is higher than anticipated, 2) transitional orientation/adjuncts for preparedness, 3) sound didactic training, and 4) simulation and the effects of COVID-19. While prioritization is different, educators and SRNAs value knowledge, skills (including simulated), and positive attitudes as measures of clinical readiness.

Remifentanil for External Cephalic Version: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy of remifentanil on external cephalic version (ECV) in breech presentation. An extensive search was conducted using PubMed, Cochrane Library, and other grey literature. Only randomized controlled trials using remifentanil for ECV were included. Risk ratio (RR) and mean difference (MD) were used to estimate outcomes and quality of evidence was assessed using the Risk of Bias and GRADE system. Five studies consisting of 602 patients were analyzed. Remifentanil resulted in a moderate increase in ECV success rate (RR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.00 to 1.43; P = .05), a large reduction of pain score (MD, -2.02; 95% CI, -2.32 to -1.72; P < .00001) with fewer transient fetal bradycardia (RR, 0.40; 95% CI, 0.19 to 0.85; P = .02). However, remifentanil did not affect cesarean section rates, (RR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.49 to 1.93; P = .93) instrumental delivery (RR, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.41 to 2.15; P = 0.89), and spontaneous delivery rate (RR, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.78 to 1.35; P = 0.87). Mothers treated with remifentanil have a higher patient satisfaction score. The use of remifentanil may be a good strategy for ECV. However, extrapolation of this finding to clinical settings must consider the study limitations.

Use of Single-Dose Dexamethasone in Patients With Diabetes Undergoing Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The purpose of this review was to examine the effect of single-dose dexamethasone on perioperative blood glucose in diabetic patients. We used PubMed, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Google Scholar, and grey literature for our search. Only randomized controlled trials were included. Risk ratio (RR) and mean difference (MD) were used to estimate outcomes with suitable effect models. Quality of evidence was assessed using the Risk of Bias and GRADE systems. We analyzed seven trials involving 1,321 patients. Diabetic patients treated with single-dose dexamethasone had statistically significant changes in blood glucose levels from baseline by 33.61 mg/dL (MD, 33.61; 95% CI, 17.59 to 49.63; P < .0001). Dexamethasone increased blood glucose levels 1-4 hours (MD, 29.02; 95% CI, 7.09 to 50.94; P = .010), 8-24 hours (MD, 30.81; 95% CI, 9.21 to 52.41; P = .005) after administration and increased risks of hyperglycemia. However, there was no difference in surgical site infection (SSI) (RR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.59 to 1.11; P = .19). Effect size imprecision, substantial heterogeneity, and publication bias was the study's limitations. We found that single-dose dexamethasone increased glucose concentration 24 hours after surgery with little to no effect on SSI. Extrapolation of these findings to clinical settings must take into consideration the review's limitations.

Impact of Goal-Directed Fluid Therapy on Postoperative Outcomes in Colorectal Surgery: An Evidence-Based Review.

PURPOSE: To investigate the effects of goal-directed fluid therapy (GDFT) or conventional fluid therapy (CFT) in improving postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing colorectal surgeries. DESIGN: Evidence-Based Review. METHODS: Following the guidelines outlined in the PRISMA statement, a comprehensive search was conducted using PubMed, Elsevier ScienceDirect, Oxford Academic, EBSCO, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, and gray literature. Only randomized controlled studies and preappraised evidence such as systematic review with meta-analysis examining the effects of GDFT and CFT in colorectal surgery were included. The quality appraisal of the literature was conducted using the proposed algorithm described in the Johns Hopkins Nursing Evidence-Based Practice Evidence Level and Quality Guide. FINDINGS: Two systematic reviews with meta-analyses and four randomized controlled trials (RCT) involving 2018 patients were included in this review. Overall, the use of GDFT did not shorten the hospital length of stay (LOS), reduce 30-day mortality, lower overall morbidity rates, or decrease incidence of postoperative ileus. Additionally, the return of bowel function was not improved using GDFT or CFT. However, when GDFT was implemented within enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programs, there was a significant reduction in hospital LOS. . When GDFT was used in a non-ERAS patient care setting, there was a significant reduction in overall morbidity rate and faster time to first flatus. All studies included in the review were categorized as Level I and rated Grade A, implying strong confidence in the true effects of GDFT on all outcome measures in the review. CONCLUSIONS: The benefits of GDFT in colorectal surgery are still unclear. Considerable heterogeneity based on the types of GDFT devices, patient outcome parameters, and fluid protocols limit the application to clinical practice. Furthermore, there was limited data on the effects of GDFT in high-risk patients for colorectal surgery.

Efficacy and Safety of Buprenorphine in a Single-Shot Peripheral Nerve Block: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of buprenorphine compared with placebo in prolonging the duration of analgesia in single-injection peripheral nerve block. The systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following the PRISMA statement and Review Manager was used for meta-analysis. Outcomes were calculated using the mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) for continuous data. For dichotomous outcomes, effect sizes were estimated by calculating pooled risk ratio (RR) with 95% CI. Statistical heterogeneity was estimated by the I2 statistic. Compared with placebo, buprenorphine prolonged the duration of analgesia by an average of 8 hours (MD, 8.01; 95% CI, 6.79 to 9.24; P < .00001). The cumulative pain scores within 24 hours (MD, -0.8; 95% CI, -1.21 to -0.40; P < .0001) and the 24-hour opioid consumption (MD, -5.56; 95% CI, -10.60 to -0.52; P = .03) after surgery was lower with buprenorphine group. Conversely, buprenorphine increased the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) (RR, 1.67; 95% CI, 1.16 to 2.39; P = .006). Buprenorphine is effective in prolonging analgesia, decreasing pain scores and opioid consumption, however, it increases the risk of PONV.

Utilization of Ketamine in Total Knee and Hip Joint Arthroplasty: An Evidence-Based Review.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy of ketamine in total knee and hip arthroplasty. DESIGN: Evidence-based review. METHODS: Following the guidelines outlined in the PRISMA statement, a comprehensive search was conducted using Google Scholar, PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Collaboration, and other grey literature. Only randomized controlled studies and pre-appraised evidence such as systematic review and meta-analysis examining the effects of ketamine in total knee and hip arthroplasty were included. The quality appraisal of the literature was conducted using the proposed algorithm described in the Johns Hopkins Nursing Evidence-Based Practice Evidence Level and Quality Guide. FINDINGS: Three systematic reviews and meta-analyses and 2 randomized controlled trials involving 1284 patients were included in this review. The use of ketamine reduced pain scores within the 24 hours after surgery. In addition, evidence suggests that patients who were treated with ketamine consumed fewer opioids 24 and 48 hours after surgery. Furthermore, ketamine reduced the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting with no effects on the incidence of hallucinations and central nervous system side effects. All studies included in the review were categorized as Level I and rated Grade A implying strong confidence in the true effects of ketamine in all outcome measures in the review. CONCLUSIONS: The current evidence demonstrates the viability of ketamine as a safe and effective alternative to opioids in the perioperative setting with major total joint arthroplasty surgery. Decreased pain scores and opioid consumption up to 48 hours into the postoperative period were observed in a number of the appraised articles.

Combined Forced Air Warming and Warm Intravenous Fluid Strategy for Perioperative Hypothermia in Cesarean Delivery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

PURPOSE: Evaluate the effect of a combined forced-air warming (FAW) and warm intravenous fluid (IVF) modality on maternal and neonatal outcomes in cesarean delivery under neuraxial anesthesia. DESIGN: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. METHODS: An extensive search was conducted using PubMed, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Google Scholar, and other grey literature. Only randomized controlled trials examining the combined modality on maternal temperatures were included. Risk ratio (RR), mean difference (MD), and standardized mean difference (SMD) were used to estimate outcomes with suitable effect models. Quality of evidence was assessed using the Risk of Bias and GRADE system. FINDINGS: Nine trials involving 595 patients were included. Combined strategy showed a smaller change in maternal temperature from baseline by 0.42°C (MD, -0.42; 95% CI, -0.62 to -0.22; P < .0001), higher temperature on PACU arrival (MD, 0.46; 95% CI, 0.11-0.82; P = .01), 15 minutes (MD, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.19-0.67; P = .0004) and 30 minutes after surgery (MD, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.12-0.64; P = .005). Combined strategy also reduced the incidence of hypothermia (RR, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.31-0.95; P = .03), and shivering (RR, 0.40; 95% CI, 0.28-0.58; P < .00001) with improvement in maternal comfort score (SMD; 0.38; 95% CI, 0.08-0.69; P = .01). However, there were no differences in clinical indicators of adverse neonatal outcomes. Lack of participants blinding, and substantial heterogeneity were limitations of this review. CONCLUSION: The use of combined FAW and warm IVF is an effective strategy in mitigating perioperative hypothermia in cesarean delivery under neuraxial anesthesia.

Efficacy and Safety of Gabapentin on Postoperative Pain Management After Bariatric Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

PURPOSE: Examine the efficacy and safety of perioperative gabapentin in bariatric surgical patients. DESIGN: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. METHODS: An exhaustive search was conducted using PubMed, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Google Scholar, and other gray literature. Only randomized controlled trials evaluating the use of gabapentin in bariatric surgery were included. Risk ratio (RR) and mean difference (MD) were used to estimate outcomes with suitable effect models. Quality of evidence was assessed using the Risk of Bias and GRADE system. FINDINGS: Four trials consisting of 283 patients were analyzed. The use of gabapentin significantly lowered the cumulative pain score in the first 24 hours after surgery by an average of 1.04 (MD, -1.04; 95% CI, -1.45 to -0.63; P < .00001). Gabapentin also reduced the overall morphine equivalent consumption by 7.89 mg (MD, -7.89; 95% CI, -13.56 to -2.2; P = .006). However, gabapentin did not affect the incidence of PONV (RR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.38-1.00; P = .05), somnolence (RR, 1.25; 95% CI, 0.57-2.73; P = .57), dizziness (RR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.40-2.54; P = .99), and headache (RR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.25-2.30; P = .62). Substantial heterogeneity, imprecision of the effect size, and potential publication bias were limitations of this review. CONCLUSIONS: The use of gabapentin is effective in the management of postoperative pain in bariatric surgery. However, there is limited data regarding the opioid-sparing effect and adverse effect profiles of gabapentin in the bariatric surgical population.

Use of Transversus Abdominis Plane Block in Hysterectomy: A Systematic Review.

PURPOSE: To examine the effectiveness of transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block in hysterectomy. DESIGN: Systematic review METHODS: This review followed the guidelines of the PRISMA statement. PubMed, CINAHL, the Cochrane Collaboration, Google Scholar, and other gray literature databases were searched for eligible studies. The evidence level and quality ratings were assessed using the guidelines proposed by the Johns Hopkins Nursing Evidence-Based Practice Model. FINDINGS: Six randomized controlled trials and three systematic reviews with meta-analysis consisting of 2,164 patients were analyzed. The use of TAP block reduced the pain scores in the early part of the postoperative period with diminishing effect late in the postoperative phase. In addition, TAP block lowered the overall opioid consumption, reduced the incidence of PONV, and prolonged the time for rescue medication. All studies included in the review were categorized as Level I and rated Grade A implying strong confidence in the true effects of TAP block in all outcome measures in the review. CONCLUSIONS: The addition of TAP block for pain control in hysterectomy patients can improve postoperative pain management. This review found that TAP block has opioid-sparing effects and is safe and effective in reducing pain scores postoperatively in hysterectomy patients.

Chewing Gum After Radical Cystectomy With Urinary Diversion for Recovery of Intestinal Function: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy of chewing in the recovery of intestinal function after radical cystectomy. DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS: Following the PRISMA statement, PubMed, CINAHL, Google Scholar, Cochrane Review Database, EMBASE, Scopus, and grey literature were searched for evidence. FINDINGS: The analysis included 2 trials with 100 patients. Compared to placebo, chewing gum resulted in faster recovery of bowel function (mean difference [MD], -16.00; 95% confidence interval [CI], -18.67 to -13.32; P < .00001). In addition, chewing gum decreased the time to flatus (MD, -14.81; 95% CI, -22.14 to -7.47; P < .0001), but did not reduced the length of stay (MD, 0.97; 95% CI, -1.23 to 3.18; P = .39) and the incidence of postoperative ileus (risk ratio, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.20-2.23; P = .51). The quality of evidence is low due to imprecision and suspected publication bias. CONCLUSIONS: Chewing gum appears to be an inexpensive intervention to improve the return of bowel function in patients undergoing radical cystectomy.

Ondansetron for Shivering after Spinal Anesthesia in Cesarean Delivery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: Evaluate the efficacy of ondansetron in preventing shivering after spinal anesthesia in cesarean delivery. DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis METHODS: Following the PRISMA statement, PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane, EMBASE, Google scholar and other grey literature databases were searched for eligible studies. FINDINGS: The overall incidence of shivering after spinal anesthesia in cesarean delivery is 32%, with 24% in patients who received ondansetron compared to 40% in the placebo group. A total of 19 trials consisting of 1399 patients were evaluated. Compared to placebo, ondansetron is effective in reducing the incidence of shivering (RR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.29 to 0.78; P = 0.003). The quality of evidence is low due to substantial heterogeneity, imprecision and suspected publication bias. Patients who received ondansetron are less likely to require rescue treatment for shivering (RR, 0.34; 95% CI, 0.15 to 0.76; P = 0.009). Also, ondansetron is associated with a lower incidence of hypotension necessitating vasopressor treatment, and nausea and vomiting with no effects on the incidence of bradycardia. CONCLUSION: Ondansetron is effective in mitigating shivering after spinal anesthesia in cesarean delivery.

Supplemental Oxygen and Surgical Site Infection in Colorectal Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Surgical site infection (SSI) is a common preventable iatrogenic infection following surgery with an approximated overall occurrence of 2-4%. Despite numerous studies, controversies still exist regarding the efficacy, safety, and cost effectiveness of strategies to decrease SSI. The World Health Organization issued recommendations for the prevention of SSIs including oxygenation with 80% fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2). The primary outcome of our systematic review and metaanalysis was the effect of high inspired FiO2 related to SSI in the colorectal surgery population. Secondary outcomes included incidence of anastomotic leaks and length of hospital stay. Eleven trials consisting of 8245 were included in the analysis. We found moderate quality of evidence that 80% FiO2 was not effective in reducing SSI (RR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.74 to 1.13; P = .41) anastomotic leaks (RR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.53 to 1.06; P = 0.10). Conversely, we found low quality evidence of no effect on length of stay measured in days (MD, 0.39; 95% CI -0.59 to 1.36; P = 0.44). Although additional studies are required to decrease heterogeneity of the studies, the current review showed high FiO2 does not decrease the incidence of SSI in the colorectal surgery population.