Intrathecal midazolam versus intrathecal morphine in orofacial nociception: an experimental study in rats.

The antinociceptive properties of intrathecal midazolam (15 and 30 micrograms) and intrathecal morphine (30 micrograms) were compared using an adaptation of the formalin test to the orofacial region in rats. Both midazolam and morphine were effective in reducing the nociceptive response of the second phase of this biphasic pain test. Only midazolam (30 micrograms) reduced also the first phase. These results confirm the existence of analgesic properties of midazolam in the case of long-lasting pain.

[Our experience of lumbar chemical sympathectomy in arterial occlusive diseases of the lower limbs]. / Expérience de la sympatholyse chimique lombaire dans les artériopathies des membres inférieurs.

One hundred and sixty two phenol chemical sympathectomy were achieved from 1982 to 1987. After one month and one year, 92 patients get a lasting improvement. The benefit is better for rest pain relief than for intermittent claudication and skin lesions of legs. Diabetic ischaemic disease increased risk of failure of sympathetic block. Results of chemical sympathectomy are similar to the surgical procedure and the incidence of complications is lower. It is concluded that the neurolytic block will be a satisfying experience in patients with obliterative arterial disease not suitable for vascular surgery.

[Thoracic sympathectomy by phenol injection under x-ray computed tomography. Two initial results]. / Sympatholyse thoracique par phénolisation sous contrôle tomodensitométrique. Deux observations préliminaires.

Difficulties in surgical or neurolytic techniques of the sympathetic thoracic chain and the results have been controversial in the upper limbs arteriopathies. A percutaneous technique of neurolytic block under computed tomography in two patients, give evidence of efficacy on pain and skin ulcers.