Continuous Spinal Anesthesia for Obstetric Anesthesia and Analgesia

PubMed Central

Veličković, Ivan; Pujic, Borislava; Baysinger, Charles W.; Baysinger, Curtis L.

2017-01-01

The widespread use of continuous spinal anesthesia (CSA) in obstetrics has been slow because of the high risk for post-dural puncture headache (PDPH) associated with epidural needles and catheters. New advances in equipment and technique have not significantly overcome this disadvantage. However, CSA offers an alternative to epidural anesthesia in morbidly obese women, women with severe cardiac disease, and patients with prior spinal surgery. It should be strongly considered in parturients who receive an accidental dural puncture with a large bore needle, on the basis of recent work suggesting significant reduction in PDPH when intrathecal catheters are used. Small doses of drug can be administered and extension of labor analgesia for emergency cesarean delivery may occur more rapidly compared to continuous epidural techniques. PMID:28861414

Direction of catheter insertion and the incidence of paresthesia during continuous epidural anesthesia in the elderly patients

PubMed Central

Kim, Jong-Hak; Lee, Jun Seop

2013-01-01

Background Continuous epidural anesthesia is useful for endoscopic urologic surgery, as mostly performed in the elderly patients. In such a case, it is necessary to obtain successful sacral anesthesia, and the insertion of epidural catheter in the caudad direction may be needed. However, continuous epidural catherization has been related to paresthesias. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the direction of the catheter insertion on the incidence of paresthesias in the elderly patients. Methods Two hundred elderly patients scheduled for endoscopic urologic surgery were enrolled. The epidural catheter was inserted at L2-3, L3-4, and L4-5 using the Tuohy needle. In Group I (n = 100), the Tuohy needle with the bevel directed the cephalad during the catheter insertion. In Group II (n = 100), it directed the caudad. During the catheter insertion, an anesthesiologist evaluated the presence of paresthesias and the ease or difficulty during the catheter insertion. Results In Group I (n = 97), 15.5% of the patients had paresthesias versus 18.4% in Group II (n = 98), and there was no significant difference between the two groups. In paresthesia depending on the insertion site and the ease or difficulty during the catheter insertion, there were no significant differences between the two groups. Conclusions Our results concluded that the direction of epidural catheter insertion did not significantly influence the incidence of paresthesias in the elderly patients. PMID:23741568

Microsurgical resection of cavernous haemangioma around the thoracic neuroforamen: a case report.

PubMed

Uchida, Kenzo; Yayama, Takafumi; Nakajima, Hideaki; Hirai, Takayuki; Kobayashi, Shigeru; Chen, Kebing; Guerrero, Alexander Rodriguez; Baba, Hisatoshi

2010-12-01

Treatment for haemangioma of the spinal cord often results in extensive bony resection that necessitates fusion and/or instrumentation. We report on a 75-year-old man who presented with neuropathic pain and muscle weakness of both lower limbs, secondary to an epidural haemangioma at T11-T12, extending laterally into the neuroforamen. The tumour was resected within the neuroforamen after a partial laminectomy and limited medial foraminotomy at T11-T12, without disruption of the osseous continuity of the pars interarticularis, avoiding spinal stabilisation surgery.

[A case of coronary artery spasm during epidural anesthesia with continuous infusion of propofol].

PubMed

Inoue, Hisashi; Ogawa, Katsumi; Takano, Yoshito; Sato, Isao; Okuda, Yasuhisa

2003-07-01

A 50-year-old male patient was scheduled for left partial pulmonary resection and biopsy. The patient had neither complication nor history of ischemic heart disease. After arriving in the operation room, an epidural catheter was inserted into the epidural space at the T 4-5 intervertebral space. Anesthesia was induced with intravenous propofol 100 mg, fentanyl 100 microgram and vecuronium 6 mg and then a double lumen endotracheal tube was inserted. Anesthesia was maintained with O2 and air (FIO2 0.3-1.0), continuous infusion of propofol, intermittent intravenous administration of fentanyl and epidural injection of 1% lidocaine. Forty-five minutes after the start of operation, ECG showed an elevation of ST segment and soon it passed into ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation. The patient was treated with cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Fifteen minutes later, ECG returned to sinus rhythm but the elevation of ST segment remained. We considered that these cardiac events were due to coronary spasm, and started continuous infusion of nitroglycerin and nicorandil. One hour later, ST segment returned to normal. The possible inducing factors in this case were altered balance between sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous activity caused by infusion of propofol and epidural block, and alpha-stimulation caused by ephedrine.

[History and Technique of Epidural Anaesthesia].

PubMed

Waurick, Katrin; Waurick, René

2015-07-01

In 1901, the first Epidural anesthesia via a caudal approach was independently described by two FrenchmanJean-Anthanase Sicard and Fernand Cathelin.. The Spanish military surgeon, Fidel Pagés Miravé, completed the lumbar approach successfully in 1921. The two possibilities for identification of the epidural space the "loss of resistance" technique and the technique of the "hanging drop" were developed by Achille Mario Dogliotti, an Italian, and Alberto Gutierrez, an Argentinean physician, at the same time. In 1956 John J. Bonica published the paramedian approach to the epidural space. As early as 1931 Eugene Aburel, a Romanian obstetrician, injected local anaesthetics via a silk catheter to perform lumbar obstetric Epidural analgesia. In 1949 the first successful continuous lumbar Epidural anaesthesia was reported by Manuel Martinez Curbelo, a Cuban. Epidural anaesthesia can be performed in sitting or lateral position in all segments of the spinal column via the median or paramedian approach. Different off-axis angles pose the challenge in learning the technique. © Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York.

Comparative antinociceptive and sedative effects of epidural romifidine and detomidine in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis).

PubMed

Marzok, M A; El-Khodery, S A

2017-07-01

In this study, comparative antinociceptive and sedative effects of epidural administration of romifidine and detomidine in buffalo were evaluated. Eighteen healthy adult buffalo, allocated randomly in three groups (two experimental and one control; n=6) received either 50 μg/kg of romifidine or detomidine diluted in sterile saline (0.9 per cent) to a final volume of 20 ml, or an equivalent volume of sterile saline epidurally. Antinociception, sedation and ataxia parameters were recorded immediately after drug administration. Epidural romifidine and detomidine produced mild to deep sedation and complete antinociception of the perineum, inguinal area and flank, and extended distally to the coronary band of the hindlimbs and cranially to the chest area. Times to onset of antinociception and sedation were significantly shorter with romifidine than with detomidine. The antinociceptive and sedative effects were significantly longer with romifidine than with detomidine. Romifidine or detomidine could be used to provide a reliable, long-lasting and cost-effective method for achieving epidural anaesthesia for standing surgical procedures in buffalo. Romifidine induces a longer antinociceptive effect and a more rapid onset than detomidine. Consequently, epidural romifidine may offer better therapeutic benefits in the management of acute postoperative pain. British Veterinary Association.

Epidural Baclofen for the Management of Postoperative Pain in Children With Cerebral Palsy.

PubMed

Nemeth, Blaise A; Montero, Robert J; Halanski, Matthew A; Noonan, Kenneth J

2015-09-01

Children with cerebral palsy undergoing soft tissue and bony procedures often experience pain and spasticity postoperatively. Differentiation of pain from spasticity complicates management, so controlling spasticity with a continuous infusion of baclofen, an antispasmodic, through an already present indwelling epidural catheter holds interest. A retrospective chart review was performed of patients with cerebral palsy undergoing single event, multilevel lower extremity surgery at a single institution who received epidural analgesia with or without continuous baclofen infusion. Primary outcomes included need for supplemental narcotic analgesics and benzodiazepines postoperatively. Duration of hospitalization, pain scores, and complications were also evaluated. Forty-four patients were identified, ranging in age from 3 to 17 years, 19 of whom received epidural baclofen. No differences were found in use of supplemental narcotic analgesia, benzodiazepines, or duration of hospitalization. Differences in pain scores were not statistically significant (0.82±0.95 for baclofen vs. 1.48±0.99 for controls) (P=0.391). Mean arterial pressure was lower in patients receiving baclofen (P=0.004). No potential side effects attributable to baclofen were noted. Continuous epidural baclofen infusion seems unlikely to alter the pain-spasm cycle experienced by patients with cerebral palsy following orthopaedic surgery to a clinically significant degree. More effective, and cost-effective, measures at assessing and controlling pain and muscle spasm should be explored to benefit cerebral palsy patients postoperatively. Level III-therapeutic study.

Unintentional Infusion of Phenylephrine into the Epidural Space.

PubMed

Townley, Kress R; Lane, Jason; Packer, Robyn; Gupta, Rajnish K

2016-03-01

We describe a patient who received an unintentionally prolonged epidural infusion of phenylephrine. The patient experienced no major morbidity. However, this case highlights the continuing problem of wrong-route drug administration and the urgent need to adopt route-specific connections.

Regular intermittent bolus provides similar incidence of maternal fever compared with continuous infusion during epidural labor analgesia.

PubMed

Feng, Shan-Wu; Xu, Shi-Qin; Ma, Li; Li, Cai-Juan; Wang, Xian; Yuan, Hong-Mei; Wang, Fu-Zhou; Shen, Xiao-Feng; Ding, Zheng-Nian

2014-10-01

To compare the effects of regular intermittent bolus versus continuous infusion for epidural labor analgesia on maternal temperature and serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) level. This randomized trial was performed in Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China between October 2012 and February 2014. Either regular intermittent bolus (RIB, n=66) or continuous infusion (CI, n=66) was used for epidural labor analgesia. A bolus dose (10 ml of 0.08% ropivacaine + 0.4 ug·ml-1 sufentanil) was manually administrated once an hour in the RIB group, whereas the same solution was continuously infused at a constant rate of 10 ml·h-1 in the CI group. Maternal tympanic temperature and serum IL-6 level were measured hourly from baseline to one hour post partum. The incidences of fever (>/=38 degree celsius ) were calculated. The incidence of maternal fever was similar between the 2 groups. There was a rising trend in mean temperature over time in both groups, but no statistical difference was detected between the groups at respective time points; maternal serum IL-6 showed similar changes. Compared with continuous infusion, regular intermittent bolus presents with the same incidence of maternal fever for epidural labor analgesia. Interleukin-6 elevation could be involved in mean maternal temperature increase. 

Interrater Reliability of the Postoperative Epidural Fibrosis Classification: A Histopathologic Study in the Rat Model.

PubMed

Sae-Jung, Surachai; Jirarattanaphochai, Kitti; Sumananont, Chat; Wittayapairoj, Kriangkrai; Sukhonthamarn, Kamolsak

2015-08-01

Agreement study. To validate the interrater reliability of the histopathological classification of the post-laminectomy epidural fibrosis in an animal model. Epidural fibrosis is a common cause of failed back surgery syndrome. Many animal experiments have been developed to investigate the prevention of epidural fibrosis. One of the common outcome measurements is the epidural fibrous adherence grading, but the classification has not yet been validated. Five identical sets of histopathological digital files of L5-L6 laminectomized adult Sprague-Dawley rats, representing various degrees of postoperative epidural fibrous adherence were randomized and evaluated by five independent assessors masked to the study processes. Epidural fibrosis was rated as grade 0 (no fibrosis), grade 1 (thin fibrous band), grade 2 (continuous fibrous adherence for less than two-thirds of the laminectomy area), or grade 3 (large fibrotic tissue for more than two-thirds of the laminectomy area). A statistical analysis was performed. Four hundred slides were independently evaluated by each assessor. The percent agreement and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) between each pair of assessors varied from 73.5% to 81.3% and from 0.81 to 0.86, respectively. The overall ICC was 0.83 (95% confidence interval, 0.81-0.86). The postoperative epidural fibrosis classification showed almost perfect agreement among the assessors. This classification can be used in research involving the histopathology of postoperative epidural fibrosis; for example, for the development of preventions of postoperative epidural fibrosis or treatment in an animal model.

Epidural technique for postoperative pain: gold standard no more?

PubMed

Rawal, Narinder

2012-01-01

Epidural analgesia is a well-established technique that has commonly been regarded as the gold standard in postoperative pain management. However, newer, evidence-based outcome data show that the benefits of epidural analgesia are not as significant as previously believed. There are some benefits in a decrease in the incidence of cardiovascular and pulmonary complications, but these benefits are probably limited to high-risk patients undergoing major abdominal or thoracic surgery who receive thoracic epidural analgesia with local anaesthetic drugs only. There is increasing evidence that less invasive regional analgesic techniques are as effective as epidural analgesia. These include paravertebral block for thoracotomy, femoral block for total hip and knee arthroplasty, wound catheter infusions for cesarean delivery, and local infiltration analgesia techniques for lower limb joint arthroplasty. Wound infiltration techniques and their modifications are simple and safe alternatives for a variety of other surgical procedures. Although pain relief associated with epidural analgesia can be outstanding, clinicians expect more from this invasive, high-cost, labour-intensive technique. The number of indications for the use of epidural analgesia seems to be decreasing for a variety of reasons. The decision about whether to continue using epidural techniques should be guided by regular institutional audits and careful risk-benefit assessment rather than by tradition. For routine postoperative analgesia, epidural analgesia may no longer be considered the gold standard.

Blood pressure and heart rate during orthostatic stress and walking with continuous postoperative thoracic epidural bupivacaine/morphine.

PubMed

Møiniche, S; Hjortsø, N C; Blemmer, T; Dahl, J B; Kehlet, H

1993-01-01

Thirty-one patients scheduled for elective cholecystectomy performed through a mini-laparotomy, were randomized to received either combined thoracic epidural anaesthesia/light general anaesthesia and postoperative balanced analgesia with continuous epidural bupivacaine 10 mg.h-1 and morphine 0.2 mg.h-1 for 38 h after surgery plus systemic ibuprofen 600 mg x 8 h-1 (N = 15) or general anaesthesia and postoperative analgesia with systemic morphine and ibuprofen 600 mg x 8 h-1 (N = 16). During postoperative epidural infusion sensory blockade to pinprick was Th4 to L1, and analgesia at rest and during mobilisation was superior compared to systemic morphine and NSAID. There were no significant differences between groups in haemodynamic responses (BP and heart rate) during rest, orthostatic stress and after walking assessed before, 24 and 48 h after operation except for a clinically unimportant lower heart rate (approximately 10 bpm) 48 h after surgery at rest and during orthostatic stress in the epidural group. There was no significant difference between groups in number of patients with a reduction > 20 mmHg (2.7 kPa) in systolic blood pressure during orthostatic stress (two in each group at 24 h) or in number of episodes of dizziness, nausea or vomiting during rest or mobilisation. These results do not support the common belief that low-dose thoracic epidural bupivacaine/morphine may prevent ambulation due to sympathetic blockade or to impaired cardiovascular adaptation to the upright position.

[Combined spinal and epidural anaesthesia in abdominal delivery].

PubMed

Matlubov, M M; Rakhimov, A U; Semenikhin, A A

2010-01-01

The purpose of this work is to estimate the efficacy and safety of balanced two-segmental spinal-epidural anaesthesia (SEA) as well as application of this technique in conditions of extended operative delivery. The method has been used in 69 pregnant patients aged 23-42 years, with gestation period ranging from 36 to 40 weeks. It was found out that SEA is highly effective and safe technique, therefore it can be recommended as suitable method of anaesthesia in surgery with an extension possibility.

Epidural Blood Patch Using Manometry for Sinking Skin Flap Syndrome.

PubMed

Turner, James D; Farmer, Justin L; Dobson, Sean W

2016-06-01

We describe here a 55-year-old male patient with a medical history significant for chronic back pain and substance abuse with cocaine who sustained a traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage after a fall from a roof while acutely intoxicated on cocaine requiring decompressive hemicraniectomy and cranioplasty that was complicated by an epidural abscess requiring a repeat craniectomy. He was diagnosed with sinking skin flap syndrome consistent with altered mental status and a sunken skin flap with increased midline shift. Despite treatment with Trendelenburg positioning and appropriate fluid management, the patient continued to decline, and an epidural blood patch was requested for treatment. After placement of the epidural blood patch using manometry in the epidural space, the patient's neurologic status improved allowing him to ultimately receive a cranioplasty. The patient is now able to perform several of his activities of daily living and communicate effectively.

Comparison of analgesic efficacy and safety of continuous epidural infusion versus local infiltration and systemic opioids in video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery decortication in pediatric empyema patients.

PubMed

Karnik, Priyanka Pradeep; Dave, Nandini Malay; Garasia, Madhu

2018-01-01

The stripping of the densely innervated and inflamed parietal pleura in empyema during video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) decortication can lead to significant pain and major postoperative respiratory compromise. Hence, we compared the analgesic efficacy of continuous epidural infusion versus local infiltration and systemic opioids in children undergoing VATS decortications. Following ethics approval and informed consent, forty patients from 1 to 12 years of age were randomized into two groups, Group E (epidural) and Group L (local infiltration) after induction of anesthesia. In Group E, a thoracic epidural catheter was inserted between T4 and T8. A bolus dose of 0.5 ml/kg of 0.25% injection bupivacaine was given epidurally before incision. Postoperatively, the patients received epidural infusion with bupivacaine and fentanyl up to 48 h using an elastomeric balloon pump. In Group L, patients received local infiltration of bupivacaine (2 mg/kg) and lignocaine (5 mg/kg) at the port sites before incision and at the end of surgery. They also received injection tramadol 1 mg/kg intravenously TDS with thrice daily postoperatively. The pain scores (Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability/ Wong-Baker FACES scale) were assessed every 4 h on the 1 st day and 6 h on the 2 nd day. Injection diclofenac 1 mg/kg intravenous was used as a rescue analgesic for pain scores more than 4. Side effects such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, and motor blockade were noted. Quantitative and categorical data were assessed using t -test and Chi-square test, respectively. The pain scores were lower in the epidural group than in the local infiltration group at 0, 4, and 20 h postoperatively ( P = 0.001, 0.01, and 0.038, respectively). Seventeen out of nineteen patients required rescue analgesia in the local infiltration group in the postoperative period as compared to five patients in the epidural group with a P value of 0.000081. Epidural analgesia can be considered as an effective modality of reducing pain in patients undergoing VATS decortication for empyema in pediatric patients.

Efficacy of the methoxyflurane as bridging analgesia during epidural placement in laboring parturient.

PubMed

Anwari, Jamil S; Khalil, Laith; Terkawi, Abdullah S

2015-01-01

Establishing an epidural in an agitated laboring woman can be challenging. The ideal pain control technique in such a situation should be effective, fast acting, and short lived. We assessed the efficacy of inhalational methoxyflurane (Penthrox™) analgesia as bridging analgesia for epidural placement. Sixty-four laboring women who requested epidural analgesia with pain score of ≥7 enrolled in an observational study, 56 of which completed the study. The parturients were instructed to use the device prior to the onset of uterine contraction pain and to stop at the peak of uterine contraction, repeatedly until epidural has been successfully placed. After each (methoxyflurane inhalation-uterine contraction) cycle, pain, Richmond Agitation Sedation Scale (RASS), nausea and vomiting were evaluated. Maternal and fetal hemodynamics and parturient satisfaction were recorded. The mean baseline pain score was 8.2 ± 1.5 which was reduced to 6.2 ± 2.0 after the first inhalation with a mean difference of 2.0 ± 1.1 (95% confidence interval 1.7-2.3, P < 0.0001), and continued to decrease significantly over the study period (P < 0.0001). The RASS scores continuously improved after each cycle (P < 0.0001). Only 1 parturient from the cohort became lightly sedated (RASS = -1). Two parturients vomited, and no significant changes in maternal hemodynamics or fetal heart rate changes were identified during treatment. 67% of the parturients reported very good or excellent satisfaction with treatment. Penthrox™ provides rapid, robust, and satisfactory therapy to control pain and restlessness during epidural placement in laboring parturient.

Update on best available options in obstetrics anaesthesia: perinatal outcomes, side effects and maternal satisfaction. Fifteen years systematic literature review.

PubMed

Gizzo, Salvatore; Noventa, Marco; Fagherazzi, Simone; Lamparelli, Laura; Ancona, Emanuele; Di Gangi, Stefania; Saccardi, Carlo; D'Antona, Donato; Nardelli, Giovanni Battista

2014-07-01

In modern obstetrics, different pharmacological and non-pharmacological options allow to obtain pain relief during labour, one of the most important goals in women satisfaction about medical care. The aim of this review is to compare all the analgesia administration schemes in terms of effectiveness in pain relief, length of labour, mode of delivery, side effects and neonatal outcomes. A systematic literature search was conducted in electronic databases in the interval time between January 1999 and March 2013. Key search terms included: “labour analgesia”, “epidural anaesthesia during labour” (excluding anaesthesia for Caesarean section), “epidural analgesia and labour outcome” and “intra-thecal analgesia”. 10,331 patients were analysed: 5,578 patients underwent Epidural-Analgesia, 259 patients spinal analgesia, 2,724 combined spinal epidural analgesia, 322 continuous epidural infusion (CEI), 168 intermittent epidural bolus, 684 patient-controlled infusion epidural analgesia and 152 intra-venous patient-controlled epidural analgesia. We also considered 341 women who underwent patient-controlled infusion epidural analgesia in association with CEI and 103 patients who underwent patient-controlled infusion epidural analgesia in association with automatic mandatory bolus. No significant differences occurred among all the available administration schemes of neuraxial analgesia. In absence of obstetrical contraindication, neuraxial analgesia has to be considered as the gold standard in obtaining maternal pain relief during labour. The options available in the administration of analgesia should be known and evaluated together by both gynaecologists and anaesthesiologists to choose the best personalized scheme and obtain the best women satisfaction. Since it is difficult to identify comparable circumstances during labour, it is complicate to standardize drugs schemes and their combinations.

Pure Spinal Epidural Cavernous Hemangioma with Intralesional Hemorrhage: A Rare Cause of Thoracic Myelopathy

PubMed Central

Jang, Donghwan; Kim, Choonghyo; Lee, Seung Jin; Ryu, Young-Joon

2014-01-01

Although cavernous hemangiomas occur frequently in the intracranial structures, they are rare in the spine. Most of spinal hemangiomas are vertebral origin and "pure" epidural hemangiomas not originating from the vertebral bone are very rare. Our spinal hemangioma case is extremely rare because of its "pure" epidural involvement and intralesional hemorrhage. A 64-year-old man presented with progressive paraparesis from two months ago. His motor weakness was rated as grade 4/5 in bilateral lower extremities. He also complained of decreased sensation below the T4 sensory dermatome, which continuously progressed to the higher dermatome level. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated thoracic spinal tumor at T3-T4 level. The tumor was located epidural space compressing thoracic spinal cord ventrally. The tumor was not involved with the thoracic vertebral bone. We performed T3-5 laminectomy and removed the tumor completely. The tumor was not infiltrating into intradural space or vertebral bone. The histopathologic study confirmed the epidural tumor as cavernous hemangioma. Postoperatively, his weakness improved gradually. Four months later, his paraparesis recovered completely. Here, we present a case of pure spinal epidural cavernous hemangioma, which has intralesional hemorrhage. We believe cavernous hemangioma should be included in the differential diagnosis of the spinal epidural tumors. PMID:25110490

Comparison of intraoperative behavioral and hormonal responses to noxious stimuli between mares sedated with caudal epidural detomidine hydrochloride or a continuous intravenous infusion of detomidine hydrochloride for standing laparoscopic ovariectomy.

PubMed

Virgin, Joanna; Hendrickson, Dean; Wallis, Ty; Rao, Sangeeta

2010-08-01

To compare the presence or absence of pain, pain-related behavioral responses, and hormonal responses to noxious stimuli during standing laparoscopic ovariectomy in mares sedated with continuous intravenous (IV) detomidine infusion and caudal epidural detomidine. A double blind prospective study. Mares (n=12) Mares were divided into 2 treatment groups; 6 were sedated using continuous IV detomidine infusion and 6 were sedated with caudal epidural detomidine. All mares received IV xylazine (0.33 mg/kg) and butorphanol tartrate (5 mg) premedication before detomidine administration. Venous blood samples were taken to assess serum cortisol levels in each mare at 4 time points: a baseline cortisol measurement after the mares' arrival to the clinic, 10 minutes before surgery, at the removal of the 2nd ovary, and 10 minutes postsurgery. Two surgeons performed bilateral ovariectomy and at 8 time points involving surgical manipulations, noted the presence or absence of pain (yes/no) and scored the patient's response on a 10 cm visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain assessment with 0 indicating no pain responses and 10 cm indicating pain so severe that the mare required additional sedation or analgesia to complete the procedure. Each mare was also assigned a VAS score by each surgeon for the overall satisfaction of analgesia during the entire procedure. Serum cortisol levels between the 2 detomidine administration groups differed significantly at the baseline (precortisol) measurement but not at the 3 remaining time points. Seven of the procedures within the surgeries did not differ significantly in VAS scores between the 2 groups. The initial grasp of the left ovary (the 1st ovary) in the continuous infusion group had a significantly higher (P=.05) median VAS score compared with the caudal epidural group. Mares sedated with a continuous IV infusion of detomidine have similar hormonal and behavioral responses to painful stimuli during standing laparoscopic ovariectomy as mares sedated with caudal epidural detomidine. Sedation using a continuous IV infusion of detomidine can be used for laparoscopic ovariectomy in mares.

Epidural Lysis of Adhesions

PubMed Central

Lee, Frank; Jamison, David E.; Hurley, Robert W.

2014-01-01

As our population ages and the rate of spine surgery continues to rise, the use epidural lysis of adhesions (LOA) has emerged as a popular treatment to treat spinal stenosis and failed back surgery syndrome. There is moderate evidence that percutaneous LOA is more effective than conventional ESI for both failed back surgery syndrome, spinal stenosis, and lumbar radiculopathy. For cervical HNP, cervical stenosis and mechanical pain not associated with nerve root involvement, the evidence is anecdotal. The benefits of LOA stem from a combination of factors to include the high volumes administered and the use of hypertonic saline. Hyaluronidase has been shown in most, but not all studies to improve treatment outcomes. Although infrequent, complications are more likely to occur after epidural LOA than after conventional epidural steroid injections. PMID:24478895

Patient-controlled Intermittent Epidural Bolus Versus Epidural Infusion for Posterior Spinal Fusion After Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: Prospective, Randomized, Double-blinded Study.

PubMed

Erdogan, Mehmet Ali; Ozgul, Ulku; Ucar, Muharrem; Korkmaz, Mehmet Fatih; Aydogan, Mustafa Said; Ozkan, Ahmet Selim; Colak, Cemil; Durmus, Mahmut

2017-06-15

A prospective, randomized, double-blinded study. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and side effects of patient-controlled intermittent bolus epidural analgesia (PCIEA) and patient-controlled continuous epidural analgesia (PCCEA) for postoperative pain control in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Epidural analgesia is an accepted efficacious and safe procedure for postoperative pain management in scoliosis surgery. However, the PCIEA has not been adequately investigated for postoperative pain control in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Forty-seven patients, 8 to 18 years of age, who were undergoing posterior spinal fusion for idiopathic scoliosis were randomized to either the PCIEA or PCCEA group. An epidural catheter was inserted by a surgeon under direct visualization. The PCIEA group received 0.2 mg/mL of morphine, 0.25 mL/kg of morphine bolus, additional doses of 0.25 mL/kg morphine with a 1-hour lockout given by patient-controlled demand, and no infusion. The PCCEA group received the following: 0.2 mg/mL morphine, an initial morphine loading set at 0.1 mL/kg, followed by a 0.05 mL/kg/h continuous infusion of morphine, and a 0.025 mL/kg bolus dose of morphine. There was a 30-minute lockout interval. The primary outcome was morphine usage. The secondary outcomes were pain score, postoperative nausea and vomiting, and pruritus. Cumulative morphine consumption was lower in the PCIEA group than in the PCCEA group. Both methods provided effective pain control. There were no differences in pain scores between the groups. Postoperative nausea, vomiting, and pruritus were lower in the PCIEA group. The two epidural analgesia techniques studied are both safe and effective methods for postoperative pain control after posterior spinal fusion in idiopathic scoliosis. Nausea, vomiting and pruritus were considerably higher in the PCCEA group. Concerns regarding side effects associated with epidural opioids can be avoided by an intermittent bolus with a relatively lower amount of opioid. 2.

Measuring and improving the quality of postoperative epidural analgesia for major abdominal surgery using statistical process control charts.

PubMed

Duncan, Fiona; Haigh, Carol

2013-10-01

To explore and improve the quality of continuous epidural analgesia for pain relief using Statistical Process Control tools. Measuring the quality of pain management interventions is complex. Intermittent audits do not accurately capture the results of quality improvement initiatives. The failure rate for one intervention, epidural analgesia, is approximately 30% in everyday practice, so it is an important area for improvement. Continuous measurement and analysis are required to understand the multiple factors involved in providing effective pain relief. Process control and quality improvement Routine prospectively acquired data collection started in 2006. Patients were asked about their pain and side effects of treatment. Statistical Process Control methods were applied for continuous data analysis. A multidisciplinary group worked together to identify reasons for variation in the data and instigated ideas for improvement. The key measure for improvement was a reduction in the percentage of patients with an epidural in severe pain. The baseline control charts illustrated the recorded variation in the rate of several processes and outcomes for 293 surgical patients. The mean visual analogue pain score (VNRS) was four. There was no special cause variation when data were stratified by surgeons, clinical area or patients who had experienced pain before surgery. Fifty-seven per cent of patients were hypotensive on the first day after surgery. We were able to demonstrate a significant improvement in the failure rate of epidurals as the project continued with quality improvement interventions. Statistical Process Control is a useful tool for measuring and improving the quality of pain management. The applications of Statistical Process Control methods offer the potential to learn more about the process of change and outcomes in an Acute Pain Service both locally and nationally. We have been able to develop measures for improvement and benchmarking in routine care that has led to the establishment of a national pain registry. © 2013 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Continuous decoding of human grasp kinematics using epidural and subdural signals

PubMed Central

Flint, Robert D.; Rosenow, Joshua M.; Tate, Matthew C.; Slutzky, Marc W.

2017-01-01

Objective Restoring or replacing function in paralyzed individuals will one day be achieved through the use of brain-machine interfaces (BMIs). Regaining hand function is a major goal for paralyzed patients. Two competing prerequisites for the widespread adoption of any hand neuroprosthesis are: accurate control over the fine details of movement, and minimized invasiveness. Here, we explore the interplay between these two goals by comparing our ability to decode hand movements with subdural and epidural field potentials. Approach We measured the accuracy of decoding continuous hand and finger kinematics during naturalistic grasping motions in five human subjects. We recorded subdural surface potentials (electrocorticography; ECoG) as well as with epidural field potentials (EFPs), with both standard- and high-resolution electrode arrays. Main results In all five subjects, decoding of continuous kinematics significantly exceeded chance, using either EGoG or EFPs. ECoG decoding accuracy compared favorably with prior investigations of grasp kinematics (mean± SD grasp aperture variance accounted for was 0.54± 0.05 across all subjects, 0.75± 0.09 for the best subject). In general, EFP decoding performed comparably to ECoG decoding. The 7–20 Hz and 70–115 Hz spectral bands contained the most information about grasp kinematics, with the 70–115 Hz band containing greater information about more subtle movements. Higher-resolution recording arrays provided clearly superior performance compared to standard-resolution arrays. Significance To approach the fine motor control achieved by an intact brain-body system, it will be necessary to execute motor intent on a continuous basis with high accuracy. The current results demonstrate that this level of accuracy might be achievable not just with ECoG, but with EFPs as well. Epidural placement of electrodes is less invasive, and therefore may incur less risk of encephalitis or stroke than subdural placement of electrodes. Accurately decoding motor commands at the epidural level may be an important step towards a clinically viable brain-machine interface. PMID:27900947

Epidural anaesthesia and analgesia - effects on surgical stress responses and implications for postoperative nutrition.

PubMed

Holte, K; Kehlet, H

2002-06-01

Surgical injury leads to an endocrine-metabolic and inflammatory response with protein catabolism, increased cardiovascular demands, impaired pulmonary function and paralytic ileus, the most important release mechanisms being afferent neural stimuli and inflammatory mediators. Epidural local anaesthetic blockade of afferent stimuli reduces endocrine metabolic responses, and improve postoperative catabolism. Furthermore, dynamic pain relief is achieved with improved pulmonary function and a pronounced reduction of postoperative ileus, thereby providing optimal conditions for improved mobilization and oral nutrition, and preservation of body composition and muscle function. Studies integrating continuous epidural local anaesthetics with enforced early nutrition and mobilization uniformly suggest an improved recovery, decreased hospital stay and convalescence. Epidural local anaesthetics should be included in a multi-modal rehabilitation programme after major surgical procedures in order to facilitate oral nutrition, improve recovery and reduce morbidity.

Accidental dural puncture, postdural puncture headache, intrathecal catheters, and epidural blood patch: revisiting the old nemesis.

PubMed

Kaddoum, Roland; Motlani, Faisal; Kaddoum, Romeo N; Srirajakalidindi, Arvi; Gupta, Deepak; Soskin, Vitaly

2014-08-01

One of the controversial management options for accidental dural puncture in pregnant patients is the conversion of labor epidural analgesia to continuous spinal analgesia by threading the epidural catheter intrathecally. No clear consensus exists on how to best prevent severe headache from occurring after accidental dural puncture. To investigate whether the intrathecal placement of an epidural catheter following accidental dural puncture impacts the incidence of postdural puncture headache (PDPH) and the subsequent need for an epidural blood patch in parturients. A retrospective chart review of accidental dural puncture was performed at Hutzel Women's Hospital in Detroit, MI, USA for the years 2002-2010. Documented cases of accidental dural punctures (N = 238) were distributed into two groups based on their management: an intrathecal catheter (ITC) group in which the epidural catheter was inserted intrathecally and a non-intrathecal catheter (non-ITC) group that received the epidural catheter inserted at different levels of lumbar interspaces. The incidence of PDPH as well as the necessity for epidural blood patch was analyzed using two-tailed Fisher's exact test. In the non-ITC group, 99 (54 %) parturients developed PDPH in comparison to 20 (37 %) in the ITC [odds ratio (OR), 1.98; 95 % confidence interval (CI), 1.06-3.69; P = 0.03]. Fifty-seven (31 %) of 182 patients in the non-ITC group required an epidural blood patch (EBP) (data for 2 patients of 184 were missing). In contrast, 7 (13 %) of parturients in the ITC group required an EBP. The incidence of EBP was calculated in parturients who actually developed headache to be 57 of 99 (57 %) in the non-ITC group versus 7 of 20 (35 %) in the ITC group (OR, 2.52; 95 % CI, 0.92-6.68; P = 0.07). The insertion of an intrathecal catheter following accidental dural puncture decreases the incidence of PDPH but not the need for epidural blood patch in parturients.

Clinical and microbiological evaluation of epidural and regional anaesthesia catheters in injured UK military personnel.

PubMed

Wood, Paul; Gill, M; Edwards, D; Clifton, P; Bullock, C; Aldington, D

2016-08-01

The adoption of regional and epidural analgesia in UK military personnel injured in action during Op HERRICK increased from 2008, in line with structural and environmental developments in the UK medical treatment facility. Historically, there have been concerns that invasive analgesic techniques could carry an increased risk of infection, due to the mechanism of injury and the environmental conditions in which the injuries were sustained. Consequently, the epidural and continuous peripheral nerve blockade (CPNB) catheters that were inserted in UK military personnel during a 33-month period of Op HERRICK were clinically and microbiologically examined, after subsequent admission to the University Hospitals Birmingham (UHB) NHS Trust. Data on epidural and CPNB insertions were collected via the specialist pain service at UHB over the study period, including de novo and replacement insertions performed in both Afghanistan and the UK. Patients were regularly reviewed and relevant clinical concerns were documented in patients' case notes as necessary. The anatomical site, duration of placement and the results of microbiological culture of the epidural and CPNB catheter tips were all recorded. Overall, 236 catheters were assessed, of which 151 catheter tips (64%) were cultured (85 epidural, 66 CPNB). Of these, 48 grew bacteria (34% of cultured epidurals and 29% of cultured CPNB). There was no difference between the colonisation rates of epidurals inserted in Afghanistan and the UK. Only one infection related to a misplaced epidural catheter was confirmed. With the exception of the epidural (34%) and proximal sciatic (42%) catheters, these figures, in a military cohort characterised by significant injury scores, are consistent with those reported for civilian surgical patients. The results strongly support the expansion of regional analgesia during Op HERRICK from 2008 onwards. The outcomes suggest a possible translation into civilian major trauma practice. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

Maternal and neonatal effects of methoxyflurane, nitrous oxide and lumbar epidural anaesthesia for Caesarean section.

PubMed

Palahniuk, R J; Scatliff, J; Biehl, D; Wiebe, H; Sankaran, K

1977-09-01

General anaesthetic techniques continue to be used for Caesarean section despite the possible increased incidence of foetal acidosis and neonatal depression. Two techniques of general anaesthesia (methoxyflurane-oxygen and nitrous oxide-oxygen) and lumbar epidural anaesthesia were compared in 37 patients under-going elective Caesarean section. Apgar scores at birth were similar in all three groups. Neurophysiological testing of the neonates at six hours and twenty-four hours of age revealed a superiority for the methoxyflurane-oxygen and lumbar epidural techniques, although the babies in the epidural group tended to be hypotonic. Cord blood gas analysis showed the babies in the methoxyflurane group to have a higher PaO2 with less metabolic acidosis than the babies from the other two groups. The maternal effects of the three anaesthetic techniques were similar, with only a small rise in serum fluroide levels noted in the methoxyflurane group.

Lumbar vertebral hemangioma with extradural extension, causing neurogenic claudication: a case report.

PubMed

Jouibari, Morteza Faghih; Khoshnevisan, Alireza; Ghodsi, Seyed Mohammad; Nejat, Farideh; Naderi, Soheil; Abdollahzadeh, Sina

2011-01-01

The authors present a rare case of lumbar vertebral hemangioma extending to the epidural space with a bisected appearance and impinging on thecal sac. This 52-year-old lady presented with one year history of low back pain and bilateral leg radiation. Plain radiography showed vertical linear streaks at L2 vertebral body and axial computed tomography (CT) scan revealed small "polka dot" appearance within the vertebral body. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed low signal intensity on T1-weighted images in L2 vertebral body which was not characteristic for hemangioma. The patient underwent an L2 laminectomy, spinal canal decompression and posterior spinal instrumentation. This study indicates that lumbar vertebral hemangioma can extend to the epidural space and cause neurologic symptoms. Magnetic resonance imaging may not show diagnostic features, especially in active lesions and plain radiography and CT scan may be helpful.

Automated mandatory bolus versus basal infusion for maintenance of epidural analgesia in labour.

PubMed

Sng, Ban Leong; Zeng, Yanzhi; de Souza, Nurun Nisa A; Leong, Wan Ling; Oh, Ting Ting; Siddiqui, Fahad Javaid; Assam, Pryseley N; Han, Nian-Lin R; Chan, Edwin Sy; Sia, Alex T

2018-05-17

Childbirth may cause the most severe pain some women experience in their lifetime. Epidural analgesia is an effective form of pain relief during labour and is considered to be the reference standard. Traditionally epidural analgesia has been delivered as a continuous infusion via a catheter in the epidural space, with or without the ability for the patient to supplement the analgesia received by activating a programmable pump to deliver additional top-up doses, known as patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA). There has been interest in delivering maintenance analgesic medication via bolus dosing (automated mandatory bolus - AMB) instead of the traditional continuous basal infusion (BI); recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have shown that the AMB technique leads to improved analgesia and maternal satisfaction. To assess the effects of automated mandatory bolus versus basal infusion for maintaining epidural analgesia in labour. We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, the World Health Organization International Clinial Trials Registry Platform (WHO-ICTRP) and ClinicalTrials.gov on 16 January 2018. We screened the reference lists of all eligible trials and reviews. We also contacted authors of included studies in this field in order to identify unpublished research and trials still underway, and we screened the reference lists of the included articles for potentially relevant articles. We included all RCTs that compared the use of bolus dosing AMB with continuous BI for providing pain relief during epidural analgesia for labour in women. We used the standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane. Our primary outcomes were: risk of breakthrough pain with the need for anaesthetic intervention; risk of caesarean delivery; risk of instrumental delivery. Secondary outcomes included: duration of labour; local anaesthetic consumption. We used GRADE to assess the certainty of evidence for each outcome. We included 12 studies with a total of 1121 women. Ten studies enrolled healthy nulliparous women only and two studies enrolled healthy parous women at term as well. All studies excluded women with complicated pregnancies. There were variations in the technique of initiation of epidural analgesia. Seven studies utilized the combined spinal epidural (CSE) technique, and the other five studies only placed an epidural catheter without any intrathecal injection. Seven studies utilized ropivacaine: six with fentanyl and one with sufentanil. Two studies used levobupivacaine: one with sufentanil and one with fentanyl. Three used bupivacaine with or without fentanyl. The overall risk of bias of the studies was low.AMB probably reduces the risk of breakthrough pain compared with BI for maintaining epidural analgesia for labour (from 33% to 20%; risk ratio (RR) 0.60; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.39 to 0.92, 10 studies, 797 women, moderate-certainty evidence). AMB may make little or no difference to the risk of caesarean delivery compared to BI (15% and 16% respectively; RR 0.92; 95% CI 0.70 to 1.21, 11 studies, 1079 women, low-certainty evidence).AMB may make little or no difference in the risk of instrumental delivery compared to BI (12% and 9% respectively; RR 0.75; 95% CI 0.54 to 1.06, 11 studies, 1079 women, low-certainty evidence). There is probably little or no difference in the mean duration of labour with AMB compared to BI (mean difference (MD) -10.38 min; 95% CI -26.73 to 5.96, 11 studies, 1079 women, moderate-certainty evidence). There is probably a reduction in the hourly consumption of local anaesthetic with AMB compared to BI for maintaining epidural analgesia during labour (MD -1.08 mg/h; 95% CI -1.78 to -0.38, 12 studies, 1121 women, moderate-certainty evidence). Five out of seven studies reported an increase in maternal satisfaction with AMB compared to BI for maintaining epidural analgesia for labour; however, we did not pool these data due to their ordinal nature. Seven studies reported Apgar scores, though there was significant heterogeneity in reporting. None of the studies showed any significant difference between Apgar scores between groups. There is predominantly moderate-certainty evidence that AMB is similar to BI for maintaining epidural analgesia for labour for all measured outcomes and may have the benefit of decreasing the risk of breakthrough pain and improving maternal satisfaction while decreasing the amount of local anaesthetic needed.

[Perioperative managements of the patients with cancer-pain receiving morphine].

PubMed

Matsuda, M; Murakawa, K; Noma, K; Uemura, Y; Maeda, S; Tashiro, C

1998-09-01

In the patients receiving morphine preoperatively, it is preoperatively important to avoid withdrawal symptoms postoperatively and to suppress postoperative pain and to maintain an appropriate anesthetic depth during the operation. We experienced six patients who had been under preoperative pain control with oral and/or epidural morphine and undergone palliative operation for their cancer pain. Four of the patients were preoperatively administered with oral morphine ranging from 30 to 270 mg.day-1. One patient was given epidural morphine 10 mg.day-1. Another was with morphine 1800 mg.day-1 orally and 50 mg.day-1 epiduraly. In all cases, general anesthesia was maintained with inhalation anesthetics. Anesthetic supplementation and postoperative pain management were performed with continuous i.v. infusion of morphine (half dosage of daily oral dosage), or subcutaneous injection (one sixth dosage of daily oral morphine) while preoperative epidural morphine was continued throughout the perioperative period. We were able to manage these patients well and none of them developed withdrawal symptom or increased postoperative pain.

An in vitro evaluation of the pressure generated during programmed intermittent epidural bolus injection at varying infusion delivery speeds.

PubMed

Klumpner, Thomas T; Lange, Elizabeth M S; Ahmed, Heena S; Fitzgerald, Paul C; Wong, Cynthia A; Toledo, Paloma

2016-11-01

Programmed intermittent bolus injection of epidural anesthetic solution results in decreased anesthetic consumption and better patient satisfaction compared with continuous infusion, presumably by better spread of the anesthetic solution in the epidural space. It is not known whether the delivery speed of the bolus injection influences analgesia outcomes. The objective of this in vitro study was to determine the pressure generated by a programmed intermittent bolus pump at 4 infusion delivery speeds through open-ended, single-orifice and closed-end, multiorifice epidural catheters. In vitro observational study. Not applicable. Not applicable. A CADD-Solis Pain Management System v3.0 with Programmed Intermittent Bolus Model 2110 was connected via a 3-way adapter to an epidural catheter and a digital pressure transducer. Pressures generated by delivery speeds of 100, 175, 300, and 400 mL/h of saline solution were tested with 4 epidural catheters (2 single orifice and 2 multiorifice). These runs were replicated on 5 pumps. Analysis of variance was used to compare the mean peak pressures of each delivery speed within each catheter group (single orifice and multiorifice). Thirty runs at each delivery speed were performed with each type of catheter for a total of 240 experimental runs. Peak pressure increased with increasing delivery speeds in both catheter groups (P<.001). Peak pressures were higher with the multiorifice catheter compared with the single-orifice catheter at all delivery speeds (P<.001, for all). Using a pump designed for programmed intermittent infusion boluses, the delivery speed of saline solution through epidural catheters was directly related to the peak pressures. Future work should evaluate whether differences in the delivery speed of anesthetic solution into the epidural space correlate with differences in the duration and quality of analgesia during programmed intermittent epidural bolus delivery. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[CSE vs. augmented epidural anesthesia for cesarean section. Spinal and epidural anesthesia with bupivacaine 0.5% "isobar" require augmentation].

PubMed

Halter, F; Niesel, H C; Gladrow, W; Kaiser, H

1998-09-01

Incomplete anaesthesia is a major clinical problem both in single spinal and in single epidural anaesthesia. The clinical efficacy of epidural anaesthesia with augmentation (aEA) and combined epidural and spinal anesthesia (CSE) for cesarean section was investigated in a prospective randomized study on 45 patients. Anaesthesia extending up to Th5 was aimed for. Depending on the patient's height, epidural anaesthesia was administered with a dose of 18-22 ml 0.5% bupivacaine and spinal anaesthesia with a dose of 11-15 mg 0.5% bupivacaine. Augmentation was carried out in all cases in epidural anaesthesia, initially with 7.5 ml 1% Lidocaine with epinephrine 1:400,000, raised by 1.5 ml per missing segment. The epidural reinjection in CSE was carried out as necessary with 9.5-15 ml 1% lidocaine with epinephrine, depending on the height and difference from the segment Th5. The extension of anaesthesia achieved in epidural anaesthesia after an initial dose of 101.8 mg bupivacaine and augmenting dose of 99 mg lidocaine reached the segment Th5. The primary spinal anaesthesia dose up to 15 mg corresponding to height led to a segmental extension to a maximum of Th3 under CSE. Augmentation was necessary in 13 patients; in 5 cases because of inadequate extent of anaesthesia and 8 cases because of pain resulting from premature reversion. The augmenting dose required was 13.9 ml. Readiness for operation was attained after 19.8 min (aEA) and after 10.5 min (CSE). No patient required analgesics before delivery. The additional analgesic requirement during operation was 63.6% (aEA) and 39.1% (CSE). Taking into account pain in the area of surgery, the requirement of analgesics was 50% (aEA) vs. 17.4% (CSE). Antiemetics were required in 18.2 (aEA) and in 65.2% (CSE). The systolic blood pressure fell by 17.7% (aEA) and in 30.3% (CSE). The minimum systolic pressure was observed after 13.4 min in aEA, and after 9.5 min in CSE. The APGAR score and the umbilical pH did not show any differences. General anaesthesia was not required in any case.

Comparison between analgesic effect of bupivacaine thoracic epidural and ketamine infusion plus wound infiltration with local anesthetics in open cholecystectomy.

PubMed

Megahed, Nagwa Ahmed Ebrahim; Ellakany, Mohamed; Elatter, Ahmed Mohammed Ibrahim; Moustafa Teima, Mohamed Ahmed Ali

2014-01-01

Neuraxial blocks result in sympathetic block, sensory analgesia and motor block. Continuous epidural anesthesia through a catheter offers several options for perioperative analgesia. Local anesthetic boluses or infusions can provide profound analgesia. Although the role of low-dose ketamine (<2 mg/kg intramuscular, <1 mg/kg intravenous [IV] or ≤ 20 μg/kg/min by IV infusion) in the treatment of post-operative pain is controversial, perioperative administration of a small dose of ketamine may be valuable to a multimodal analgesic regimen. A local anesthetic can be used for wound infiltration intra-operative to minimized the surgical pain. A prospective randomized study was performed in which 40 patients scheduled for elective open cholecystectomy under general anesthesia admitted to the Medical Research Institute were included and further subdivided into two groups, group A, received thoracic epidural catheter at T7-8, activation was done 20 min before induction of anesthesia with plain bupivacaine at a concentration of 0.25% at a volume of 1 ml/segment aiming to block sensory supply from T4-L2, then received continuous thoracic epidural infusion intra and postoperatively with plain bupivacaine at a concentration of 0.125% at a rate of 5 ml/h for 24 h, group B received 0.3 mg/kg bolus of ketamine at the time of induction then 0.1 mg/kg/h ketamine IV infusion during surgery followed by wound infiltration with 15 ml of plain bupivacaine 0.5% at the time of skin closure. Bupivacaine thoracic epidural analgesia had better control on heart rate and mean arterial blood pressure than ketamine infusion plus wound infiltration with local anesthetic in patients undergoing open cholecystectomy. Thoracic epidural analgesia had better control on hemodynamic changes intra-and postoperatively than ketamine infusion with local wound infiltration in open cholecystectomy.

Quality of Labor Epidural Analgesia and Maternal Outcome With Levobupivacaine and Ropivacaine: A Double-Blinded Randomized Trial.

PubMed

Kumar, T Senthil; Rani, P; Hemanth Kumar, V R; Samal, Sunita; Parthasarathy, S; Ravishankar, M

2017-01-01

Quality of labor analgesia plays a vital role in the maternal outcome. Very few literature are available analyzing the quality of epidural labor analgesia. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of 0.1% levobupivacaine and 0.1% ropivacaine with fentanyl as an adjuvant for epidural labor analgesia in terms of onset, duration, quality of analgesia, and degree of motor blockade. Sixty nulliparous parturients, with singleton uncomplicated pregnancy, were recruited by continuous sampling. Parturients were randomized to receive either levobupivacaine 0.1% or ropivacaine 0.1% with 2 μg/ml fentanyl as an intermittent epidural bolus. The epidural analgesia was initiated with 12 ml of study drug solution in the active stage of labor (cervix 3 cm dilated). Demand bolus was given whenever the visual analog scale (VAS) score >3. Onset, duration, and quality of analgesia and degree of motor blockade were analyzed. Maternal outcome was evaluated in terms of mode of delivery, duration of labor, and assisted vaginal delivery. All the data were recorded in Microsoft Office Excel. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS version 19.0 (IBM SPSS, USA) software with Regression Modules installed. Descriptive analyses were reported as mean and standard deviation of continuous variables. The mean onset of analgesia was shorter in ropivacaine (21.43 ± 2 min) than in levobupivacaine group (23.57 ± 1.71 min) ( P = 0.000). Duration of analgesia was shorter in ropivacaine (60 ± 14 min) than levobupivacaine (68 ± 11 min) ( P = 0.027). Levobupivacaine produced a better quality of analgesia in terms of not perceiving pain and uterine contraction during labor analgesia but was associated with 37% incidence of instrumental delivery. Duration of labor and rate of cesarean section were comparable between the groups. Quality of analgesia in labor epidural was superior to levobupivacaine but was associated with higher incidence of instrumental vaginal delivery.

Do the gaps in the ligamentum flavum in the cervical spine translate into dural punctures? An analysis of 4,396 fluoroscopic interlaminar epidural injections.

PubMed

Manchikanti, Laxmaiah; Malla, Yogesh; Cash, Kimberly A; Pampati, Vidyasagar

2015-01-01

Cervical interlaminar epidural injections are performed frequently in managing chronic neck and upper extremity pain, although less commonly than lumbar interlaminar epidural injections. Recently, the US Food and Drug Administration warnings and safeguards to prevent neurologic complications. These were developed by the Multi-Society Pain Workgroup have taken center stage for all types of epidural injections, including cervical interlaminar epidural injections. The recommendations of safeguards to prevent neurologic complications after epidural steroid injections include that cervical interlaminar epidural injections must be performed utilizing fluoroscopy with anteroposterior, lateral, or oblique views with injection of contrast medium and that entry be limited to the C7-T1 epidural space or occasionally the C6-C7 with requirements for magnetic resonance imaging assessment of the epidural space. To assess the incidence of dural puncture associated with fluoroscopically directed cervical interlaminar epidural injections. A retrospective assessment of patients undergoing cervical interlaminar epidural injections from January 2013 through February 2015. A private interventional pain management practice; a specialty referral center in the United States. The data were collected for 4,396 consecutive cervical interlaminar epidural injections performed from January 2013 through February 2015. The procedures were all performed under fluoroscopic visualization under posteroanterior view with contrast medium injection with lateral view confirmation when indicated. The procedures were performed by one of 2 physicians; the dural puncture and subsequent postoperative complications with level of epidural entry were determined. The outcome was assessment of dural puncture. A review of multiple manuscripts showed that defects in the ligamentum flavum may extend to as much as 100% of the population. However, it also has been shown that among the levels with a gap, the location of a gap in the caudal third of the ligamentum flavum was more frequent than in the middle or cephalic portion of the ligamentum flavum. Among the 4,396 epidural injections performed at C7-T1, C6-C7, and C5-C6, 1,227 were performed at C7-T1; 1,835 were performed at C6-C7; and 1,334 were performed at C5-C6. Dural punctures were observed in 1.8% (24 procedures) at the C5-C6 level entry; 0.87% (16 procedures) at the C6-C7 level entry; and 1.71% (21 procedures) at the C7-T1 level. There was no significant difference among the entry levels. No complications or spinal cord damage or postdural puncture headache were observed. The limitations of this report include that it is an assessment by only 2 well experienced physicians, even though it included a relatively large number of patients. This study illustrates that dural puncture is equally prevalent, though very rare, irrespective of the needle entry level into the epidural space, with an overall dural puncture rate of 1.4%, with 1.8% at the C5-C6 level, 0.87% at the C6-C7 level, and 1.71% at the C7-T1 level. Based on the present literature, it appears that performing the procedure by inserting the needle into the cephalic portion of the intervertebral space rather than the caudal portion may be safer.

Control of cancer pain by epidural infusion of morphine.

PubMed

Waterman, N G; Hughes, S; Foster, W S

1991-10-01

Pain that cannot be controlled by traditional oral and parenteral methods in those patients with advanced cancer can be alleviated by spinal administration of narcotics. Epidural and intrathecal infusion with morphine causes analgesia by blocking spinal receptors without significant long-term central nervous, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary system effects. Of the total of 33 patients, epidural catheters inserted in 20 patients then connected by a subcutaneous tunnel to a continuous infusion system. Implanted pumps were used in each of these patients. Because of the cost and limitations of the implanted pumps, epidural catheters were connected, either directly or by subcutaneous reservoirs, to external ambulatory infusion pumps in the remaining 13 patients. Patient assessment by a linear analogue scale to measure pain levels determined that 23 of the 33 total patients (70%) had excellent or good relief of pain. The delivery of spinal administration of narcotics to treat intractable cancer pain in patients is safe. Most importantly, this method of delivery can be used in community hospitals, in outpatient settings, and in home health care programs.

[Continuous drug infusion in terminal cancer].

PubMed

Ottesen, S; Manger, A T; Monrad, L

1992-05-30

Today's technology provides portable pumps which facilitate continuous infusion of drugs to relieve suffering in terminal disease. Subcutaneous and epidural infusion is now frequently used in our hospital. The most common indications are gastrointestinal obstruction, impaired absorption of drugs, refractory side effects of oral medication or poor compliance because good pain relief is no longer possible orally. During the last days of life, this method may be the only possible approach to good comfort and relief from terminal agitation and anxiety. Of the patients referred to the advisory group for seriously ill and dying in 1990, 64% received subcutaneous infusions and 15% epidural infusions during the last days or weeks of life. Continuous infusion of drugs from portable pumps has become an almost indispensible method of treatment in an ordinary clinic.

Low-Fidelity Haptic Simulation Versus Mental Imagery Training for Epidural Anesthesia Technical Achievement in Novice Anesthesiology Residents: A Randomized Comparative Study.

PubMed

Lim, Grace; Krohner, Robert G; Metro, David G; Rosario, Bedda L; Jeong, Jong-Hyeon; Sakai, Tetsuro

2016-05-01

There are many teaching methods for epidural anesthesia skill acquisition. Previous work suggests that there is no difference in skill acquisition whether novice learners engage in low-fidelity (LF) versus high-fidelity haptic simulation for epidural anesthesia. No study, however, has compared the effect of LF haptic simulation for epidural anesthesia versus mental imagery (MI) training in which no physical practice is attempted. We tested the hypothesis that MI training is superior to LF haptic simulation training for epidural anesthesia skill acquisition. Twenty Post-Graduate Year 2 (PGY-2) anesthesiology residents were tested at the beginning of the training year. After a didactic lecture on epidural anesthesia, they were randomized into 2 groups. Group LF had LF simulation training for epidural anesthesia using a previously described banana simulation technique. Group MI had guided, scripted MI training in which they initially were oriented to the epidural kit components and epidural anesthesia was described stepwise in detail, followed by individual mental rehearsal; no physical practice was undertaken. Each resident then individually performed epidural anesthesia on a partial-human task trainer on 3 consecutive occasions under the direct observation of skilled evaluators who were blinded to group assignment. Technical achievement was assessed with the use of a modified validated skills checklist. Scores (0-21) and duration to task completion (minutes) were recorded. A linear mixed-effects model analysis was performed to determine the differences in scores and duration between groups and over time. There was no statistical difference between the 2 groups for scores and duration to task completion. Both groups showed similarly significant increases (P = 0.0015) in scores over time (estimated mean score [SE]: group MI, 15.9 [0.55] to 17.4 [0.55] to 18.6 [0.55]; group LF, 16.2 [0.55] to 17.7 [0.55] to 18.9 [0.55]). Time to complete the procedure decreased similarly and significantly (P = 0.032) for both groups after the first attempt (estimated mean time [SE]: group MI, 16.0 [1.04] minutes to 13.7 [1.04] minutes to 13.3 [1.04] minutes; group LF: 15.8 [1.04] minutes to 13.4 [1.04] minutes to 13.1 [1.04] minutes). MI is not different from LF simulation training for epidural anesthesia skill acquisition. Education in epidural anesthesia with structured didactics and continual MI training may suffice to prepare novice learners before an attempt on human subjects.

Chronic, otogenic, epidural pneumatocoele with delayed mass effect: case report.

PubMed

Barbieri, F; Fiorino, F

2010-05-01

Mastoid hyperpneumatisation predisposes to intracranial pneumatocoele development, due to the risk of rupture of the thin, bony walls. Intracranial pneumatocoele may be precipitated by even minor head trauma or an abrupt change in middle-ear pressure, with the potential risk of infectious or compressive intracranial complications. A 19-year-old man with mastoid hyperpneumatisation developed a chronic intracranial-epidural pneumatocoele of traumatic origin in the right parieto-occipital area, in contiguity with the posterior mastoid cells. Eighteen months later, after a common cold, the patient developed signs of intracranial hypertension, due to the pneumatocoele spreading to the right epidural anterior fossa. A large right mastoidectomy extended to the retrosigmoid cells was performed, and a watertight seal applied over a large retrosigmoid cell using bovine pericardium and a mixture of bone powder and fibrin glue. The patient was discharged on post-operative day three with no symptoms. Ten days after surgery, computed tomography monitoring showed complete reabsorption of the pneumatocoele. In cases of chronic, otogenic, epidural pneumatocoele, the possibility of the sudden onset of serious complications suggests the need for early repair of the communication between the temporal bone and the intracranial compartments. Closure of the fistula using autogenic and/or allogenic materials is usually adequate to resolve the pneumatocoele.

Thoracic epidural analgesia in donor hepatectomy: An analysis.

PubMed

Koul, Archna; Pant, Deepanjali; Rudravaram, Swetha; Sood, Jayashree

2018-02-01

The purpose of this study is to analyze whether supplementation of general anesthesia (GA) with thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA) for right lobe donor hepatectomy is a safe modality of pain relief in terms of changes in postoperative coagulation profile, incidence of epidural catheter-related complications, and timing of removal of epidural catheter. Retrospective analysis of the record of 104 patients who received TEA for right lobe donor hepatectomy was done. Platelet count, international normalized ratio, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase were recorded postoperatively until the removal of the epidural catheter. The day of removal of the epidural catheter and visual analogue scale (VAS) scores were also recorded. Any complication encountered was documented. Intraoperatively, central venous pressure (CVP), hemodynamic variables, and volume of intravenous fluids infused were also noted. Statistical analysis was performed by using SPSS statistical package, version 17.0 (SPSS Inc. Chicago, IL). Continuous variables were presented as mean ± standard deviation. A total of 90% of patients had mean VAS scores between 1 and 4 in the postoperative period between days 1 and 5. None of the patients had a VAS score above 5. Although changes in coagulation status were encountered in all patients in the postoperative period, these changes were transient and did not persist beyond postoperative day (POD) 5. There was no delay in removal of the epidural catheter, and the majority of patients had the catheter removed by POD 4. There was no incidence of epidural hematoma. Aside from good intraoperative and postoperative analgesia, TEA in combination with balanced GA and fluid restriction enabled maintenance of low CVP and prevention of hepatic congestion. In conclusion, vigilant use of TEA appears to be safe during donor hepatectomy. Living liver donors should not be denied efficient analgesia for the fear of complications. Liver Transplantation 24 214-221 2018 AASLD. © 2017 by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.

The potential contributing effect of ketorolac and fluoxetine to a spinal epidural hematoma following a cervical interlaminar epidural steroid injection: a case report and narrative review.

PubMed

Chien, George C Chang; McCormick, Zack; Araujo, Marco; Candido, Kenneth D

2014-01-01

Cervical interlaminar epidural steroid injections (ESIs) are commonly performed as one part of a multi-modal analgesic regimen in the management of upper extremity radicular pain. Spinal epidural hematoma (SEH) is a rare complication with a reported incidence ranging from 1.38 in 10,000 to 1 in 190,000 epidurals. Current American Society of Regional Anesthesia (ASRA), American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians (ASIPP), and the International Spine Intervention Society (ISIS) recommendations are that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) do not need to be withheld prior to epidural anesthesia. We report a case wherein intramuscular ketorolac and oral fluoxetine contributed to a SEH and tetraplegia following a cervical interlaminar (ESI). A 66 year-old woman with chronic renal insufficiency and neck pain radiating into her right upper extremity presented for evaluation and was deemed an appropriate CESI candidate. Cervical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed multi-level neuroforaminal stenosis and degenerative intervertebral discs. Utilizing a loss of resistance to saline technique, an 18-gauge Tuohy-type needle entered the epidural space at C6-7. After negative aspiration, 4 mL of saline with 80 mg of methyl-prednisolone was injected. Immediately thereafter, the patient reported significant spasmodic-type localized neck pain with no neurologic status changes. A decision was made to administer 30 mg intramuscular ketorolac as treatment for the spasmodic-type pain. En route home, she developed a sudden onset of acute tetraplegia. She was brought to the emergency department for evaluation including platelet and coagulation studies which were normal. MRI demonstrated an epidural hematoma extending from C5 to T7. She underwent a bilateral C5-T6 laminectomy with epidural hematoma evacuation and was discharged to an acute inpatient rehabilitation hospital. Chronic renal insufficiency, spinal stenosis, female gender, and increasing age have been identified as risk factors for SEH following epidural anesthesia. In the present case, it is postulated that after the spinal vascular system was penetrated, hemostasis was compromised by the combined antiplatelet effects of ketorolac, fluoxetine, fish oil, and vitamin E. Although generally well tolerated, the role of ketorolac, a potent anti-platelet medication used for pain relief in the peri-neuraxial intervention period, should be seriously scrutinized when other analgesic options are readily available. Although the increased risk of bleeding for the alternative medications are minimal, they are nevertheless well documented. Additionally, their additive impairment on hemostasis has not been well characterized. Withholding NSAIDs, fluoxetine, fish oil, and vitamin E in the peri-procedural period is relatively low risk and should be considered for all patients with multiple risk factors for SEH.

Continuous decoding of human grasp kinematics using epidural and subdural signals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Flint, Robert D.; Rosenow, Joshua M.; Tate, Matthew C.; Slutzky, Marc W.

2017-02-01

Objective. Restoring or replacing function in paralyzed individuals will one day be achieved through the use of brain-machine interfaces. Regaining hand function is a major goal for paralyzed patients. Two competing prerequisites for the widespread adoption of any hand neuroprosthesis are accurate control over the fine details of movement, and minimized invasiveness. Here, we explore the interplay between these two goals by comparing our ability to decode hand movements with subdural and epidural field potentials (EFPs). Approach. We measured the accuracy of decoding continuous hand and finger kinematics during naturalistic grasping motions in five human subjects. We recorded subdural surface potentials (electrocorticography; ECoG) as well as with EFPs, with both standard- and high-resolution electrode arrays. Main results. In all five subjects, decoding of continuous kinematics significantly exceeded chance, using either EGoG or EFPs. ECoG decoding accuracy compared favorably with prior investigations of grasp kinematics (mean ± SD grasp aperture variance accounted for was 0.54 ± 0.05 across all subjects, 0.75 ± 0.09 for the best subject). In general, EFP decoding performed comparably to ECoG decoding. The 7-20 Hz and 70-115 Hz spectral bands contained the most information about grasp kinematics, with the 70-115 Hz band containing greater information about more subtle movements. Higher-resolution recording arrays provided clearly superior performance compared to standard-resolution arrays. Significance. To approach the fine motor control achieved by an intact brain-body system, it will be necessary to execute motor intent on a continuous basis with high accuracy. The current results demonstrate that this level of accuracy might be achievable not just with ECoG, but with EFPs as well. Epidural placement of electrodes is less invasive, and therefore may incur less risk of encephalitis or stroke than subdural placement of electrodes. Accurately decoding motor commands at the epidural level may be an important step towards a clinically viable brain-machine interface.

Comparison of extended-release epidural morphine with femoral nerve block to patient-controlled epidural analgesia for postoperative pain control of total knee arthroplasty: a case-controlled study.

PubMed

Sugar, Scott L; Hutson, Larry R; Shannon, Patrick; Thomas, Leslie C; Nossaman, Bobby D

2011-01-01

Because newer anticoagulation strategies for total knee replacement present potentially increased risk of neuraxial analgesia, there is movement away from using patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) for pain control. This concern opens the door for other regional modalities in postoperative analgesia, including the use of extended-release epidural morphine (EREM) combined with a femoral nerve block (FNB). This study was a prospective observational chart review with the use of recent historical controls in patients undergoing unilateral total knee replacement. Outcomes of interest were 0-, 24-, and 48-hour postoperative pain scores using the visual analog scale (VAS); incidence of side effects; and time spent in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU). Postoperative pain scores at 24 and 48 hours in the EREM and FNB group (n  =  14; 2.6 ± 0.6 and 5.0 ± 0.9, respectively) were comparable to the PCEA group (n  =  14; 3.8 ± 0.6 and 4.2 ± 0.9). The PACU time was shorter in the EREM and FNB group (2.4 ± 0.3 hours) compared with PCEA (3.6 ± 0.3 hours, P  =  .02). No statistically significant difference was found in the incidence of side effects between the 2 groups. The VAS scores at 24 and 48 hours indicate that EREM and FNB provide comparable analgesia to PCEA. The trend toward shorter PACU times represents an opportunity for cost-identification analysis. The study data are limited by their observational nature and the small number of patients involved; nevertheless, this study demonstrates a therapeutic equivalence to PCEA that may be more cost effective.

Spinal epidural neurostimulation for treatment of acute and chronic intractable pain: initial and long term results.

PubMed

Richardson, R R; Siqueira, E B; Cerullo, L J

1979-09-01

Spinal epidural neurostimulation, which evolved from dorsal column stimulation, has been found to be effective in the treatment of acute and chronic intractable pain. Urban and Hashold have shown that it is a safe, simplified alternative to dorsal column stimulation, especially because laminectomy is not required if the electrodes are inserted percutaneously. Percutaneous epidural neurostimulation is also advantageous because there can be a diagnostic trial period before permanent internalization and implantation. This diagnostic and therapeutic modality has been used in 36 patients during the past 3 years at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Eleven of these patients had acute intractable pain, which was defined as pain of less than 1 year in duration. Initial postimplantation results from the 36 patients indicate that spinal epidural neurostimulation is most effective in treating the intractable pain of diabetes, arachnoiditis, and post-traumatic and postamputation neuroma. Long term follow-up, varying from 1 year to 3 years postimplantation in the 20 initially responding patients, indicates that the neurostimulation continues to provide significant pain relief (50% or greater) in a majority of the patients who experienced initial significant pain relief.

Comparison thoracic epidural and intercostal block to improve ventilation parameters and reduce pain in patients with multiple rib fractures.

PubMed

Hashemzadeh, Shahryar; Hashemzadeh, Khosrov; Hosseinzadeh, Hamzeh; Aligholipour Maleki, Raheleh; Golzari, Samad E J; Golzari, Samad

2011-01-01

Chest wall blunt trauma causes multiple rib fractures and will often be associated with significant pain and may compromise ventilator mechanics. Analgesia has great roll in rib fracture therapies, opioid are useful, but when used as sole agent may require such high dose that they produce respiratory depression, especially in elderly .the best analgesia for a severe chest wall injury is a continuous epidural infusion of local anesthetic. This provides complete analgesia allowing inspiration and coughing without of the risk of respiratory depression. sixty adult patients who with multiple rib fractures were enrolled in this study. They were divided into Group A or thoracic epidural with bupivacaine 0.125 % +1mg/5ml morphine and group B or intercostal block with 0.25% bupivacaine. The patients were assessed through ICU and hospital stay length, ventilation function tests. Pain score among the patients was measured with verbal rating scale, before and after administration of the analgesia. We found a significant improvement in ventilatory function tests during the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd days after epidural analgesia compared with the intercostal block (P < 0.004). Changes in the visual Analogue Scale were associated with marked improvement regarding pain at rest and pain caused by coughing and deep breathing in group A compared group B... ICU and hospital stay markedly reduced in Group A. thoracic epidural analgesia is superior to intercostals block regarding pain relief of rib fractures. Patients who received epidural analgesia had significantly lower pain scores at all studied times.

Aspergillus spinal epidural abscess.

PubMed

Gupta, P K; Mahapatra, A K; Gaind, R; Bhandari, S; Musa, M M; Lad, S D

2001-07-01

Spinal abscess due to Aspergillus is rare. A young boy with chronic granulomatous disease and aspergillosis of the rib had been treated with antifungal treatment 3 months earlier. The patient presented with a brief history of progressive paraparesis. Imaging showed D9--11 vertebral involvement and destruction of the D10 vertebral body with angulation and a large dorsally placed, multiloculated epidural abscess extending from D6 to L2. There was also extensive granulation anterior to and on either side of the vertebrae. The patient underwent extensive laminectomy and decompression of all the loculi and partial removal of the granulation tissue. Aggressive medical treatment was started. The authors recommend an aggressive surgical and medical approach in such cases of disseminated invasive aspergillosis, even though the result may not be very satisfactory. This report discusses the full clinical profile and management of Aspergillus spinal epidural abscess and emphasizes the need to follow up these cases to detect recurrence and new lesions, even if the patients are on adequate medical treatment. In spite of all efforts, high morbidity and mortality is common in such patients. Copyright 2001 S. Karger AG, Basel

Histological evidence for drug diffusion across the cerebral meninges into the underlying neocortex in rats.

PubMed

Ludvig, Nandor; Sheffield, Lynette G; Tang, Hai M; Baptiste, Shirn L; Devinsky, Orrin; Kuzniecky, Ruben I

2008-01-10

Transmeningeal pharmacotherapy has been proposed to treat neurological disorders with localized pathology, such as intractable focal epilepsy. As a step toward understanding the diffusion and intracortical spread of transmeningeally delivered drugs, the present study used histological methods to determine the extent to which a marker compound, N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA), can diffuse into the neocortex through the meninges. Rats were implanted with bilateral parietal cortical epidural cups filled with 50 mM NMDA on the right side and artificial cerebrospinal fluid (ACSF) in the contralateral side. After 24 h, the histological effects of these treatments were evaluated using cresyl violet (Nissl) staining. The epidural NMDA exposure caused neuronal loss that in most animals extended from the pial surface through layer V. The area indicated by this neuronal loss was localized to the neocortical region underlying the epidural cup. These results suggest that NMDA-like, water soluble, small molecules can diffuse through the subdural/subarachnoid space into the underlying neocortex and spread in a limited fashion, close to the meningeal penetration site.

Continuous femoral versus epidural block for attainment of 120° knee flexion after total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Sakai, Norihiro; Inoue, Takaya; Kunugiza, Yasuo; Tomita, Tetsuya; Mashimo, Takashi

2013-05-01

We conducted the prospective randomized controlled trial to test that continuous femoral nerve block (CFNB) improves attainment of 120° knee flexion compared to continuous epidural analgesia (CEA). Sixty-six patients scheduled for unilateral total knee arthroplasty were randomized into two groups; infusion of ropivacaine 0.15% into CEA or CFNB to third postoperative days. We studied the time required to attain 120° knee flexion, variations in thigh and calf circumferences around the treated knee, pain scores, rehabilitation milestones, the need for adjuvant analgesics, and side effects. CFNB patients attained earlier knee flexion to 120°, lower variations in thigh and calf circumferences, less pain during rehabilitation, and less need for adjuvant analgesics. CFNB is a better pain management strategy that accelerates knee flexion rehabilitation. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of thoracic epidural block on infection-induced inflammatory response: A randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Tyagi, Asha; Bansal, Anuradha; Das, Shukla; Sethi, Ashok Kumar; Kakkar, Aanchal

2017-04-01

Epidural block decreases inflammation and oxidative stress in experimental models of sepsis as well as after surgery. There is, however, no clinical evidence evaluating its effect on infection-induced inflammatory process. The present trial evaluated the effect of thoracic epidural block (TEB) on systemic inflammatory response in patients with small intestinal perforation peritonitis. Outcome measures included systemic levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, procalcitonin, and C-reactive protein and postoperative Sepsis-Related Organ Failure Assessment scores. Sixty adult patients undergoing emergency abdominal laparotomy without any contraindication to TEB were randomized to receive general anesthesia alone or in combination with the TEB, which was continued for 48 hours postoperatively (n = 30 each). Use of TEB was associated with a statistically insignificant trend of preservation of anti-inflammatory response depicted by higher levels of IL-10 and lack of alteration in proinflammatory IL-6, along with appreciably lower procalcitonin levels, decreased incidence of raised C-reactive protein levels, and better postoperative SOFA score (P > .05). It resulted in significantly better postoperative respiratory function and faster return of bowel motility (P < .05). Although the sample size is too small for conclusive statement, none of the patients developed epidural abscess. Thoracic epidural block showed a trend toward better preservation of anti-inflammatory response and clinical recovery that, however, failed to achieve statistical significance (P > .05). Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Multimodal analgesia without parenteral narcotics for total knee arthroplasty.

PubMed

Dorr, Lawrence D; Raya, Julio; Long, William T; Boutary, Myriam; Sirianni, Leigh Ellen

2008-06-01

Use of parenteral narcotics after total knee arthroplasty is considered by most orthopedic surgeons to be the standard of care. This study tested the hypothesis that a multimodal oral pain medication protocol could control pain and minimize complications of parenteral narcotics. Postoperative oral analgesia was augmented with either continuous epidural infusion or continuous femoral infusion using ropivacaine only. Seventy patients had total knee arthroplasty with a protocol that included preemptive oral analgesics, epidural anesthesia, pericapsular analgesic injection, and postoperative analgesia without parenteral opioids. The average daily pain score was less than 4 out of 10, nausea occurred in 15 patients (21%), emesis in 1 patient (1.4%), and there were no severe complications. This study proved the hypothesis that pain after total knee arthroplasty could be effectively managed without routine use of parenteral opioids.

Conservative vs. Surgical Management of Post-Traumatic Epidural Hematoma: A Case and Review of Literature

PubMed Central

Maugeri, Rosario; Anderson, David Greg; Graziano, Francesca; Meccio, Flavia; Visocchi, Massimiliano; Iacopino, Domenico Gerardo

2015-01-01

Patient: Male, 30 Final Diagnosis: Acute epidural hematoma Symptoms: — Medication: — Clinical Procedure: Observation Specialty: Neurosurgery Objective: Unusual clinical course Background: Trauma is the leading cause of death in people younger than 45 years and head injury is the main cause of trauma mortality. Although epidural hematomas are relatively uncommon (less than 1% of all patients with head injuries and fewer than 10% of those who are comatose), they should always be considered in evaluation of a serious head injury. Patients with epidural hematomas who meet surgical criteria and receive prompt surgical intervention can have an excellent prognosis, presumably owing to limited underlying primary brain damage from the traumatic event. The decision to perform a surgery in a patient with a traumatic extraaxial hematoma is dependent on several factors (neurological status, size of hematoma, age of patients, CT findings) but also may depend on the judgement of the treating neurosurgeon. Case Report: A 30-year old man arrived at our Emergency Department after a traumatic brain injury. General examination revealed severe headache, no motor or sensory disturbances, and no clinical signs of intracranial hypertension. A CT scan documented a significant left fronto-parietal epidural hematoma, which was considered suitable for surgical evacuation. The patient refused surgery. Following CT scan revealed a minimal increase in the size of the hematoma and of midline shift. The neurologic examination maintained stable and the patient continued to refuse the surgical treatment. Next follow up CT scans demonstrated a progressive resorption of hematoma. Conclusions: We report an unusual case of a remarkable epidural hematoma managed conservatively with a favorable clinical outcome. This case report is intended to rather add to the growing knowledge regarding the best management for this serious and acute pathology. PMID:26567227

Serum levels of bupivacaine after pre-peritoneal bolus vs. epidural bolus injection for analgesia in abdominal surgery: A safety study within a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Mungroop, Timothy H; van Samkar, Ganapathy; Geerts, Bart F; van Dieren, Susan; Besselink, Marc G; Veelo, Denise P; Lirk, Philipp

2017-01-01

Continuous wound infiltration (CWI) has become increasingly popular in recent years as an alternative to epidural analgesia. As catheters are not placed until the end of surgery, more intraoperative opioid analgesics might be needed. We, therefore, added a single pre-peritoneal bolus of bupivacaine at the start of laparotomy, similar to the bolus given with epidural analgesia. This was a comparative study within a randomized controlled trial (NTR4948). Patients undergoing hepato-pancreato-biliary surgery received either a pre-peritoneal bolus of 30ml bupivacaine 0.25%, or an epidural bolus of 10ml bupivacaine 0.25% at the start of laparotomy. In a subgroup of patients, we sampled blood and determined bupivacaine serum levels 20, 40, 60 and 80 minutes after bolus injection. We assumed toxicity of bupivacaine to be >1000 ng/ml. A total of 20 patients participated in this sub-study. All plasma levels measured as well as the upper limit of the predicted 99% confidence intervals per time point were well below the toxicity limit. In a mixed linear-effect model both groups did not differ statistically significant (p = 0.131). The intra-operative use of opioids was higher with CWI as compared to epidural (86 (SD 73) μg sufentanil vs. 50 (SD 32). In this exploratory study, the pre-peritoneal bolus using bupivacaine resulted in serum bupivacaine concentrations well below the commonly accepted toxic threshold. With CWI more additional analgesics are needed intraoperatively as compared to epidural analgesia, although this is compensated by a reduction in use of vasopressors with CWI. Netherlands Trial Register NTR4948.

Serum levels of bupivacaine after pre-peritoneal bolus vs. epidural bolus injection for analgesia in abdominal surgery: A safety study within a randomized controlled trial

PubMed Central

Geerts, Bart F.; van Dieren, Susan; Besselink, Marc G.; Veelo, Denise P.; Lirk, Philipp

2017-01-01

Background Continuous wound infiltration (CWI) has become increasingly popular in recent years as an alternative to epidural analgesia. As catheters are not placed until the end of surgery, more intraoperative opioid analgesics might be needed. We, therefore, added a single pre-peritoneal bolus of bupivacaine at the start of laparotomy, similar to the bolus given with epidural analgesia. Methods This was a comparative study within a randomized controlled trial (NTR4948). Patients undergoing hepato-pancreato-biliary surgery received either a pre-peritoneal bolus of 30ml bupivacaine 0.25%, or an epidural bolus of 10ml bupivacaine 0.25% at the start of laparotomy. In a subgroup of patients, we sampled blood and determined bupivacaine serum levels 20, 40, 60 and 80 minutes after bolus injection. We assumed toxicity of bupivacaine to be >1000 ng/ml. Results A total of 20 patients participated in this sub-study. All plasma levels measured as well as the upper limit of the predicted 99% confidence intervals per time point were well below the toxicity limit. In a mixed linear-effect model both groups did not differ statistically significant (p = 0.131). The intra-operative use of opioids was higher with CWI as compared to epidural (86 (SD 73) μg sufentanil vs. 50 (SD 32). Conclusions In this exploratory study, the pre-peritoneal bolus using bupivacaine resulted in serum bupivacaine concentrations well below the commonly accepted toxic threshold. With CWI more additional analgesics are needed intraoperatively as compared to epidural analgesia, although this is compensated by a reduction in use of vasopressors with CWI. Trial registration Netherlands Trial Register NTR4948 PMID:28614364

[Effect of epidural drainage and dural tenting suture on epidural hematoma in 145 cases of craniotomy].

PubMed

Zhao, Jie; Liu, Zhixiong; Liu, Yunsheng; Liu, Jinfang; Fang, Wenhua; Rao, Yihua; Yang, Liang; Yuan, Xianrui

2010-03-01

To evaluate the efficacy of dural tenting suture and epidural drainage in craniotomy. In 145 cases of intracranial lesions, dural tenting suture and epidural drainage were performed to prevent epidural hematoma. Postoperative computed tomography (CT) showed no epidural hematoma required surgery in both groups. Both dural tenting suture and epidural drainage are effective in preventing epidural hematoma. Hemostasis is the key step. Dural tenting suture without epidural drainage relieves psychological stress. It decreases the risk of intracranial infection and avoids some unusual complications.

Transcranial and Epidural Approach for Spontaneous Cerebrospinal Fluid Leakage Due to Meningoencephalocele of the Lateral Sphenoid Sinus.

PubMed

Shintoku, Ryosuke; Tosaka, Masahiko; Shimizu, Tatsuya; Yoshimoto, Yuhei

2018-01-01

We experienced a case of sphenoid sinus type meningoencephalocele manifesting as severe cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea. A 35-year-old man became aware of serous nasal discharge 1 year previously, which had gradually worsened. The nasal discharge was diagnosed as CSF rhinorrhea. Head computed tomography (CT) showed several small depressions in the bone of the left middle cranial fossa, and the largest depression extended through the bone to the lateral sphenoid sinus. Head magnetic resonance imaging revealed that the meningoencephalocele projected to the lateral sphenoid sinus, through this small bone defect of the middle cranial fossa. We performed a combined craniotomy and epidural approach without intradural procedures using neuronavigation. Multiple meningoencephaloceles protruded into small depressions in the middle skull base. The small protrusions not passing through the sphenoid sinus were coagulated. The largest protrusion causing the CSF leakage was identified by neuronavigation. This meningoencephalocele was cut. Both the dural and bone sides were closed with double layers to prevent CSF leakage. The CSF rhinorrhea completely stopped after the surgery. In our case, identification of the leak site was easy with neuronavigation based on bone window CT. The epidural approach also has significant advantages with double layer closure, including both the dural and bone sides. If the site of CSF leakage is outside the foramen rotundum (as with the most common type of lateral sphenoid sinus meningoencephalocele), we recommend the epidural approach using neuronavigation for surgical treatment.

Continuous wound infiltration or epidural analgesia for pain prevention after hepato-pancreato-biliary surgery within an enhanced recovery program (POP-UP trial): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Mungroop, Timothy H; Veelo, Denise P; Busch, Olivier R; van Dieren, Susan; van Gulik, Thomas M; Karsten, Tom M; de Castro, Steve M; Godfried, Marc B; Thiel, Bram; Hollmann, Markus W; Lirk, Philipp; Besselink, Marc G

2015-12-09

Postoperative pain prevention is essential for the recovery of surgical patients. Continuous (thoracic) epidural analgesia (CEA) is routinely practiced for major abdominal surgery, but evidence is conflicting on its benefits in this setting. Potential disadvantages of epidural analgesia are a) perioperative hypotension, frequently requiring additional intravenous fluid boluses or prolonged use of vasopressors; b) relatively high failure rates, with periods of inadequate analgesia; and c) the risk of rare but serious, at times persistent, neurologic complications (hematoma and abscess). In recent years, continuous (subfascial) wound infiltration (CWI) plus patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) has been suggested as a safe and reliable alternative, which does not have the previously mentioned disadvantages, but evidence from multicenter trials targeting a specific surgical population is lacking. We hypothesize that CWI+PCA is equally as effective as CEA, without the mentioned disadvantages. POP-UP is a randomized controlled noninferiority multicenter trial, recruiting adult patients scheduled for elective hepato-pancreato-biliary surgery via laparotomy in an enhanced recovery setting. A total of 102 patients are being randomly allocated to CWI+PCA or (P)CEA. Our primary endpoint is the Overall Benefit of Analgesic Score (OBAS), a composite endpoint of pain intensity, opioid-related adverse effects and patient satisfaction, during postoperative days 1 to 5. Secondary endpoints include length of the hospital stay, number of patients with severe pain, and the use of rescue medication. POP-UP is a pragmatic trial that will provide evidence of whether CWI+PCA is noninferior as compared to (P)CEA after elective hepato-pancreato-biliary surgery via laparotomy in an enhanced recovery setting. If this hypothesis is confirmed, this finding could contribute to more widespread implementation of this technique, especially when the described disadvantages of epidural analgesia are less often observed with CWI+PCA. Netherlands Trial Register NTR4948 (registry date 2 January 2015).

Retrospective analysis of the incidence of epidural haematoma in patients with epidural catheters and abnormal coagulation parameters.

PubMed

Gulur, P; Tsui, B; Pathak, R; Koury, K M; Lee, H

2015-05-01

Epidural haematoma is a rare but potentially catastrophic complication associated with epidural catheterization. The times of insertion and removal of epidural catheters are high-risk periods for epidural haematoma formation, especially with abnormal coagulation parameters. There is a lack of data on the incidence of epidural haematoma in patients with abnormal coagulation parameters. A retrospective analysis was undertaken from 2002 to 2009 on patients with an epidural catheter. Queries were performed on the coagulation parameters for the dates of placement and removal of the catheters and on all documented epidural haematoma cases. During the study period, 11 600 epidural catheters were placed. In the setting of abnormal coagulation parameters, 278 (2.4%) epidural catheters were placed and 351 (3%) were removed. Two epidural haematomas occurred; both patients had epidural catheters and spinal drains placed for vascular procedures with abnormal coagulation parameters after operatation. The haematomas occurred after removal of the catheters. Based on our study, the incidence of epidural haematoma in patients with abnormal coagulation parameters is 1 in 315 patients, with the lower limit of the 95% confidence interval at 87 and the upper limit at 2597. The risk of epidural haematoma is clearly elevated with abnormal coagulation parameters. Our data suggest that as the incidence of epidural haematoma with neuraxial access in patients with abnormal coagulation is not 100%, individual risk-benefit evaluations are warranted. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Journal of Anaesthesia. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

The effect of epidural education on Primigravid Women's decision to request epidural analgesia: a cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Alakeely, Maha Heshaam; Almutari, Arwa Khalaf; Alhekail, Ghadah Abdulrhman; Abuoliat, Zainah Ahmad; Althubaiti, Alaa; AboItai, Laila Abdul-Rahman; Al-Kadri, Hanan

2018-05-03

Epidural analgesia represents one of the most effective pharmacological ways to relieve labour pain. Women's awareness regarding the use of epidurals is increasing. As the decision to use epidural analgesia during labour is affected by many social, personal and medical factors, this study aimed to explore the factors contributing to a pregnant women's decision to use epidurals and to understand the benefit of implementing a health education program regarding epidural analgesia. A cross-sectional study was conducted with primigravid women visiting the Obstetric Clinics for their routine antenatal care at King Abdul-Aziz Medical City in Riyadh from October 2014 to December 2016. The participating pregnant women were educated on the use of epidural analgesia during labour by a professional health educator utilizing specially designed educational materials. We assessed the relationship between the women's decision to request epidural analgesia and their age, place of residence, occupation, income and education level using a questionnaire. A total of 81 primigravid women were included in the study. Employed pregnant women were more likely to request epidural analgesia than non-employed women (46.7% vs. 18.2%, P = 0.019). After education, significantly more pregnant women were planning to request epidurals (mean score for answers before education was 2.12 ± 0.578 vs. 2.27 ± 0.592 after education, P = 0.013). Other variables, such as age, level of education, income and place of residence were not significantly associated with the participants' decision to request epidural analgesia. Health education on epidural analgesia is an important factor in increasing primigravid women's desire to request epidural analgesia. Education on epidural analgesia during antenatal care is needed for better decision making regarding the use of epidural analgesia during labour.

A survey of combined epidural-propofol anesthesia with noninvasive positive pressure ventilation as a minimally invasive anesthetic protocol.

PubMed

Iwama, Hiroshi; Obara, Shinju; Ozawa, Sachie; Furuta, Setsuo; Ohmizo, Hiroshi; Watanabe, Kazuhiro; Kaneko, Toshikazu

2003-07-01

Combined epidural-propofol anesthesia with use of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) via the nose has been used routinely in our operating theaters. The purpose of this report was to present a survey of this anesthesia. 265 adult patients undergoing lower extremity or lower abdominal gynecological surgery during 1999 were examined. After epidural anesthesia, patients were given propofol infusion. NPPV was applied with an inspiratory/expiratory positive airway pressure of 14/8 cm H2O, a respiratory rate of 10 breaths/min, and oxygen delivery into the nasal mask resulting in a concentration of 40% or an inspiratory oxygen fraction of 0.35. Epidural anesthesia was continuously applied after surgery for postoperative pain relief. Various data related to the surgery or anesthesia were evaluated both on the day of surgery and on postoperative day 1. Of 265 patients, 3 patients could not receive our anesthetic protocol. Of the residual 262 patients, no patients showed serious clinical problems during anesthesia, excluding for hypotension, which was observed in 31-56% patients and was treated with ephedrine injection. Patients informed us of good analgesia (98%), feelings (78%) and dreams (47%). On postoperative day 1, postoperative analgesia and mood conditions were satisfactory. There were no patients complaining of intraoperative awareness. The principle of our anesthesia consists of epidural anesthesia, sole propofol infusion and noninvasive airway management, so as to provide an anesthetic technique with minimal invasiveness. Although airway maintenance by NPPV is not always suitable, our anesthesia is practicable for certain kinds of operations.

The role of fluoroscopic interlaminar epidural injections in managing chronic pain of lumbar disc herniation or radiculitis: a randomized, double-blind trial.

PubMed

Manchikanti, Laxmaiah; Singh, Vijay; Cash, Kimberly A; Pampati, Vidyasagar; Falco, Frank J E

2013-09-01

There is continued debate on the effectiveness, indications, and medical necessity of epidural injections in managing pain and disability from lumbar disc herniation, despite extensive utilization. There is paucity of literature on interlaminar epidural injections in managing lumbar disc herniation or radiculitis in contemporary interventional pain management settings utilizing fluoroscopy. A randomized, double-blind, active-control trial was undertaken to assess the effectiveness of lumbar interlaminar epidural injections with or without steroids for disc herniation and radiculitis. The primary outcome was defined as pain relief and functional status improvement of ≥ 50%. One hundred twenty patients were randomly assigned to 1 of the 2 groups. Group I patients received lumbar interlaminar injections containing a local anesthetic (lidocaine 0.5%, 6 mL), whereas Group II patients received lumbar interlaminar epidural injections of 0.5% lidocaine, 5 mL, mixed with 1 mL of non-particulate betamethasone. In the patients who responded with initial 2 procedures with at least 3 weeks of relief, significant improvement was seen in 80% of the patients in the local anesthetic group and 86% of the patients in the local anesthetic and steroid group. The overall average procedures per year were 3.6 in the local anesthetic group and 4.1 in the local anesthetic and steroid group, with an average relief of 33.7 ± 18.1 weeks in the local anesthetic group and 39.1 ± 12.2 weeks in the local anesthetic and steroid group over a period of 52 weeks in the overall population. Lumbar interlaminar epidural injections of local anesthetic with or without steroids might be effective in patients with disc herniation or radiculitis, with potential superiority of steroids compared with local anesthetic alone at 1 year follow-up. © 2012 The Authors Pain Practice © 2012 World Institute of Pain.

Registered nurses' and midwives' knowledge of epidural analgesia.

PubMed

Bird, Annette; Wallis, Marianne; Chaboyer, Wendy

2009-01-01

Despite epidural analgesia increasingly being utilized in hospitals, very little research-based evidence is available about registered nurses' (RNs) and midwives' knowledge of this technique. To describe the current epidural knowledge levels of RNs and midwives in a multi-site setting. RNs and midwives at four, regional teaching facilities completed an epidural knowledge test. The instrument included demographic items and five knowledge subscales relating to epidural analgesia: spinal cord anatomy and physiology; epidural pharmacology; complications of epidural analgesia; assessment of sensory and motor blockade and the general management of patients with epidural analgesia. A total of 408 (99.7% response) RNs and midwives completed the test. Respondents demonstrated good knowledge of sensory and motor blockade assessment and the general management of epidural analgesia subscales with correct responses to 75 and 77% of the questions in these subscales, respectively. Fair knowledge relating to the spinal cord anatomy and physiology subscale was demonstrated with 69% of the questions answered correctly. The knowledge subscales relating to epidural pharmacology (57% correct responses) and the complications of epidural analgesia (56% correct responses) were problematic for the sample. The research results provide generalizable information about what RNs and midwives know about epidural analgesia. These results are an important guide in the development of new and existing dedicated epidural education programs. The results also provide some direction for further research into this important topic.

Epidural Catheter Placement in Morbidly Obese Parturients with the Use of an Epidural Depth Equation prior to Ultrasound Visualization

PubMed Central

Singh, Sukhdip; Wirth, Keith M.; Phelps, Amy L.; Badve, Manasi H.; Shah, Tanmay H.; Vallejo, Manuel C.

2013-01-01

Background. Previously, Balki determined the Pearson correlation coefficient with the use of ultrasound (US) was 0.85 in morbidly obese parturients. We aimed to determine if the use of the epidural depth equation (EDE) in conjunction with US can provide better clinical correlation in estimating the distance from the skin to the epidural space in morbidly obese parturients. Methods. One hundred sixty morbidly obese (≥40 kg/m2) parturients requesting labor epidural analgesia were enrolled. Before epidural catheter placement, EDE was used to estimate depth to the epidural space. This estimation was used to help visualize the epidural space with the transverse and midline longitudinal US views and to measure depth to epidural space. The measured epidural depth was made available to the resident trainee before needle insertion. Actual needle depth (ND) to the epidural space was recorded. Results. Pearson's correlation coefficients comparing actual (ND) versus US estimated depth to the epidural space in the longitudinal median and transverse planes were 0.905 (95% CI: 0.873 to 0.929) and 0.899 (95% CI: 0.865 to 0.925), respectively. Conclusion. Use of the epidural depth equation (EDE) in conjunction with the longitudinal and transverse US views results in better clinical correlation than with the use of US alone. PMID:23983645

A pulsatile pressure waveform is a sensitive marker for confirming the location of the thoracic epidural space.

PubMed

Lennox, Pamela H; Umedaly, Hamed S; Grant, Raymer P; White, S Adrian; Fitzmaurice, Brett G; Evans, Kenneth G

2006-10-01

The purpose of this study was to assess the validity of using a pulsatile, pressure waveform transduced from the epidural space through an epidural needle or catheter to confirm correct placement for maximal analgesia and to compare 3 different types of catheters' ability to transduce a waveform. A single-center, prospective, randomized trial. A tertiary-referral hospital. Eighty-one patients undergoing posterolateral thoracotomy who required a thoracic epidural catheter for postoperative pain management. Each epidural needle and each epidural catheter was transduced to determine if there was a pulsatile waveform exhibited. Sensitivity of the pulsatile waveform transduced through an epidural needle to identify correct placement of the epidural needle and the sensitivity of each catheter type to identify placement were compared. In 79 of 81 cases (97.5%), the waveform transduced directly through the epidural needle had a pulsatile characteristic as determined by blinded observers. In a total of 53 of 81 epidural catheters (65.4%), the transduced waveform displayed pulsations. Twenty-four of 27 catheters in group S-P/Sims Portex (Smiths Medical MD, Inc, St Paul, MN) (88.9%) transduced a pulsatile tracing from the epidural space, a significantly greater percentage than in the other 2 groups (p = 0.02). The technique of transducing the pressure waveform from the epidural needle inserted in the epidural space is a sensitive and reliable alternative to other techniques for confirmation of correct epidural catheter placement. The technique is simple, sensitive, and inexpensive and uses equipment available in any operating room.

Comparison between a disposable and an electronic PCA device for labor epidural analgesia.

PubMed

Sumikura, Hiroyuki; van de Velde, Marc; Tateda, Takeshi

2004-01-01

The aims of the present study were (1) to investigate if a disposable patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) device can be used for labor analgesia and (2) to evaluate the device by midwives and parturients. Forty healthy parturients were divided into two groups and received combined spinal epidural analgesia for labor pain relief. Following intrathecal administration of 3 mg ropivacaine and 1.5 microg sufentanil, either a disposable PCA device (Coopdech Syrinjector; Daiken Medical, Osaka, Japan) or an electronic PCA device (IVAC PCAM PCA Syringe Pump; Alaris, Basingstoke, UK) was connected to the epidural catheter, and 0.15% ropivacaine with sufentanil 0.75 microg/ml was used for continuous infusion and PCA. For an electronic PCA device, continuous infusion rate, bolus dose, lockout time, and hourly limit were set at 4 ml/h, 3 ml, 15 min, and 16 ml, respectively. For a disposable PCA device, continuous infusion rate, bolus dose, and an hourly limit were set at 4 ml/h, 3 ml, and 16 ml, respectively, but lockout function was not available. No differences were observed between the groups concerning demographic data, obstetric data, and outcome of labor. Anesthetic requirements (disposable, 9.7 +/- 4.7 ml/h; electronic, 8.2 +/- 4.0 ml/h) and VAS score during the delivery (disposable, 26 +/- 25; electronic, 21 +/- 22) were similar between the groups. Midwives praised the disposable PCA device as well as the electronic one. The present results imply that the disposable PCA device can be an alternative to the electronic PCA device for labor analgesia.

Epidural Hematoma and Abscess Related to Thoracic Epidural Analgesia: A Single-Center Study of 2,907 Patients Who Underwent Lung Surgery.

PubMed

Kupersztych-Hagege, Elisa; Dubuisson, Etienne; Szekely, Barbara; Michel-Cherqui, Mireille; François Dreyfus, Jean; Fischler, Marc; Le Guen, Morgan

2017-04-01

To report the major complications (epidural hematoma and abscess) of postoperative thoracic epidural analgesia in patients who underwent lung surgery. Prospective, monocentric study. A university hospital. All lung surgical patients who received postoperative thoracic epidural analgesia between November 2007 and November 2015. Thoracic epidural analgesia for patients who underwent lung surgery. During the study period, data for 2,907 patients were recorded. The following 3 major complications were encountered: 1 case of epidural hematoma (0.34 case/1,000; 95% confidence interval 0.061-1.946), for which surgery was performed, and 2 cases of epidural abscesses (0.68 case/1,000; 95% confidence interval 0.189-2.505), which were treated medically. The risk range of serious complications was moderate; only the patient who experienced an epidural hematoma also experienced permanent sequelae. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Epidural block

MedlinePlus

... body. This lessens the pain of contractions during childbirth. An epidural block may also be used to ... extremities. This article focuses on epidural blocks during childbirth. How is the Epidural Given? The block or ...

Epidural steroids for treating "failed back surgery syndrome": is fluoroscopy really necessary?

PubMed

Fredman, B; Nun, M B; Zohar, E; Iraqi, G; Shapiro, M; Gepstein, R; Jedeikin, R

1999-02-01

Epidural steroids are commonly administered in the treatment of "failed back surgery syndrome." Because patient response is dependent on accurate steroid placement, fluoroscopic guidance has been advocated. However, because of ever-increasing medical expenditures, the cost-benefit of routine fluoroscopy should be critically evaluated. Therefore, 50 patients were enrolled into this institutional review board-approved, prospective, controlled, single-blinded study. At a predetermined intervertebral level, the epidural space was identified using an air loss of resistance technique. Thereafter, an epidural catheter was inserted 2 cm through the epidural needle. To determine the accuracy of the clinical placement, contrast medium was administered through the epidural catheter; antero-posterior and lateral lumbar spine radiographs were then obtained. The number of attempts required to successfully locate the epidural space, the reliability of the air loss of resistance technique in indicating successful epidural penetration in failed back surgery syndrome, the ability of the clinician to accurately predict the intervertebral space at which the epidural injection was performed, and the spread of contrast medium within the epidural space were recorded. A total of 48 epidurograms were performed. The number of attempts to successfully enter the epidural space was 2 +/- 1. In 44 cases, the radiological studies confirmed the clinical impression that the epidural space had been successfully identified. In three patients, the epidural catheter was in the paravertebral tissue. One myelogram was recorded. In 25 patients, the epidural catheter did not pass through the predetermined intervertebral space. In 35 cases, the contrast medium did not reach the level of pathology. The clinical sign of loss of resistance is a reliable indicator of epidural space penetration in most cases of "failed back surgery syndrome." However, surface anatomy is unreliable and may result in inaccurate steroid placement. Finally, despite accurate placement, the depot-steroid solution will spread to reach the level of pathology in only 26% of cases.

Fluoroscopic caudal epidural injections in managing chronic axial low back pain without disc herniation, radiculitis, or facet joint pain

PubMed Central

Manchikanti, Laxmaiah; Cash, Kimberly A; McManus, Carla D; Pampati, Vidyasagar

2012-01-01

Background Chronic low back pain without disc herniation is common. Various modalities of treatments are utilized in managing this condition, including epidural injections. However, there is continued debate on the effectiveness, indications, and medical necessity of any treatment modality utilized for managing axial or discogenic pain, including epidural injections. Methods A randomized, double-blind, actively controlled trial was conducted. The objective was to evaluate the ability to assess the effectiveness of caudal epidural injections of local anesthetic with or without steroids for managing chronic low back pain not caused by disc herniation, radiculitis, facet joints, or sacroiliac joints. A total of 120 patients were randomized to two groups; one group did not receive steroids (group 1) and the other group did (group 2). There were 60 patients in each group. The primary outcome measure was at least 50% improvement in Numeric Rating Scale and Oswestry Disability Index. Secondary outcome measures were employment status and opioid intake. These measures were assessed at 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months after treatment. Results Significant pain relief and functional status improvement (primary outcome) defined as a 50% or more reduction in scores from baseline, were observed in 54% of patients in group 1 and 60% of patients in group 2 at 24 months. In contrast, 84% of patients in group 1 and 73% in group 2 saw significant pain relief and functional status improvement in the successful groups at 24 months. Conclusion Caudal epidural injections of local anesthetic with or without steroids are effective in patients with chronic axial low back pain of discogenic origin without facet joint pain, disc herniation, and/or radiculitis. PMID:23091395

Management of Chronic Pain of Cervical Disc Herniation and Radiculitis with Fluoroscopic Cervical Interlaminar Epidural Injections

PubMed Central

Manchikanti, Laxmaiah; Cash, Kimberly A.; Pampati, Vidyasagar; Wargo, Bradley W.; Malla, Yogesh

2012-01-01

Study Design: A randomized, double-blind, active controlled trial. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of cervical interlaminar epidural injections of local anesthetic with or without steroids in the management of chronic neck pain and upper extremity pain in patients with disc herniation and radiculitis. Summary of Background Data: Epidural injections in managing chronic neck and upper extremity pain are commonly employed interventions. However, their long-term effectiveness, indications, and medical necessity, of their use and their role in various pathologies responsible for persistent neck and upper extremity pain continue to be debated, even though, neck and upper extremity pain secondary to disc herniation and radiculitis, is described as the common indication. There is also paucity of high quality literature. Methods: One-hundred twenty patients were randomly assigned to one of 2 groups: Group I patients received cervical interlaminar epidural injections of local anesthetic (lidocaine 0.5%, 5 mL); Group II patients received 0.5% lidocaine, 4 mL, mixed with 1 mL of nonparticulate betamethasone. Primary outcome measure was ≥ 50 improvement in pain and function. Outcome assessments included Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), opioid intake, employment, and changes in weight. Results: Significant pain relief and functional status improvement (≥ 50%) was demonstrated in 72% of patients who received local anesthetic only and 68% who received local anesthetic and steroids. In the successful group of participants, significant improvement was illustrated in 77% in local anesthetic group and 82% in local anesthetic with steroid group. Conclusions: Cervical interlaminar epidural injections with or without steroids may provide significant improvement in pain and function for patients with cervical disc herniation and radiculitis. PMID:22859902

Management of chronic pain of cervical disc herniation and radiculitis with fluoroscopic cervical interlaminar epidural injections.

PubMed

Manchikanti, Laxmaiah; Cash, Kimberly A; Pampati, Vidyasagar; Wargo, Bradley W; Malla, Yogesh

2012-01-01

A randomized, double-blind, active controlled trial. To evaluate the effectiveness of cervical interlaminar epidural injections of local anesthetic with or without steroids in the management of chronic neck pain and upper extremity pain in patients with disc herniation and radiculitis. Epidural injections in managing chronic neck and upper extremity pain are commonly employed interventions. However, their long-term effectiveness, indications, and medical necessity, of their use and their role in various pathologies responsible for persistent neck and upper extremity pain continue to be debated, even though, neck and upper extremity pain secondary to disc herniation and radiculitis, is described as the common indication. There is also paucity of high quality literature. One-hundred twenty patients were randomly assigned to one of 2 groups: Group I patients received cervical interlaminar epidural injections of local anesthetic (lidocaine 0.5%, 5 mL); Group II patients received 0.5% lidocaine, 4 mL, mixed with 1 mL of nonparticulate betamethasone. Primary outcome measure was ≥ 50 improvement in pain and function. Outcome assessments included Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), opioid intake, employment, and changes in weight. Significant pain relief and functional status improvement (≥ 50%) was demonstrated in 72% of patients who received local anesthetic only and 68% who received local anesthetic and steroids. In the successful group of participants, significant improvement was illustrated in 77% in local anesthetic group and 82% in local anesthetic with steroid group. Cervical interlaminar epidural injections with or without steroids may provide significant improvement in pain and function for patients with cervical disc herniation and radiculitis.

Peri-operative epidural may not be the preferred form of analgesia in select patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy.

PubMed

Axelrod, Trevor M; Mendez, Bernardino M; Abood, Gerard J; Sinacore, James M; Aranha, Gerard V; Shoup, Margo

2015-03-01

Epidural analgesia has become the preferred method of pain management for major abdominal surgery. However, the superior form of analgesia for pancreaticoduodenecomy (PD), with regard to non-analgesic outcomes, has been debated. In this study, we compare outcomes of epidural and intravenous analgesia for PD and identify pre-operative factors leading to early epidural discontinuation. A retrospective review was performed on 163 patients undergoing PD between 2007 and 2011. We performed regression analyses to measure the predictive success of two groups of analgesia on morbidity and mortality and to identify predictors of epidural failure. Intravenous analgesia alone was given to 14 (9%) patients and 149 patients (91%) received epidural analgesia alone or in conjunction with intravenous analgesia. Morbidity and mortality were not significantly different between the two groups. Early epidural discontinuation was necessary in 22 patients (15%). Those older than 72 and with a BMI < 20 (n = 5) had their epidural discontinued in 80% of cases compared to 12% not meeting these criteria. However, early epidural discontinuation was not associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Epidural analgesia may be contraindicated in elderly, underweight patients undergoing PD given their increased risk of epidural-induced hypotension or malfunction. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Human Lumbar Ligamentum Flavum Anatomy for Epidural Anesthesia: Reviewing a 3D MR-Based Interactive Model and Postmortem Samples.

PubMed

Reina, Miguel A; Lirk, Philipp; Puigdellívol-Sánchez, Anna; Mavar, Marija; Prats-Galino, Alberto

2016-03-01

The ligamentum flavum (LF) forms the anatomic basis for the loss-of-resistance technique essential to the performance of epidural anesthesia. However, the LF presents considerable interindividual variability, including the possibility of midline gaps, which may influence the performance of epidural anesthesia. We devise a method to reconstruct the anatomy of the digitally LF based on magnetic resonance images to clarify the exact limits and edges of LF and its different thickness, depending on the area examined, while avoiding destructive methods, as well as the dissection processes. Anatomic cadaveric cross sections enabled us to visually check the definition of the edges along the entire LF and compare them using 3D image reconstruction methods. Reconstruction was performed in images obtained from 7 patients. Images from 1 patient were used as a basis for the 3D spinal anatomy tool. In parallel, axial cuts, 2 to 3 cm thick, were performed in lumbar spines of 4 frozen cadavers. This technique allowed us to identify the entire ligament and its exact limits, while avoiding alterations resulting from cutting processes or from preparation methods. The LF extended between the laminas of adjacent vertebrae at all vertebral levels of the patients examined, but midline gaps are regularly encountered. These anatomical variants were reproduced in a 3D portable document format. The major anatomical features of the LF were reproduced in the 3D model. Details of its structure and variations of thickness in successive sagittal and axial slides could be visualized. Gaps within LF previously studied in cadavers have been identified in our interactive 3D model, which may help to understand their nature, as well as possible implications for epidural techniques.

Upper thoracic epidural anaesthesia: effects of age on neural blockade and cardiovascular parameters.

PubMed

Wink, J; Wolterbeek, R; Aarts, L P H J; Koster, S C E; Versteegh, M I M; Veering, B T H

2013-07-01

Segmental dose reduction with increasing age after thoracic epidural anaesthesia (TEA) has been documented. We hypothesised that after a fixed loading dose of ropivacaine at the T3-T4 level, increasing age would result in more extended analgesic spread. In addition, other aspects of neural blockade and haemodynamic changes were studied. Thirty-five lung surgery patients were included in three age groups. Thirty-one patients received an epidural catheter at the T3-T4 interspace followed by an injection of 8-ml ropivacaine 0.75%. Analgesia was assessed with pinprick and temperature discrimination. Motor block was tested using the Bromage and epidural scoring scale for arm movements score. An arterial line was inserted for invasive measurement of blood pressure, cardiac index (CI) and stroke volume (SV). There was no influence of age on quality of TEA except for the caudal border of analgesia being somewhat lower in the middle and older age group compared with the young age group. Heart rate (6.0 ± 5.9, P < 0.001), mean arterial pressure (16.1 ± 15.6, P < 0.001), CI (0.55 ± 0.49, P < 0.001) and SV (9.6 ± 14.6, P = 0.001) decreased after TEA for the total group. Maximal reduction in heart rate after TEA was more extensive in the young age group compared with the other age groups. There was no effect of age on other cardiovascular parameters. We were unable to demonstrate an effect of age on the maximal number of spinal segments blocked after TEA; however, the caudad spread of analgesia increased with advancing age. In addition, reduction of heart rate was greater in the youngest group. © 2013 The Acta Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Evaluation of lumbar transforaminal epidural injections with needle placement and contrast flow patterns: a prospective, descriptive report.

PubMed

Manchikanti, Laxmaiah; Cash, Kim A; Pampati, Vidyasagar; Damron, Kim S; McManus, Carla D

2004-04-01

Transforaminal epidural steroid injection is one of the commonly employed modalities of treatment in managing nerve root pain. However, there have been no controlled prospective evaluations of epidural and nerve root contrast distribution patterns and other aspects of fluoroscopically directed lumbosacral transforaminal epidural steroid injections. To evaluate contrast flow patterns and intravascular needle placement of fluoroscopically guided lumbosacral transforaminal epidural injections. A prospective, observational study. A total of 100 consecutive patients undergoing fluoroscopically guided transforaminal epidural steroid injections were evaluated. The contrast flow patterns, ventral or dorsal epidural filling, nerve root filling, C-arm time, and intravascular needle placement were evaluated. Ventral epidural filling was seen in 88% of the procedures, in contrast to dorsal filling noted in 9% of the procedures. Nerve root filling was seen in 97% of the procedures. Total intravenous placement of the needle was noted in 22% of the procedures, whereas negative flashback and aspiration was noted in 5% of the procedures. Lumbosacral transforaminal epidural injections, performed under fluoroscopic visualization, provide excellent nerve root filling and ventral epidural filling patterns. However, unrecognized intravascular needle placement with negative flashback or aspiration was noted in 5% of the procedures.

Bacterial contamination of epidural catheters: microbiological examination of 502 epidural catheters used for postoperative analgesia.

PubMed

Steffen, Peter; Seeling, Wulf; Essig, Andreas; Stiepan, Erika; Rockemann, Michael Georg

2004-03-01

To investigate the frequency of bacterial colonization of epidural catheters used for postoperative pain treatment longer than 24 hours in abdominal, thoracic, or trauma surgery patients. Retrospective study. Intermediate care facility and general ward of a university hospital. 502 patients who received epidural catheters after abdominal, thoracic, or vascular surgery at our institution from January 1996 to December 2000. Placement of an epidural catheter, which was used for postoperative pain treatment, for more than 24 hours. The puncture site dressing included saturation each day with povidone-iodine. Microbiologic monitoring of epidural catheter tips and daily examination of puncture sites with regard to signs of inflammation took place. Four times daily patients were examined to check adequacy of pain treatment and neurologic deficits. Catheter tip cultures were positive in 29 patients (5.8%). Staphylococcus epidermidis was isolated in 22 cases (76%). No case of spinal epidural abscess was observed within 6 months after epidural catheterization. The average catheterization time was 5 days (quartile range: 4 to 6 days). Meticulous management ensures a relatively low level of bacterial contamination in epidural catheters applied for postoperative pain treatment greater than 5 days. Contamination rarely leads to spinal epidural infection.

Incidence and risk factors for epidural re-siting in parturients with breakthrough pain during labour epidural analgesia: a cohort study.

PubMed

Sng, B L; Tan, M; Yeoh, C J; Han, N-L R; Sultana, R; Assam, P N; Sia, A T

2018-05-01

Epidural re-siting is one of the significant events during labour epidural analgesia that may result in decreased patient satisfaction. The aim of our study was to investigate the incidence of and factors associated with epidural re-siting in parturients using epidural analgesia, with an emphasis on those with breakthrough pain. A retrospective cohort study of 10170 parturients who received labour epidural analgesia. The primary outcome was the incidence of epidural re-siting (binary data). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to find associated risk factors for re-siting. Less than 1% (0.85%, 86/10170) of the women in the study had their epidural re-sited. Amongst the subset of women with breakthrough pain, the incidence of epidural re-siting was higher (4.7%, 68/1454). Most of the women who had their epidural re-sited had experienced breakthrough pain (79%, 68/86). Amongst all parturients, the presence of breakthrough pain (OR=21.31), hypotension (OR=4.18) and venous puncture (OR=2.74) were significantly associated with re-siting. Amongst the parturients with breakthrough pain who required epidural re-siting, lower cervical dilatation (OR=0.81), higher number of episodes of breakthrough pain (OR=1.83) and patchy block (OR=4.37) were significantly associated with re-siting. The areas-under-curves of two multivariate models were 0.894 and 0.806 respectively. In our institution, the incidence of epidural catheter re-siting was low in all patients. However, the majority of patients whose catheters were re-sited had exhibited breakthrough pain. The risk factors associated with the need for re-siting of catheters in all patients differed from those who had breakthrough pain. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Observational study of changes in epidural pressure and elastance during epidural blood patch in obstetric patients.

PubMed

Pratt, S D; Kaczka, D W; Hess, P E

2014-05-01

During an epidural blood patch, we inject blood until the patient describes mild back pressure, often leading to injection of more than 20 mL of blood. We undertook this study to measure the epidural pressures generated during an epidural blood patch and to identify the impact of volume on epidural elastance in obstetric patients. This study was performed in postpartum patients who presented for an epidural blood patch with symptoms consistent with a postdural puncture headache. After identification of the epidural space using loss of resistance to air or saline, we measured static epidural pressure after each 5-mL injection of blood. Models were then fitted to the data and the epidural elastance and compliance calculated. Eighteen blood patches were performed on 17 patients. The mean final volume injected was 18.9±7.8 mL [range 6-38 mL]. The mean final pressure generated was 13.1±13.4 mmHg [range 2-56 mmHg]. A curvilinear relationship existed between volume injected and pressure, which was described by two models: (1) pressure=0.0254×(mL injected)(2)+0.0297 mL, or (2) pressure=0.0679×mL(1.742). The value for r2 was approximately 0.57 for both models. We found no correlation between the final pressure generated and the success of the epidural blood patch. We found a curvilinear relationship between the volume of blood injected during an epidural blood patch and the pressure generated in the epidural space. However, there was a large variation in both the volume of blood and the epidural pressure generated. The clinical importance of this finding is not known. A larger study would be required to demonstrate whether pressure is a predictor of success. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Parascapular mass revealing primary tuberculosis of the posterior arch

PubMed Central

Arbault, Anais; Ornetti, Paul; Chevallier, Olivier; Avril, Julien; Pottecher, Pierre

2016-01-01

We report the case of a parascapular abscess revealing primary tuberculosis of the posterior arch in a 31-year-old man. Sectional imaging is essential in order to detect the different lesions of this atypical spinal tuberculosis as osteolysis of the posterior arch extendible to vertebral body, osteocondensation, epidural extension which is common in this location, and high specificity of a zygapophysial, costo-vertebral or transverse arthritis. PMID:27709081

Epidural analgesia is infrequently used in patients with acute pancreatitis : a retrospective cohort study.

PubMed

Sasabuchi, Y; Yasunaga, H; Matsui, H; Lefor, A K; Fushimi, K; Sanui, M

2017-01-01

Epidural analgesia is an option for pain control in patients with acute pancreatitis. The aim of this study is to describe characteristics, morbidity and mortality of patients with acute pancreatitis treated with epidural analgesia. Data was extracted from a national inpatient database in Japan on patients hospitalized with acute pancreatitis between July 2010 and March 2013. A total of 44,146 patients discharged from acute care hospitals were included in this retrospective cohort study. The patient background, timing and duration of epidural analgesia, complications (epidural hematoma or abscess), surgery (for cholelithiasis / cholecystitis or complications) and mortality were verified. Epidural analgesia was used in 307 patients (0.70 %). The mean age was 64.0 years (standard deviation, 15.4 years) and 116 (37.8%) of the patients were female. The median duration of epidural analgesia was four days (interquartile range, 3-5 days). No patient underwent surgery for epidural hematoma or abscess. Six (2.0%) patients died during hospitalization. Most likely causes of death were pulmonary embolism, multiple organ failure, sepsis, and methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus enterocolitis. The responsible physician for 250 of the patients (81.4%) was a gastroenterological surgeon. Epidural analgesia was started on the day of surgery in 278 (90.6%) patients. Epidural analgesia is rarely used in patients with acute pancreatitis. None of the patients included in the study required surgery for epidural hematoma or abscess. Further research to evaluate the efficacy and safety of epidural analgesia in patients with acute pancreatitis is warranted. © Acta Gastro-Enterologica Belgica.

Audit of the influence of body mass index on the performance of epidural analgesia in labour and the subsequent mode of delivery.

PubMed

Dresner, M; Brocklesby, J; Bamber, J

2006-10-01

To assess the influence of body mass index (BMI) on the performance of epidural analgesia in labour and the subsequent mode of delivery. A retrospective audit of prospectively collected quality assurance data. The delivery suite of Leeds General Infirmary, Leeds, UK. This is a 4500-delivery teaching hospital unit. All women receiving epidural analgesia during labour in our unit between April 1997 and December 2005. Epidural recipients were divided into BMI groups according to World Health Organization (WHO) categories and compared for indices of epidural performance and mode of delivery. Midwife and patient satisfaction scores with epidural analgesia, epidural resite rates, and mode of delivery. Data from 13 299 epidural recipients were analysed. Using WHO definitions, 22.8% were of normal body mass, 41.9% were overweight, 31.9% obese, and 3.4% morbidly obese. Epidurals were more likely to fail as BMI increased, as judged by midwife satisfaction scores (P < 0.001) and epidural resite rates (P < 0.01). This trend was not seen for maternal satisfaction scores using the WHO BMI categories. However, if women with BMI below 30 kg/m2 were grouped together, a significant trend was found (P < 0.01). BMI had no influence on vaginal instrumental deliveries, but caesarean section rates rose from 11.5% in women of normal BMI to 29.2% in the morbidly obese women (P < 0.001). Obesity increases the incidence of analgesic failure and the need for resite of epidurals. The caesarean section rate among epidural recipients increases dramatically as BMI rises.

Nonsurgical management of an extensive spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma causing quadriplegia and respiratory distress in a choledocholithiasis patient

PubMed Central

Raasck, Kyle; Khoury, Jason; Aoude, Ahmed; Abduljabbar, Fahad; Jarzem, Peter

2017-01-01

Abstract Rationale: Spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma (SSEH) manifests from blood accumulating in the epidural space, compressing the spinal cord, and leading to acute neurological deficits. The disease's cloudy etiology and rarity contribute to dangerously suboptimal therapeutic principles. These neural deficits can be permanent, even fatal, if the SSEH is not treated in a timely and appropriate manner. Standard therapy is decompressive laminectomy, though nonsurgical management is a viable course of action for patients who meet a criterion that is continuously being refined. Patient concerns: A 76-year-old woman on warfarin for a past pulmonary embolism presented to the emergency room with jaundice, myalgia, hematuria, neck pain, and an International Normalized Ratio (INR) of 14. Upon admission, she rapidly developed quadriplegia and respiratory distress that necessitated intubation. Diagnoses: T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed an epidural space-occupying hyperintensity from C2 to S5 consistent with a spinal epidural hematoma. An incidental finding of dilated intrahepatic and common bile ducts prompted an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, which demonstrated choledocholithiasis. Interventions: The patient's INR was normalized with Vitamin K and Beriplex. Upon transfer to the surgical spine team for assessment of a possible intervention, the patient began to demonstrate recovery of neural functions. The ensuing sustained motor improvement motivated the team's preference for close neurologic monitoring and continued medical therapy over surgery. Thirteen hours after the onset of her symptoms, the patient was extubated. A sphincterotomy was later performed, removing 81 common bile duct stones. Outcomes: MRI demonstrated complete resorption of the SSEH and the patient maintained full neurological function at final follow-up. Lessons: Nonsurgical management of SSEH should be considered in the context of early and sustained recovery. Severe initial neural deficit does not necessitate surgical decompression. Choledocholithiasis and subsequent Vitamin K deficiency, particularly when coupled with anticoagulant use, can increase INR and is a novel proposed risk factor for SSEH. Furthermore, coagulopathies should be medically corrected before surgical intervention within a given timeframe, as spontaneous recovery may manifest. This should be favored over surgery in patients demonstrating early and sustained recovery, as nonsurgical management is 25% more effective in achieving full recovery. PMID:29390530

Nonsurgical management of an extensive spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma causing quadriplegia and respiratory distress in a choledocholithiasis patient: A case report.

PubMed

Raasck, Kyle; Khoury, Jason; Aoude, Ahmed; Abduljabbar, Fahad; Jarzem, Peter

2017-12-01

Spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma (SSEH) manifests from blood accumulating in the epidural space, compressing the spinal cord, and leading to acute neurological deficits. The disease's cloudy etiology and rarity contribute to dangerously suboptimal therapeutic principles. These neural deficits can be permanent, even fatal, if the SSEH is not treated in a timely and appropriate manner. Standard therapy is decompressive laminectomy, though nonsurgical management is a viable course of action for patients who meet a criterion that is continuously being refined. A 76-year-old woman on warfarin for a past pulmonary embolism presented to the emergency room with jaundice, myalgia, hematuria, neck pain, and an International Normalized Ratio (INR) of 14. Upon admission, she rapidly developed quadriplegia and respiratory distress that necessitated intubation. T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed an epidural space-occupying hyperintensity from C2 to S5 consistent with a spinal epidural hematoma. An incidental finding of dilated intrahepatic and common bile ducts prompted an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, which demonstrated choledocholithiasis. The patient's INR was normalized with Vitamin K and Beriplex. Upon transfer to the surgical spine team for assessment of a possible intervention, the patient began to demonstrate recovery of neural functions. The ensuing sustained motor improvement motivated the team's preference for close neurologic monitoring and continued medical therapy over surgery. Thirteen hours after the onset of her symptoms, the patient was extubated. A sphincterotomy was later performed, removing 81 common bile duct stones. MRI demonstrated complete resorption of the SSEH and the patient maintained full neurological function at final follow-up. Nonsurgical management of SSEH should be considered in the context of early and sustained recovery. Severe initial neural deficit does not necessitate surgical decompression. Choledocholithiasis and subsequent Vitamin K deficiency, particularly when coupled with anticoagulant use, can increase INR and is a novel proposed risk factor for SSEH. Furthermore, coagulopathies should be medically corrected before surgical intervention within a given timeframe, as spontaneous recovery may manifest. This should be favored over surgery in patients demonstrating early and sustained recovery, as nonsurgical management is 25% more effective in achieving full recovery. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Anesthetic management of super-morbidly obese parturients for cesarean delivery with a double neuraxial catheter technique: a case series.

PubMed

Polin, C M; Hale, B; Mauritz, A A; Habib, A S; Jones, C A; Strouch, Z Y; Dominguez, J E

2015-08-01

Parturients with super-morbid obesity, defined as body mass index greater than 50kg/m(2), represent a growing segment of patients who require anesthetic care for labor and delivery. Severe obesity and its comorbid conditions place the parturient and fetus at greater risk for pregnancy complications and cesarean delivery, as well as surgical and anesthetic complications. The surgical approach for cesarean delivery in these patients may require a supra-umbilical vertical midline incision due to a large pannus. The dense T4-level of spinal anesthesia can cause difficulties with ventilation for the obese patient during the procedure, which can be prolonged. Patients also may have respiratory complications in the postoperative period due to pain from the incision. We describe the anesthetic management of three parturients with body mass index ranging from 73 to 95kg/m(2) who had a cesarean delivery via a supra-umbilical vertical midline incision. Continuous lumbar spinal and low thoracic epidural catheters were placed in each patient for intraoperative anesthesia and postoperative analgesia, respectively. Continuous spinal catheters were dosed with incremental bupivacaine boluses to achieve surgical anesthesia. In one case, the patient required respiratory support with non-invasive positive pressure ventilation. Two cases were complicated by intraoperative hemorrhage. All patients had satisfactory postoperative analgesia with a thoracic epidural infusion. None suffered postoperative respiratory complications or postdural puncture headache. The use of a continuous lumbar spinal catheter and a low thoracic epidural provides several advantages in the anesthetic management of super-morbidly obese parturients for cesarean delivery. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Anesthesia and lumbar epidural anesthesia in an infant with third-degree burns].

PubMed

Arqués Teixidor, P; Maged Mabrok, M; Marco Valls, J; Moral García, V

1989-01-01

Epidural route is widely used in adults for injection of drugs, but it is not so often used in pediatric patients. We present the case of a 8 month old burned infant who received anesthesia and analgesia through a lumbar epidural catheter. The insertion of epidural catheter is described. Two surgical procedures were performed under epidural anesthesia with 0.5% bupivacaine an epinephrine 1:200.000 (2.5 mg/kg). 16 hours of postoperative analgesia was obtained with epidural morphine (0.05 mg/kg). No side effects were seen. We analyze the uses of epidural anesthesia in pediatric patients, the catheter care in the burned child, the hemodynamic changes observed during anesthesia and the results of peridural morphine.

Preincisional and postoperative epidural morphine, ropivacaine, ketamine, and naloxone treatment for postoperative pain management in upper abdominal surgery.

PubMed

Lai, Hou-Chuan; Hsieh, Chung-Bao; Wong, Chih-Shung; Yeh, Chun-Chang; Wu, Zhi-Fu

2016-09-01

Previous studies have shown that preincisional epidural morphine, bupivacaine, and ketamine combined with epidural anesthesia (EA) and general anesthesia (GA) provided pre-emptive analgesia for upper abdominal surgery. Recent studies reported that ultralow-dose naloxone enhanced the antinociceptive effect of morphine in rats. This study investigated the benefits of preincisional and postoperative epidural morphine + ropivacaine + ketamine + naloxone (M + R + K + N) treatment for achieving postoperative pain relief in upper abdominal surgery. Eighty American Society of Anesthesiology I-II patients scheduled for major upper abdominal surgery were allocated to four groups in a randomized, single-blinded study. All patients received combined GA and EA with a continuous epidural infusion of 2% lidocaine (6-8 mL/h) 30 minutes after pain regimen. After GA induction, in Group I, an epidural pain control regimen (total 10 mL) was administered using 1% lidocaine (8 mL) + morphine (2 mg) + ropivacaine (20 mg; M + R); in Group II, 1% lidocaine 8 (mL) + morphine (2 mg) + ropivacaine (20 mg) + ketamine (20 mg; M + R + K); in Group III, 1% lidocaine (8 mL) + morphine (2 mg) + ropivacaine (20 mg) + naloxone (2 μg; M + R + N); and in Group IV, 1% lidocaine (8 mL) + morphine (2 mg) + ropivacaine (20 mg) + ketamine (20 mg) + naloxone (2 μg; M + R + K + N), respectively. All patients received patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) with different pain regimens to control subsequent postoperative pain for 3 days following surgery. During the 3-day period following surgery, PCEA consumption (mL), numerical rating scale (NRS) score while cough/moving, and analgesic-related adverse effects were recorded. Total PCEA consumption for the 3-day observation period was 161.5±17.8 mL, 103.2±21.7 mL, 152.4±25.6 mL, and 74.1±16.9 mL for Groups I, II, III, and IV, respectively. (p < 0.05). The cough/moving NRS scores were significantly lower in Group IV patients than Groups I and III patients at 4 hours, 12 hours, and on Days 1 and 2 following surgery except for Group II (p < 0.05). Preincisional and postoperative epidural M + R + K + N treatment provides an ideal postoperative pain management than preincisional and postoperative epidural M + R, M + R + K, and M + R + N treatments in upper abdominal surgery. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Caudal epidural anesthesia in mares after bicarbonate addition to a lidocaine-epinephrine combination.

PubMed

Duarte, Patricia C; Paz, Cahuê F R; Oliveira, Alvaro P L; Maróstica, Thairê P; Cota, Leticia O; Faleiros, Rafael R

2017-07-01

To investigate the nociceptive and clinical effects of buffering a lidocaine-epinephrine solution with sodium bicarbonate in caudal epidural block in mares. Prospective randomized controlled trial. Six mixed-breed mares weighing 350-440 kg. Each animal was administered two caudal epidural injections, 72 hours apart, using different solutions prepared immediately before injection. The control solution was 7 mL 2% lidocaine hydrochloride with epinephrine hemitartrate (1:200,000) added to 3 mL sterile water for injection (pH 2.9). The alkalinized solution was 7 mL of lidocaine-epinephrine solution added to 2.3 mL sterile water for injection and 0.7 mL 8.4% sodium bicarbonate (pH 7.4). Nociception was evaluated by response to skin pinching at 31 sites in the sacral region and around the perimeter of the anogenital area (distances of 10, 15 and 20 cm) before, and 5, 10 and 15 minutes after epidural injection, then every 15 minutes until the return of nociception in all evaluated sites. The onset and duration times, and intensity of ataxia (grades 0 to 3) were recorded. The paired t test was used to compare the onset and duration of anesthesia and ataxia (p<0.05). Alkalization of the solution resulted in significant decreases in the average time of onset of loss of nociception in the sacral region (40%) and around the perimeter of the anogenital area extending up to 5 cm (36%) and from 5 to 10 cm (32%) from the anus and vulva. Alkalization also decreased the average duration of ataxia (33%), without affecting the duration and extent of anesthesia or the degree of ataxia. Alkalization of lidocaine-epinephrine solution is advantageous in shortening the duration of ataxia and hastening the onset of anesthesia in areas adjacent to the anogenital area, without reducing the duration of epidural anesthesia, in mares. Copyright © 2017 Association of Veterinary Anaesthetists and American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Dumbbell-Shaped Epidural Cavernous Hemangioma in the Thoracic Spine Mimicking Schwannoma.

PubMed

Wang, Shantao; Wang, Mingwei; Wang, Fuchao; Yuan, Xunhui; Xiao, Hang; Bai, Yun'an; Liu, Fucun

2016-10-01

Dumbbell-shaped epidural cavernous hemangiomas (CHs) are extremely rare, and they are easily misdiagnosed as spinal schwannomas. Herein, the authors report 1 rare case of dumbbell-shaped epidural CH in the thoracic spine. To the best of our knowledge, only a few cases of dumbbell-shaped epidural CHs in thoracic spine have been reported. Furthermore, the clinical characteristics and treatments for spinal epidural CHs were investigated and reviewed.

Ultrasound Pulsed-Wave Doppler Detects an Intrathecal Location of an Epidural Catheter Tip: A Case Report.

PubMed

Elsharkawy, Hesham; Saasouh, Wael; Patel, Bimal; Babazade, Rovnat

2018-04-01

Currently, no gold standard method exists for localization of an epidural catheter after placement. The technique described in this report uses pulsed-wave Doppler (PWD) ultrasound to identify intrathecal location of an epidural catheter. A thoracic epidural catheter was inserted after multiple trials with inconclusive aspiration and test dose. Ultrasound PWD confirmed no flow in the epidural space and positive flow in the intrathecal space. A fluid aspirate was positive for glucose, reconfirming intrathecal placement. PWD is a potential tool that can be used to locate the tip of an epidural catheter.

Single dose epidural morphine instead of patient-controlled epidural analgesia in the second day of cesarean section; an easy method for the pain relief of a new mother.

PubMed

Bilir, A

2013-01-01

Pain management has a particular importance after Cesarean section. This study was undertaken in order to document the efficacy and side-effects of epidural morphine instead of patient-controlled analgesia technique used for the control of post-cesarean pain during postoperative 24-48 hours. This study was performed as a retrospective review of patient charts who had received combined spinal-epidural anaesthesia. Post-cesarean analgesia was performed with epidural technique either by using (Group 1) patient-controlled epidural analgesia for 48 hours, or (Group 2) patient-controlled epidural analgesia for the first 24 hours and then single dose of 3 mg epidural morphine for the second 24 hours. Incidences of side-effects were similar in both groups. None of the patients experienced respiratory depression. Additional analgesia was used on an as-required basis in nine of 39 (23%) patients in Group 1 and six of 39 (13%) in Group 2. Small doses of epidural morphine provides up to 24 hours of pain relief from a single injection and could obviate the need for an indwelling epidural catheter on the second day of postcesarean section, thus reducing the potential for catheter-related complications.

Accuracy of pulse oximeter perfusion index in thoracic epidural anesthesia under basal general anesthesia.

PubMed

Xu, Zifeng; Zhang, Jianhai; Xia, Yunfei; Deng, Xiaoming

2014-01-01

To observe the change of PVI after thoracic epidural block on the basis of general anesthesia. In 26 patients undergoing elective upper abdominal operations, changes of SVI, PVI, SVV, PPV and CVP were monitored immediately before and 10 minutes after T8-9 thoracic epidural anesthesia on the basis of general anesthesia. The definition was that patients with ΔSVI greater than 10% belonged to response group to epidural block. Before epidural block, the PVI, SVV and PPV baseline values in patients of response group were significantly higher than those in patients of non-response group. PVI, SVV and PPV after epidural block were significantly higher than immediately before epidural block (P < 0.001). PVI, SVV and PPV baseline values immediately before epidural block were positively correlated with ΔSVI; the correlation coefficients were 0.70, 0.71 and 0.63, respectively, P ≤ 0.001. The optimal critical values for PVI, SVV and PPV to predict response to T8-9 gap epidural block under general anesthesia were 16% (sensitivity 80%, specificity 92%), 13% (sensitivity 90%, specificity 62%) and 12% (sensitivity 90%, specificity 77%), respectively. PVI can be used as a noninvasive indictor to monitor volume change after thoracic epidural block on the basis of general anesthesia.

[Portable elastomeric infusion system applied to patients with knee prosthesis].

PubMed

Soler, Gemma; Quiles, Olga; Nicolau, Agnes; Faura, Teresa; Moreno, Cristina

2007-03-01

An LV infuser consists of an infusion pump which can administer medicines via various methods: intravenous, epidural, subdural, o subcutaneous. Its usefulness is based on the administration of medicines such as oncological drugs and/or analgesic by means of a continuous infusion.

Requests and usage of epidural analgesia in grand-grand multiparous and similar-aged women with lesser parity: prospective observational study.

PubMed

Ioscovich, Alexander; Fadeev, Angelika; Rivilis, Alina; Elstein, Deborah

2011-11-01

Epidural analgesia in older and multiparous women has been associated with risks. The aim of this study was to compare epidural analgesia use for labor/delivery in grand-grand multiparous women (GGMP; ≥10 births) relative to that in similar-aged women with lesser parity. This was a prospective observational study of advanced age gravida. All laboring women in a six-month period admitted to a tertiary Israeli center were included if they were advanced age (≥36 years old) with one to two previous births (Low parity; n=128) or four to five previous births (Medium parity; n=181), and all GGMP (any age; n=187). Primary outcome was comparison of requests for and use of epidural analgesia for labor/delivery. There were no significant differences across parity groups in percent of gravida requesting or receiving epidural analgesia (46.5-59.4%). Time from admission to epidural administration (range mean times: 168-187 min) and from advent of epidural to delivery (range mean times: 155-160 min) were comparable across parity groups. Use of other analgesia (5.8-8%) was not significantly different. Requests for and use of epidural analgesia was comparable in older gravida and was not correlated with parity. Mean times from presentation to epidural administration, mean cervical dilatation at epidural initiation, and mean time from performing of epidural to delivery were comparable across groups.

The Accuracy of a Handheld Ultrasound Device for Neuraxial Depth and Landmark Assessment: A Prospective Cohort Trial.

PubMed

Seligman, Katherine M; Weiniger, Carolyn F; Carvalho, Brendan

2017-08-30

This study investigated the accuracy of a wireless handheld ultrasound with pattern recognition software that recognizes lumbar spine bony landmarks and measures depth to epidural space (Accuro, Rivanna Medical, Charlottesville, VA) (AU). AU measurements to epidural space were compared to Tuohy needle depth to epidural space (depth to loss of resistance at epidural placement). Data from 47 women requesting labor epidural analgesia were analyzed. The mean difference between depth to epidural space measured by AU versus needle depth was -0.61 cm (95% confidence interval, -0.79 to -0.44), with a standard deviation of 0.58 (95% confidence interval, 0.48-0.73). Using the AU-identified insertion point resulted in successful epidural placement at first attempt in 87% of patients, 78% without redirects.

Symptomatic Spinal Epidural Lipomatosis After a Single Local Epidural Steroid Injection

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tok, Chung Hong, E-mail: rogertok@gmail.com; Kaur, Shaleen; Gangi, Afshin

Spinal epidural lipomatosis is a rare disorder that can manifest with progressive neurological deficits. It is characterized by abnormal accumulation of unencapsulated epidural fat commonly associated with the administration of exogenous steroids associated with a variety of systemic diseases, endocrinopathies, and Cushing syndrome (Fogel et al. Spine J 5:202-211, 2005). Occasionally, spinal epidural lipomatosis may occur in patients not exposed to steroids or in patients with endocrinopathies, primarily in obese individuals (Fogel et al. Spine J 5:202-211, 2005). However, spinal lumbar epidural lipomatosis resulting from local steroid injection has rarely been reported. We report the case of a 45-year-old diabeticmore » man with claudication that was probably due to symptomatic lumbar spinal lipomatosis resulting from a single local epidural steroid injection.« less

Epidural Neostigmine versus Fentanyl to Decrease Bupivacaine Use in Patient-controlled Epidural Analgesia during Labor: A Randomized, Double-blind, Controlled Study.

PubMed

Booth, Jessica L; Ross, Vernon H; Nelson, Kenneth E; Harris, Lynnette; Eisenach, James C; Pan, Peter H

2017-07-01

The addition of opioids to epidural local anesthetic reduces local anesthetic consumption by 20% but at the expense of side effects and time spent for regulatory compliance paperwork. Epidural neostigmine also reduces local anesthetic use. The authors hypothesized that epidural bupivacaine with neostigmine would decrease total hourly bupivacaine use compared with epidural bupivacaine with fentanyl for patient-controlled epidural analgesia. A total of 215 American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status II, laboring parturients requesting labor epidural analgesia consented to the study and were randomized to receive 0.125% bupivacaine with the addition of either fentanyl (2 μg/ml) or neostigmine (2, 4, or 8 μg/ml). The primary outcome was total hourly local anesthetic consumption, defined as total patient-controlled epidural analgesia use and top-ups (expressed as milliliters of 0.125% bupivacaine) divided by the infusion duration. A priori analysis determined a group size of 35 was needed to have 80% power at α = 0.05 to detect a 20% difference in the primary outcome. Of 215 subjects consented, 151 patients were evaluable. Demographics, maternal and fetal outcomes, and labor characteristics were similar among groups. Total hourly local anesthetic consumption did not differ among groups (P = 0.55). The total median hourly bupivacaine consumption in the fentanyl group was 16.0 ml/h compared with 15.3, 14.6, and 16.2 ml/h in the 2, 4, and 8 μg/ml neostigmine groups, respectively (P = 0.55). The data do not support any difference in bupivacaine requirements for labor patient-controlled epidural analgesia whether patients receive epidural bupivacaine with 2 to 8 μg/ml neostigmine or epidural bupivacaine with 2 μg/ml fentanyl.

Effects of Stand and Step Training with Epidural Stimulation on Motor Function for Standing in Chronic Complete Paraplegics

PubMed Central

Rejc, Enrico; Angeli, Claudia A.; Bryant, Nicole

2017-01-01

Abstract Individuals affected by motor complete spinal cord injury are unable to stand, walk, or move their lower limbs voluntarily; this diagnosis normally implies severe limitations for functional recovery. We have recently shown that the appropriate selection of epidural stimulation parameters was critical to promoting full-body, weight-bearing standing with independent knee extension in four individuals with chronic clinically complete paralysis. In the current study, we examined the effects of stand training and subsequent step training with epidural stimulation on motor function for standing in the same four individuals. After stand training, the ability to stand improved to different extents in the four participants. Step training performed afterwards substantially impaired standing ability in three of the four individuals. Improved standing ability generally coincided with continuous electromyography (EMG) patterns with constant levels of ground reaction forces. Conversely, poorer standing ability was associated with more variable EMG patterns that alternated EMG bursts and longer periods of negligible activity in most of the muscles. Stand and step training also differentially affected the evoked potentials amplitude modulation induced by sitting-to-standing transition. Finally, stand and step training with epidural stimulation were not sufficient to improve motor function for standing without stimulation. These findings show that the spinal circuitry of motor complete paraplegics can generate motor patterns effective for standing in response to task-specific training with optimized stimulation parameters. Conversely, step training can lead to neural adaptations resulting in impaired motor function for standing. PMID:27566051

Use of colour Doppler and M-mode ultrasonography to confirm the location of an epidural catheter - a retrospective case series.

PubMed

Elsharkawy, Hesham; Sonny, Abraham; Govindarajan, Srinivasa Raghavan; Chan, Vincent

2017-05-01

Epidural anesthesia and analgesia has a reported failure rate ranging from 13% to 32%. We describe a technique using colour Doppler and M-mode ultrasonography to determine the position of the epidural catheter after placement in adults. This retrospective review included 37 adult patients who received postoperative epidural analgesia and underwent technically difficult epidural catheter placement. The demographic characteristics, type of surgery, use of ultrasonography, method of insertion, intervertebral level, and success of epidural localization using colour Doppler were noted for each patient. Pain scores on postoperative day 1 and the presence of a patchy block were also reviewed. Colour Doppler study helped to indicate the catheter's path from the skin to the epidural space during saline injection in 33 patients (89%). Saline flow within the epidural space (catheter tip confirmation) was successfully detected with colour Doppler in 25 patients (67.5%) and with M-mode ultrasonography in 28 patients (75%). Appropriate dermatomal analgesia was noted in 35 patients (94.5%) during local anesthetic infusion. Our preliminary data suggest the feasibility of using colour Doppler and M-mode ultrasonography to confirm proper epidural catheter placement.

Spinal Epidural Haemangioma Associated with Extensive Gastrointestinal Haemangiomas

PubMed Central

Cheng, L.T.E.; Lim, W.E.H.

2005-01-01

Summary A case of spinal epidural cavernous haemangioma associated with gastrointestinal haemangiomas is discussed. The patient was a young Chinese female presenting with chronic lower back pain. She had a history of extensive gastric and small bowel haemangiomas. Lumbar spine MRI showed a heterogeneously enhancing epidural mass infiltrating the paravertebral muscles. Open biopsy confirmed an epidural cavernous haemangioma. To our knowledge, an association between spinal epidural cavernous haemangiomas and gastrointestinal haemangiomas has not been reported. PMID:20584496

Epidural steroid injections: update on efficacy, safety, and newer medications for injection.

PubMed

Kozlov, N; Benzon, H T; Malik, K

2015-08-01

The best evidence for epidural injection appears to be in the setting of radicular pain with epidural steroid and non-steroid injections more efficacious than non-epidural injections. Studies showed the efficacy of non-particulate steroid to approach the efficacy of particulate steroid and very limited comparisons demonstrated no significant difference between epidural steroid and epidural non-steroid (local anesthetic) injection. Preliminary studies evaluating epidural injection of disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs such etanercept and tocilizumab showed conflicting results and had significant limitations. Randomized studies support better efficacy of transforaminal injection due to greater incidence of ventral epidural spread of injectate when compared to interlaminar injection. Thus, the transforaminal approach is recommended when unilateral radicular pain is limited to one nerve root. However, the transforaminal approach is associated with greater incidence of central nervous system injury, including paraplegia, attributed to embolization of the particulate steroid. Recent studies showed that non-particulate steroids potentially last as long as particulate steroids. Therefore non-particulate steroid should be used in initial transforaminal epidural injection. Future studies should look into the role of adjunct diagnostic aids, including digital subtraction angiography, in detecting intravascular injection and the ideal site of needle placement, whether it is the safe triangle or the triangle of Kambin. Finally, the role of epidural disease -modifying antirheumatic drugs in the management of back pain needs to be better elucidated.

Histopathological Alterations after Single Epidural Injection of Ropivacaine, Methylprednizolone Acetate, or Contrast Material in Swine

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kitsou, Maria-Chrysanthi; Kostopanagiotou, Georgia; Kalimeris, Konstantinos

Purpose: The consequences from the injection of different types of drugs in the epidural space remains unknown. Increasing evidence suggests that localized inflammation, fibrosis, and arachnoiditis can complicate sequential epidural blockades, or even epidural contrast injection. We investigate the in vivo effect of epidural injections in the epidural space in an animal model. Materials and Methods: A group of ten male adult pigs, five punctures to each at distinct vertebral interspaces under general anesthesia, were examined, testing different drugs, used regularly in the epidural space (iopamidol, methylprednisolone acetate, ropivacaine). Each site was marked with a percutaneous hook wire marker. Histologicalmore » analysis of the epidural space, the meninges, and the underlying spinal cord of the punctured sites along with staining for caspase-3 followed 20 days later. Results: The epidural space did not manifest adhesions or any other pathology, and the outer surface of the dura was not impaired in any specimen. The group that had the contrast media injection showed a higher inflammation response compared to the other groups (P = 0.001). Positive staining for caspase-3 was limited to <5% of neurons with all substances used. Conclusion: No proof of arachnoiditis and/or fibrosis was noted in the epidural space with the use of the above-described drugs. A higher inflammation rate was noted with the use of contrast media.« less

Comparison of the techniques for the identification of the epidural space using the loss-of-resistance technique or an automated syringe - results of a randomized double-blind study.

PubMed

Duniec, Larysa; Nowakowski, Piotr; Sieczko, Jakub; Chlebus, Marcin; Łazowski, Tomasz

2016-01-01

The conventional, loss of resistance technique for identification of the epidural space is highly dependent on the anaesthetist's personal experience and is susceptible to technical errors. Therefore, an alternative, automated technique was devised to overcome the drawbacks of the traditional method. The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy of epidural space identification and the complication rate between the two groups - the automatic syringe and conventional loss of resistance methods. 47 patients scheduled for orthopaedic and gynaecology procedures under epidural anaesthesia were enrolled into the study. The number of attempts, ease of epidural space identification, complication rate and the patients' acceptance regarding the two techniques were evaluated. The majority of blocks were performed by trainee anaesthetists (91.5%). No statistical difference was found between the number of needle insertion attempts (1 vs. 2), the efficacy of epidural anaesthesia or the number of complications between the groups. The ease of epidural space identification, as assessed by an anaesthetist, was significantly better (P = 0.011) in the automated group (87.5% vs. 52.4%). A similar number of patients (92% vs. 94%) in both groups stated they would accept epidural anaesthesia in the future. The automated and loss of resistance methods of epidural space identification were proved to be equivalent in terms of efficacy and safety. Since the use of the automated technique may facilitate epidural space identification, it may be regarded as useful technique for anaesthetists inexperienced in epidural anaesthesia, or for trainees.

Epidural analgesia practices for labour: results of a 2005 national survey in Ireland.

PubMed

Fanning, Rebecca A; Briggs, Liam P; Carey, Michael F

2009-03-01

The last 25 years have seen changes in the management of epidural analgesia for labour, including the advent of low-dose epidural analgesia, the development of new local anaesthetic agents, various regimes for maintaining epidural analgesia and the practice of combined spinal-epidural analgesia. We conducted a survey of Irish obstetric anaesthetists to obtain information regarding the conduct and management of obstetric epidural analgesia in Ireland in 2005. The specific objective of this survey was to discover whether new developments in obstetric anaesthesia have been incorporated into clinical practice. A postal survey was sent to all anaesthetists with a clinical commitment for obstetric anaesthesia in the sites approved for training by the College of Anaesthetists, Ireland. Fifty-three per cent of anaesthetists surveyed responded. The majority of anaesthetists (98%) use low-dose epidural analgesia for the maintenance of analgesia. Only 11% use it for test-dosing and 32% for the induction of analgesia. The combined spinal-epidural analgesia method is used by 49%, but two-thirds of those who use it perform fewer than five per month. Patient-controlled epidural analgesia was in use at only one site. It appears that Irish obstetric anaesthetists have adopted the low-dose epidural analgesia trend for the maintenance of labour analgesia. This practice is not as widespread, however, for test dosing, the induction of analgesia dose or in the administration of intermittent epidural boluses to maintain analgesia when higher concentrations are used. Since its introduction in 2000, levobupivacaine has become the most popular local anaesthetic agent.

Accidental epidural injection of thiopental in a dog.

PubMed

O'Kell, Allison L; Ambros, Barbara

2010-03-01

A 3-year-old Labrador retriever was presented to the Western College of Veterinary Medicine for a tibial plateau levelling osteotomy. While performing a pre-operative epidural, thiopental was inadvertently administered into the epidural space. Treatment included epidural saline flushing and intravenous methylprednisolone sodium succinate. No neurologic deficits were detected.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy under epidural anesthesia: a clinical feasibility study.

PubMed

Lee, Ji Hyun; Huh, Jin; Kim, Duk Kyung; Gil, Jea Ryoung; Min, Sung Won; Han, Sun Sook

2010-12-01

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) has traditionally been performed under general anesthesia, however, owing in part to the advancement of surgical and anesthetic techniques, many laparoscopic cholecystectomies have been successfully performed under the spinal anesthetic technique. We hoped to determine the feasibility of segmental epidural anesthesia for LC. Twelve American Society of Anesthesiologists class I or II patients received an epidural block for LC. The level of epidural block and the satisfaction score of patients and the surgeon were checked to evaluate the efficacy of epidural block for LC. LC was performed successfully under epidural block, with the exception of 1 patient who required a conversion to general anesthesia owing to severe referred pain. There were no special postoperative complications, with the exception of one case of urinary retention. Epidural anesthesia might be applicable for LC. However, the incidence of intraoperative referred shoulder pain is high, and so careful patient recruitment and management of shoulder pain should be considered.

Accidental epidural injection of thiopental in a dog

PubMed Central

O’Kell, Allison L.; Ambros, Barbara

2010-01-01

A 3-year-old Labrador retriever was presented to the Western College of Veterinary Medicine for a tibial plateau levelling osteotomy. While performing a pre-operative epidural, thiopental was inadvertently administered into the epidural space. Treatment included epidural saline flushing and intravenous methylprednisolone sodium succinate. No neurologic deficits were detected. PMID:20514256

Another cause of headache after epidural injection.

PubMed

Anwari, Jamil S; Hazazi, Abdulaziz A

2015-04-01

Headache is a potential complication of epidural injection. We report a patient who developed headache 5 days after a lumbar epidural steroid injection, which was not related to the epidural procedure, but caused by Duloxetine induced hyponatremia. Antidepressant drug induced headache should be considered in the differential diagnosis of post dural puncture headache.

The Use of a Dehydrated Amnion/Chorion Membrane Allograft in Patients Who Subsequently Undergo Reexploration after Posterior Lumbar Instrumentation

PubMed Central

Subach, Brian R.; Copay, Anne G.

2015-01-01

Background Context. Products that can reduce development of epidural fibrosis may reduce risk for ongoing pain associated with development of scar tissue and make subsequent epidural reexploration easier. Purpose. To evaluate the use of dehydrated human amnion/chorion membrane (dHACM) on the formation of soft tissue scarring in the epidural space. Study Design. Case series. Patient Sample. Five patients having transforaminal lumbar interbody lumbar fusion (TLIF) with posterior instrumentation and implantation of dHACM in the epidural space and subsequent epidural reexploration. Outcome Measures. Degree of scar tissue adjacent to the epidural space at reexploration. Intraoperative and postoperative complications related to dHACM and patient reported outcomes. Methods. The degree of scar tissue adjacent to the epidural space was assessed during the reexploration surgery. Patients' outcomes were collected using standard validated questionnaires. Results. Four of 5 cases had easily detachable tissue during epidural reexploration. Angiolipoma of 10% was noted in 1 case and 5% in 2 cases. Significant improvements in patient reported outcomes were observed. No intraoperative or postoperative complications occurred. Conclusions. Our findings suggest that dHACM implant during TLIF may have favorable effects on epidural fibrosis and is well tolerated. Further studies with larger cohorts are required to prove our results. PMID:25653880

Hyperbaric therapy for a postpartum patient with prolonged epidural blockade and tomographic evidence of epidural air.

PubMed

Panni, Moeen K; Camann, William; Bhavani Shankar, Kodali

2003-12-01

We used the epidural technique "loss of resistance to air" to provide labor analgesia in a healthy parturient. Inadequate analgesia required epidural catheter replacement using the same technique. Delayed recovery of sensory and motor blockade postpartum necessitated computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging studies. These revealed 4-6 mL of air in the epidural space with no evidence of thecal compression. On the advice of the neurologist, this patient underwent hyperbaric therapy 14 h after the discontinuation of the epidural infusion. The patient made a complete recovery and was discharged without neurologic sequelae. It is possible that epidural air delayed the absorption of local anesthetics as a result of a reduction in the vascular surface area. Although a cause and effect relationship between epidural air and prolonged neurological block cannot be categorically established, the use of "loss of resistance to air" technique complicated the differential diagnosis. We report a case of prolonged motor and sensory block after labor analgesia using "loss of resistance to air" technique. The presence of epidural air on tomography resulted in the patient undergoing hyperbaric therapy. The use of loss of resistance to air technique complicated the differential diagnosis of prolonged sensory and motor block.

Nationwide incidence of serious complications of epidural analgesia in the United States.

PubMed

Rosero, E B; Joshi, G P

2016-07-01

This study aimed to describe the incidence and risk factors of in-hospital spinal hematoma and abscess associated with epidural analgesia in adult obstetric and non-obstetric populations in the United States. The Nationwide Inpatient Sample was analyzed to identify patients receiving epidural analgesia from 1998 to 2010. Primary outcomes were incidence of spinal hematoma and epidural abscess. Use of decompressive laminectomy was also investigated. Regression analyses were conducted to assess predictors of epidural analgesia complications. Differences in mortality and disposition of patients at discharge were compared in patients with and without neuraxial complications. Obstetric and non-obstetric patients were studied separately. A total of 3,703,755 epidural analgesia procedures (2,320,950 obstetric and 1,382,805 non-obstetric) were identified. In obstetric patients, the incidence of spinal hematoma was 0.6 per 100,000 epidural catheterizations (95% CI, 0.3 to 1.0 × 10(-5) ). The incidence of epidural abscess was zero. In non-obstetric patients, the incidence of spinal hematoma and epidural abscess were, respectively, 18.5 per 100,000 (95% CI, 16.3 to 20.9 × 10(-5) ) and 7.2 per 100,000 (95% CI, 5.8 to 8.7 × 10(-5) ) catheterizations. Predictors of spinal hematoma included type of surgical procedure (higher in vascular surgery), teaching status of hospital, and comorbidity score. Patients with spinal complications had higher in-hospital mortality (12.2% vs. 1.1%, P < 0.0001) and were significantly less likely to be discharged to home. This large nationwide data analysis reveals that the incidence of epidural analgesia-related complications is very low in obstetric population epidural analgesia and much higher in patients having vascular surgery. © 2016 The Acta Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Initiation of labor analgesia with injection of local anesthetic through the epidural needle compared to the catheter.

PubMed

Ristev, Goran; Sipes, Angela C; Mahoney, Bryan; Lipps, Jonathan; Chan, Gary; Coffman, John C

2017-01-01

The rationale for injection of epidural medications through the needle is to promote sooner onset of pain relief relative to dosing through the epidural catheter given that needle injection can be performed immediately after successful location of the epidural space. Some evidence indicates that dosing medications through the epidural needle results in faster onset and improved quality of epidural anesthesia compared to dosing through the catheter, though these dosing techniques have not been compared in laboring women. This investigation was performed to determine whether dosing medication through the epidural needle improves the quality of analgesia, level of sensory blockade, or onset of pain relief measured from the time of epidural medication injection. In this double-blinded prospective investigation, healthy term laboring women (n=60) received labor epidural placement upon request. Epidural analgesia was initiated according to the assigned randomization group: 10 mL loading dose (0.125% bupivacaine with fentanyl 2 µg/mL) through either the epidural needle or the catheter, given in 5 mL increments spaced 2 minutes apart. Verbal rating scale (VRS) pain scores (0-10) and pinprick sensory levels were documented to determine the rates of analgesic and sensory blockade onset. No significant differences were observed in onset of analgesia or sensory blockade from the time of injection between study groups. The estimated difference in the rate of pain relief (VRS/minute) was 0.04 (95% CI: -0.01 to 0.11; p =0.109), and the estimated difference in onset of sensory blockade (sensory level/minute) was 0.63 (95% CI: -0.02 to 0.15; p =0.166). The time to VRS ≤3 and level of sensory block 20 minutes after dosing were also similar between groups. No differences in patient satisfaction, or maternal or fetal complications were observed. This investigation observed that epidural needle and catheter injection of medications result in similar onset of analgesia and sensory blockade, quality of labor analgesia, patient satisfaction, and complication rates.

Clinical value of transforaminal epidural steroid injection in lumbar radiculopathy.

PubMed

Leung, S M; Chau, W W; Law, S W; Fung, K Y

2015-10-01

To identify the diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic values of transforaminal epidural steroid injection as interventional rehabilitation for lumbar radiculopathy. Regional hospital, Hong Kong. A total of 232 Chinese patients with lumbar radiculopathy attributed to disc herniation or spinal stenosis received transforaminal epidural steroid injection between 1 January 2007 and 31 December 2011. Transforaminal epidural steroid injection. Patients' immediate response, response duration, proportion of patients requiring surgery, and risk factors affecting the responses to transforaminal epidural steroid injection for lumbar radiculopathy. Of the 232 patients, 218 (94.0%) had a single level of radiculopathy and 14 (6.0%) had multiple levels. L5 was the most commonly affected level. The immediate response rate to transforaminal epidural steroid injection was 80.2% in 186 patients with clinically diagnosed lumbar radiculopathy and magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar spine suggesting nerve root compression. Of patients with single-level radiculopathy and multiple-level radiculopathy, 175 (80.3%) and 11 (78.6%) expressed an immediate response to transforaminal epidural steroid injection, respectively. The analgesic effect lasted for 1 to <3 weeks in 35 (15.1%) patients, for 3 to 12 weeks in 37 (15.9%) patients, and for more than 12 weeks in 92 (39.7%) patients. Of the 232 patients, 106 (45.7%) were offered surgery, with 65 (61.3%) undergoing operation, and with 42 (64.6%) requiring spinal fusion in addition to decompression surgery. Symptom chronicity was associated with poor immediate response to transforaminal epidural steroid injection, but not with duration of pain reduction. Poor response to transforaminal epidural steroid injection was not associated with a preceding industrial injury. The immediate response to transforaminal epidural steroid injection was approximately 80%. Transforaminal epidural steroid injection is a useful diagnostic, prognostic, and short-term therapeutic tool for lumbar radiculopathy. Although transforaminal epidural steroid injection cannot alter the need for surgery in the long term, it is a reasonably safe procedure to provide short-term pain relief and as a preoperative assessment tool.

Posterior epidural disc fragment masquerading as spinal tumor: Review of the literature.

PubMed

Park, Taejune; Lee, Ho Jun; Kim, Jae Seong; Nam, Kiyeun

2018-03-09

Posterior epidural lumbar disc fragment is infrequent because of anatomical barriers, and it is difficult to diagnose posterior epidural lumbar disc fragment because of its rare incidence and the ambiguity of radiologic evaluations. And it is difficult to differentiate it from other diseases such as spinal tumors. Differential diagnosis of posterior epidural lumbar disc fragment is clinically important because its diagnosis can affect treatment and prognosis. To investigate the incidence, anatomical concern, etiology, symptom, diagnostic tool, management and prognosis of posterior epidural lumbar disc fragment, we reviewed articles including case report. We performed a search of all clinical studies of posterior epidural lumbar disc fragment published to date. The following keywords were searched: Posterior epidural lumbar disc fragment, disc migration, posterior epidural disc, extradural migration, dorsal epidural migration, sequestrated disc, and disc fragment. We identified 40 patients of posterior epidural lumbar disc fragment from 28 studies. The most common presentation of posterior epidural lumbar disc fragment was sudden onset radiculopathy (70.0%), followed by cauda equina syndrome (27.5%). The most frequently used diagnostic modality was magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), conducted in 36 cases (90.0%), and followed by computed tomography in 14 cases (35.0%). After the imaging studies, the preoperative diagnoses were 45.0% masses, 20.0% lesions, and 12.5% tumors. Characteristic MRI findings in posterior epidural lumbar disc fragment are helpful for diagnosis; it typically displays low signals on T1-weighted images and high signals on T2-weighted images with respect to the parent disc. In addition, most of the disc fragments show peripheral rim enhancement on MRI with gadolinium administration. Electrodiagnostic testing is useful for verifying nerve damage. Surgical treatment was performed in all cases, and neurologic complications were observed in 12.5%. As posterior epidural lumbar disc fragment could be masqueraded as spinal tumor, if rim enhancement is observed in MRI scans with sudden symptoms of radiculopathy or cauda equina syndrome, it should be taken into consideration. Early diagnosis can lead to early surgery, which can reduce complications.

The Correlation Between Body Mass Index On The Length From Skin To Lumbar Epidural Space In Nigerian Adults.

PubMed

Adegboye, M B; Bolaji, B O; Ibraheem, G H

2017-01-01

One of the factors that determine success of an epidural anaesthetic is correctly locating the epidural space. Being able to predict the skin to lumbar epidural space distance can serve as a guide to performing epidural anaesthesia and in turn increase the success rate. To determine the correlation between the BMI, gender and age on SLESD of adults scheduled for elective surgical procedure under lumbar epidural anaesthesia. It was across sectional descriptive study carried out on consenting patients scheduled for elective surgery under lumbar epidural anaesthesia. The study was carried out in the main theatre complex and the obstetric theatre of the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Ilorin, Nigeria. One hundred and twenty patients of ASAI and II physical status between the ages of18-65years scheduled for elective surgical procedures under epidural anaesthesia were enrolled into the study. This was a cross sectional descriptive study involving both sexes. Using a septic technique epidural anaesthesia was established in the sitting position using the midline approach at L3/L4orL4/L5 interspace. The epidural space was identified by loss of resistance to air. TheSLESD in centimetres (cm) was rounded up to the nearest 0.25cm. Data were collected and analyzed using Spearman´s correlation to evaluate the relationship between BMI, weight, sex, age, height and the SLESD. The mean SLESD was 4.60±0.83 cm with a range of 3cm-8cm. The SLESD was significantly influenced by BMI and weight with both having positive correlation and P value of 0.001 and 0.004 respectively. We formulated a relationship between skin to lumbar epidural space and body mass index based on linear regression analysis: Depth cm= a + b × (BMI)Where a =3.33 and b =0.05.There was no correlation between SLESD and height, age or sex of the patients. There was positive linear correlation between the body mass index, body weight and the skin to lumbar epidural space distance. Whereas, the age, sex and height had no correlation with the skin to lumbar epidural space distance.

Emergency management of epidural haematoma through burr hole evacuation and drainage. A preliminary report.

PubMed

Liu, J T; Tyan, Y S; Lee, Y K; Wang, J T

2006-03-01

Blood clot evacuation through an osteoplastic craniotomy, a procedure requiring neurosurgical expertise and modern medical facilities, is the accepted method for treatment of a pure traumatic epidural haematoma following closed head injury. In certain emergency situations and/or in less sophisticated settings, however, use of this procedure may not be feasible. The present study was undertaken to ascertain whether placement of a burr hole and drainage under negative pressure constituted a rapid, effective and safe approach to manage patients with simple epidural haematomas. Thirteen patients suffering from a traumatic epidural haematoma were treated from January, 1999 to October, 2002. Twelve patients presented with skull fracture but no fracture was depressed. Placement of flexible tubes through a burr hole, followed by continuous suction under negative pressure, enabled aspiration of the clot and drainage of the cavity. In 8 cases, the procedure was performed under local anaesthesia with 2% Xylocaine and with intravenous sedation with propofol as needed. The operative procedure was accomplished within 30 min, and the drainage tube was left in place for 3-5 days. CT scans were performed daily from days 1 to 5. In 11 of 13 cases, clots were evacuated successfully and patients regained consciousness within 2 hours. Recoveries occurred without significant sequelae. In the remaining 2 cases, the drainage tube was found to be obstructed by a blood clot such that the haematoma was unaffected. A traditional craniotomy was performed within 8-12 hours, and these 2 patients recovered consciousness within the subsequent 6 hours. Burr hole evacuation followed by drainage under negative pressure is a safe and effective method for emergency management of a pure traumatic epidural haematoma. To assure safety patients given this procedure should be monitored by daily CT scans. Decompressive craniotomy should be performed if consciousness does not improve within several hours.

Effects of 4% Icodextrin on Experimental Spinal Epidural Fibrosis.

PubMed

Karanci, Turker; Kelten, Bilal; Karaoglan, Alper; Cinar, Nilgun; Midi, Ahmet; Antar, Veysel; Akdemir, Hidayet; Kara, Zeynep

2017-01-01

The aim of this experimental study was to investigate whether spinal epidural 4% glucose polymer solution is effective in the prevention of postoperative fibrosis. Twenty eight adult Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into two equal groups, including treatment and control. Both groups underwent L1 vertebral total laminectomy to expose the dura. Topical treatment group received 4% icodextrin. Four weeks later, epidural fibrosis was examined in both groups histologically, biochemically and macroscopically. Topical use of 4% icodextrin prevented significantly epidural fibrosis following the laminectomy operation. Topical 4% icodextrin application inhibits postoperative epidural fibrosis with various mechanisms and prevents adhesions by playing barrier role between tissue surfaces through flotation. Our study is first to present evidence of experimental epidural fibrosis prevention with 4% icodextrin.

Rectus sheath catheters for continuous analgesia after upper abdominal surgery.

PubMed

Cornish, Philip; Deacon, Alf

2007-01-01

The segmental nerves T6-T11 pass through and innervate the rectus abdominis muscle and overlying skin. The arcuate lines compartmentalize the rectus, but they are deficient posteriorly and hence a catheter tunnelled into the posterior sheath can be used to achieve an effective continuous analgesic block. Volume is important to fill the compartment. It is a simple surgical procedure that has several advantages and appears a viable alternative to epidural analgesia.

Use of Epidural Analgesia as an Adjunct in Elective Abdominal Wall Reconstruction: A Review of 4983 Cases.

PubMed

Karamanos, Efstathios; Dream, Sophie; Falvo, Anthony; Schmoekel, Nathan; Siddiqui, Aamir

2017-01-01

Use of epidural analgesia in patients undergoing elective abdominal wall reconstruction is common. To assess the impact of epidural analgesia in patients undergoing abdominal wall reconstruction. All patients who underwent elective ventral hernia repair from 2005 to 2014 were retrospectively identified. Patients were divided into two groups by the postoperative use of epidural analgesics as an adjunct analgesic method. Preoperative comorbidities, American Society of Anesthesiologists status, operative findings, postoperative pain management, and venothromboembolic prophylaxis were extracted from the database. Logistic regressions were performed to assess the impact of epidural use. Severity of pain on postoperative days 1 and 2. During the study period, 4983 patients were identified. Of those, 237 patients (4.8%) had an epidural analgesic placed. After adjustment for differences between groups, use of epidural analgesia was associated with significantly lower rates of 30-day presentation to the Emergency Department (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.53, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.32-0.87, adjusted p = 0.01). Use of epidural analgesia resulted in higher odds of abscess development (AOR = 5.89, CI = 2.00-17.34, adjusted p < 0.01) and transfusion requirement (AOR = 2.92, CI = 1.34-6.40, adjusted p < 0.01). Use of epidural analgesia resulted in a significantly lower pain score on postoperative day 1 (3 vs 4, adjusted p < 0.01). Use of epidural analgesia in patients undergoing abdominal wall reconstruction may result in longer hospital stay and higher incidence of complications while having no measurable positive clinical impact on pain control.

Risk factors for failed conversion of labor epidural analgesia to cesarean delivery anesthesia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational trials.

PubMed

Bauer, M E; Kountanis, J A; Tsen, L C; Greenfield, M L; Mhyre, J M

2012-10-01

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluates evidence for seven risk factors associated with failed conversion of labor epidural analgesia to cesarean delivery anesthesia. Online scientific literature databases were searched using a strategy which identified observational trials, published between January 1979 and May 2011, which evaluated risk factors for failed conversion of epidural analgesia to anesthesia or documented a failure rate resulting in general anesthesia. 1450 trials were screened, and 13 trials were included for review (n=8628). Three factors increase the risk for failed conversion: an increasing number of clinician-administered boluses during labor (OR=3.2, 95% CI 1.8-5.5), greater urgency for cesarean delivery (OR=40.4, 95% CI 8.8-186), and a non-obstetric anesthesiologist providing care (OR=4.6, 95% CI 1.8-11.5). Insufficient evidence is available to support combined spinal-epidural versus standard epidural techniques, duration of epidural analgesia, cervical dilation at the time of epidural placement, and body mass index or weight as risk factors for failed epidural conversion. The risk of failed conversion of labor epidural analgesia to anesthesia is increased with an increasing number of boluses administered during labor, an enhanced urgency for cesarean delivery, and care being provided by a non-obstetric anesthesiologist. Further high-quality studies are needed to evaluate the many potential risk factors associated with failed conversion of labor epidural analgesia to anesthesia for cesarean delivery. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Subdural Hematoma Associated With Labor Epidural Analgesia: A Case Series.

PubMed

Lim, Grace; Zorn, Jamie M; Dong, Yuanxu J; DeRenzo, Joseph S; Waters, Jonathan H

2016-01-01

This report aimed to describe the characteristics and impact of subdural hematoma (SDH) after labor epidural analgesia. Eleven obstetric patients had SDHs associated with the use of labor epidural analgesia over 7 years at a tertiary care hospital. Ten of 11 patients had signs consistent with postdural puncture headache before the diagnosis of SDH. Five patients (45%) had a recognized unintentional dural puncture, 1 (9%) had a combined spinal-epidural with a 24-gauge needle, and 5 (45%) had no recognized dural puncture. For 10 of the 11 cases, SDH was diagnosed at a mean of 4.1 days (range, 1-7 days) after performance of labor epidural analgesia; one case was diagnosed at 25 days. Ten (91%) of 11 cases had a second hospital stay for a mean of 2.8 days (range, 2-4 days) for observation, without further requirement for neurosurgical intervention. One case (9%) had decompressive hemicraniectomy after becoming unresponsive. The observed rate of labor epidural analgesia-associated SDH was 0.026% (11 in 42,969, approximately 1:3900), and the rate of SDH was 1.1% (5 in 437, approximately 1:87) if a recognized dural puncture occurred during epidural catheter placement. Subdural hematoma after labor epidural anesthesia is rare but potentially more common than historically estimated. Cases of postdural puncture headache after labor epidural anesthesia should be monitored closely for severe neurologic signs and symptoms that could herald SDH.

Subdural Thoracolumbar Spine Hematoma after Spinal Anesthesia: A Rare Occurrence and Literature Review of Spinal Hematomas after Spinal Anesthesia.

PubMed

Maddali, Prasanthi; Walker, Blake; Fisahn, Christian; Page, Jeni; Diaz, Vicki; Zwillman, Michael E; Oskouian, Rod J; Tubbs, R Shane; Moisi, Marc

2017-02-16

Spinal hematomas are a rare but serious complication of spinal epidural anesthesia and are typically seen in the epidural space; however, they have been documented in the subdural space. Spinal subdural hematomas likely exist within a traumatically induced space within the dural border cell layer, rather than an anatomical subdural space. Spinal subdural hematomas present a dangerous clinical situation as they have the potential to cause significant compression of neural elements and can be easily mistaken for spinal epidural hematomas. Ultrasound can be an effective modality to diagnose subdural hematoma when no epidural blood is visualized. We have reviewed the literature and present a full literature review and a case presentation of an 82-year-old male who developed a thoracolumbar spinal subdural hematoma after spinal epidural anesthesia. Anticoagulant therapy is an important predisposing risk factor for spinal epidural hematomas and likely also predispose to spinal subdural hematomas. It is important to consider spinal subdural hematomas in addition to spinal epidural hematomas in patients who develop weakness after spinal epidural anesthesia, especially in patients who have received anticoagulation.

[Survey on patients' impression of and degree of satisfaction to epidural anesthesia].

PubMed

Doudou, Yoriko; Saeki, Hiroshi; Morimoto, Yasuhiro; Matsumoto, Mishiya; Sakabe, Takefumi

2007-10-01

[corrected] Epidural analgesia is one of the methods to relieve pain after the operation. In general, patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) is efficient in providing high patient's satisfaction. However, it is not clear whether the patients are really satisfied with this analgesic technique in our hospital. Therefore, we studied this issue in 70 patients who had received elective surgery and epidural analgesia postoperatively. We used questionnaires to investigate patients' impression of and degree of satisfaction to, epidural analgesia. We interviewed patients before operation and, 1 and 7 days after operation. We also evaluated PCEA usage, analgesic usage and side effects of epidural analgesia during the postoperative period. Preoperatively 80% of the patients had an anticipation of adequate analgesia with epidural analgesia. Although 54% of the patients had anxiety/fear during the epidural puncture, postoperative analgesia met their expectation in 86% of the patients. PCEA was used only in limited number of patients. The limited use of PCEA may be caused by inadequate information given to the patients. Therefore, it is necessary to give more easily understandable information to the patients about this analgesic procedure for better patients' acceptance, comfort and satisfaction.

Benefit-risk assessment of ropivacaine in the management of postoperative pain.

PubMed

Zink, Wolfgang; Graf, Bernhard M

2004-01-01

Ropivacaine is a long-acting amide-type local anaesthetic, released for clinical use in 1996. In comparison with bupivacaine, ropivacaine is equally effective for subcutaneous infiltration, epidural and peripheral nerve block for surgery, obstetric procedures and postoperative analgesia. Nevertheless, ropivacaine differs from bupivacaine in several aspects: firstly, it is marketed as a pure S(-)-enantiomer and not as a racemate, and secondly, its lipid solubility is markedly lower. These features have been suggested to significantly improve the safety profile of ropivacaine, and indeed, numerous studies have shown that ropivacaine has less cardiovascular and CNS toxicity than racemic bupivacaine in healthy volunteers. Extensive clinical data have demonstrated that epidural 0.2% ropivacaine is nearly identical to 0.2% bupivacaine with regard to onset, quality and duration of sensory blockade for initiation and maintenance of labour analgesia. Ropivacaine also provides effective pain relief after abdominal or orthopaedic surgery, especially when given in conjunction with opioids or other adjuvants. Nevertheless, epidurally administered ropivacaine causes significantly less motor blockade at low concentrations. Whether the greater degree of blockade of nerve fibres involved in pain transmission (Adelta- and C-fibres) than of those controlling motor function (Aalpha- and Abeta-fibres) is due to a lower relative potency compared with bupivacaine or whether other physicochemical properties or stereoselectivity are involved, is still a matter of intense debate. Recommended epidural doses for postoperative or labour pain are 20-40 mg as bolus with 20-30 mg as top-up dose, with an interval of >or=30 minutes. Alternatively, 0.2% ropivacaine can be given as continuous epidural infusion at a rate of 6-14 mL/h (lumbar route) or 4-10 mL/h (thoracic route). Preoperative or postoperative subcutaneous wound infiltration, during cholecystectomy or inguinal hernia repair, with ropivacaine 100-175 mg has been shown to be more effective than placebo and as effective as bupivacaine in reducing wound pain, whereby the vasoconstrictive potency of ropivacaine may be involved. Similar results were found in peripheral blockades on upper and lower limbs. Ropivacaine shows an identical efficacy and potency to that of bupivacaine, with similar analgesic duration over hours using single shot or continuous catheter techniques. In summary, ropivacaine, a newer long-acting local anaesthetic, has an efficacy generally similar to that of the same dose of bupivacaine with regard to postoperative pain relief, but causes less motor blockade and stronger vasoconstriction at low concentrations. Despite a significantly better safety profile of the pure S(-)-isomer of ropivacaine, the increased cost of ropivacaine may presently limit its clinical utility in postoperative pain therapy.

Spinal Subdural Abscess Following Laminectomy for Symptomatic Stenosis: A Report of 2 Cases and Review of the Literature.

PubMed

Ramos, Alexander D; Rolston, John D; Gauger, Grant E; Larson, Paul S

2016-07-12

BACKGROUND Spinal subdural abscesses, also known as empyemas, are rare infectious lesions, the exact incidence of which is unknown. Presentation is typically dramatic, with back pain, fever, motor, and sensory deficits. Rapid identification and surgical intervention with laminectomy, durotomy, and washout provides the best outcomes. While hematogenous spread of an extra-spinal infection is the most common cause of this condition, a significant number of cases result from iatrogenic mechanisms, including lumbar punctures, epidural injections, and surgery. CASE REPORT Here we present 2 cases: 1) an 87-year-old man with type 2 diabetes, schizophrenia, mild cognitive impairment, and symptomatic lumbar spinal stenosis and 2) a 62-year-old man with a prior L3-4 spinal fusion with symptomatic lumbar spinal stenosis. In both cases, patients underwent laminectomy for spinal stenosis and developed epidural abscess. Following successful drainage of the epidural abscess, they continued to be symptomatic, and repeat imaging revealed the presence of a subdural abscess that was subsequently evacuated. Case 1 had significant improvement with residual lower-extremity weakness, while Case 2 made a complete neurological recovery. CONCLUSIONS These cases illustrate patients at increased risk for developing this rare spinal infection, and demonstrate that rapid recognition and surgical treatment is key to cure and recovery. Review of the literature highlights pertinent risk factors and demonstrates nearly one-third of reported cases have an iatrogenic etiology. The cases presented here demonstrate that a subdural process should be suspected in any patient with intractable pain following treatment of an epidural abscess.

Postoperative pain after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: comparison of three analgesic schemes (isolated intravenous analgesia, epidural analgesia associated with intravenous analgesia and port-sites infiltration with bupivacaine associated with intravenous analgesia).

PubMed

Ruiz-Tovar, Jaime; Muñoz, Jose Luis; Gonzalez, Juan; Zubiaga, Lorea; García, Alejandro; Jimenez, Montiel; Ferrigni, Carlos; Durán, Manuel

2017-01-01

Although bariatric surgery is actually mainly performed laparoscopically, analgesic optimization continues being essential to reduce complications and to improve the patients' comfort. The aim of this study is to evaluate the postoperative pain after analgesia iv exclusively, or associated with epidural analgesia or port-sites infiltration with bupivacaine. A prospective randomized study of patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy between 2012 and 2014 was performed. Patients were divided into three groups: Analgesia iv exclusively (Group 1), epidural analgesia + analgesia iv (Group 2) and port-sites infiltration + analgesia iv (Group 3). Pain was quantified by means of a Visual Analogic Scale, and morphine rescue needs were determined 24 h after surgery. A total of 147 were included. Groups were comparable in age, gender and BMI. There were no differences in operation time, complications, mortality or hospital stay between groups. Median pain 24 h after surgery was 5 in Group 1, 2.5 in Group 2 and 2 in Group 3 (P = 0.01), without statistically significant differences between Groups 2 and 3. In Group 1, morphine rescue was necessary in 16.3 % of the cases, 2 % in Group 2 and 2 % in Group 3 (P = 0.014), without statistically significant differences between Groups 2 and 3. Epidural analgesia and port-sites infiltration with bupivacaine, associated with analgesia iv, reduce the postoperative pain, when compared with analgesia iv exclusively. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02662660.

Pure Epidural Cavernous Hemangioma of the Cervical Spine that Presented with an Acute Sensory Deficit Caused by Hemorrhage

PubMed Central

Lee, Sang-Ho; Chung, Seung-Eun; Paeng, Sung-Suk; Kim, Hye-Sung; Yoon, Sang-Wook; Yu, Jeong-Sik

2006-01-01

Pure epidural cavernous hemangioma of the spine without vertebral involvement is rare. Due to the slow growth of this lesion, the most common symptoms are chronic pain, myelopathy, and radiculopathy. In our case, the patient complained of an acute onset sensory deficit of the C4 dermatome. An MRI revealed an epidural mass with an acute hematoma. Here, we report a case of a pure epidural cavernous hemangioma that presented with acute neurologic symptoms caused by intralesional hemorrhage and an acute epidural hematoma, which were demonstrated on the patient's MRI. PMID:17191320

Pure epidural cavernous hemangioma of the cervical spine that presented with an acute sensory deficit caused by hemorrhage.

PubMed

Jo, Byung-June; Lee, Sang-Ho; Chung, Seung-Eun; Paeng, Sung-Suk; Kim, Hye-Sung; Yoon, Sang-Wook; Yu, Jeong-Sik

2006-12-31

Pure epidural cavernous hemangioma of the spine without vertebral involvement is rare. Due to the slow growth of this lesion, the most common symptoms are chronic pain, myelopathy, and radiculopathy. In our case, the patient complained of an acute onset sensory deficit of the C4 dermatome. An MRI revealed an epidural mass with an acute hematoma. Here, we report a case of a pure epidural cavernous hemangioma that presented with acute neurologic symptoms caused by intralesional hemorrhage and an acute epidural hematoma, which were demonstrated on the patient's MRI.

Initiation of labor analgesia with injection of local anesthetic through the epidural needle compared to the catheter

PubMed Central

Ristev, Goran; Sipes, Angela C; Mahoney, Bryan; Lipps, Jonathan; Chan, Gary; Coffman, John C

2017-01-01

Background The rationale for injection of epidural medications through the needle is to promote sooner onset of pain relief relative to dosing through the epidural catheter given that needle injection can be performed immediately after successful location of the epidural space. Some evidence indicates that dosing medications through the epidural needle results in faster onset and improved quality of epidural anesthesia compared to dosing through the catheter, though these dosing techniques have not been compared in laboring women. This investigation was performed to determine whether dosing medication through the epidural needle improves the quality of analgesia, level of sensory blockade, or onset of pain relief measured from the time of epidural medication injection. Methods In this double-blinded prospective investigation, healthy term laboring women (n=60) received labor epidural placement upon request. Epidural analgesia was initiated according to the assigned randomization group: 10 mL loading dose (0.125% bupivacaine with fentanyl 2 µg/mL) through either the epidural needle or the catheter, given in 5 mL increments spaced 2 minutes apart. Verbal rating scale (VRS) pain scores (0–10) and pinprick sensory levels were documented to determine the rates of analgesic and sensory blockade onset. Results No significant differences were observed in onset of analgesia or sensory blockade from the time of injection between study groups. The estimated difference in the rate of pain relief (VRS/minute) was 0.04 (95% CI: −0.01 to 0.11; p=0.109), and the estimated difference in onset of sensory blockade (sensory level/minute) was 0.63 (95% CI: −0.02 to 0.15; p=0.166). The time to VRS ≤3 and level of sensory block 20 minutes after dosing were also similar between groups. No differences in patient satisfaction, or maternal or fetal complications were observed. Conclusion This investigation observed that epidural needle and catheter injection of medications result in similar onset of analgesia and sensory blockade, quality of labor analgesia, patient satisfaction, and complication rates. PMID:29263693

Reliability of Waveform Analysis as an Adjunct to Loss of Resistance for Thoracic Epidural Blocks.

PubMed

Leurcharusmee, Prangmalee; Arnuntasupakul, Vanlapa; Chora De La Garza, Daniel; Vijitpavan, Amorn; Ah-Kye, Sonia; Saelao, Abhidej; Tiyaprasertkul, Worakamol; Finlayson, Roderick J; Tran, De Q H

2015-01-01

The epidural space is most commonly identified with loss of resistance (LOR). Although sensitive, LOR lacks specificity, as cysts in interspinous ligaments, gaps in ligamentum flavum, paravertebral muscles, thoracic paravertebral spaces, and intermuscular planes can yield nonepidural LOR. Epidural waveform analysis (EWA) provides a simple confirmatory adjunct for LOR. When the needle is correctly positioned inside the epidural space, measurement of the pressure at its tip results in a pulsatile waveform. In this observational study, we set out to assess the sensitivity, specificity, as well as positive and negative predictive values of EWA for thoracic epidural blocks. We enrolled a convenience sample of 160 patients undergoing thoracic epidural blocks for thoracic surgery, abdominal surgery, or rib fractures. The choice of patient position (sitting or lateral decubitus), approach (midline or paramedian), and LOR medium (air or normal saline) was left to the operator (attending anesthesiologist, fellow, or resident). After obtaining a satisfactory LOR, the operator injected 5 mL of normal saline through the epidural needle. A sterile tubing, connected to a pressure transducer, was attached to the needle to measure the pressure at the needle tip. A 4-mL bolus of lidocaine 2% with epinephrine 5 μg/mL was then administered and, after 10 minutes, the patient was assessed for sensory blockade to ice. The failure rate (incorrect identification of the epidural space with LOR) was 23.1%. Of these 37 failed epidural blocks, 27 provided no sensory anesthesia at 10 minutes. In 10 subjects, the operator was unable to thread the catheter through the needle. When compared with the ice test, the sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of EWA were 91.1%, 83.8%, 94.9%, and 73.8%, respectively. Epidural waveform analysis (with pressure transduction through the needle) provides a simple adjunct to LOR for thoracic epidural blocks. Although its use was devoid of complications, further confirmatory studies are required before its routine implementation in clinical practice.

Epidural Steroid Injections

MedlinePlus

... slipped vertebrae’, also known as spondylolisthesis). The epidural space is a fat filled ‘sleeve’ that surrounds the ... spinal cord. Steroids (‘cortisone’) placed into the epidural space have a very potent anti-inflammatory action that ...

Spontaneous regression of posterior epidural migrated lumbar disc fragments: case series.

PubMed

Tarukado, Kiyoshi; Ikuta, Ko; Fukutoku, Yoshiaki; Tono, Osamu; Doi, Toshio

2015-06-01

Posterior epidural migrated lumbar disc fragments is an extremely rare disorder. Surgical treatment was performed in all reported cases. To the best of our knowledge, there are no reported cases of the use of conservative treatment for posterior epidural migrated lumbar disc fragments. To report the possibility of a spontaneous regression of posterior epidural migrated lumbar disc fragments. Case series. Four patients with posterior epidural migrated lumbar disc fragments were treated at Karatsu Red Cross Hospital between April 2008 and August 2010. Spontaneous regression of the posterior epidural migrated lumbar disc fragments with relief of symptoms was observed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in three cases. Another patient underwent surgical treatment. The present and previously reported cases of posterior epidural migrated lumbar disc fragments were analyzed with respect to patient age, imaging features on MRI, the level of the lesion, clinical symptoms, treatment, and outcomes. Conservative treatment was successful, and spontaneous lesion regression was seen on MRI with symptom relief in three cases. Although posterior epidural migrated lumbar disc fragment cases are generally treated surgically, the condition can regress spontaneously over time, as do sequestrated disc fragments. Spontaneous regression of lumbar disc herniations is a widely accepted observation at present. Posterior epidural migrated lumbar disc fragments fall under the sequestrated type of disc herniation. In fact, the course of treatment for posterior epidural migrated lumbar disc fragments should be determined based on the symptoms and examination findings, as in cases of ordinary herniation. However, providing early surgical treatment is important if the patient has acute cauda equina syndrome or the neurologic symptoms worsen over time. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Exploring factors influencing patient request for epidural analgesia on admission to labor and delivery in a predominantly Latino population.

PubMed

Orejuela, Francisco J; Garcia, Tiffany; Green, Charles; Kilpatrick, Charlie; Guzman, Sara; Blackwell, Sean

2012-04-01

Ethnic disparities in labor pain management exist. Our purpose is to identify patients' attitudes and beliefs about epidural analgesia in order to develop a culturally competent educational intervention. A prospective observational study was conducted in patients admitted for vaginal delivery between July 1st-31st, 2009. Inclusion criteria were: singleton, term, cephalic, normal fetal heart tracing and no contraindications for epidural. Patients were surveyed regarding their wishes for analgesia, and their reasons for declining epidural. The obstetrics physician performed pain management counseling as is usually done. Patients were asked again about their choice for analgesia. Likert scale questionnaires were used. Wilcoxon signed ranked test was used for categorical variables. Logistic regression was performed to look for predictors of epidural request. Fifty patients were interviewed. Average age was (27.9 ± 6.7), gestational age (39.3 ± 1.3), and a median parity of 2 (range 0-6). 72% declined epidural upon admission, and 61% after counseling (P = 0.14). Most common reasons for declined epidural were 'women should cope with labor pain' (57%), 'fear of back pain' (54%) and 'family/friends advise against epidural' (36%). Acculturation was assessed by years living in the US (10 ± 6.3), preferred language (Spanish 80%) and ethnic self-identification (Hispanic 98%). 38% were high school graduates. In multivariate logistic regression, graduation from high school was the only variable associated to request for epidural in labor (OR 4.94, 95% CI 1.6-15.1). Educational level is associated to requesting an epidural in labor. Knowledge of patients' fears and expectations is essential to develop adequate counseling interventions.

Comparison of epidural morphine versus intramuscular morphine for postoperative analgesia.

PubMed

Baftiu, Nehat; Hadri, Burhan; Mustafa, Aziz

2010-01-01

To compare effects and side effects or complications of epidural versus intramuscularly administered morphine for relieve of postoperative pain. In the first group (epidural) analgesia is achieved by application of morphine through epidural catheter. To the amount of morphine is added physiological solution until 10 ml of total volume of the mixture is achieved. This mixture is given to 150 patients, by epidural route before the exit from the operation room. Epidural catheter is removed after 48 hours. Second group (intramuscular) analgesia is realized by application of 10 mg of morphine by intramuscular route. Morphine is injected at the end of surgery. Pain is assessed with combination of verbal categorical scale and visual analog scale. Verbal categorical scale used is 8 points scale and contains words of Tursky: 0 no pain, 1 very low pain, 2 week pain, 3 mild pain, 4 moderate pain, 5 strong pain, 6 severe pain, 7 untolerated pain. Awareness is assed during first 24 hours. For this Reynolds 4 points scale is used: awaked 1, somnolent 2, sleepy 3, deep sleep 4. Pain assessed by visual analog scale (VAS) is 15.17-29.62 in the epidural group patients versus 26.39-70.83 in intramuscular group. Variation of respiration rate in both groups is not significant 22.21 +/- 4.23 and 23.98 +/- 2.72 in minute, in epidural and intramuscular morphine groups, respectively. PaCO2 and PaO2 values are similar without significant variation 35.34 +/- 4.72 mmHg in the epidural morphine group and 31.3 +/- 3.21 mmHg in intramuscular morphine group. Epidural administration of morphine provides better analgesia in quality, since it is deeper, longer in duration and with less inhibitory supra-spinal actions when compared to intramuscular administered morphine.

The effects of epidural bupivacaine on ischemia/reperfusion-induced liver injury.

PubMed

Sarikus, Z; Bedirli, N; Yilmaz, G; Bagriacik, U; Bozkirli, F

2016-01-01

Several animal studies showed beneficial effects of thoracic epidural anesthesia (TEA) in hippocampal, mesenteric and myocardial IR injury (2-4). In this study, we investigated the effects of epidural bupivacaine on hepatic ischemia reperfusion injury in a rat model. Eighteen rats were randomly divided into three groups each containing 6 animals. The rats in Group C had sham laparotomy. The rats in the Group S were subjected to liver IR through laparotomy and 20 mcg/kg/h 0.9% NaCl was administered to these rats via an epidural catheter. The rats in the Group B were subjected to liver IR and were given 20 mcg/kg/h bupivacaine via an epidural catheter. Liver tissue was harvested for MDA analysis, apoptosis and histopathological examination after 60 minutes of ischemia followed by 360 minutes of reperfusion. Blood samples were also collected for TNF-α, IL-1β, AST and ALT analysis. The AST and ALT levels were higher in ischemia and reperfusion group, which received only normal saline via the thoracic epidural catheter, compared to the sham group. In the ischemia reperfusion group, which received bupivacaine via the epidural catheter, IL-1 levels were significantly higher than in the other groups. TNF-α levels were higher in the Groups S and B compared to the sham group. Bupivacaine administration induced apoptosis in all animals. These results showed that thoracic epidural bupivacaine was not a suitable agent for preventing inflammatory response and lipid peroxidation in experimental hepatic IR injury in rats. Moreover, epidural bupivacaine triggered apoptosis in hepatocytes. Further research is needed as there are no studies in literature investigate the effects of epidural bupivacaine on hepatic ischemia reperfusion injury (Tab. 3, Fig. 3, Ref. 34).

A state-wide assessment of the association between epidural analgesia, maternal fever and neonatal antibiotics in Colorado, 2007-2012.

PubMed

White, Alice; Olson, Daniel; Messacar, Kevin

2017-03-01

To determine if an association exists between epidural analgesia, maternal fever and neonatal antibiotic exposure in a state-wide birth cohort. We performed a retrospective cohort study of the population-based Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment birth certificate database. Data included all reported births in the state of Colorado between 2007 and 2012. Live, non-preterm, vaginal, singleton, in-hospital births were included in analysis. Maternal epidural analgesia and maternal fever. Neonatal antibiotic treatment for suspected sepsis. A stratified analysis was conducted to evaluate whether epidural use was an effect modifier of the association between maternal fever and neonatal antibiotic treatment. The final cohort included 261 457 births. 2.2% of women who received an epidural had a fever, as compared with 0.4% of women who did not receive an epidural (OR: 5.4; 95% CI 4.9 to 6.0), and neonates born to women who received an epidural had 1.26 times increased odds of antibiotic treatment (95% CI 1.1 to 1.4). Stratification by epidural use did not alter the association between maternal fever and neonatal antibiotic treatment. Colorado providers treat neonates born to mothers with maternal fever without respect to whether the mother had an epidural. Further research into improved criteria for neonatal sepsis evaluation that accounts for the contribution of maternal epidural fever should be developed to decrease unnecessary neonatal antibiotic exposure. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

[Lombosacral epidural capillary hemangioma mimicking a dumbbell-shaped neurinoma: A case report and review of the literature].

PubMed

Egu, K; Kinata-Bambino, S; Mounadi, M; Rachid El Maaqili, M; El Abbadi, N

2016-04-01

Capillary hemangiomas are benign endothelial cell neoplasms that are believed to be hamartomatous proliferations of vascular endothelial cells. The occurrence of spinal epidural capillary hemangiomas is exceedingly rare. Only 8 epidurally located cases of capillary hemangiomas in the spinal canal have been reported in the literature. We report for the first time, to our knowledge, a case of lumbosacral epidural capillary hemangioma revealed by S1 back pain and radicular pain in a 60-year-old patient, caused by an L5-S1 epidural capillary hemangioma. The neurological symptoms of the patient improved after surgery. Spinal epidural capillary hemangioma is exceedingly rare. These lesions are benign and can mimic dumbbell-shaped neurinoma. Total removal by surgery is curative. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Vaccum drainage system application in the management of operation-related non-regional epidural hematoma

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Epidural intracranial hematoma is one of the most common complications of surgeries for intracranial tumors. The non-regional epidural hematoma is related to severe fluctuation of the intracranial pressure during the operation. The traditional management of hematoma evacuation through craniotomy is time-consuming and may aggravate intracranial pressure imbalance, which causes further complications. We designed a method using vaccum epidural drainage system, and tried to evaluate advantage and the disadvantage of this new technique. Methods Seven patients of intracranial tumors were selected. All of the patients received tumor resection and intra-operative non-regional epidural hematoma was confirmed through intra-operative ultrasound or CT scan. The vaccum drainage system was applied. Another ten patients who received craniotomy for intra-operative non-regional epidural hematoma evacuation were selected as comparison. Regular tests, like serial CT scan, were performed afterward to evaluate the effectiveness and to help deciding when to remove the drainage system. Results The vaccum drainage method was effective in epidual hemotoma clearance and prevented recurrent epidural hemorrhage. The drainage systems were removed within 4 days. All of the patients recovered well. No complications related to the drainage system were observed. Conclusions Compared to the traditional craniotomy, the new method of epidural hemoatoma management using vaccum epidural drainage system proved to be as effective in hematoma clearance, and was less-invasive and easier to perform, with less complication, shorter hospitalization, less economic burden, and better prognosis. PMID:23842198

A new technique for long time catheterization of sacral epidural canal in rabbits.

PubMed

Erkin, Yüksel; Aydın, Zeynep; Taşdöğen, Aydın; Karcı, Ayşe

2013-01-01

In this study we aimed to develop a simple and practical technique for chronic sacral epidural catheterization of rabbits. We included ten rabbits weighing 2-2.5 kg in the study. After anesthesia and analgesia, we placed an epidural catheter by a 2 cm longitudinal skin incision in the tail above the sacral hiatus region. We confirmed localization by giving 1% lidocaine (leveling sensory loss and motor function loss of the lower extremity). The catheter was carried forward through a subcutaneous tunnel and fixed at the neck. Chronic caudal epidural catheter placement was succesful in all rabbits. The catheters stayed in place effectively for ten days. We encountered no catheter complications during this period. The localization of the catheter was reconfirmed by 1% lidocaine on the last day. After animals killing, we performed a laminectomy and verified localization of the catheter in the epidural space. Various methods for catheterization of the epidural space in animal models exist in the literature. Epidural catheterization of rabbits can be accomplished by atlanto-occipital, lumbar or caudal routes by amputation of the tail. Intrathecal and epidural catheterization techniques defined in the literature necessitate surgical skill and knowledge of surgical procedures like laminectomy and tail amputation. Our technique does not require substantial surgical skill, anatomical integrity is preserved and malposition of the catheter is not encountered. In conclusion, we suggest that our simple and easily applicable new epidural catheterization technique can be used as a model in experimental animal studies.

Subdural Hematoma Associated With Labor Epidural Analgesia: A Case Series

PubMed Central

Lim, Grace; Zorn, Jamie M.; Dong, Yuanxu J.; DeRenzo, Joseph S.; Waters, Jonathan H.

2016-01-01

Objective This report describes the characteristics and impact of subdural hematoma (SDH) after labor epidural analgesia. Case Reports Eleven obstetric patients had subdural hematomas (SDH) associated with the use of labor epidural analgesia over 7 years at a tertiary care hospital. Ten of 11 patients had signs consistent with post-dural puncture headache (PDPH) prior to the diagnosis of SDH. Five patients (45%) had a recognized unintentional dural puncture, 1 (9%) had a combined spinal-epidural with a 24-gauge needle, and 5 (45%) had no recognized dural puncture. For 10 of the 11 cases, SDH was diagnosed an average of 4.1 (range 1–7) days after performance of labor epidural analgesia; one case was diagnosed at 25 days. Ten of 11 (91%) cases had a second hospital stay for an average of 2.8 (range 2–4) days for observation, without further requirement for neurosurgical intervention. One case (9%) had decompressive hemicraniectomy after becoming unresponsive. The observed rate of labor epidural analgesia-associated SDH was 0.026% (11 in 42,969, about 1:3900), and the rate of SDH was 1.1% (5 in 437, about 1:87) if a recognized dural puncture occurred during epidural catheter placement. Conclusions SDH after labor epidural anesthesia is rare, but potentially more common than historically estimated. Cases of PDPH after labor epidural anesthesia should be monitored closely for severe neurologic signs and symptoms that could herald SDH. PMID:27512937

Evaluation of topical application and systemic administration of rosuvastatin in preventing epidural fibrosis in rats.

PubMed

Gürer, Bora; Kahveci, Ramazan; Gökçe, Emre Cemal; Ozevren, Huseyin; Turkoglu, Erhan; Gökçe, Aysun

2015-03-01

Epidural fibrosis is a major challenge in spine surgery, with some patients having recurrent symptoms secondary to excessive formation of scar tissue resulting in neurologic compression. One of the most important factors initiating the epidural fibrosis is assumed to be the transforming growth factor-1β (TGF-1β). Rosuvastatin (ROS) has shown to demonstrate preventive effects over fibrosis via inhibiting the TGF-1β. We hypothesized that ROS might have preventive effects over epidural fibrosis through the inhibition of TGF-1β pathways. Experimental animal study. Forty-eight adult male Wistar Albino rats were equally and randomly divided into four groups (laminectomy, spongostan, topical ROS, and systemic ROS). Laminectomy was performed at the L3 level in all rats. Four weeks later, the extent of epidural fibrosis was assessed both macroscopically and histopathologically. Our data revealed that topical application and systemic administration of ROS both were effective in reducing epidural fibrosis formation. Furthermore, the systemic administration of ROS yielded better results than topical application. Both topical application and systemic administration of ROS show meaningful preventive effects over epidural fibrosis through multiple mechanisms. The results of our study provide the first experimental evidence of the preventive effects of ROS over epidural fibrosis. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Subdural Thoracolumbar Spine Hematoma after Spinal Anesthesia: A Rare Occurrence and Literature Review of Spinal Hematomas after Spinal Anesthesia

PubMed Central

Maddali, Prasanthi; Walker, Blake; Fisahn, Christian; Page, Jeni; Diaz, Vicki; Zwillman, Michael E; Oskouian, Rod J; Tubbs, R. Shane

2017-01-01

Spinal hematomas are a rare but serious complication of spinal epidural anesthesia and are typically seen in the epidural space; however, they have been documented in the subdural space. Spinal subdural hematomas likely exist within a traumatically induced space within the dural border cell layer, rather than an anatomical subdural space. Spinal subdural hematomas present a dangerous clinical situation as they have the potential to cause significant compression of neural elements and can be easily mistaken for spinal epidural hematomas. Ultrasound can be an effective modality to diagnose subdural hematoma when no epidural blood is visualized. We have reviewed the literature and present a full literature review and a case presentation of an 82-year-old male who developed a thoracolumbar spinal subdural hematoma after spinal epidural anesthesia. Anticoagulant therapy is an important predisposing risk factor for spinal epidural hematomas and likely also predispose to spinal subdural hematomas. It is important to consider spinal subdural hematomas in addition to spinal epidural hematomas in patients who develop weakness after spinal epidural anesthesia, especially in patients who have received anticoagulation. PMID:28357164

Cranial epidural hematomas: A case series and literature review of this rare complication associated with sickle cell disease.

PubMed

Hamm, Jennifer; Rathore, Nisha; Lee, Pearlene; LeBlanc, Zachary; Lebensburger, Jeffrey; Meier, Emily Riehm; Kwiatkowski, Janet L

2017-03-01

Patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) may experience many complications of the central nervous system (CNS) including stroke, silent cerebral infarcts, and neuropsychological deficits. Cranial epidural hematoma is a rare but potentially serious complication. Case series of cranial epidural hematomas in children with SCD from three different institutions is considered, along with a literature review of cranial epidural hematomas in this population. Seven children with SCD with cranial epidural hematomas were identified from three different institutions. All patients were male and the age at presentation ranged from 10 to 18 years. Two patients presented with headache (28.6%), while the rest had no neurologic symptoms at presentation. Four patients required urgent neurosurgical intervention (57.1%) and one patient died (14.3%). A literature review identified 18 additional cases of cranial epidural hematomas in children with SCD. Of these, treatment ranged from supportive care to neurosurgical intervention. Twelve patients completely recovered (66.7%), one patient had long-term cognitive impairment (5.6%), and four patients died (22.2%). Combined with our data, cranial epidural hematomas have a mortality rate of 20.0%. Although rare, cranial epidural hematoma can be fatal and should be considered in patients with acute neurological symptoms. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Prediction of the distance from skin to epidural space for low-thoracic epidural catheter insertion by computed tomography.

PubMed

Kao, M C; Tsai, S K; Chang, W K; Liu, H T; Hsieh, Y C; Hu, J S; Mok, M S

2004-02-01

It may be clinically useful to predict the depth of the epidural space. To investigate the accuracy of preoperative abdominal computed tomography (CT) in prediction of the distance for low-thoracic epidural insertion, a single group observational study was conducted in 30 male patients undergoing elective major abdominal surgery requiring epidural analgesia for postoperative pain relief. Using the paramedian approach, low-thoracic epidural insertion at T10-11 interspace was performed with a standardized procedure to obtain an actual insertion length (AIL). According to the principles of trigonometry, an estimated insertion length (EIL) was calculated as 1.26 times the distance from skin to epidural space measured from the preoperative abdominal CT. The mean (SD) EIL and AIL were 5.5 (0.7) and 5.1 (0.6) cm, respectively, with a significant correlation (r=0.899, P<0.01). The EIL tended to have a higher value than the AIL (0.4 (0.3) cm). There were significant correlations of both EIL and AIL with weight (P<0.01), BMI (P<0.01), and body fat percentage (P<0.01), but not with height (P>0.05). We conclude that the preoperative abdominal CT is helpful in prediction of the distance for low-thoracic epidural insertion using the paramedian approach.

[Inadvertent injection of succinylcholine as an epidural test dose].

PubMed

Pourzitaki, Chryssa; Tsaousi, Georgia; Logotheti, Helena; Amaniti, Ekaterini

Epidural action of neuromuscular blocking agents could be explained under the light of their physicochemical characteristics and epidural space properties. In the literature there are few cases of accidental neuromuscular agent's epidural administration, manifesting mainly with neuromuscular blockade institution or fasciculations. We report a case of accidental succinylcholine administration as an epidural test dose, in a female patient undergoing scheduled laparotomy, under combined general and epidural anesthesia. Approximately 2min after the succinylcholine injection the patient complained for shortness of breath, while mild fasciculations appeared in her trunk and face, managed by immediate general anesthesia institution. With the exception of a relatively longer duration of neuromuscular blockade compared with intravenous administration, no neurological or cardiovascular sequelae or other symptoms of local or systemic toxicity were observed. Oral administration of diazepam seems to lessen the adverse effects from accidental epidural administration of succinylcholine. The meticulous and discriminative labeling of syringes, as well as keeping persistent cautions during all anesthesia procedures remains of crucial importance. Copyright © 2015 Sociedade Brasileira de Anestesiologia. Publicado por Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

[Comparison of epidural anesthesia and general anesthesia for patients with bronchial asthma].

PubMed

Kasaba, T; Suga, R; Matsuoka, H; Iwasaki, T; Hidaka, N; Takasaki, M

2000-10-01

We prospectively investigated the incidence of asthmatic attacks in 94 patients (1.5%) who were diagnosed as definite asthma. We separated the patients into three groups: epidural anesthesia (n = 10) including combined spinal/epidural anesthesia (n = 7), combined epidural and general anesthesia (n = 23), and general anesthesia (n = 54). General anesthesia was induced with propofol or midazolam and maintained with N2O and O2 with sevoflurane in adults. Patients who underwent epidural anesthesia and combined spinal and epidural anesthesia showed no asthmatic attacks. The incidence of bronchospasm with combined epidural and general anesthesia was 2/23. The incidence of bronchospasm with general anesthesia was 4/54. Bronchoconstriction occurred after tracheal intubation in 5 patients except in one patient, in whom it occurred after induction of anesthesia with midazolam. All episodes of bronchospasm in the operative period were treated successfully. The frequency of bronchospasm did not depend on the severity of asthmatic symptoms or the chronic use of bronchodilators before operation. These findings suggest that tracheal intubation, not the choice of anesthetic, plays an important role in the pathogenesis of bronchospasm.

Pharmacologic effects of epidural versus intramuscular administration of detomidine in cattle.

PubMed

Prado, M E; Streeter, R N; Mandsager, R E; Shawley, R V; Claypool, P L

1999-10-01

To determine whether epidural administration of detomidine hydrochloride to cattle induced analgesia of the perineum and to compare analgesic and systemic effects of epidural versus i.m. administration of detomidine at a dose of 40 microg/kg in cattle. 18 healthy adult cows. 6 cows were given detomidine by epidural administration, 6 were given detomidine i.m., and 6 (control group) were not given detomidine. Analgesia was assessed by determining responses to needle pinpricks in the perineum and flank and by applying electrical stimuli to the perineum and flank and determining the voltage that induced an avoidance response. Degree of sedation and ataxia were scored, and mean arterial pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and frequency of ruminal contractions were measured. Epidural and i.m. administration of detomidine induced comparable degrees of analgesia of the perineum and flank, accompanied by moderate sedation and ataxia, hypertension, cardiorespiratory depression, and rumen hypomotility. Epidural and i.m. administration of detomidine at a dose of 40 microg/kg induced similar analgesic and systemic effects in cattle. Epidural administration of detomidine did not appear to be advantageous over i.m. administration.

A practical laboratory study simulating the percutaneous lumbar transforaminal epidural injection: training model in fresh cadaveric sheep spine.

PubMed

Suslu, Husnu

2012-01-01

Laboratory training models are essential for developing and refining treatment skills before the clinical application of surgical and invasive procedures. A simple simulation model is needed for young trainees to learn how to handle instruments, and to perform safe lumbar transforaminal epidural injections. Our aim is to present a model of a fresh cadaveric sheep lumbar spine that simulates the lumbar transforaminal epidural injection. The material consists of a 2-year-old fresh cadaveric sheep spine. A 4-step approach was designed for lumbar transforaminal epidural injection under C-arm scopy. For the lumbar transforaminal epidural injection, the fluoroscope was adjusted to get a proper oblique view while the material was stabilized in a prone position. The procedure then begin, using the C-arm guidance scopy. The model simulates well the steps of standard lumbar transforaminal epidural injections in the human spine. The cadaveric sheep spine represents a good method for training and it simulates fluoroscopic lumbar transforaminal epidural steroid injection procedures performed in the human spine.

Complications of intrathecal opioids and bupivacaine in the treatment of "refractory" cancer pain.

PubMed

Nitescu, P; Sjöberg, M; Appelgren, L; Curelaru, I

1995-03-01

To test the concept that externalized tunneled intrathecal catheters lead to a high risk of complications, such as meningitis and epidural abscess, and therefore should not be used for durations of intrathecal pain treatment of > 1 week. Prospective, cohort, nonrandomized, consecutive, historical control trial. Tertiary care center, institutional practice, hospitalized and ambulatory care. Two hundred adults (107 women, 93 men) with refractory cancer pain treated for 1-575 (median, 33; total, 14,485) days; 79 patients were treated at home for 2-226 (median, 36; total, 4,711) days. All patients had died by the close of the study. Insertion of intrathecal tunneled nylon (Portex) catheters (223 in 200 patients) with Millipore filters. The catheter hubs were securely fixed to the skin with steel sutures. Standardized care after insertion: (a) daily phone contact with the patients, their families, or the nurses in charge; (b) weekly dressing change at the tunnel outlet by the nurses; (c) refilling of the infusion containers by the nurses; (d) exchange of the infusion systems when empty (within 1 month) and of the antibacterial filter once a month by specially instructed Pain Department nurses. All contact between the connections of the syringes, cassettes, and needles with the operator's hands was carefully avoided during filling and refilling of the infusion containers and exchange of the antibacterial filters; no other aseptic precautions were taken. We recorded the rates of perfect function and complications of the systems. The rates of complications recorded in this study with externalized tunneled intrathecal catheters are discussed and compared with the rates reported in the literature with externalized (tunneled and non-tunneled) epidural and intrathecal catheters, as well as with internalized (both epidural and intrathecal) catheters connected to subcutaneous ports, reservoirs, and pumps. The following rates (as a percentage of number of patients) of perfect function and complications of the systems were recorded (the ranges of rates reported in the literature are given in parentheses): perfect function of the system, 93% (31-90%); accidental injury of an unknown epidural tumor followed by an epidural hematoma, 0.5% (0-6%); skin breakdown at the insertion site, 2% (2-50%); postdural puncture headache, 15.5% (10%); external leakage of CSF, 3.5% (4-27%); CSF hygroma ("pseudomeningocele"), 1.5% (4-6.25%); hearing loss and Ménière-like syndrome, 0% (12%); pain on injection, 0% with continuous infusion and 4.5% with intermittent injections (3-36% with intermittent injections); catheter tip dislodgement, 1.5% (6-33%); catheter (system) occlusion, 1% (3-12%); accidental catheter withdrawal, 4% (3-22%); catheter (system) leakage, 1.5% (2.1-26.6%); all mechanical complications, 8.5% (10-44%); local (catheter entry site) infection, 0.5% (2-33%); catheter track infection, 0% (6-25%); epidural abscess, 0% (0.6-25%); meningitis, 0.5% (1-25%); systemic infection, 0% (3%); incidence of all infections (n/treatment days), 1/7,242 (1/168-1/2,446). In our population and with the technique of insertion and care reported here, the use of externalized tunneled intrathecal catheters has not been associated with higher rates of complications when compared with earlier reported rates of externalized epidural catheters and internalized (both epidural and intrathecal) catheters connected to subcutaneously implanted ports, reservoirs, and pumps. The opinion that the use of externalized tunneled intrathecal catheters should be restricted only to patients who need pain treatment for < 1 week (because of the potential risk of infection, particularly meningitis and epidural abscess) is unfounded.

Prediction by computerised tomography of distance from skin to epidural space during thoracic epidural insertion.

PubMed

Carnie, J; Boden, J; Gao Smith, F

2002-07-01

In this single group observational study on 29 patients, we describe a technique that predicts the depth of the epidural space, calculated from the routine pre-operative chest computerised tomography (CT) scan using Pythagorean triangle trigonometry. We also compared the CT-derived depth of the epidural space with the actual depth of needle insertion. The CT-derived and the actual depths of the epidural space were highly correlated (r = 0.88, R2 = 0.78, p < 0.0001). The mean (95% CI) difference between CT-derived and actual depths was 0.26 (0.03-0.49) cm. Thus, the CT-derived depth tends to be greater than the actual depth by between 0.03 and 0.49 cm. There were no associations between either the CT-derived or the actual depth of the epidural space and age, weight, height or body mass index.

Epidural Hematoma Following Cervical Spine Surgery.

PubMed

Schroeder, Gregory D; Hilibrand, Alan S; Arnold, Paul M; Fish, David E; Wang, Jeffrey C; Gum, Jeffrey L; Smith, Zachary A; Hsu, Wellington K; Gokaslan, Ziya L; Isaacs, Robert E; Kanter, Adam S; Mroz, Thomas E; Nassr, Ahmad; Sasso, Rick C; Fehlings, Michael G; Buser, Zorica; Bydon, Mohamad; Cha, Peter I; Chatterjee, Dhananjay; Gee, Erica L; Lord, Elizabeth L; Mayer, Erik N; McBride, Owen J; Nguyen, Emily C; Roe, Allison K; Tortolani, P Justin; Stroh, D Alex; Yanez, Marisa Y; Riew, K Daniel

2017-04-01

A multicentered retrospective case series. To determine the incidence and circumstances surrounding the development of a symptomatic postoperative epidural hematoma in the cervical spine. Patients who underwent cervical spine surgery between January 1, 2005, and December 31, 2011, at 23 institutions were reviewed, and all patients who developed an epidural hematoma were identified. A total of 16 582 cervical spine surgeries were identified, and 15 patients developed a postoperative epidural hematoma, for a total incidence of 0.090%. Substantial variation between institutions was noted, with 11 sites reporting no epidural hematomas, and 1 site reporting an incidence of 0.76%. All patients initially presented with a neurologic deficit. Nine patients had complete resolution of the neurologic deficit after hematoma evacuation; however 2 of the 3 patients (66%) who had a delay in the diagnosis of the epidural hematoma had residual neurologic deficits compared to only 4 of the 12 patients (33%) who had no delay in the diagnosis or treatment ( P = .53). Additionally, the patients who experienced a postoperative epidural hematoma did not experience any significant improvement in health-related quality-of-life metrics as a result of the index procedure at final follow-up evaluation. This is the largest series to date to analyze the incidence of an epidural hematoma following cervical spine surgery, and this study suggest that an epidural hematoma occurs in approximately 1 out of 1000 cervical spine surgeries. Prompt diagnosis and treatment may improve the chance of making a complete neurologic recovery, but patients who develop this complication do not show improvements in the health-related quality-of-life measurements.

Electrical stimulation of the epidural space using a catheter with a removable stylet.

PubMed

Charghi, Roshanak; Chan, Sher Yi; Kardash, Kenneth J; Finlayson, Roderick J; Tran, De Q H

2007-01-01

Electrical stimulation can be used to verify the location of epidural catheters. With the traditional technique, the latter must be primed with saline to allow for electrical conduction: any air lock will, thus, hinder the flow of current. Therefore, we set out to explore an alternative mode of stimulation by use of a catheter containing a removable stylet. This study examines the reliability of this new technique. In 71 patients undergoing surgery, a thoracic epidural catheter was inserted preoperatively. Loss of resistance was used to identify the epidural space. The TheraCath was introduced 5 cm into the space and connected to a neurostimulator via a 2-headed alligator clip. The intensity, pulse width, and level of myotomal contractions were recorded upon stimulation of the epidural space. A bolus of lidocaine was then injected and the patient assessed for sensory block to ice. The failure rate in proper epidural catheter placement was 8.5%. Epidural stimulation yielded a mean threshold of 1.90 +/- 1.80 nanocoulombs. A total of 37 catheters produced a unilateral muscular response; however, block to ice was bilateral. When compared with the ice test, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of epidural stimulation with the TheraCath were 92%, 83%, 98%, and 50%, respectively. We conclude that the TheraCath, because of the removable stylet, provides effective electrostimulation of the epidural space. Its use was simple and devoid of complications. Nonetheless, further studies are required before implementing its routine use in clinical settings.

MMC controlled-release membranes attenuate epidural scar formation in rat models after laminectomy.

PubMed

Xie, Hao; Wang, Binbin; Shen, Xun; Qin, Jian; Jiang, Longhai; Yu, Chen; Geng, Dawei; Yuan, Tangbo; Wu, Tao; Cao, Xiaojian; Liu, Jun

2017-06-01

Epidural scar formation after laminectomy impede surgical outcomes of decompression. Mitomycin C (MMC) has been demonstrated to have significant inhibitory effects on epidural scar. This study was undertaken to develop an effective MMC controlled‑release membrane and to investigate its effects on epidural scar in rat models of laminectomy. A total of 72 rats that underwent laminectomy were divided into three groups. Among them, 24 were treated with mitomycin C‑polylactic acid (MMC-PLA) controlled‑release membrane, 24 with mitomycin C-polyethylene glycol (MMC-PEG) controlled-release membrane, and no treatment was performed for the remaining 24 rats (control group). In the following 4 weeks, magnetic resonance image (MRI), macroscopic observation, histology and hydroxyproline (Hyp) concentration analysis were performed to explore the effects of these three therapies on epidural scar. MRI revealed a significant reduction of epidural fibrosis in MMC-PLA and MMC-PEG treatment groups, compared with the control group. Histological results also showed that collagen deposition was significantly reduced after being treated with MMC-PLA or MMC-PEG membranes. Likewise, Hyp concentrations of the epidural scar tissue in MMC-PLA and MMC-PEG groups were markedly lower than those in the control group. However, regarding the effects on reducing epidural scar, no significant difference was found between the MMC-PLA and MMC-PEG groups. In conclusion, MMC-PLA and MMC-PEG membranes are safe and effective in reducing fibrosis. Thus, MMC-controlled-release membranes promises to be a potential therapeutic in preventing epidural scar formation after laminectomy.

The neurological safety of epidural parecoxib in rats.

PubMed

Kim, Yang Hyun; Lee, Pyung Bok; Park, Jeongmi; Lim, Young Jin; Kim, Yong Chul; Lee, Sang Chul; Ahn, Wonsik

2011-12-01

Epidural injection of cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors has been suggested as a useful therapeutic modality in pain management in animal studies and clinical settings. Direct epidural administration of parecoxib, a highly selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor, may have advantages over its parenteral administration regarding required dose, side effects, and efficacy. However, no animal studies have been performed to investigate the possible neurotoxicity of epidurally injected parecoxib. Therefore, the present study was performed to assess the neurotoxicity of epidurally injected parecoxib in rats. Rats (n=45) were randomly divided into three groups: normal saline group (group N, n=15), ethanol group (group E, n=15), and parecoxib group (group P, n=15). 0.3 mL of epidural parecoxib (6 mg) and the same volume of epidural ethanol or normal saline were injected into the epidural space. Neurologic assessment was performed 3, 7 and 21 days after the injection by pinch toe testing. Histologic changes were evaluated for vacuolation of the dorsal funiculus, chromatolytic changes of the motor neurons, neuritis, and meningeal inflammation. All rats in groups N and P showed normal response to pinch-toe testing and had a normal gait at each observation point. Histological examination showed no evidence suggestive of neuronal body or axonal lesions, gliosis, or myelin sheet damage in group N or P at any time. However, all rats in group E showed sensory-motor dysfunction, behavioral change, or histopathological abnormalities. No neurotoxicity on the spinal cord or abnormalities in sensorimotor function or behavior was noted in rats that received epidural parecoxib. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Lumbar epidural depth using transverse ultrasound scan and its correlation with loss of resistance technique: A prospective observational study in Indian population.

PubMed

Chauhan, Amit Kumar; Bhatia, Rohan; Agrawal, Sanjay

2018-01-01

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the skin-epidural space distance as assessed by ultrasonography and conventional loss of resistance (LOR) technique and to find the correlation of epidural depth with body mass index (BMI). Ninety-eight patients of either sex, American Society of Anesthesiology I/II, BMI <30 kg/m 2 requiring lumbar epidural for surgery were enrolled. The epidural space was assessed with a curvilinear ultrasound (US) probe, 2-5 MHz, in the transverse plane at L3-L4 intervertebral space. Thereafter, the epidural depth from skin was assessed with conventional LOR method while performing the epidural. The needle depth (ND) was measured using a sterile linear scale, and any change in the needle direction or intervertebral space was noted. The patients were demographically similar. Depth of epidural space measured by US depth (UD) was 3.96 ± 0.44 cm (range 3.18-5.44 cm) and by ND was 4.04 ± 0.52 cm (range 2.7-5.7 cm). The Pearson's correlation coefficient (r) between UD and ND was 0.935 (95% confidence interval: 0.72-0.92, r 2 = 0.874, P < 0.001), and Bland-Altman analysis revealed the 95% limits of agreement -0.494-0.652 cm. The present study demonstrates a good correlation between UD and ND and shows that the preprocedural US scan in transverse plane provides accurate needle entry site with a high success rate in single attempt for lumbar epidurals in patients with a BMI <30 kg/m 2 .

Postoperative pain management of liver transplantation in cystic fibrosis: Is it time to start US-guided neuraxial blocks?

PubMed

Piazza, M; Martucci, G; Arcadipane, A

2016-01-01

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common life-limiting genetic disease in Caucasians. Declining lung function is the principal cause of death, but liver involvement can lead to the need for liver transplantation. General anesthesia has detrimental effects on pulmonary function, increasing perioperative morbidity and mortality in CF patients. Regional anesthetic techniques improve outcomes by reducing anesthetic drugs and administration of opioids, and hastening extubation, awakening, and restarting respiratory of physiotherapy. There is a growing evidence that thoracic epidural anesthesia is feasible in pediatric patients. Concerns about coagulopathy and immunosuppression have limited its use in liver transplantation. Ultrasonography is becoming an adjunct tool in neuraxial blocks, allowing faster and easier recognition of the epidural space, and reducing vertebral touch and number of attempts. In pediatric patients, it is still debated whether anesthesia has detrimental effects on cognitive development. Efforts to make regional techniques easier and safer by ultrasonography are ongoing. We report the first case of continuous thoracic epidural analgesia after pediatric liver transplantation in a 10-year-old boy affected with CF with macronodular cirrhosis. Despite a challenging coagulation profile, the echo-assisted procedure was safely performed and allowed extubation in the odds ratio, postoperative awakening and comfort, and quick resumption of respiratory physiotherapy.

Central neuraxial opioid analgesia after caesarean section: comparison of epidural diamorphine and intrathecal morphine.

PubMed

Caranza, R; Jeyapalan, I; Buggy, D J

1999-04-01

In a prospective, randomized, double-blind study in 55 women undergoing elective caesarean section under spinal anaesthesia, we compared epidural diamorphine 3 mg (2 distinct boluses, group ED) with single-dose intrathecal morphine 0.2 mg (group SM), in terms of analgesic efficacy, patient satisfaction and side-effects at 2, 3, 4, 8, 12, 16, 24 and 28 h postoperatively. There were no significant differences between groups in pain (assessed by 100 mm visual analogue scale), incidence of pruritus, sedation or respiratory depression measured by continuous pulse oximetry. However, time to first request for supplementary oral analgesia was longer in SM than in ED (mean +/- SD: 22.3+/-12.0 h vs. 13.8+/-6.5 h, P=0.04). The incidence of nausea or vomiting was significantly higher in SM than ED (73% vs. 41%, P=0.01). In ED, the mean +/- SD time to requirement of the second bolus was 6.7+/-3.2 h. There was a high level of satisfaction in both groups. We conclude that two boluses of epidural diamorphine 3 mg and single-dose intrathecal morphine 0.2 mg provide satisfactory analgesia after caesarean section, but spinal morphine was associated with both delayed requirement for supplementary analgesia and a higher incidence of nausea and vomiting.

Presumed Group B Streptococcal Meningitis After Epidural Blood Patch.

PubMed

Beilin, Yaakov; Spitzer, Yelena

2015-06-15

Bacterial meningitis after epidural catheter placement is rare. We describe a case in which a parturient received labor epidural analgesia for vaginal delivery complicated by dural puncture. The patient developed postdural puncture headache and underwent 2 separate epidural blood patch procedures. She subsequently developed a headache with fever and focal neurologic deficits. She was treated with broad spectrum antibiotics for presumed meningitis, and she made a full recovery. Blood cultures subsequently grew group B streptococcus.

Catheter port cleansing techniques and the entry of povidone-iodine into the epidural space.

PubMed

Paice, J A; DuPen, A; Schwertz, D

1999-04-01

To determine whether three epidural catheter port cleansing techniques used to apply a povidone-iodine solution differed with respect to the introduction of this solution through the epidural catheter. Experimental. Laboratory. Five DuPen (Davol, Cranston, RI) epidural catheters. Five DuPen epidural catheters each were cleansed twice with (a) a commercially available 10% povidone-iodine swabstick, (b) a commercially available pledget impregnated with 10% povidone-iodine, and (c) a gauze pad saturated with 10% povidone-iodine. The order of cleansing was randomized. Each solution was used to clean the port for 30 seconds, and the port was allowed to dry for 30 seconds, similar to the technique used in the clinical setting. After cleaning the catheter port, water was injected through the catheter, and the solution from the tip of the catheter was analyzed using absorbance spectrophotometry. Cleansing techniques, presence of povidone-iodine in catheter. A statistically significant difference existed between the three cleansing techniques, with the pledget yielding the lowest values of povidone-iodine contamination of the epidural catheter (Freidman test, p = 0.02). Use of pledgets allowed the least amount of povidone-iodine to enter the epidural catheter as compared with the swabsticks or gauze pads. Commercially available pledgets used to cleanse catheter injection ports may limit the introduction of 10% povidone-iodine into the epidural or intrathecal space.

Risk factors for reinsertion of urinary catheter after early removal in thoracic surgical patients.

PubMed

Young, John; Geraci, Travis; Milman, Steven; Maslow, Andrew; Jones, Richard N; Ng, Thomas

2018-03-08

To reduce the incidence of urinary tract infection, Surgical Care Improvement Project 9 mandates the removal of urinary catheters within 48 hours postoperatively. In patients with thoracic epidural anesthesia, we sought to determine the rate of catheter reinsertion, the complications of reinsertion, and the factors associated with reinsertion. We conducted a prospective observational study of consecutive patients undergoing major pulmonary or esophageal resection with thoracic epidural analgesia over a 2-year period. As per Surgical Care Improvement Project 9, all urinary catheters were removed within 48 hours postoperatively. Excluded were patients with chronic indwelling catheter, patients with urostomy, and patients requiring continued strict urine output monitoring. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent risk factors for urinary catheter reinsertion. Thirteen patients met exclusion criteria. Of the 275 patients evaluated, 60 (21.8%) required reinsertion of urinary catheter. There was no difference in the urinary tract infection rate between patients requiring reinsertion (1/60 [1.7%]) versus patients not requiring reinsertion (1/215 [0.5%], P = .389). Urethral trauma during reinsertion was seen in 1 of 60 patients (1.7%). After reinsertion, discharge with urinary catheter was required in 4 of 60 patients (6.7%). Multivariable logistic regression analysis found esophagectomy, lower body mass index, and benign prostatic hypertrophy to be independent risk factors associated with catheter reinsertion after early removal in the presence of thoracic epidural analgesia. When applying Surgical Care Improvement Project 9 to patients undergoing thoracic procedures with thoracic epidural analgesia, consideration to delayed removal of urinary catheter may be warranted in patients with multiple risk factors for reinsertion. Copyright © 2018 The American Association for Thoracic Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effects of applying nerve blocks to prevent postherpetic neuralgia in patients with acute herpes zoster: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PubMed Central

Kim, Hyun Jung; Ahn, Hyeong Sik; Lee, Jae Young; Choi, Seong Soo; Cheong, Yu Seon; Kwon, Koo; Yoon, Syn Hae

2017-01-01

Background Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a common and painful complication of acute herpes zoster. In some cases, it is refractory to medical treatment. Preventing its occurrence is an important issue. We hypothesized that applying nerve blocks during the acute phase of herpes zoster could reduce PHN incidence by attenuating central sensitization and minimizing nerve damage and the anti-inflammatory effects of local anesthetics and steroids. Methods This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluates the efficacy of using nerve blocks to prevent PHN. We searched the MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov and KoreaMed databases without language restrictions on April, 30 2014. We included all randomized controlled trials performed within 3 weeks after the onset of herpes zoster in order to compare nerve blocks vs active placebo and standard therapy. Results Nine trials were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Nerve blocks reduced the duration of herpes zoster-related pain and PHN incidence of at 3, 6, and 12 months after final intervention. Stellate ganglion block and single epidural injection did not achieve positive outcomes, but administering paravertebral blockage and continuous/repeated epidural blocks reduced PHN incidence at 3 months. None of the included trials reported clinically meaningful serious adverse events. Conclusions Applying nerve blocks during the acute phase of the herpes zoster shortens the duration of zoster-related pain, and somatic blocks (including paravertebral and repeated/continuous epidural blocks) are recommended to prevent PHN. In future studies, consensus-based PHN definitions, clinical cutoff points that define successful treatment outcomes and standardized outcome-assessment tools will be needed. PMID:28119767

Sonographic evaluation of epidural and intrathecal injections in cats.

PubMed

Otero, Pablo E; Verdier, Natali; Zaccagnini, Andrea S; Fuensalida, Santiago E; Sclocco, Matias; Portela, Diego A; Waxman, Samanta

2016-11-01

To describe the ultrasonographic anatomy of the caudal lumbar spine in cats and to detect ultrasound (US) signs associated with epidural or intrathecal injection. Prospective, clinical study. Twenty-six client-owned cats. Transverse (position 1) and parasagittal (position 2) two-dimensional US scanning was performed over the caudal lumbar spine in all cats. Midline distances between the identified structures were measured. Cats assigned to epidural injection (group E, n = 16) were administered a bupivacaine-morphine combination confirmed by electrical stimulation. Cats assigned to intrathecal injection (group I, n = 10) were administered a morphine-iohexol combination injected at the lumbosacral level and confirmed by lateral radiography. The total volume injected (0.3 mL kg -1 ) was divided into two equal aliquots that were injected without needle repositioning, with the US probe in positions 1 and 2, respectively. The presence or absence of a burst of color [color flow Doppler test (CFDT)], dural sac collapse and epidural space enlargement were registered during and after both injections. US scanning allowed measurement of the distances between the highly visible structures inside the spinal canal. CFDT was positive for all animals in group E. In group I, intrathecal injection was confirmed in only two animals, for which the CFDT was negative; seven cats inadvertently and simultaneously were administered an epidural injection and showed a positive CFDT during the second aliquot injection, and the remaining animal was administered epidural anesthesia and was excluded from the CFDT data analysis. Dural sac collapse and epidural space enlargement were present in all animals in which an epidural injection was confirmed. US examination allowed an anatomical description of the caudal lumbar spine and real-time confirmation of epidural injection by observation of a positive CFDT, dural sac collapse and epidural space enlargement. © 2016 Association of Veterinary Anaesthetists and the American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia.

Comparison of epidural oxycodone and epidural morphine for post-caesarean section analgesia: A randomised controlled trial

PubMed Central

Sng, Ban Leong; Kwok, Sarah Carol; Mathur, Deepak; Ithnin, Farida; Newton-Dunn, Clare; Assam, Pryseley Nkouibert; Sultana, Rehena; Sia, Alex Tiong Heng

2016-01-01

Background and Aims: Epidural morphine after caesarean section may cause moderate to severe pruritus in women. Epidural oxycodone has been shown in non-obstetric trials to reduce pruritus when compared to morphine. We hypothesised that epidural oxycodone may reduce pruritus after caesarean section. Methods: A randomised controlled trial was conducted in pregnant women at term who underwent caesarean section with combined spinal-epidural technique initiated with intrathecal fentanyl 15 μg. Women received either epidural morphine 3 mg or epidural oxycodone 3 mg via the epidural catheter after delivery. The primary outcome was the incidence of pruritus at 24 h after caesarean section. The secondary outcomes were the pruritus scores, treatment for post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV), pain scores and maternal satisfaction. Results: One hundred women were randomised (group oxycodone O = 50, morphine M = 50). There was no difference between Group O and M in the incidence of pruritus (n [%] 28 [56%] vs. 31 [62%], P = 0.68) and the worst pruritus scores (mean [standard deviation] 2.6 (2.8) vs. 3.3 [3.1], P = 0.23), respectively. Both groups had similar pain scores at rest (2.7 [2.3] vs. 2.0 [2.7], P = 0.16) and sitting up (5.0 [2.3] vs. 4.6 [2.4], P = 0.38) at 24 h. Pruritus scores were lower at 4–8, 8–12 and 12–24 h with oxycodone, but pain scores were higher. Both groups had a similar need for treatment of PONV and maternal satisfaction with analgesia. Conclusion: There was no difference in the incidence of pruritus at 24 h between epidural oxycodone and morphine. However, pruritus scores were lower with oxycodone between 4 and 24 h after surgery with higher pain scores in the same period. PMID:27053782

Perioperative epidural analgesia reduces cancer recurrence after gastro-oesophageal surgery.

PubMed

Hiller, J G; Hacking, M B; Link, E K; Wessels, K L; Riedel, B J

2014-03-01

Recent interest has focused on the role of perioperative epidural analgesia in improving cancer outcomes. The heterogeneity of studies (tumour type, stage and outcome endpoints) has produced inconsistent results. Clinical practice also highlights the variability in epidural effectiveness. We considered the novel hypothesis that effective epidural analgesia improves cancer outcomes following gastro-oesophageal cancer surgery in patients with grouped pathological staging. Following institutional approval, a database analysis identified 140 patients, with 2-year minimum follow-up after gastro-oesophageal cancer surgery. All patients were operated on by a single surgeon (2005-2010). Information pertaining to cancer and survival outcomes was extracted. Univariate analysis demonstrated a 1-year 14% vs. 33% (P = 0.01) and 2-year 27% vs. 40% [hazard ratio (HR)=0.59; 95% CI, 0.32-1.09, P = 0.087] incidence of cancer recurrence in patients with (vs. without) effective (> 36 h duration) epidural analgesia, respectively. Multivariate analysis demonstrated increased time to cancer recurrence (HR = 0.33; 95% CI: 0.17-0.63, P < 0.0001) and overall survival benefit (HR = 0.42; 95% CI: 0.21-0.83, P < 0.0001) at 2-year follow-up following effective epidural analgesia. Subgroup analysis identified epidural-related cancer recurrence benefit in patients with oesophageal cancer (HR = 0.34; 95% CI: 0.16-0.75, P = 0.005) and in patients with tumour lymphovascular space infiltration (LVSI), (HR = 0.49; 95% CI: 0.26-0.94, P = 0.03). Effective epidural analgesia improved estimated median time to death (2.9 vs. 1.8 years, P = 0.029) in patients with tumour LVSI. This study found an association between effective post-operative epidural analgesia and medium-term benefit on cancer recurrence and survival following oesophageal surgery. A prospective study that controls for disease type, stage and epidural effectiveness is warranted. © 2014 The Acta Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

First-Pass Contrast-Enhanced MRA for Pretherapeutic Diagnosis of Spinal Epidural Arteriovenous Fistulas with Intradural Venous Reflux.

PubMed

Mathur, S; Symons, S P; Huynh, T J; Muthusami, P; Montanera, W; Bharatha, A

2017-01-01

Spinal epidural AVFs are rare spinal vascular malformations. When there is associated intradural venous reflux, they may mimic the more common spinal dural AVFs. Correct diagnosis and localization before conventional angiography is beneficial to facilitate treatment. We hypothesize that first-pass contrast-enhanced MRA can diagnose and localize spinal epidural AVFs with intradural venous reflux and distinguish them from other spinal AVFs. Forty-two consecutive patients with a clinical and/or radiologic suspicion of spinal AVF underwent MR imaging, first-pass contrast-enhanced MRA, and DSA at a single institute (2000-2015). MR imaging/MRA and DSA studies were reviewed by 2 independent blinded observers. DSA was used as the reference standard. On MRA, all 7 spinal epidural AVFs with intradural venous reflux were correctly diagnosed and localized with no interobserver disagreement. The key diagnostic feature was arterialized filling of an epidural venous pouch with a refluxing radicular vein arising from the arterialized epidural venous system. First-pass contrast-enhanced MRA is a reliable and useful technique for the initial diagnosis and localization of spinal epidural AVFs with intradural venous reflux and can distinguish these lesions from other spinal AVFs. © 2017 by American Journal of Neuroradiology.

A comparison of Espocan and Tuohy needles for the combined spinal-epidural technique for labor analgesia.

PubMed

Browne, Ingrid M; Birnbach, David J; Stein, Deborah J; O'Gorman, David A; Kuroda, Maxine

2005-08-01

When using the needle-through-needle combined spinal-epidural (CSE) technique for labor analgesia, failure to obtain cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), paresthesias, and intrathecal or intravascular migration of the catheter are of concern. Epidural needles with spinal needle apertures, such as the back-hole Espocan (ES) needles, are available and may reduce these risks. We describe the efficacy and adverse events associated with a modified epidural needle (ES) versus a conventional Tuohy needle for CSE. One-hundred parturients requesting labor analgesia (CSE) were randomized into 2 groups: 50-ES 18-gauge modified epidural needle with 27-gauge Pencan atraumatic spinal needle, 50-conventional 18-gauge Tuohy needle with 27-gauge Gertie Marx atraumatic spinal needle. Information on intrathecal or intravascular catheter placement, paresthesia on introduction of spinal needle, failure to obtain CSF through the spinal needle after placement of epidural needle, unintentional dural puncture, and epidural catheter function was obtained. No intrathecal catheter placement occurred in either group. Rates of intravascular catheter placement and unintentional dural puncture were similar between the groups. Significant differences were noted regarding spinal needle-induced paresthesia (14% ES versus 42% Tuohy needles, P = 0.009) and failure to obtain CSF on first attempt (8% ES versus 28% Tuohy needles, P < 0.02). Use of ES needles for CSE significantly reduces paresthesia associated with the insertion of the spinal needle and is associated with more frequent successful spinal needle placement on the first attempt. The use of modified epidural needles with a back hole for combined spinal-epidural technique significantly reduces paresthesia associated with the insertion of the spinal needle and is associated with more frequent successful spinal needle placement on the first attempt.

Epidural migration of new methylene blue in 0.9% sodium chloride solution or 2% mepivacaine solution following injection into the first intercoccygeal space in foal cadavers and anesthetized foals undergoing laparoscopy.

PubMed

Lansdowne, Jennifer L; Kerr, Carolyn L; Bouré, Ludovic P; Pearce, Simon G

2005-08-01

To determine the relationship between epidural cranial migration and injectate volume of an isotonic solution containing dye in laterally recumbent foal cadavers and evaluate the cranial migration and dermatome analgesia of an epidural dye solution during conditions of laparoscopy in foals. 19 foal cadavers and 8 pony foals. Foal cadavers received an epidural injection of dye solution (0.05, 0.1, 0.15, or 0.2 mL/kg) containing 1.2 mg of new methylene blue (NMB)/mL of saline (0.9% NaCl) solution. Length of the dye column and number of intervertebral spaces cranial and caudal to the injection site were measured. Anesthetized foals received an epidural injection of dye solution (0.2 mL/kg) containing saline solution or 2% mepivacaine. Foals were placed in a 100 head-down position, and pneumoperitoneum was induced. Dermatome analgesia was determined by use of a described electrical stimulus technique. Foals were euthanatized, and length of the dye column was measured. Epidural cranial migration of dye solution in foal cadavers increased with increasing volume injected. No significant difference was found in epidural cranial migration of a dye solution (0.2 mL/kg) between anesthetized foals undergoing conditions of laparoscopy and foal cadavers in lateral recumbency. Further craniad migration of the dye column occurred than indicated by dermatome analgesia. Epidural cranial migration increases with volume of injectate. On the basis of dermatome analgesia, an epidural injection of 2% mepivacaine (0.2 mL/kg) alone provides analgesia up to at least the caudal thoracic dermatome and could permit caudal laparoscopic surgical procedures in foals.

Influence of needle position on lumbar segmental nerve root block selectivity.

PubMed

Wolff, André P; Groen, Gerbrand J; Wilder-Smith, Oliver H

2006-01-01

In patients with chronic low back pain radiating to the leg, segmental nerve root blocks (SNRBs) are performed to predict surgical outcome and identify the putative symptomatic spinal nerve. Epidural spread may lead to false interpretation, affecting clinical decision making. Systematic fluoroscopic analysis of epidural local anesthetic spread and its relationship to needle tip location has not been published to date. Study aims include assessment of epidural local anesthetic spread and its relationship to needle position during fluoroscopy-assisted blocks. Patients scheduled for L4, L5, and S1 blocks were included in this prospective observational study. Under fluoroscopy and electrostimulation, they received 0.5 mL of a mixture containing lidocaine 5 mg and iohexol 75 mg. X-rays with needle tip and contrast were scored for no epidural spread (grade 0), local spread epidurally (grade 1), or to adjacent nerve roots (grade 2). Sixty-five patients were analyzed for epidural spread, 62 for needle position. Grade 1 epidural spread occurred in 47% of L4 and 28% of L5 blocks and grade 2 spread in 3 blocks (5%; L5 n = 1, S1 n = 2). For lumbar blocks, the needle was most frequently found in the lateral upper half of the intervertebral foramen. Epidural spread occurred more frequently with medial needle positions (P = .06). The findings suggest (P = .06) that the risk of grade 1 and 2 lumbar epidural spread, which results in decreased SNRB selectivity, is greater with medial needle positions in the intervertebral foramen. The variability in anatomic position of the dorsal root ganglion necessitates electrostimulation to guide SNRB in addition to fluoroscopy.

Maternal epidural use and neonatal sepsis evaluation in afebrile mothers.

PubMed

Goetzl, L; Cohen, A; Frigoletto, F; Ringer, S A; Lang, J M; Lieberman, E

2001-11-01

Epidural use has been associated with a higher rate of neonatal sepsis evaluation. Epidural-related fever explains some of the increase but not the excess of neonatal sepsis evaluations in afebrile women We studied 1109 women who had singleton term pregnancies and who presented in spontaneous labor and were afebrile during labor (<100.4 degrees F). Neonatal sepsis evaluation generally was performed on the basis of the presence of 1 major or 2 minor criteria. Major criteria included rupture of membranes for >24 hours or sustained fetal heart rate of >160 beats per minute. Minor criteria included a maternal temperature of 99.6 degrees F to 100.4 degrees F, rupture of membranes for 12 to 24 hours, maternal admission white blood cell count of >15 000 cells/mL(3), or an Apgar score of <7 at 5 minutes. Infants of afebrile women with epidural analgesia were more likely to be evaluated for sepsis than infants of women without epidural (20.4% vs 8.9%), although not more likely to have neonatal sepsis. An increased risk of sepsis evaluation persisted in regression analysis (odds ratio: 3.1; 95% confidence interval: 2.0, 4.7) after controlling for confounders and was not explained by longer labors with epidural. Women with epidural were significantly more likely to have major and minor criteria for sepsis evaluation, including fetal tachycardia (4.4% vs 0.4%), rupture of membranes for >24 hours (6.2% vs 3.4%), low-grade fever of 99.6 degrees F to 100.4 degrees F (24.3% vs 5.2%), and rupture of membranes for 12 to 24 hours (21.4% vs 5.2%) than women without epidural. Epidural analgesia is associated with increased rates of major and minor criteria for neonatal sepsis evaluations in afebrile women.

Spontaneous cervical epidural hematomas with acute hemiparesis should be considered a contraindication for intravenous thrombolysis: a case report with a literature review of 50 cases.

PubMed

Ito, Hirotaka; Takai, Keisuke; Taniguchi, Makoto

2014-01-01

We herein report the case of a 63-year-old woman with an acute spontaneous cervical epidural hematoma who presented with acute hemiparesis and was successfully managed with surgery. Based on a literature review of 50 cases of spontaneous cervical epidural hematomas, we concluded that the relatively high frequency of hemiparesis (12 of 50 cases, 24%) is the result of the fact that epidural hematomas are predominantly distributed dorsolaterally in the region of the mid and lower cervical spine, leading to unilateral cervical cord compression. Clinicians should keep in mind that acute hemiparesis can be caused by spontaneous cervical epidural hematomas for which intravenous thrombolysis is contraindicated.

Spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma presenting with quadriplegia after sit-ups exercise.

PubMed

Chen, Chun-Lin; Lu, Ching-Hsiang; Chen, Nan-Fu

2009-11-01

Spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma (SSEH) represents 0.3% to 0.9% of spinal epidural space-occupying lesions, and most surgeons advocate aggressive and early surgical intervention. In this article, we describe a patient with SSEH with sudden quadriplegia after sit-ups exercise.

[Four cases of bacterial meningitis after epidural anesthesia].

PubMed

Garlicki, A; Caban, J; Krukowiecki, J; Kluba-Wojewoda, U

1994-01-01

Four patients with bacterial meningitis, previously anaesthetized epidurally, have been described. In one case the course of the disease was very serious and resulted in irreversible neurological lesion. Although epidural anaesthesia is considered to be a harmless procedure it can cause some purulent complications.

Epidural steroid injections are useful for the treatment of low back pain and radicular symptoms: pro.

PubMed

Sethee, Jai; Rathmell, James P

2009-02-01

Epidural steroid injection has been used to treat low back pain for many decades. Numerous randomized trials have examined the efficacy of this approach. This review details the findings of older systematic reviews, newer randomized controlled trials, and two recent systematic reviews that examine the effectiveness of this treatment. Collectively, studies in acute radicular pain due to herniated nucleus pulposus have failed to show that epidural steroid injection reduces long-term pain or obviates the need for surgery. Similarly, there is scant evidence that epidural steroids have any beneficial effect in those with acute low back pain without leg pain or in those with chronic low back or leg pain. However, most studies have demonstrated more rapid resolution of leg pain in those who received epidural steroid injections versus those who did not. The role of epidural steroid injections in the management of acute radicular pain due to herniated nucleus pulposus is simply to provide earlier pain relief.

EPIDURAL ANALGESIA IN LABOR - CONTROVERSIES.

PubMed

Bilić, Nada; Djaković, Ivka; Kličan-Jaić, Katarina; Rudman, Senka Sabolović; Ivanec, Željko

2015-09-01

Labor pain is one of the most severe pains. Labor is a complex and individual process with varying maternal requesting analgesia. Labor analgesia must be safe and accompanied by minimal amount of unwanted consequences for both the mother and the child, as well as for the delivery procedure. Epidural analgesia is the treatment that best meets these demands. According to the American Congress of Obstetrics and Gynecology and American Society of Anesthesiologists, mother's demand is a reason enough for the introduction of epidural analgesia in labor, providing that no contraindications exist. The application of analgesics should not cease at the end of the second stage of labor, but it is recommended that lower concentration analgesics be then applied. Based on the latest studies, it can be claimed that epidural analgesia can be applied during the major part of the first and second stage of labor. According to previous investigations, there is no definitive conclusion about the incidence of instrumental delivery, duration of second stage of labor, time of epidural analgesia initiation, and long term outcomes for the newborn. Cooperation of obstetric and anesthesiology personnel, as well as appropriate technical equipment significantly decrease the need of instrumental completion of a delivery, as well as other complications encountered in the application of epidural analgesia. Our hospital offers 24/7 epidural analgesia service. The majority of pregnant women in our hospital were aware of the advantages of epidural analgesia for labor, however, only a small proportion of them used it, mainly because of inadequate level of information.

Epidural analgesia in early labour blocks the stress response but uterine contractions remain unchanged.

PubMed

Scull, T J; Hemmings, G T; Carli, F; Weeks, S K; Mazza, L; Zingg, H H

1998-07-01

To determine the effect of epidural analgesia on biochemical markers of stress, plasma oxytocin concentrations and frequency of uterine contractions during the first stage of labour. Nine nulliparous women, in spontaneous labour, with a singleton fetus and cervical dilatation < or = 5 cm were enrolled. Epidural bupivacaine 0.25% (range 10-14 ml) was administered and bilateral sensory blockade to ice (T8-L4) achieved. Blood samples were collected before the epidermal block and every 10 min for one hour after the block was achieved for the measurement of plasma beta-endorphin, cortical, glucose, lactate and oxytocin concentrations. No exogenous oxytocin was given. Intensity of pain was assessed at the time of the blood sampling using a 10 cm visual analogue scale (VAS). The frequency of uterine contractions was recorded for 60 min before and after the epidural block. There was a decrease in plasma beta-endorphin and cortisol concentrations after epidural block (P < 0.01). There were no changes in plasma glucose and lactate concentrations. The mean VAS for pain decreased 10 min after epidural block was achieved and remained < 2 throughout the study period (P < 0.001). Mean plasma oxytocin concentrations did not change. The frequency of uterine contractions before and after the epidural block was similar. The metabolic stress response to the pain of labour was attenuated by epidural analgesia. In contrast, plasma oxytocin concentration and frequency of uterine contractions were unaffected by the attenuation of metabolic stress response.

Anaesthetic management of obese parturients: what is the evidence supporting practice guidelines?

PubMed

Eley, V A; van Zundert, A A J; Lipman, J; Callaway, L K

2016-09-01

Increasing rates of obesity in western populations present management difficulties for clinicians caring for obese pregnant women. Various governing bodies have published clinical guidelines for the care of obese parturients. These guidelines refer to two components of anaesthetic care: anaesthetic consultation in the antenatal period for women with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 40 kg/m 2 and the provision of early epidural analgesia in labour. These recommendations are based on the increased incidence of obstetric complications and the predicted risks and difficulties in providing anaesthetic care. The concept behind early epidural analgesia is logical-site the epidural early, use it for surgical anaesthesia and avoid general anaesthesia if surgery is required. Experts support this recommendation, but there is weak supporting evidence. It is known that the management of labour epidurals in obese women is complicated and that women with extreme obesity require higher rates of general anaesthesia. Anecdotally, anaesthetists view and apply the early epidural recommendation inconsistently and the acceptability of early epidural analgesia to pregnant women is variable. In this topic review, we critically appraise these two practice recommendations. The elements required for effective implementation in multidisciplinary maternity care are considered. We identify gaps in the current literature and suggest areas for future research. While prospective cohort studies addressing epidural extension ('top-up') in obese parturients would help inform practice, audit of local practice may better answer the question "is early epidural analgesia beneficial to obese women in my practice?".

A Randomized Controlled Trial of Music Use During Epidural Catheter Placement on Laboring Parturient Anxiety, Pain, and Satisfaction.

PubMed

Drzymalski, Dan M; Tsen, Lawrence C; Palanisamy, Arvind; Zhou, Jie; Huang, Chuan-Chin; Kodali, Bhavani S

2017-02-01

Although music is frequently used to promote a relaxing environment during labor and delivery, the effect of its use during the placement of neuraxial techniques is unknown. Our study sought to determine the effects of music use on laboring parturients during epidural catheter placement, with the hypothesis that music use would result in lower anxiety, lower pain, and greater patient satisfaction. We conducted a prospective, randomized, controlled trial of laboring parturients undergoing epidural catheter placement with or without music. The music group listened to the patient's preferred music on a Pandora® station broadcast through an external amplified speaker; the control group listened to no music. All women received a standardized epidural technique and local anesthetic dose. The primary outcomes were 3 measures of anxiety. Secondary outcomes included pain, patient satisfaction, hemodynamic parameters, obstetric parameters, neonatal outcomes, and anesthesia provider anxiety. Intention-to-treat analysis with Bonferroni correction was used for the primary outcomes. For secondary outcomes, a P value of <.001 was considered statistically significant. A total of 100 parturients were randomly assigned, with 99 included in the intention-to-treat analysis. Patient characteristics were similar in both groups; in the music group, the duration of music use was 31.1 ± 7.7 minutes (mean ± SD). The music group experienced higher anxiety as measured by Numeric Rating Scale scores immediately after epidural catheter placement (2.9 ± 3.3 vs 1.4 ± 1.7, mean difference 1.5 [95% confidence interval {CI} 0.2-2.7], P = .02), and as measured by fewer parturients being "very much relaxed" 1 hour after epidural catheter placement (51% vs 78%, odds ratio {OR} 0.3 [95% CI 0.1-0.9], P = .02). No differences in mean pain scores immediately after placement or patient satisfaction with the overall epidural placement experience were observed; however, the desire for music use with future epidural catheter placements was higher in the music group (84% vs 45%, OR 6.4 [95% CI 2.5-16.5], P < .0001). No differences in the difficulty with the epidural catheter placement or in the rate of cesarean delivery were observed. Music use during epidural catheter placement in laboring parturients is associated with higher postprocedure anxiety and no improvement in pain or satisfaction; however, a stronger desire for music with future epidural catheter placements was observed. Further investigation is needed to determine the effect of music use in parturients requesting and using epidural labor analgesia.

Pain management for joint arthroplasty: preemptive analgesia.

PubMed

Mallory, Thomas H; Lombardi, Adolph V; Fada, Robert A; Dodds, Kathleen L; Adams, Joanne B

2002-06-01

Scheduled preoperative and postoperative analgesia should be offered in a multimodal management model. By a combined drug synergy effect, the central nervous system, afferent pathways, and peripheral wound site are modified collectively. In an ongoing effort to improve perioperative pain management, we retrospectively compared the results of a previously reported pain management protocol with 2 more recent groups of patients managed with modified pain protocols. In the earlier control protocol, epidural anesthesia was discontinued on arrival to the postanesthesia care unit, and regularly scheduled oral opioids and intravenous hydromorphone for breakthrough pain were initiated. The first more recent group used epidural anesthesia, and the second group used spinal anesthesia. Both protocols featured the use of cyclooxygenase-2-inhibiting anti-inflammatory medication administered for 2 weeks preoperatively and continued for 10 days postoperatively and patient-controlled analgesia for 24 hours followed by scheduled oral opioids. Copyright 2002, Elsevier Science (USA).

Minimally invasive palliative resection of lumbar epidural metastasis.

PubMed

Yew, Andrew; Kimball, Jon; Pezeshkian, Patrick; Lu, Daniel C

2013-07-01

Spinal metastatic lesions are the most common tumors encountered by spinal surgeons. As with procedures for degenerative disease, minimally invsive surgery techniques have been applied to minimize muscle and soft tissue destruction in procedures for tumor resection. Here, we present a 23-year-old female with radiculopathy and foot drop secondary to nerve root compression by epidural metastases from Ewing's sarcoma. This patient had a history of previous resection and instrumentation as well as multiple rounds of chemotherapy and radiation that failed to control her disease. The patient presented with three weeks of radicular pain and foot drop that was continuing to worsen at the time of her operation. The decision was therefore made to perform a palliative resection and decompression for relief of her progressive symptoms. In this video, we demonstrate a palliative tumor debulking and nerve root decompression utilizing an MIS approach. The video can be found here: http://youtu.be/tq4kbvKTebI.

Assessment of effectiveness of percutaneous adhesiolysis in managing chronic low back pain secondary to lumbar central spinal canal stenosis.

PubMed

Manchikanti, Laxmaiah; Cash, Kimberly A; McManus, Carla D; Pampati, Vidyasagar

2013-01-01

Chronic persistent low back and lower extremity pain secondary to central spinal stenosis is common and disabling. Lumbar surgical interventions with decompression or fusion are most commonly performed to manage severe spinal stenosis. However, epidural injections are also frequently performed in managing central spinal stenosis. After failure of epidural steroid injections, the next sequential step is percutaneous adhesiolysis and hypertonic saline neurolysis with a targeted delivery. The literature on the effectiveness of percutaneous adhesiolysis in managing central spinal stenosis after failure of epidural injections has not been widely studied. A prospective evaluation. An interventional pain management practice, a specialty referral center, a private practice setting in the United States. To evaluate the effectiveness of percutaneous epidural adhesiolysis in patients with chronic low back and lower extremity pain with lumbar central spinal stenosis. Seventy patients were recruited. The initial phase of the study was randomized, double-blind with a comparison of percutaneous adhesiolysis with caudal epidural injections. The 25 patients from the adhesiolysis group continued with follow-up, along with 45 additional patients, leading to a total of 70 patients. All patients received percutaneous adhesiolysis and appropriate placement of the Racz catheter, followed by an injection of 5 mL of 2% preservative-free lidocaine with subsequent monitoring in the recovery room. In the recovery room, each patient also received 6 mL of 10% hypertonic sodium chloride solution, and 6 mg of non-particulate betamethasone, followed by an injection of 1 mL of sodium chloride solution and removal of the catheter. Multiple outcome measures were utilized including the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), the Oswestry Disability Index 2.0 (ODI), employment status, and opioid intake with assessment at 3, 6, and 12, 18 and 24 months post treatment. The primary outcome measure was 50% or more improvement in pain scores and ODI scores. Overall, a primary outcome or significant pain relief and functional status improvement of 50% or more was seen in 71% of patients at the end of 2 years. The overall number of procedures over a period of 2 years were 5.7 ± 2.73. The lack of a control group and a prospective design. Significant relief and functional status improvement as seen in 71% of the 70 patients with percutaneous adhesiolysis utilizing local anesthetic steroids and hypertonic sodium chloride solution may be an effective management strategy in patients with chronic function limiting low back and lower extremity pain with central spinal stenosis after failure of conservatie management and fluoroscopically directed epidural injections.

The epidural trip: why are so many women taking dangerous drugs during labor?

PubMed

Cohain, Judy Slome

2010-01-01

Two million American women will take an epidural trip this year during childbirth. In most cases, they'll be ill–informed as to possible side effects or alternate methods of pain relief. In many ways, epidurals are the drug trip of the current generation. Similar to street drug pushers, most anesthesiologists in the delivery rooms maintain a low profile, avoid making eye contact and threaten to walk out if they don't get total cooperation. Women get epidurals for one of the main reasons so many women smoked pot in the 1970s—their friends are doing it. This article examines why so many women in the Western world are compelled to take powerful drugs during their labor and exposes the risks epidurals pose to both mother and baby.

Epidural analgesia and severe perineal tears: a literature review and large cohort study.

PubMed

Loewenberg-Weisband, Yiska; Grisaru-Granovsky, Sorina; Ioscovich, Alexander; Samueloff, Arnon; Calderon-Margalit, Ronit

2014-12-01

Our objectives were to study the association between epidural analgesia and risk of severe perineal tears (SPT), and identify additional risk factors for SPT. We conducted a historical cohort study of women with term delivery between 2006 and 2011. Inclusion criteria were an uncomplicated singleton pregnancy, cephalic presentation and vaginal delivery. Multivariate logistic regression models were constructed to study the association between epidural analgesia and SPT, controlling for potential confounders. Additional models studied the association between prolonged second stage and instrumental labor and SPT. During the study period, 61,308 eligible women gave birth, 31,631 (51.6%) of whom received epidural analgesia. SPT occurred in 0.3% of births. Deliveries with epidural had significantly higher rates of primiparity, induction and augmentation of labor, prolonged second stage of labor, instrumental births and midline episiotomies. The univariate analysis showed a significant association between the use of epidural and SPT (OR: 1.78, 95% CI: 1.34-2.36); however, this association disappeared when parity was introduced (OR: 0.95, 95% CI: 0.69-1.29). Instrumental deliveries and prolonged second stage of labor were both strongly associated with SPT (ORs of 1.82 and 1.77) CONCLUSIONS: Epidural analgesia was not associated with SPT once confounding factors were controlled for.

Epidural varix at the cervicothoracic junction: unusual cause of quadriplegia: a case report.

PubMed

Bapat, Mihir; Metkar, Umesh

2006-02-01

A case report describing an unusual incident of quadriplegia in a young adult male caused by an epidural varix at the cervicothoracic junction. To report an unusual case of quadriplegia caused by an epidural varix at the cervicothoracic junction. Epidural varices are dilated tortuous elongated veins inside the central canal. In degenerative spinal stenosis, these varices are a result of venous stagnation and contribute to the pathogenesis of radicular pain. In the absence of stenosis, primary varicosities develop as a result of dynamic obstruction to venous outflow during spinal movements. A primary epidural varix can produce neurologic deficit similar to a space occupying lesion within the spinal canal. The myeloradiculopathy is of a slow progressive nature. A young man presented with an acute onset flaccid quadriplegia in the absence of significant trauma. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an extradural space occupying lesion at the cervicothoracic junction that was diagnosed as an isolated epidural varix during surgery. No neurologic recovery occurred. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging revealed a syrinx in the cervicothoracic cord. In the absence of other precipitating factors, the cord injury was attributed to the epidural varix. A temporary impedance to the venous outflow with the increase in the venous pressure has been hypothesized as the mechanism of cord injury.

Needle Tip Position and Bevel Direction Have No Effect in the Fluoroscopic Epidural Spreading Pattern in Caudal Epidural Injections: A Randomized Trial

PubMed Central

Kwon, Won Kyoung; Kim, Ah Na; Lee, Pil Moo; Park, Cheol Hwan; Kim, Jae Hun

2016-01-01

Background. Caudal epidural steroid injections (CESIs) are an effective treatment for pain. If the injection spreads in a specific pattern depending on the needle position or bevel direction, it would be possible to inject the agent into a specific and desired area. Objectives. We conducted a prospective randomized trial to determine if the needle position and bevel direction have any effect on the epidural spreading pattern in CESI. Methods. Demographic data of the patient were collected. During CESI, the needle position (middle or lateral) and direction (ventral or dorsal) were randomly allocated. Following fluoroscope-guided injection of 4 mL contrast media and 10 mL of injectates, the epidural spreading patterns (ventral or dorsal, bilateral or lateral) were imaged. Results. In the 210 CESIs performed, the needle tip position and bevel direction did not influence the epidural spreading patterns at L4-5 and L5-S1 disc levels. A history of Lumbar spine surgery was associated with a significantly limited spread to each disc level. A midline needle tip position was more effective than the lateral position in spreading to the distant disc levels. Conclusions. Neither the needle tip position nor the bevel direction affected the epidural drug spreading pattern during CESI. PMID:27445609

Caudal epidural analgesia using lidocaine alone or in combination with ketamine in dromedary camels Camelus dromedarius.

PubMed

Azari, Omid; Molaei, Mohammad M; Ehsani, Amir H

2014-02-27

This study was performed to investigate the analgesic effect of lidocaine and a combination of lidocaine and ketamine following epidural administration in dromedary camels. Ten 12-18-month-old camels were randomly divided into two equal groups. In group L, the animals received 2% lidocaine (0.22 mg/kg) and in group LK the animals received a mixture of 10% ketamine (1 mg/kg) and 2% lidocaine (0.22 mg/kg) administered into the first intercoccygeal (Co1-Co2) epidural space while standing. Onset time and duration of caudal analgesia, sedation level and ataxia were recorded after drug administration. Data were analysed by U Mann-Whitney tests and significance was taken as p < 0.05. The results showed that epidural lidocaine and co-administration of lidocaine and ketamine produced complete analgesia in the tail, anus and perineum. Epidural administration of the lidocaine-ketamine mixture resulted in mild to moderate sedation, whilst the animals that received epidural lidocaine alone were alert and nervous during the study. Ataxia was observed in all test subjects and was slightly more severe in camels that received the lidocaine-ketamine mixture. It was concluded that epidural administration of lidocaine plus ketamine resulted in longer caudal analgesia in standing conscious dromedary camels compared with the effect of administering lidocaine alone.

Undiagnosed vertebral hemangioma causing a lumbar compression fracture and epidural hematoma in a parturient undergoing vaginal delivery under epidural analgesia: a case report.

PubMed

Staikou, Chryssoula; Stamelos, Matthaios; Boutas, Ioannis; Koutoulidis, Vassileios

2015-08-01

Vertebral hemangiomas are benign vascular tumours of the bony spine which are usually asymptomatic. Pregnancy-related anatomical and hormonal changes may lead to expansion of hemangiomas and development of neurological symptoms. We present an unusual case of vertebral fracture due to an undiagnosed hemangioma presenting as postpartum back pain following epidural analgesia. A multiparous female with an unremarkable history developed intense lumbar pain after vaginal delivery under epidural analgesia. The pain was attributed to tissue trauma associated with the epidural technique. The patient had no clinical improvement with analgesics, and her symptoms deteriorated over the following days. A magnetic resonance imaging scan revealed an acute fracture of the second lumbar vertebra (L2) with epidural extension and mild compression of the dural sac, suggesting hemangioma as the underlying cause. The patient underwent successful spinal surgery with pedicle screw fixation to stabilize the fracture. Vertebral fractures secondary to acute expansion of a vertebral hemangioma rarely occur during vaginal delivery. In such cases, the labour epidural technique and analgesia may challenge the physician in making the diagnosis. Postpartum severe back pain should be thoroughly investigated even in the absence of neurological deficits, and osseous spinal pathology should be considered in the differential diagnosis.

Evolution of segmental anesthesia for Laparo-Endoscopic Single Site (LESS) cholecystectomy.

PubMed

Ross, S B; Mangar, D; Karlnoski, R; Patel, R S; Camporesi, E M; Barry, L K; Luberice, K; Sprenker, C J; Rosemurgy, A S

2012-06-01

Transumbilical Laparo-Endoscopic Single Site (LESS) surgery promises improved cosmesis, quick recovery, reduced postoperative pain and shorter length of hospital stay. Since only a simple umbilical incision is used, LESS surgery can be completed with segmental epidural anesthesia. This study describes the evolution of our technique of LESS cholecystectomy from a combination of spinal and epidural anesthesia to thoracic epidural alone and presents our experience with its safety, the observed morbidity, and the reported patient satisfaction. In August 2009, a prospective evaluation of LESS cholecystectomy with regional anesthesia was undertaken. We recruited patients with chronic cholecystitis or symptomatic cholelithasis. Blood loss, operative time, complications, and length of hospital stay were measured. Preoperatively and 14 days postoperatively, outcome and symptom resolution were scored. Fifteen consecutive patients underwent LESS cholecystectomy; first with combined spinal-epidural (CSE), and then with thoracic epidural anesthesia alone. Immediate postoperative pain and discomfort were well tolerated. VAS scores upon admission to PACU were 0.4 (1.7±2.2). At postoperative day 14, the patients scored high values for "Satisfaction", 10 (10±1.0) and "Cosmesis", 10 (9.3±1.5). LESS cholecystectomy with epidural anesthesia can be undertaken safely. Patient satisfaction and cosmesis are particularly prominent amongst our patients. Our experience supports further utilization of epidural anesthesia for selected patients undergoing LESS cholecystectomy.

A comparison of the effects of epidural and spinal anesthesia with ischemia-reperfusion injury on the rat transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap.

PubMed

Acar, Yusuf; Bozkurt, Mehmet; Firat, Ugur; Selcuk, Caferi Tayyar; Kapi, Emin; Isik, Fatma Birgul; Kuvat, Samet Vasfi; Celik, Feyzi; Bozarslan, Beri Hocaoglu

2013-11-01

The purpose of this study is to compare the effects of spinal and epidural anesthesia on a rat transverse rectus abdominus myocutaneous flap ischemia-reperfusion injury model.Forty Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 4 experimental groups: group I (n = 10), sham group; group II (n = 10), control group; group III (n = 10), epidural group; and group IV (n = 10), spinal group. After the elevation of the transverse rectus abdominus myocutaneous flaps, all groups except for the sham group were subjected to normothermic no-flow ischemia for 4 hours, followed by a reperfusion period of 2 hours. At the end of the reperfusion period, biochemical and histopathological evaluations were performed on tissue samples.Although there was no significant difference concerning the malonyldialdehyde, nitric oxide, and paraoxonase levels in the spinal and epidural groups, the total antioxidant state levels were significantly increased, and the total oxidative stress levels were significantly decreased in the epidural group in comparison to the spinal group. The pathological evaluation showed that findings related to inflammation, nuclear change rates and hyalinization were significantly higher in the spinal group compared with the epidural group.Epidural anesthesia can be considered as a more suitable method that enables a decrease in ischemia-reperfusion injuries in the muscle flaps.

Analgesic and physiological effect of electroacupuncture combined with epidural lidocaine in goats.

PubMed

Cui, Lu-Ying; Guo, Ni-Ni; Li, Yu-Lin; Li, Meng; Ding, Ming-Xing

2017-07-01

To investigate physiological and antinociceptive effects of electroacupuncture (EA) with lidocaine epidural nerve block in goats. Prospective experimental trial. Forty-eight hybrid male goats weighing 27 ± 2 kg. The goats were randomly assigned to six groups: L2.2, epidural lidocaine (2.2 mg kg -1 ); L4.4, epidural lidocaine (4.4 mg kg -1 ); EA; EA-L1.1, EA with epidural lidocaine (1.1 mg kg -1 ); EA-L2.2, EA with epidural lidocaine (2.2 mg kg -1 ); and EA-L4.4, EA with epidural lidocaine (4.4 mg kg -1 ). EA was administered for 120 minutes. Epidural lidocaine was administered 25 minutes after EA started. Nociceptive thresholds of flank and thigh regions, abdominal muscle tone, mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), respiratory frequency (f R ) and rectal temperature were recorded at 30, 60, 90, 120, 150 and 180 minutes. Lidocaine dose-dependently increased nociceptive thresholds. There were no differences in nociceptive thresholds between L4.4 and EA from 30 to 120 minutes. The threshold in EA-L2.2 was lower than in EA-L4.4 from 30 to 120 minutes, but higher than in EA-L1.1 from 30 to 150 minutes or in L4.4 from 30 to 180 minutes. The abdominal muscle tone in EA-L2.2 was higher at 30 minutes, but lower at 90 and 120 minutes than at 0 minutes. There were no differences in muscle tone between L4.4 and L2.2 or EA-L4.4, and between any two of the three EA-lidocaine groups from 0 to 180 minutes. The f R and HR decreased in L4.4 at 60 and 90 minutes compared with 0 minutes. No differences in f R , HR, MAP and temperature among the groups occurred from 30 to 180 minutes. EA combined with 2.2 mg kg -1 epidural lidocaine provides better antinociceptive effect than 4.4 mg kg -1 epidural lidocaine alone in goats. EA provided antinociception and allowed a decrease in epidural lidocaine dose. Copyright © 2017 Association of Veterinary Anaesthetists and American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Contrast Runoff Correlates with the Clinical Outcome of Cervical Epidural Neuroplasty Using a Racz Catheter.

PubMed

Han, Yun-Joung; Lee, Myoung No; Cho, Min Ji; Park, Hue Jung; Moon, Dong Eon; Kim, Young Hoon

2016-01-01

Epidural neuroplasty using a Racz catheter has a therapeutic effect. Studies have found no correlation between foraminal stenosis and the outcome of epidural neuroplasty, which is thought to depend on contrast runoff. To examine the correlation between the contrast spread pattern and pain reduction in cervical epidural neuroplasty using a Racz catheter. Retrospective study. An interventional pain-management practice in a university hospital. Fluoroscopic images were reviewed retrospectively. The spread of contrast from the neural foramen to a nerve root was called contrast runoff. If the contrast did not spread in this manner, then there was no contrast runoff. We defined successful epidural neuroplasty as a 50% or greater reduction from the pre-procedure numeric rating scale (NRS) score for total pain, and an at least 40% reduction in the neck pain and disability scale (NPDS) score. This study reviewed 169 patients. Among the patients who had a contrast runoff pattern, the epidural neuroplasty was rated as successful in 96 (74.4%), 97 (75.2%), 86 (66.7%), and 79 (61.2%) cases one, 3, 6, and 12 months after the procedure, respectively. When there was no contrast runoff, the epidural neuroplasty was successful in 12 (30%), 12 (30%), 10 (25%), and 10 (25%) cases at one, 3, 6, and 12 months after the procedure (P < 0.001). Logistic regression of the contrast spread pattern and predicting successful epidural neuroplasty gave similar results. Patients with a contrast runoff pattern had odds ratios of 6.788, 7.073, 6.000, and 4.740 at one, 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively (P < 0.001). This study lacked a control group, and the patients were not classified by their diagnosed disease, such as spinal stenosis, herniated nucleus pulposus, and post-spinal surgery syndrome. Cervical epidural neuroplasty with a contrast runoff pattern had a higher success rate. Contrast runoff should be observed during neuroplasty, even in the presence of foraminal stenosis. Cervical spinal pain, contrast, contrast runoff, epidural neuroplasty, percutaneous adhesiolysis, Racz catheter.

Effect of epidural analgesia in patients with traumatic rib fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

PubMed

Carrier, François M; Turgeon, Alexis F; Nicole, Pierre C; Trépanier, Claude A; Fergusson, Dean A; Thauvette, Daniel; Lessard, Martin R

2009-03-01

A consensus group recently proposed epidural analgesia as the optimal analgesic modality for patients with multiple traumatic rib fractures. However, its beneficial effects are not consistently recognized in the literature. We performed a systematic review and a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCT) of epidural analgesia in adult patients with traumatic rib fractures. A systematic search strategy was applied to MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library and to the annual meeting of relevant societies (up to July 2008). All randomized controlled trials comparing epidural analgesia with other analgesic modalities in adult patients with traumatic rib fractures were included. Primary outcomes were mortality, ICU length of stay (LOS), hospital LOS and duration of mechanical ventilation. Eight studies (232 patients) met eligibility criteria. Epidural analgesia did not significantly affect mortality (odds ratio [OR] 1.6, 95% CI, 0.3, 9.3, 3 studies, n = 89), ICU LOS (weighted mean difference [WMD] -3.7 days, 95% CI, -11.4, 4.0, 4 studies, n = 135), hospital LOS (WMD -6.7, 95% CI, -19.8, 6.4, 4 studies, n = 140) or duration of mechanical ventilation (WMD -7.5, 95% CI, -16.3, 1.2, 3 studies, n = 101). Duration of mechanical ventilation was decreased when only studies using thoracic epidural analgesia with local anesthetics were evaluated (WMD -4.2, 95% CI, -5.5, -2.9, 2 studies, n = 73). However, hypotension was significantly associated with the use of thoracic epidural analgesia with local anesthetics (OR 13.76, 95% CI, 2.89, 65.51, 3 studies, n = 99). No significant benefit of epidural analgesia on mortality, ICU and hospital LOS was observed compared to other analgesic modalities in adult patients with traumatic rib fractures. However, there may be a benefit on the duration of mechanical ventilation with the use of thoracic epidural analgesia with local anesthetics. Further research is required to evaluate the benefits and harms of epidural analgesia in this population before being considered as a standard of care therapy.

Effectiveness of cervical epidural injections in the management of chronic neck and upper extremity pain.

PubMed

Diwan, Sudhir; Manchikanti, Laxmaiah; Benyamin, Ramsin M; Bryce, David A; Geffert, Stephanie; Hameed, Haroon; Sharma, Manohar Lal; Abdi, Salahadin; Falco, Frank J E

2012-01-01

Chronic persistent neck pain with or without upper extremity pain is common in the general adult population with prevalence of 48% for women and 38% for men, with persistent complaints in 22% of women and 16% of men. Multiple modalities of treatments are exploding in managing chronic neck pain along with increasing prevalence. However, there is a paucity of evidence for all modalities of treatments in managing chronic neck pain. Cervical epidural injections for managing chronic neck pain are one of the commonly performed interventions in the United States. However, the literature supporting cervical epidural steroids in managing chronic pain problems has been scant. A systematic review of cervical interlaminar epidural injections for cervical disc herniation, cervical axial discogenic pain, cervical central stenosis, and cervical postsurgery syndrome. To evaluate the effect of cervical interlaminar epidural injections in managing various types of chronic neck and upper extremity pain emanating as a result of cervical spine pathology. The available literature on cervical interlaminar epidural injections in managing chronic neck and upper extremity pain were reviewed. The quality assessment and clinical relevance criteria utilized were the Cochrane Musculoskeletal Review Group criteria as utilized for interventional techniques for randomized trials and the criteria developed by the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale criteria for observational studies. The level of evidence was classified as good, fair, and limited based on the quality of evidence developed by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). Data sources included relevant literature identified through searches of PubMed and EMBASE from 1966 to December 2011, and manual searches of the bibliographies of known primary and review articles. The primary outcome measure was pain relief (short-term relief = up to 6 months and long-term > 6 months). Secondary outcome measures were improvement in functional status, psychological status, return to work, and reduction in opioid intake. For this systematic review, 34 studies were identified. Of these, 24 studies were excluded and a total of 9 randomized trials, with 2 duplicate studies, met inclusion criteria for methodological quality assessment. For cervical disc herniation, the evidence is good for cervical epidural with local anesthetic and steroids; whereas, it was fair with local anesthetic only. For axial or discogenic pain, the evidence is fair for local anesthetic, with or without steroids. For spinal stenosis, the evidence is fair for local anesthetic, with or without steroids. For postsurgery syndrome, the evidence is fair for local anesthetic, with or without steroids. The limitations of this systematic review continue to be the paucity of literature. The evidence is good for radiculitis secondary to disc herniation with local anesthetics and steroids, fair with local anesthetic only; whereas, it is fair for local anesthetics with or without steroids, for axial or discogenic pain, pain of central spinal stenosis, and pain of post surgery syndrome.

Propofol and sevoflurane during epidural/general anesthesia: comparison of early recovery characteristics and pain relief.

PubMed

Hepağuşlar, Hasan; Ozzeybek, Deniz; Ozkardeşler, Sevda; Taşdöğen, Aydin; Duru, Seden; Elar, Zahide

2004-06-01

We investigated the early recovery characteristics and pain relief of adult patients during combined anesthesia with (epidural and general), either with propofol or sevoflurane for maintenance in major abdominal surgery. Twenty-two patients (ASA I-III) were enrolled in this randomized, prospective study. After fluid preloading, 10 ml of bupivacaine 0.5% + 5 ml of prilocaine 0.5% + 1 ml of fentanyl 50 microg mL(-1) were administered via an epidural catheter. General anesthesia was induced with fentanyl and propofol after T6 sensorial blockade. Propofol group (n = 11) received propofol (2-5 mg kg(-1) h(-1)), sevoflurane group (n = 11) received sevoflurane (1-2%) for maintenance. Anesthesia was supplemented with N2O in O2 and intravenous fentanyl. Continuous epidural infusion of 0.125% bupivacaine + 1 microg fentanyl (5-7 mL h(-1)) was started forty-five min after the epidural bolus dose and 5 ml of it was given at the start of the wound closure. All anesthetics were discontinued except epidural infusion during the last suture. After emergence time was determined, the patients were transferred to the PACU. They were observed for orientation times of person and place. The pain scores (verbal analogue scale, 0-10) were assessed with 30 min intervals. When the patient's pain score was >3, rescue analgesic protocol (diclofenac Na 75 mg im followed by meperidine HCI approximately 0.25 mg kg(-1) iv at the latter period) was applied. In the case of inadequate pain relief during the latter assessment periods, meperidine HCI approximately 0.25 mg kg(-1) was administered. Mann-Whitney U test and Fisher's exact test were used for the statistical analysis. A value of p<0.05 was considered significant. Between the groups no statistical differences were observed in the emergence time (5 vs. 6 min, median) and in the orientation time to person (6 vs. 10 min). Recovery of orientation to place was found faster in propofol group (7 vs. 12 min, p = 0.041). Pain scores of the patients between the groups were not statistically different at 0, 30, 60, 90, 120 min postoperatively (3, 2, 3, 2, 2, and 2, 4, 4, 3, 3, respectively). Rescue analgesic protocol and additional meperidine HCI were applied to 63.6% and 45.4% of patients in the propofol group, 54.5% and 36.3% of patients in the sevoflurane group, respectively. There weren't any statistical differences in regard to these, either. Except orientation time to place, the times of emergence and orientation to person, the pain scores and the analgesic requirements of the patients in both groups were similar. Propofol or sevoflurane did not offer any advantages for postoperative pain relief on behalf of either one when combined with epidural anesthesia.

Labor Epidural Anesthesia, Obstetric Factors and Breastfeeding Cessation

PubMed Central

Dozier, Ann M.; Howard, Cynthia R.; Brownell, Elizabeth A.; Wissler, Richard N.; Glantz, J. Christopher; Ternullo, Sharon R.; Thevenet-Morrison, Kelly N.; Childs, Cynthia K.; Lawrence, Ruth A.

2013-01-01

Objective Breastfeeding benefits both infant and maternal health. Use of epidural anesthesia during labor is increasingly common and may interfere with breastfeeding. Studies analyzing epidural anesthesia’s association with breastfeeding outcomes show mixed results; many have methodological flaws. We analyzed potential associations between epidural anesthesia and overall breast-feeding cessation within 30 days postpartum while adjusting for standard and novel covariates and uniquely accounting for labor induction. Methods A pooled analysis using Kaplan-Meier curves and modified Cox Proportional Hazard models included 772 breastfeeding mothers from upstate New York who had vaginal term births of healthy singleton infants. Subjects were drawn from two cohort studies (recruited postpartum between 2005 and 2008) and included maternal self-report and maternal and infant medical record data. Results Analyses of potential associations between epidural anesthesia and overall breastfeeding cessation within one month included additional covariates and uniquely accounted for labor induction. After adjusting for standard demographics and intrapartum factors, epidural anesthesia significantly predicted breastfeeding cessation (hazard ratio 1.26 [95%confidence interval 1.10, 1.44], p<.01) as did hospital type, maternal age, income, education, planned breastfeeding goal, and breastfeeding confidence. In post hoc analyses stratified by Baby Friendly Hospital (BFH) status, epidural anesthesia significantly predicted breastfeeding cessation (BFH: 1.19 [1.01,1.41], p<.04; non-BFH: 1.65 [1.31, 2.08], p<.01). Conclusions A relationship between epidural anesthesia and breastfeeding was found but is complex and involves institutional, clinical, maternal and infant factors. These findings have implications for clinical care and hospital policies and point to the need for prospective studies. PMID:22696104

Labor epidural anesthesia, obstetric factors and breastfeeding cessation.

PubMed

Dozier, Ann M; Howard, Cynthia R; Brownell, Elizabeth A; Wissler, Richard N; Glantz, J Christopher; Ternullo, Sharon R; Thevenet-Morrison, Kelly N; Childs, Cynthia K; Lawrence, Ruth A

2013-05-01

Breastfeeding benefits both infant and maternal health. Use of epidural anesthesia during labor is increasingly common and may interfere with breastfeeding. Studies analyzing epidural anesthesia's association with breastfeeding outcomes show mixed results; many have methodological flaws. We analyzed potential associations between epidural anesthesia and overall breast-feeding cessation within 30 days postpartum while adjusting for standard and novel covariates and uniquely accounting for labor induction. A pooled analysis using Kaplan-Meier curves and modified Cox Proportional Hazard models included 772 breastfeeding mothers from upstate New York who had vaginal term births of healthy singleton infants. Subjects were drawn from two cohort studies (recruited postpartum between 2005 and 2008) and included maternal self-report and maternal and infant medical record data. Analyses of potential associations between epidural anesthesia and overall breastfeeding cessation within 1 month included additional covariates and uniquely accounted for labor induction. After adjusting for standard demographics and intrapartum factors, epidural anesthesia significantly predicted breastfeeding cessation (hazard ratio 1.26 [95% confidence interval 1.10, 1.44], p < 0.01) as did hospital type, maternal age, income, education, planned breastfeeding goal, and breastfeeding confidence. In post hoc analyses stratified by Baby Friendly Hospital (BFH) status, epidural anesthesia significantly predicted breastfeeding cessation (BFH: 1.19 [1.01, 1.41], p < 0.04; non-BFH: 1.65 [1.31, 2.08], p < 0.01). A relationship between epidural anesthesia and breastfeeding was found but is complex and involves institutional, clinical, maternal and infant factors. These findings have implications for clinical care and hospital policies and point to the need for prospective studies.

Epidural extension failure in obese women is comparable to that of non-obese women.

PubMed

Eley, V A; Chin, A; Tham, I; Poh, J; Aujla, P; Glasgow, E; Brown, H; Steele, K; Webb, L; van Zundert, A

2018-07-01

Management of labor epidurals in obese women is difficult and extension to surgical anesthesia is not always successful. Our previous retrospective pilot study found epidural extension was more likely to fail in obese women. This study used a prospective cohort to compare the failure rate of epidural extension in obese and non-obese women and to identify risk factors for extension failure. One hundred obese participants (Group O, body mass index ≥ 40 kg/m 2 ) were prospectively identified and allocated two sequential controls (Group C, body mass index ≤ 30 kg/m 2 ). All subjects utilized epidural labor analgesia and subsequently required anesthesia for cesarean section. The primary outcome measure was failure of the labor epidural to be used as the primary anesthetic technique. Risk factors for extension failure were identified using Chi-squared and logistic regression. The odds ratio (OR) of extension failure was 1.69 in Group O (20% vs. 13%; 95% CI: 0.88-3.21, P = 0.11). Risk factors for failure in obese women included ineffective labor analgesia requiring anesthesiologist intervention, (OR 3.94, 95% CI: 1.16-13.45, P = 0.028) and BMI > 50 kg/m 2 (OR 3.42, 95% CI: 1.07-10.96, P = 0.038). The failure rate of epidural extension did not differ significantly between the groups. Further research is needed to determine the influence of body mass index > 50 kg/m 2 on epidural extension for cesarean section. © 2018 The Authors. Acta Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Acta Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica Foundation.

Epidural analgesia in children. A survey of current opinions and practices amongst UK paediatric anaesthetists.

PubMed

Williams, D G; Howard, R F

2003-11-01

Despite the widespread use of epidural analgesia in children its place in paediatric pain management has not been clearly established. In order to investigate the current practice of paediatric epidural analgesia in the UK paediatric anaesthetists and paediatric pain management teams were surveyed. Questionnaires were sent to the members of the Association of Paediatric Anaesthetists (APA) working within the UK and to lead clinicians and clinical nurse specialists for acute pain in the 26 designated major paediatric centres. The response rate was 72%. There was little consensus regarding drugs and drug combinations used for epidural analgesia. A total of 36% of paediatric centres did not audit their epidural practice, and of those that did the reported incidences of side-effects showed wide variation. Important differences in practice were also identified in the areas of patient selection, informed consent, the use of epidural test doses, drug delivery systems, monitoring and the management of side-effects. Twelve per cent of specialist paediatric hospitals did not have an acute pain team and elsewhere the provision was often limited to staff with few or no specialist skills. There is wide variation in the practice of paediatric epidural analgesia in the UK. Inconsistencies are likely to be related to the poor evidence base available to guide clinical decision making and the lack of a specialized paediatric acute pain service in some centres. More research is required to determine the optimal management of epidural analgesia, and suitable clinical support for paediatric pain control should be more widely available.

Feasibility of ultrasound-guided epidural access at the lumbo-sacral space in dogs.

PubMed

Liotta, Annalisa; Busoni, Valeria; Carrozzo, Maria Valentina; Sandersen, Charlotte; Gabriel, Annick; Bolen, Géraldine

2015-01-01

Epidural injections are commonly performed blindly in veterinary medicine. The aims of this study were to describe the lumbosacral ultrasonographic anatomy and to assess the feasibility of an ultrasound-guided epidural injection technique in dogs. A cross sectional anatomic atlas of the lumbosacral region and ex vivo ultrasound images were obtained in two cadavers to describe the ultrasound anatomy and to identify the landmarks. Sixteen normal weight canine cadavers were used to establish two variations of the technique for direct ultrasound-guided injection, using spinal needles or epidural catheters. The technique was finally performed in two normal weight cadavers, in two overweight cadavers and in five live dogs with radiographic abnormalities resulting of the lumbosacral spine. Contrast medium was injected and CT was used to assess the success of the injection. The anatomic landmarks to carry out the procedure were the seventh lumbar vertebra, the iliac wings, and the first sacral vertebra. The target for directing the needle was the trapezoid-shaped echogenic zone between the contiguous articular facets of the lumbosacral vertebral canal visualized in a parasagittal plane. The spinal needle or epidural catheter was inserted in a 45° craniodorsal-caudoventral direction through the subcutaneous tissue and the interarcuate ligament until reaching the epidural space. CT examination confirmed the presence of contrast medium in the epidural space in 25/25 dogs, although a variable contamination of the subarachnoid space was also noted. Findings indicated that this ultrasound-guided epidural injection technique is feasible for normal weight and overweight dogs, with and without radiographic abnormalities of the spine. © 2014 American College of Veterinary Radiology.

Comparison of ultrasound imaging in transverse median and parasagittal oblique planes for thoracic epidurals: A pilot study.

PubMed

Khemka, Rakhi; Rastogi, Sonal; Desai, Neha; Chakraborty, Arunangshu; Sinha, Subir

2016-06-01

The use of ultrasound (US) scanning to assess the depth of epidural space to prevent neurological complications is established in current practice. In this study, we hypothesised that pre-puncture US scanning for estimating the depth of epidural space for thoracic epidurals is comparable between transverse median (TM) and paramedian sagittal oblique (PSO) planes. We performed pre-puncture US scanning in 32 patients, posted for open abdominal surgeries. The imaging was done to detect the depth of epidural space from skin (ultrasound depth [UD]) and needle insertion point, in parasagittal oblique plane in PSO group and transverse median plane in TM group. Subsequently, epidural space was localised through the predetermined insertion point by 'loss of resistance' technique and needle depth (ND) to the epidural space was marked. Correlation between the UD and actual ND was calculated and concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) was used to determine the degree of agreement between UD and ND in both the planes. The primary outcome, i.e., the comparison between UD and ND, done using Pearson correlation coefficient, was 0.99 in both PSO and TM groups, and the CCC was 0.93 (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 0.81-0.97) and 0.90 (95% CI: 0.74-0.96) in PSO and TM groups respectively, which shows a strong positive association between UD and ND in both groups. The use of pre-puncture US scanning in both PSO and TM planes for estimating the depth of epidural space at the level of mid- and lower-thoracic spine is comparable.

Comparison between the analgesic effects of morphine and tramadol delivered epidurally in cats receiving a standardized noxious stimulation.

PubMed

Castro, Douglas S; Silva, Marta F A; Shih, Andre C; Motta, Pedro P A; Pires, Marcos V M; Scherer, Paulo O

2009-12-01

This study compared the analgesic effects of epidural tramadol versus morphine in six healthy cats. Under general anesthesia, each cat received an epidural injection of saline 0.22 ml/kg (control treatment, CT), tramadol 1mg/kg (tramadol treatment, TT), or morphine 0.1mg/kg (morphine treatment, MT). After cats had recovered from anesthesia a simple descriptive scale (SDS), visual analog scale (VAS) and physiological parameters (respiratory and heart rate) were used to assess analgesia level to a noxious stimulus (base of the tail skin fold clamping) at 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12h post-epidural. Group TT had a higher SDS and VAS score when compared to MT at 8, 10 and 12h post-epidural. CT had higher SDS and VAS score at all time points when compared to TT and MT. In conclusion both morphine and tramadol provided analgesia in this model for the first 6h; with epidural morphine resulting in longer lasting analgesia when compared to tramadol.

[Satisfaction with delivery and maternal identity with epidural labor analgesia among Japanese women with children younger than 3 years of age: a web-based survey].

PubMed

Ishibashi, Chika; Horiguchi, Itsuko; Sumikura, Hiroyuki; Inada, Eiichi

2014-12-01

In Japan, it has been thought that pain during labor develops maternal identity and there are cultural and psychological barriers to the use of epidural labor analgesia. The objective of this study was to examine epidemiologic data and psychological data about satisfaction with delivery and maternal identity with epidural labor analgesia. A web-based survey was randomly conducted in 1,000 women (ages, 20-40 years) with children under the age of 3 years. The questionnaire included the basic characteristics of the participants and children, their experiences with delivery and two scales to evaluate satisfaction of delivery and maternal identity. There were a total of 1,030 respondents and 50 (5.0%) respondents reported having epidural labor analgesia. Scores about self-evaluation scales for satisfaction of delivery and maternal identity among women of epidural labor analgesia were not significantly different with those among women of spontaneous delivery. Satisfaction with delivery and maternal identity are not influenced by chosing epidural labor analgesia.

Epidural space identification: a meta-analysis of complications after air versus liquid as the medium for loss of resistance.

PubMed

Schier, Robert; Guerra, Diana; Aguilar, Jorge; Pratt, Gregory F; Hernandez, Mike; Boddu, Krishna; Riedel, Bernhard

2009-12-01

The best method for identifying the epidural space for neuraxial blocks is controversial. We conducted this meta-analysis to test the hypothesis that loss of resistance with liquid reduces complications with epidural placement. The MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were searched for prospective, randomized studies comparing air versus liquid as the medium for loss of resistance during epidural space identification in adults. Data were abstracted from 5 studies (4 obstetric and 1 nonobstetric) (n = 4422 patients) that met inclusion criteria and analyzed for the following 6 outcomes: difficult catheter insertion, paresthesia, intravascular catheter insertion, accidental dural puncture, postdural puncture headache, and partial block. The overall risk differences for adverse outcome between the different mediums were not statistically different for the obstetric population. A small, but statistically significant, risk difference for postdural puncture headache was observed when fluid was used during epidural placement for chronic pain management. Larger studies that overcome limitations of heterogeneity across studies and a relatively infrequent occurrence of complications are required to determine the optimal medium for loss of resistance during epidural block.

The utility of ionotropic glutamate receptor antagonists in the treatment of nociception induced by epidural glutamate infusion in rats.

PubMed

Osgood, Doreen B; Harrington, William F; Kenney, Elizabeth V; Harrington, J Frederick

2013-01-01

The authors have previously demonstrated that human herniated disc material contains high concentrations of free glutamate. In an experimental model, elevated epidural glutamate concentrations in the lumbar spine can cause a focal hyperesthetic state. Rats underwent epidural glutamate infusion in the lumbar spine by a miniosmotic pump over a 72-hour period. Some rats underwent coinfusion with glutamate and ionotropic glutamate antagonists. Nociception was assessed by von Frey fibers and by assessment of glutamate receptor expression in the corresponding dorsal horn of the spinal cord. The kainic acid antagonist, UBP 301, decreased epidural glutamate-based hyperesthesia in a dose dependent manner. Concordant with these findings, there was significant decrease in kainate receptor expression in the dorsal horn. The N-Methyl-4-isoxazoleproionic acid (NMDA) antagonist Norketamine also significantly diminished hyperesthesia and decreased receptor expression in the dorsal horn. Both UBP 301, the kainic acid receptor antagonist and Norketamine, an NMDA receptor antagonist, dampened epidural glutamate-based nociception. Focal epidural injections of Kainate or NMDA receptor antagonists could be effective treatments for disc herniation-based lumbar radiculopathy.

An Update on Drugs Used for Lumbosacral Epidural Anesthesia and Analgesia in Dogs

PubMed Central

Steagall, Paulo V. M.; Simon, Bradley T.; Teixeira Neto, Francisco J.; Luna, Stelio P. L.

2017-01-01

This review aims to report an update on drugs administered into the epidural space for anesthesia and analgesia in dogs, describing their potential advantages and disadvantages in the clinical setting. Databases searched include Pubmed, Google scholar, and CAB abstracts. Benefits of administering local anesthetics, opioids, and alpha2 agonists into the epidural space include the use of lower doses of general anesthetics (anesthetic “sparing” effect), perioperative analgesia, and reduced side effects associated with systemic administration of drugs. However, the potential for cardiorespiratory compromise, neurotoxicity, and other adverse effects should be considered when using the epidural route of administration. When these variables are considered, the epidural technique is useful as a complementary method of anesthesia for preventive and postoperative analgesia and/or as part of a balanced anesthesia technique. PMID:28553642

A comparative study of epidural catheter colonization and infection in Intensive Care Unit and wards in a Tertiary Care Public Hospital.

PubMed

Harde, Minal; Bhadade, Rakesh; Iyer, Hemlata; Jatale, Amol; Tiwatne, Sagar

2016-02-01

Infection is a potentially serious complication of epidural analgesia and with an increase in its use in wards there is a necessity to demonstrate its safety. We aimed to compare the incidence of colonization of epidural catheters retained for short duration (for 48 h) postoperative analgesia in postanesthesia care unit and wards. It was a prospective observational study done in a tertiary care teaching public hospital over a period of 2 years and included 400 patients with 200 each belonged to two groups PACU and ward. We also studied epidural tip culture pattern, skin swab culture at the entry point of the catheter, their relation to each other and whether colonization is equivalent to infection. Data were analyzed using statistical software GraphPad. Overall positive tip culture was 6% (24), of them 7% (14) were from PACU and 5% (10) were from ward (P = 0.5285). Positive skin swab culture was 38% (150), of them 20% (80) were from PACU and 18% (70) were from ward (P = 0.3526). The relation between positive tip culture and positive skin swab culture in same patients is extremely significant showing a strong linear relationship (95% confidence interval = 0.1053-0.2289). The most common microorganism isolated was Staphylococcus epidermidis. No patient had signs of local or epidural infection. There is no difference in the incidence of epidural catheter tip culture and skin swab culture of patients from the general ward and PACU. Epidural analgesia can be administered safely for 48 h in general wards without added risk of infection. The presence of positive tip culture is not a predictor of epidural space infection, and colonization is not equivalent to infection; hence, routine culture is not needed. Bacterial migration from the skin along the epidural track is the most common mode of bacterial colonization; hence, strict asepsis is necessary.

Epiduroscopy of the lumbosacral vertebral canal in the horse: Technique and endoscopic anatomy.

PubMed

Prange, T; Shrauner, B D; Blikslager, A T

2016-01-01

Back pain is a common cause of gait alterations and poor performance in horses, but the available imaging modalities are frequently insufficient to isolate the underlying pathology. In human patients, epidural endoscopy (epiduroscopy) is successfully used to diagnose and treat challenging cases of lower back pain. Endoscopy of the cervical epidural space has previously been reported in anaesthetised horses. To develop a technique for lumbosacral epiduroscopy in standing horses and to describe the endoscopic anatomy of the lumbosacral epidural space. Pilot study to assess the feasibility of lumbosacral epiduroscopy in 5 horse cadavers. The cadavers of 5 horses, weighing 457-694 kg (mean, 570 kg), were suspended in an upright position. Vascular dilators of increasing size were inserted between the first 2 moveable vertebrae caudal to the sacrum to create a minimally invasive approach into the epidural space. A flexible videoendoscope was introduced and advanced as far cranially as the length of the endoscope permitted. The lumbosacral epidural space underwent gross necropsy examination following the procedure. The endoscope was successfully inserted into the epidural space in all horses. Saline injection through the working channel of the endoscope allowed the following anatomical structures to be seen: dura mater, left and right lumbosacral spinal nerves, cauda equina, epidural fat, connective tissue and blood vessels. Using the 60 cm working length of the endoscope, the epidural space could be examined as far cranial as L3-T18, depending on the size of the horse. No gross damage to epidural neurovascular structures was observed on necropsy examination. Lumbosacral epiduroscopy is technically feasible in standing horses and may become a valuable diagnostic tool in horses with caudal back or limb pain of unknown origin. Studies in live horses will be necessary to evaluate the safety of the procedure. © 2015 EVJ Ltd.

Cervical spinal epidural abscess following acupuncture and wet-cupping therapy: A case report.

PubMed

Yao, Yindan; Hong, Wenke; Chen, Huimin; Guan, Qiongfeng; Yu, Hu; Chang, Xianchao; Yu, Yaoping; Xu, Shanhu; Fan, Weinv

2016-02-01

Report of an uncommon complication of acupuncture and wet cupping. A 54-year-old man presented with neck pain and fever. Magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine revealed an epidural abscess at C4 to T2. The symptoms related to epidural abscess resolved partially after treatment with antibiotics. Acupuncture and wet-cupping therapy should be taken into consideration as a cause of spinal epidural abscesses in patients who present with neck pain and fever. Furthermore, acupuncture and wet-cupping practitioners should pay attention to hygienic measures. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Epidural meperidine for control of autonomic hyperreflexia in a quadriplegic undergoing cystoscopy.

PubMed

Baraka, A; Noueihid, R; Sibai, A N; Baroody, M; Louis, F; Hemady, K

1989-06-01

Epidural meperidine was used to control autonomic hyperreflexia (AH) during cystoscopy and transuretheral sphincterotomy, in a quadriplegic patient who had chronic spinal cord transection at C6 level. Meperidine 100 mg diluted in 10 ml saline was injected in the epidural space at L3-L4 level. Within 10 minutes and throughout the surgical procedure, the blood pressure stabilized at 125/70-140/80 mmHg. Epidural meperidine produces selective blockade of the spinal opiate receptors and hence may block the nociceptive reflexes below the level of cord transection and prevent AH.

The epidural needle guidance with an intelligent and automatic identification system for epidural anesthesia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kao, Meng-Chun; Ting, Chien-Kun; Kuo, Wen-Chuan

2018-02-01

Incorrect placement of the needle causes medical complications in the epidural block, such as dural puncture or spinal cord injury. This study proposes a system which combines an optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging probe with an automatic identification (AI) system to objectively identify the position of the epidural needle tip. The automatic identification system uses three features as image parameters to distinguish the different tissue by three classifiers. Finally, we found that the support vector machine (SVM) classifier has highest accuracy, specificity, and sensitivity, which reached to 95%, 98%, and 92%, respectively.

[Continuous subcutaneous morphine--treatment of pain in patients with terminal cancer].

PubMed

Nielsen, F B; Clemensen, S E; Olesen, A S; Hole, P

1990-06-11

Nine patients with terminal cancer were treated for pain with continuous subcutaneous injection of morphine via a portable battery-driven injection pump. Treatment was instituted on account of failure of other forms of treatment with oral or epidural morphine derivatives or on account of severe nausea and vomiting which necessitated parenteral administration. Treatment proved reasonably effective and no side effects of significance occurred. Two of the patients could be treated in their homes. The method is thus considered as suitable for treatment of pain in patients with terminal cancer.

Cardiorespiratory effects of epidural administration of morphine and fentanyl in dogs anesthetized with sevoflurane.

PubMed

Naganobu, Kiyokazu; Maeda, Noriaki; Miyamoto, Toru; Hagio, Mitsuyoshi; Nakamura, Tadashi; Takasaki, Mayumi

2004-01-01

To determine the cardiorespiratory effects of epidural administration of morphine alone and in combination with fentanyl in dogs anesthetized with sevoflurane. Prospective study. 6 dogs. Dogs were anesthetized with sevoflurane and allowed to breathe spontaneously. After a stable plane of anesthesia was achieved, morphine (0.1 mg/kg [0.045 mg/lb]) or a combination of morphine and fentanyl (10 microg/kg [4.5 microg/lb]) was administered through an epidural catheter, the tip of which was positioned at the level of L6 or L7. Cardiorespiratory variables were measured for 90 minutes. Epidural administration of morphine alone did not cause any significant changes in cardiorespiratory measurements. However, epidural administration of morphine and fentanyl induced significant decreases in diastolic and mean arterial blood pressures and total peripheral resistance. Stroke volume was unchanged, PaCO2 was significantly increased, and arterial pH and base excess were significantly decreased. Heart rate was significantly lower after epidural administration of morphine and fentanyl than after administration of morphine alone. None of the dogs had any evidence of urine retention, vomiting, or pruritus after recovery from anesthesia. Results suggest that epidural administration of morphine at a dose of 0.1 mg/kg in combination with fentanyl at a dose of 10 microg/kg can cause cardiorespiratory depression in dogs anesthetized with sevoflurane.

Fluoroscopically Guided Epidural Injections of the Cervical and Lumbar Spine.

PubMed

Shim, Euddeum; Lee, Joon Woo; Lee, Eugene; Ahn, Joong Mo; Kang, Yusuhn; Kang, Heung Sik

2017-01-01

Advances in imaging and the development of injection techniques have enabled spinal intervention to become an important tool in managing chronic spinal pain. Epidural steroid injection (ESI) is one of the most widely used spinal interventions; it directly delivers drugs into the epidural space to relieve pain originating from degenerative spine disorders-central canal stenoses and neural foraminal stenoses-or disk herniations. Knowledge of the normal anatomy of the epidural space is essential to perform an effective and safe ESI and to recognize possible complications. Although computed tomographic (CT) or combined CT-fluoroscopic guidance has been increasingly used in ESI, conventional fluoroscopic guidance is generally performed. In ESI, drugs are delivered into the epidural space by interlaminar or transforaminal routes in the cervical spine or by interlaminar, transforaminal, or caudal routes in the lumbar spine. Epidurography is usually performed before drug delivery to verify the proper position of the needle in the epidural space. A small amount of contrast agent is injected with fluoroscopic guidance. Familiarity with the findings on a typical "true" epidurogram (demonstrating correct needle placement in the epidural space) permits proper performance of ESI. Findings on "false" epidurograms (demonstrating incorrect needle placement) include muscular staining and evidence of intravascular injection, inadvertent facet joint injection, dural puncture, subdural injection, and intraneural or intradiscal injection. © RSNA, 2016 An earlier incorrect version of this article appeared online. This article was corrected on December 22, 2016.

Epidural analgesia side effects, co-interventions, and care of women during childbirth: a systematic review.

PubMed

Mayberry, Linda J; Clemmens, Donna; De, Anindya

2002-05-01

The purpose of this article is to profile research findings targeting the intrapartum care implications of the most common side effects and co-interventions that go along with the use of epidural analgesia during labor. Randomized, controlled trials published in English from 1990 to 2000 that addressed each of the targeted side effects and 3 specified co-interventions were evaluated for inclusion in this report. Side effects such as pruritus, nausea, and hypotension during labor are common, but they are usually mild and necessitate treatment infrequently. However, even with the advent of newer low-dose epidurals, the extent of impaired motor ability remains variable across studies. The incidence of "walking" epidurals during labor is likely to be complicated by multiple factors, including individual patient desires, safety considerations, and hospital policies. In response to risks for a decrease in uterine contractions that could prolong labor, oxytocin augmentation is likely to be administered after epidural analgesia. The use of "delayed" pushing may be an effective way to minimize the risk for difficult deliveries. Upright positioning even when confined to bed may be advantageous and desirable to women; however, additional research to determine actual outcome benefits with epidurals is needed. Implications for further research linked to epidural analgesia also include informed consent, modification of caregiving procedures, and staffing/cost issues.

Infant lumbar and thoracic epidurals for abdominal surgeries: cases in a paediatric tertiary institution.

PubMed

Thong, Sze Ying; Sin, Eliza I-Lin; Chan, Diana Xin Hui; Shahani, Jagdish M

2015-08-01

There is strong evidence that epidural analgesia provides good postoperative pain relief in adults, but its use in infants is less established. In this retrospective study, we present our experience with managing infant epidural analgesia for abdominal surgeries in a tertiary paediatric institution. The records of 54 infants who had received a thoracic or lumbar epidural as perioperative analgesia for abdominal surgeries were included. The mean age of the infants was 6.1 (standard deviation [SD] 3.8) months and their mean weight was 6.8 kg (SD 1.8). Most (63%) had an ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) status of 2 and all underwent elective gastrointestinal, urogenital, hepatobiliary or retroperitoneal surgeries. 20 catheters (37.0%) were inserted in the thoracic region and 33 (61.1%) in the lumbar region. A total of 52 (96.3%) catheters provided adequate intraoperative analgesia and 36 (66.7%) provided effective analgesia for the postoperative period. Active management of epidural analgesia, such as through epidural top-ups and infusion rate adjustment, was necessary to optimise analgesia in 22 (44%) of the 50 patients postoperatively. Reasons for premature catheter removal were mainly technical issues such as catheter disconnection, leakage and blockage. Our data suggests that in experienced hands, specialised settings and active management, the success rate of epidural analgesia in infants undergoing major abdominal surgeries is high and without major incident.

Epidural Analgesia after Rib Fractures.

PubMed

Zaw, Andrea A; Murry, Jason; Hoang, David; Chen, Kevin; Louy, Charles; Bloom, Matthew B; Melo, Nicolas; Alban, Rodrigo F; Margulies, Daniel R; Ley, Eric J

2015-10-01

Pain associated with rib fractures impairs respiratory function and increases pulmonary morbidity. The purpose of this study was to determine how epidural catheters alter mortality and complications in trauma patients. We performed a retrospective study involving adult blunt trauma patients with moderate-to-severe injuries from January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2013. During the 10-year period, 526 patients met the inclusion criteria; 43/526 (8%) patients had a catheter placed. Mean age of patients with epidural catheter (CATH) was higher compared with patients without epidural catheter (NOCATH) (54 vs 48 years, P = 0.021), Injury Severity Score was similar (26 CATH vs 27 NOCATH, P = 0.84), and CATH had higher mean rib fractures (7.4 vs 4.1, P < 0.001). Mortality was lower in CATH (0% vs 13%, P = 0.006). Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) rate was higher in CATH (12% vs. 5%, P = 0.036). After regression analysis, we found catheter placement to be a predictor for DVT (adjusted odds ratios 2.80, P = 0.036). Our center noted increased use of epidural catheters in patients who present with moderate-to-severe injuries. Patients with catheters were older and had a mean of 7.4 ribs fractured. The epidural cohort had longer hospital LOS and decreased mortality. In contrast to other studies, DVT rates were increased in patients who received epidural catheters.

Intrathecal opioids versus epidural local anesthetics for labor analgesia: a meta-analysis.

PubMed

Bucklin, Brenda A; Chestnut, David H; Hawkins, Joy L

2002-01-01

Some anesthesiologists contend that intrathecal opioid administration has advantages over conventional epidural techniques during labor. Randomized clinical trials comparing analgesia and obstetric outcome using single-injection intrathecal opioids versus epidural local anesthetics suggest that intrathecal opioids provide comparable analgesia with few serious side effects. This meta-analysis compared the analgesic efficacy, side effects, and obstetric outcome of single-injection intrathecal opioid techniques versus epidural local anesthetics in laboring women. Relevant clinical studies were identified using electronic and manual searches of the literature covering the period from 1989 to 2000. Searches used the following descriptors: intrathecal analgesia, spinal opioids, epidural analgesia, epidural local anesthetics, and analgesia for labor. Data were extracted from 7 randomized clinical trials comparing analgesic measures, incidence of motor block, pruritus, nausea, hypotension, mode of delivery, and/or Apgar scores. Combined test results indicated comparable analgesic efficacy 15 to 20 minutes after injection with single-injection intrathecal opioid administration. Intrathecal opioid injections were associated with a greater incidence of pruritus (odds ratio, 14.01; 99% confidence interval, 6.9 to 28.3), but there was no difference in the incidence of nausea or in the method of delivery. Published studies suggest that intrathecal opioids provide comparable early labor analgesia when compared with epidural local anesthetics. Intrathecal opioid administration results in a greater incidence of pruritus. The choice of technique does not appear to affect the method of delivery.

Expectant fathers' experience during labor with or without epidural analgesia.

PubMed

Capogna, G; Camorcia, M; Stirparo, S

2007-04-01

For men the worst aspect of childbirth is witnessing their partner in pain. The aim of this study was to investigate fathers' attitudes towards labor and delivery with and without epidural analgesia. The study was performed using a questionnaire that included yes/no, multiple choice or 6-point ordinal scale answers. Expectant fathers whose partners were nullipara between 36 and 38 weeks of gestation were recruited and the questionnaires were administered on the day after the birth. To investigate paternal anxiety during labor, the State part of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory was used. The questionnaire was completed by 243 fathers. Sixty percent (145) of the parturients received epidural analgesia and 40% (98) did not. Paternal characteristics were comparable. Fathers whose partners did not receive epidural analgesia felt their presence as troublesome and unnecessary (P<0.001). The presence of maternal epidural analgesia increased threefold paternal feelings of helpfulness and was associated with a greater involvement (P<0.001) and less anxiety and stress (P<0.001). Median (range) State-Trait Anxiety Inventory score was respectively 75 (50-80) and 30 (20-60) in fathers whose partners did not or did receive epidural analgesia (P<0.0001). Maternal analgesia greatly increased paternal satisfaction (P<0.0001). Epidural analgesia reduces paternal anxiety and stress and increases paternal involvement, participation and satisfaction with the experience of childbirth.

[A case of emergency surgery in a patient with bronchial asthma under continuous spinal anesthesia].

PubMed

Noda, Keiichi; Ryo, Kenshu; Nakamoto, Ai

2003-10-01

A 78-year-old male, observed for bronchial asthma, underwent two emergency operations within eight days. The first operation was performed under general anesthesia with tracheal intubation. Anesthesia was maintained by sevoflurane-oxygen and continuous infusion of propofol in combination with epidural injection of lidocaine. During the operation, respiratory sound was almost clear. But wheezing occurred as he awoke after discontinuation of the anesthetics. He needed ventilatory support for three days for status asthmatics. The second operation was performed under continuous spinal anesthesia using hypobaric tetracaine and hyperbaric bupivacaine. No ventilatory support was necessary after the operation and he was discharged uneventfully.

Epidural analgesia in labour and risk of caesarean delivery.

PubMed

Bannister-Tyrrell, Melanie; Ford, Jane B; Morris, Jonathan M; Roberts, Christine L

2014-09-01

A Cochrane Systematic Review of randomised controlled trials of epidural analgesia compared with other or no analgesia in labour reported no overall increased risk of caesarean delivery. However, many trials were affected by substantial non-compliance, and there are concerns about the external validity of some trials for contemporary maternity populations. We aimed to explore the association between epidural analgesia in labour and caesarean delivery in clinical practice and compare with findings from randomised controlled trials. Population-based cohort of pregnant women (n = 210 708) without major obstetrical complications who delivered a singleton live infant in hospitals in New South Wales, Australia, 2007-10. Data were obtained from linked, validated population-based data collections. Propensity score matching was used to examine the association between epidural analgesia in labour and caesarean delivery. Epidural analgesia in labour was used by a third (31.5%, n = 66 317) of the women, and 9.8% (n = 20 531) had a caesarean delivery. Epidural analgesia in labour was associated with increased risk of caesarean delivery {risk ratio [RR] 2.5, [95% confidence interval (CI) 2.5, 2.6]}. The association with epidural analgesia in labour was higher for caesarean delivery for failure to progress {RR 3.0, [95% CI 2.9, 3.0]} than for caesarean delivery for fetal distress {RR 1.9, [95% CI 1.8, 2.0]}. Epidural analgesia in labour is associated with caesarean delivery in a large maternity population. Population-based studies contribute important data about obstetrical care, when research settings and participants may not represent the clinical settings or broader population in which obstetrical interventions in labour are applied. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

A Comparison of the Efficacy and Tolerability of the Treatments for Sciatica: A Network Meta-Analysis.

PubMed

Guo, Jian-Rong; Jin, Xiao-Ju; Shen, Hua-Chun; Wang, Huan; Zhou, Xun; Liu, Xiao-Qian; Zhu, Na-Na

2017-12-01

There remains a lack of a systematic summary of the efficacy and safety of various medicines for sciatica, and discrepancies among these exist. The aim of this study is to comprehensively assess the efficacy of and tolerance to several medical options for the treatment of sciatica. We performed a network meta-analysis and illustrated the results by the mean difference or odds ratio. The surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) was used for indicating the preferable treatments. All data analyses and graphs were achieved via R 3.3.2 and Stata 13.0. The subcutaneous anti-tumor necrosis factor-α (anti-TNF-α) was superior to the epidural steroid + anesthetic in reducing lumbar pain in both acute + chronic sciatica patients and acute sciatica patients. The epidural steroid demonstrated a better ability regarding the Oswestry disability score (ODI) compared to the subcutaneous anti-TNF-α. In addition, for total pain relief, the use of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs was inferior to the epidural steroid + anesthetic. The epidural anesthetic and epidural steroid + anesthetic both demonstrated superiority over the epidural steroid and intramuscular steroid. The intravenous anti-TNF-α ranked first in leg pain relief, while the subcutaneous anti-TNF-α ranked first in lumbar pain relief, and the epidural steroid ranked first in the ODI on the basis of SUCRA. In addition, their safety outcome (withdrawal) rankings were all medium to high. Intravenous and subcutaneous anti-TNF-α were identified as the optimal treatments for both acute + chronic sciatica patients and acute sciatica patients. In addition, the epidural steroid was also recommended as a good intervention due to its superiority in reducing ODI.

Epidural spread of iohexol following the use of air or saline in the 'loss of resistance' test.

PubMed

Iseri, Toshie; Nishimura, Ryohei; Nagahama, Shotaro; Mochizuki, Manabu; Nakagawa, Takayuki; Fujimoto, Yuka; Zhang, Di; Sasaki, Nobuo

2010-11-01

To compare, using CT epidurography, the cranial distribution of contrast after epidural injection when saline or air is used for the loss of resistance (LOR) technique in identifying the epidural space. Prospective, randomized, cross-over experimental study. Nine healthy adult Beagle dogs. Under general anaesthesia, a spinal needle (22-gauge, 70 mm) was inserted through the lumbosacral space, and the position in the epidural space confirmed using the LOR technique employing either 0.3 mL per dog of saline or of air. Epidurography using CT was performed before and 5, 10 and 20 minutes after epidural injection of 0.2 mL kg(-1) of iohexol. The cranial distribution of iohexol was recorded as the number of vertebral segments reached from the seventh lumbar vertebrae. The median values in vertebral segments of the cranial distribution at 5, 10 and 20 minutes after epidural injection were 19.5, 20.5 and 21.0 respectively with the saline treatment, and 12.0, 15.0 and 16.0 respectively in the air treatment. At all time points spread of contrast was significantly less with the air treatment. All dogs after air treatment had some air bubbles in the epidural space, and in seven, the spinal cord was moderately compressed by the air. No neurological complications were observed after recovery. The use of air for the LOR technique is associated with significantly less spread, uneven cranial distribution of the contrast medium and compression of the spinal cord. It is recommended that saline, and not air, should be used to identify the epidural space by this method. © 2010 The Authors. Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia © 2010 Association of Veterinary Anaesthetists and the American College of Veterinary Anesthesiologists.

Comparison of spring-loaded, loss of resistance and hanging drop techniques in lumbar epidural blocks.

PubMed

Gülen, Güven; Akkaya, Taylan; Ozkan, Derya; Kaydul, Mehmet; Gözaydin, Orhan; Gümüş, Haluk

2012-01-01

The spring-loaded syringe is a loss of resistance syringe that provide a more objective sign that the epidural space has been entered compared with the traditional techniques. The aim of this study was to compare the time required to locate the epidural space and the backache incidence with the spring-loaded (SL), loss of resistance (LOR) and the hanging drop (HD) techniques for epidural blocks in patients undergoing transurethral resection procedure. Sixty patients undergoing transurethral resections were enrolled in the study. The patients were randomly assigned to one of three groups. Epidural block was performed in the first group with a spring-loaded syringe (n=20), in the second group with loss-of-resistance syringe (n=20), and in the third group with the hanging drop technique (n=20). The required time to locate the epidural space, the number of attempts, the incidence of dural puncture and the backache incidence were assessed during the procedure and for four weeks after the procedure in all patients. The required time to locate the epidural space was 29.1 ± 9.16 seconds in Group 1; 45.25 ± 19.58 seconds in Group 2, and 47.35 ± 11.42 seconds in Group 3 (p<0.001). In Group 1 this was significantly shorter than the other two groups. There was no significant difference in the number of attempts, the incidence of dural puncture and backache incidence between the three groups (p>0.05). The use of SL syringe was found to have a shorter time period to locate the epidural space when compared with the LOR syringe and hanging drop technique.

[Efficacy of epidural steroid injections for chronic lumbar pain syndromes without neurological deficits. A randomized, double blind study as part of a multimodal treatment concept].

PubMed

Niemier, K; Schindler, M; Volk, T; Baum, K; Wolf, B; Eberitsch, J; Seidel, W

2015-07-01

Chronic lumbar pain syndromes without neurological deficits are generated by a multitude of causes. Functional, morphological and psychosocial factors are discussed. In many cases a diseased intervertebral disc is found on radiological examination but the clinical relevance of these findings is not clear. For this study it was postulated that a diseased disc results in a local inflammatory reaction therefore causing pain and impairing treatability of patients. An epidural injection of steroids can reduce inflammation and therefore improve treatability and ultimately treatment outcome. A double blind randomized prospective trial was carried out. Patients treated in hospital for a chronic lumbar pain syndrome without neurological deficits within a multimodal treatment program were screened for indications for an epidural steroid injection (e.g. diseased lumbar disc and intention to treat). Patients eligible for the study were randomized into two groups. The treatment group received an epidural injection of 80 mg triamcinolone and 8 ml bupivacaine 0.25 %. The control group received only an epidural injection of 8 ml bupivacaine 0.25 %. In both groups pain intensity and treatability showed a statistically significant improvement after the epidural injection. The differences between the control and treatment groups were small and not clinically relevant. A small subgroup might profit from the steroid injection. In addition the treatability was dependent on psychometric values and the long-term outcome from a reduction of muscular skeletal dysfunctions. After the epidural injection the decrease in pain and increase in treatability was statistically significant. The mechanism of the improvement is not clear and should be examined further. The epidural injection of a steroid in this subgroup of patients did not lead to a clinical improvement in the outcome.

Comparison of Dexmedetomidine and Fentanyl as an Adjuvant to Ropivacaine for Postoperative Epidural Analgesia in Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery.

PubMed

Park, Sang Jun; Shin, Seokyung; Kim, Shin Hyung; Kim, Hyun Woo; Kim, Seung Hyun; Do, Hae Yoon; Choi, Yong Seon

2017-05-01

Opioids are commonly used as an epidural adjuvant to local anesthetics, but are associated with potentially serious side effects, such as respiratory depression. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of dexmedetomidine with that of fentanyl as an adjuvant to epidural ropivacaine in pediatric orthopedic surgery. This study enrolled 60 children (3-12 years old) scheduled for orthopedic surgery of the lower extremities and lumbar epidural patient-controlled analgesia (PCA). Children received either dexmedetomidine (1 μg/kg) or fentanyl (1 μg/kg) along with 0.2% ropivacaine (0.2 mL/kg) via an epidural catheter at 30 minutes before the end of surgery. Postoperatively, the children were observed for ropivacaine consumption via epidural PCA, postoperative pain intensity, need for rescue analgesics, emergence agitation, and other adverse effects. The mean dose of bolus epidural ropivacaine was significantly lower within the first 6 h after surgery in the dexmedetomidine group, compared with the fentanyl group (0.029±0.030 mg/kg/h vs. 0.053±0.039 mg/kg/h, p=0.012). The median pain score at postoperative 6 h was also lower in the dexmedetomidine group, compared to the fentanyl group [0 (0-1.0) vs. 1.0 (0-3.0), p=0.039]. However, there was no difference in the need for rescue analgesia throughout the study period between groups. The use of dexmedetomidine as an epidural adjuvant had a significantly greater analgesic and local anesthetic-sparing effect, compared to fentanyl, in the early postoperative period in children undergoing major orthopedic lower extremity surgery. © Copyright: Yonsei University College of Medicine 2017

Comparison of Dexmedetomidine and Fentanyl as an Adjuvant to Ropivacaine for Postoperative Epidural Analgesia in Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery

PubMed Central

Park, Sang Jun; Shin, Seokyung; Kim, Shin Hyung; Kim, Hyun Woo; Kim, Seung Hyun; Do, Hae Yoon

2017-01-01

Purpose Opioids are commonly used as an epidural adjuvant to local anesthetics, but are associated with potentially serious side effects, such as respiratory depression. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of dexmedetomidine with that of fentanyl as an adjuvant to epidural ropivacaine in pediatric orthopedic surgery. Materials and Methods This study enrolled 60 children (3–12 years old) scheduled for orthopedic surgery of the lower extremities and lumbar epidural patient-controlled analgesia (PCA). Children received either dexmedetomidine (1 µg/kg) or fentanyl (1 µg/kg) along with 0.2% ropivacaine (0.2 mL/kg) via an epidural catheter at 30 minutes before the end of surgery. Postoperatively, the children were observed for ropivacaine consumption via epidural PCA, postoperative pain intensity, need for rescue analgesics, emergence agitation, and other adverse effects. Results The mean dose of bolus epidural ropivacaine was significantly lower within the first 6 h after surgery in the dexmedetomidine group, compared with the fentanyl group (0.029±0.030 mg/kg/h vs. 0.053±0.039 mg/kg/h, p=0.012). The median pain score at postoperative 6 h was also lower in the dexmedetomidine group, compared to the fentanyl group [0 (0–1.0) vs. 1.0 (0–3.0), p=0.039]. However, there was no difference in the need for rescue analgesia throughout the study period between groups. Conclusion The use of dexmedetomidine as an epidural adjuvant had a significantly greater analgesic and local anesthetic-sparing effect, compared to fentanyl, in the early postoperative period in children undergoing major orthopedic lower extremity surgery. PMID:28332374

Comparison of analgesic efficacy of preoperative or postoperative carprofen with or without preincisional mepivacaine epidural anesthesia in canine pelvic or femoral fracture repair.

PubMed

Bergmann, Hannes M; Nolte, Ingo; Kramer, Sabine

2007-10-01

To compare analgesic efficacy of preoperative versus postoperative administration of carprofen and to determine, if preincisional mepivacaine epidural anesthesia improves postoperative analgesia in dogs treated with carprofen. Blind, randomized clinical study. Dogs with femoral (n=18) or pelvic (27) fractures. Dogs were grouped by restricted randomization into 4 groups: group 1 = carprofen (4 mg/kg subcutaneously) immediately before induction of anesthesia, no epidural anesthesia; group 2 = carprofen immediately after extubation, no epidural anesthesia; group 3 = carprofen immediately before induction, mepivacaine epidural block 15 minutes before surgical incision; and group 4 = mepivacaine epidural block 15 minutes before surgical incision, carprofen after extubation. All dogs were administered carprofen (4 mg/kg, subcutaneously, once daily) for 4 days after surgery. Physiologic variables, nociceptive threshold, lameness score, pain, and sedation (numerical rating scale [NRS], visual analog scale [VAS]), plasma glucose and cortisol concentration, renal function, and hemostatic variables were measured preoperatively and at various times after surgery. Dogs with VAS pain scores >30 were administered rescue analgesia. Group 3 and 4 dogs had significantly lower pain scores and amount of rescue analgesia compared with groups 1 and 2. VAS and NRS pain scores were not significantly different among groups 1 and 2 or among groups 3 and 4. There was no treatment effect on renal function and hemostatic variables. Preoperative carprofen combined with mepivacaine epidural anesthesia had superior postoperative analgesia compared with preoperative carprofen alone. When preoperative epidural anesthesia was performed, preoperative administration of carprofen did not improve postoperative analgesia compared with postoperative administration of carprofen. Preoperative administration of systemic opioid agonists in combination with regional anesthesia and postoperative administration of carprofen provides safe and effective pain relieve in canine fracture repair.

Epidural Hematoma Complication after Rapid Chronic Subdural Hematoma Evacuation: A Case Report.

PubMed

Akpinar, Aykut; Ucler, Necati; Erdogan, Uzay; Yucetas, Cem Seyho

2015-07-06

Chronic subdural hematoma generally occurs in the elderly. After chronic subdural hematoma evacuation surgery, the development of epidural hematoma is a very rare entity. We report the case of a 41-year-old man with an epidural hematoma complication after chronic subdural hematoma evacuation. Under general anesthesia, the patient underwent a large craniotomy with closed system drainage performed to treat the chronic subdural hematoma. After chronic subdural hematoma evacuation, there was epidural leakage on the following day. Although trauma is the most common risk factor in young CSDH patients, some other predisposing factors may exist. Intracranial hypotension can cause EDH. Craniotomy and drainage surgery can usually resolve the problem. Because of rapid dynamic intracranial changes, epidural leakages can occur. A large craniotomy flap and silicone drainage in the operation area are key safety points for neurosurgeons and hydration is essential.

Labor induction just after external cephalic version with epidural analgesia at term.

PubMed

Cuerva, Marcos J; Piñel, Carlos S; Caceres, Javier; Espinosa, Jose A

2017-06-01

To analyze the benefits of external cephalic version (ECV) with epidural analgesia at term and labor induction just after the procedure. This is a retrospective observational study with patients who did not want trying a breech vaginal delivery and decided trying an ECV with epidural analgesia at term and wanted labor induction or cesarean section after the procedure. We present the results of 40 ECV with epidural analgesia at term and labor induction or cesarean section just after the ECV. ECV succeeded in 26 out of 40 (65%) patients. Among the 26 successful ECV, 6 delivered by cesarean (23.1%). 20 patients delivered vaginally (76.9%; 50% of all patients). Considering that a high number of cesarean deliveries can be avoided, induction of labor after ECV with epidural analgesia at term can be considered after being discussed in selected patient. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

The effects of epidural analgesia on the course and outcome of labour.

PubMed

Finster, M; Santos, A C

1998-09-01

The potential effects of epidural analgesia on the progress and outcome of labour have been the subject of lasting controversy. Retrospective reviews indicate that epidurals are associated with longer labours and/or an increase in the incidence of instrumental or operative delivery. Similar results were obtained in non-randomized prospective studies. None of them established a causal relationship, because without randomization the selection bias cannot be ruled out. Other factors, such as premature rupture of membranes and maternal socioeconomic status, may affect the outcome of labour. It was also reported that introduction of the on-demand epidural service did not increase the primary caesarean section rate. The few prospective randomized studies are contradictory and not very reliable owing to small patient populations and high cross-over rates. There is, however, unanimity among the authors regarding the superiority of pain relief provided by epidural blocks over systemically administered opioids.

Potentiation of epidural lidocaine by co-administering tramadol by either intramuscular or epidural route in cats

PubMed Central

Hermeto, Larissa C.; DeRossi, Rafael; Marques, Beatriz C.; Jardim, Paulo H.A.

2015-01-01

This study investigated the analgesic and systemic effects of intramuscular (IM) versus epidural (EP) administration of tramadol as an adjunct to EP injection of lidocaine in cats. Six healthy, domestic, shorthair female cats underwent general anesthesia. A prospective, randomized, crossover trial was then conducted with each cat receiving the following 3 treatments: EP injection of 2% lidocaine [LEP; 3.0 mg/kg body weight (BW)]; EP injection of a combination of lidocaine and 5% tramadol (LTEP; 3.0 and 2.0 mg/kg BW, respectively); or EP injection of lidocaine and IM injection of tramadol (LEPTIM; 3.0 and 2.0 mg/kg BW, respectively). Systemic effects, spread and duration of analgesia, behavior, and motor blockade were determined before treatment and at predetermined intervals afterwards. The duration of analgesia was 120 ± 31 min for LTEP, 71 ± 17 min for LEPTIM, and 53 ± 6 min for LEP (P < 0.05; mean ± SD). The cranial spread of analgesia obtained with LTEP was similar to that with LEP or LEPTIM, extending to dermatomic region T13–L1. Complete motor blockade was similar for the 3 treatments. It was concluded that tramadol produces similar side effects in cats after either EP or IM administration. Our findings indicate that EP and IM tramadol (2 mg/kg BW) with EP lidocaine produce satisfactory analgesia in cats. As an adjunct to lidocaine, EP tramadol provides a longer duration of analgesia than IM administration. The adverse effects produced by EP and IM administration of tramadol were not different. Further studies are needed to determine whether EP administration of tramadol could play a role in managing postoperative pain in cats when co-administered with lidocaine after painful surgical procedures. PMID:26130854

Pressure necrosis masquerading as a burn injury in a patient with a cervical epidural abscess producing acute quadriplegia.

PubMed

Thorpe, Eric J; McCallin, John P; Miller, Sidney F

2008-01-01

A case of a patient with acute onset of quadriplegia from a cervical epidural abscess referred to our tertiary burn center is presented. The pattern of the patient's 'burns' suggested pressure necrosis. A literature review was undertaken of this unusual condition, its evaluation and management. Cervical epidural abscesses are rare and present in a variety of ways. Acute onset of quadriplegia without a history of trauma should trigger a workup to make the diagnosis. The management of complicating skin lesions or burns and the patient outcome will primarily be determined by the management of the epidural abscess.

Portable Optical Epidural Needle-A CMOS-Based System Solution and Its Circuit Design

PubMed Central

Gong, Cihun-Siyong Alex; Lin, Shih-Pin; Mandell, M. Susan; Tsou, Mei-Yung; Chang, Yin; Ting, Chien-Kun

2014-01-01

Epidural anesthesia is a common anesthesia method yet up to 10% of procedures fail to provide adequate analgesia. This is usually due to misinterpreting the tactile information derived from the advancing needle through the complex tissue planes. Incorrect placement also can cause dural puncture and neural injury. We developed an optic system capable of reliably identifying tissue planes surrounding the epidural space. However the new technology was too large and cumbersome for practical clinical use. We present a miniaturized version of our optic system using chip technology (first generation CMOS-based system) for logic functions. The new system was connected to an alarm that was triggered once the optic properties of the epidural were identified. The aims of this study were to test our miniaturized system in a porcine model and describe the technology to build this new clinical tool. Our system was tested in a porcine model and identified the epidural space in the lumbar, low and high thoracic regions of the spine. The new technology identified the epidural space in all but 1 of 46 attempts. Experimental results from our fabricated integrated circuit and animal study show the new tool has future clinical potential. PMID:25162150

Rare angioproliferative tumors mimicking aggressive spinal hemangioma with epidural expansion.

PubMed

Kulcsár, Zsolt; Veres, Róbert; Hanzély, Zoltán; Berentei, Zsolt; Marosfoi, Miklós; Nyáry, István; Szikora, István

2012-01-30

We present two cases of angio-proliferative tumors that were misdiagnosed and treated as typical hemangiomas with epidural expansion. Two middle-aged women presented with symptoms and radiological signs characteristic for aggressive hemangioma with epidural expansion. In the first case preoperative embolization and decompressive surgery with open transpedicular vertebroplasty was performed. Within less than a year, epidural recurrence of the tumor prompted for radical excision and corpectomy. The diagnosis after the histological studies and the further clinical evolution was metastasizing leiomyomatosis. No further recurrence occured during the next 6 years. In the second case percutaneous vertebroplasty was performed and complicated by epidural polymethyl-methacrylcate (PMMA) leakage, requiring urgent decompressive surgery. Histological study of the lesion raised the possibility of myopericytoma. This was confirmed 16 months later when complete vertebrectomy was performed due to severe epidural propagation of the recurring tumor. No further recurrence occurred in next the two years. Rare angio-proliferative tumors, like benign metastasizing leiomyoma and myopericytoma radiologically may resemble aggressive vertebral hemangiomas of the spine. Unlike hemangiomas, such tumors require radical removal due to their likely recurrence. As imaging studies may not be able to completely exclude such pathologies, bone biopsy and thorough histopathological studies are warranted prior to the therapeutic decision.

Neonatal and Maternal Outcomes With Prolonged Second Stage of Labor

PubMed Central

Laughon, S. Katherine; Berghella, Vincenzo; Reddy, Uma M.; Sundaram, Rajeshwari; Lu, Zhaohui; Hoffman, Matthew K

2014-01-01

Objective To assess neonatal and maternal outcomes when when the second stage of labor was prolonged according to American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists guidelines. Methods Electronic medical record data from a retrospective cohort (2002–2008) from 12 U.S. clinical centers (19 hospitals), including 43,810 nulliparous and 59,605 multiparous singleton deliveries ≥ 36 weeks, vertex presentation, who reached 10 cm cervical dilation were analyzed. Prolonged second stage was defined as: nulliparous women with epidural > 3 hours, without > 2 hours; multiparous women with epidural > 2 hours, without > 1 hour. Maternal and neonatal outcomes were compared and adjusted odds ratios calculated controlling for maternal race, BMI, insurance, and region. Results Prolonged second stage occurred in 9.9% and 13.9% of nulliparous and 3.1% and 5.9% of multiparous women, with and without an epidural, respectively. Vaginal delivery rates with prolonged second stage compared to within guidelines were 79.9% versus 97.9% and 87.0% versus 99.4% for nulliparous women with and without epidural, respectively, and 88.7% versus 99.7% and 96.2% versus 99.9% for multiparous women with and without epidural, respectively (P<.001 for all comparisons). Prolonged second stage was associated with increased chorioamnionitis and third-degree or fourth-degree perineal lacerations. Neonatal morbidity with prolonged second stage included sepsis in nulliparous women [with epidural: 2.6% versus 1.2% (AOR 2.08; 95%CI 1.60–2.70); without epidural: 1.8% versus 1.1% (AOR 2.34; 95%CI 1.28–4.27)]; asphyxia in nulliparous women with epidural [0.3% versus 0.1%, AOR 2.39; 95% CI 1.22–4.66]; and perinatal mortality without epidural [0.18% versus 0.04% for nulliparous women (AOR 5.92; 95% CI 1.43–24.51)], and 0.21% versus 0.03% for multiparous women (AOR 6.34; 95%CI 1.32–30.34)]. However, among the offspring of women with epidurals whose second stage was prolonged (3,533 nulliparous and 1,348 multiparous women), there were no cases of hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy or perinatal death. Conclusions Benefits of increased vaginal delivery should be weighed against potential small increases in maternal and neonatal risks with prolonged second stage. PMID:24901265

Continuous intra-articular infusion anesthesia for pain control after total knee arthroplasty: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Guo, Da; Cao, Xue-Wei; Liu, Jin-Wen; Ouyang, Wen-Wei; Pan, Jian-Ke; Liu, Jun

2014-06-23

Postoperative pain control after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains a great challenge. The management of pain in the immediate postoperative period is one of the most critical aspects to allow speedier rehabilitation and reduce the risk of postoperative complications. Recently, periarticular infiltration anesthesia has become popular, but the outcome is controversial. Some studies have shown transient effects, "rebound pain", or no effectiveness in pain control. Continuous intra-articular infusion technique has been introduced to improve these transient effects, but more clinical studies are needed. Furthermore, the potential risk of early periprosthetic joint infection is causing concerning. We plan to compare continuous intra-articular infusion anesthesia with epidural infusion anesthesia after TKA to assess the effectiveness of this technique in reducing pain, in improving postoperative function, and to look at the evidence for risk of early infection. This trial is a randomized, controlled study. Patients (n = 214) will be randomized into two groups: to receive continuous intra-articular infusion anesthesia (group C); and epidural infusion anesthesia (group E). For the first 3 postoperative days, pain at rest, active range of motion (A-ROM), rescue analgesia and side effects will be recorded. At 3-month and 6-month follow-up, A-ROM, C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and synovial fluid cell count and culture will be analyzed. The results from this study will provide clinical evidence on the efficacy of a continuous intra-articular infusion technique in reducing pain, postoperative functional improvement and safety. It will be the first randomized controlled trial to investigate infection risk with local anesthesia after TKA. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: ChiCTR-TRC-13003999.

Maximum tolerated dose of nalmefene in patients receiving epidural fentanyl and dilute bupivacaine for postoperative analgesia.

PubMed

Dougherty, T B; Porche, V H; Thall, P F

2000-04-01

This study investigated the ability of the modified continual reassessment method (MCRM) to determine the maximum tolerated dose of the opioid antagonist nalmefene, which does not reverse analgesia in an acceptable number of postoperative patients receiving epidural fentanyl in 0.075% bupivacaine. In the postanesthetic care unit, patients received a single intravenous dose of 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, or 1.00 microg/kg nalmefene. Reversal of analgesia was defined as an increase in pain score of two or more integers above baseline on a visual analog scale from 0 through 10 after nalmefene administration. Patients were treated in cohorts of one, starting with the lowest dose. The maximum tolerated dose of nalmefene was defined as that dose, among the four studied, with a final mean probability of reversal of anesthesia (PROA) closest to 0.20 (ie., a 20% chance of causing reversal). The modified continual reassessment method is an iterative Bayesian statistical procedure that, in this study, selected the dose for each successive cohort as that having a mean PROA closest to the preselected target PROA of 0.20. The modified continual reassessment method repeatedly updated the PROA of each dose level as successive patients were observed for presence or absence of ROA. After 25 patients, the maximum tolerated dose of nalmefene was selected as 0.50 microg/kg (final mean PROA = 0.18). The 1.00-microg/kg dose was never tried because its projected PROA was far above 0.20. The modified continual reassessment method facilitated determination of the maximum tolerated dose ofnalmefene . Operating characteristics of the modified continual reassessment method suggest it may be an effective statistical tool for dose-finding in trials of selected analgesic or anesthetic agents.

Single fraction spine radiosurgery for myeloma epidural spinal cord compression.

PubMed

Jin, Ryan; Rock, Jack; Jin, Jian-Yue; Janakiraman, Nalini; Kim, Jae Ho; Movsas, Benjamin; Ryu, Samuel

2009-01-01

Radiosurgery delivers highly focused radiation beams to the defined target with high precision and accuracy. It has been demonstrated that spine radiosurgery can be safely used for treatment of spine metastasis with rapid and durable pain control, but without detrimental effects to the spinal cord. This study was carried out to determine the role of single fraction radiosurgery for epidural spinal cord compression due to multiple myeloma. A total of 31 lesions in 24 patients with multiple myeloma, who presented with epidural spinal cord compression, were treated with spine radiosurgery. Single fraction radiation dose of 10-18 Gy (median of 16 Gy) was administered to the involved spine including the epidural or paraspinal tumor. Patients were followed up with clinical exams and imaging studies. Median follow-up was 11.2 months (range 1-55). Primary endpoints of this study were pain control, neurological improvement, and radiographic tumor control. Overall pain control rate was 86%; complete relief in 54%, and partial relief in 32% of the patients. Seven patients presented with neurological deficits. Five patients neurologically improved or became normal after radiosurgery. Complete radiographic response of the epidural tumor was noted in 81% at 3 months after radiosurgery. During the follow-up time, there was no radiographic or neurological progression at the treated spine. The treatment was non-invasive and well tolerated. Single fraction radiosurgery achieved an excellent clinical and radiographic response of myeloma epidural spinal cord compression. Radiosurgery can be a viable treatment option for myeloma epidural compression.

Hip-flexed postures do not affect local anaesthetic spread following induction of epidural analgesia for labour.

PubMed

Ducloy-Bouthors, A S; Davette, M; Le Fahler, G; Devos, P; Depret-Mosser, S; Krivosic-Horber, R

2004-04-01

Hip-flexed postures enlarging the pelvic diameter are used to improve the obstetric course of labour. Although most investigations show that lateral and sitting positions do not affect the spread of epidural analgesia, the effect of recently introduced hip-flexed postures has yet to be confirmed. This prospective randomised study included 93 parturients. Ropivacaine 0.1% 12 mL plus sufentanil 0.5 micrograms/mL was administered epidurally over a period of 6 min in one of four postures: sitting, right hip-flexed left lateral position, left hip-flexed right lateral position and supine 30 degrees lateral tilt as a control group. Left and right cephalad and sacral epidural spread were measured every 2 min over a period of 30 min. Pain relief, motor blockade and maternal and fetal side effects were noted. The total epidural spread was 15+/-0.3 dermatomes and the upper level of thermo-algesic blockade T7-T8 (range T3 to T10) in all groups. There were no differences between groups in left or right total spread or upper level of epidural blockade, time to maximal block or pain relief. There was no motor block nor any maternal or fetal side effects. The power of the study (1 - beta) was 93%. We conclude that, for the three hip-flexed postures tested, position does not influence local anaesthetic spread or symmetry of thermo-algesic blockade after induction of obstetric epidural analgesia.

A Radiographic Measurement of the Anterior Epidural Space at L4-5 Disc Level.

PubMed

Xu, Rui-Sheng; Wu, Jie-Shi; Lu, Hai-Dan; Zhu, Hao-Gang; Li, Xia; Dong, Jian; Yuan, Feng-Lai

2017-05-01

To observe the morphology character of the anterior epidural space at the L 4-5 disc level and to provide an anatomical basis for safely and accurately performing a percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD). Fifty-five cases with L 5 S 1 lumbar disc herniation were included in this study, and cases with L 4-5 disease were excluded. When the puncture needle reached the epidural space at the L 5 S 1 level, iohexol was injected at the pressure of 50 cm H 2 O during the PELD, then C-Arm fluoroscopy was used to obtain standard lumbar frontal and lateral images. The widths of epidural space at the level of the L 4 lower endplate, the L 5 upper endplate, as well as the middle point of the L 4-5 disc were measured from the lumbar lateral X-ray film. Epidural space at the L 4-5 disc plane performs like a trapezium chart with a short side at the head end and a long side at the tail end in the lumbar lateral X-ray radiograph, while the average widths of epidural space were 10.2 ± 2.5, 12.3 ± 2.3, and 13.8 ± 2.6 mm at the upper, middle, and lower level of the L 4-5 disc. Understanding the morphological characteristics of epidural space will contribute to improving the safety of the tranforaminal percutaneous endoscopy technique. © 2017 Chinese Orthopaedic Association and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.

[Comparison of clinical effectiveness of thoracic epidural and intravenous patient-controlled analgesia for the treatment of rib fractures pain in intensive care unit].

PubMed

Topçu, Ismet; Ekici, Zeynep; Sakarya, Melek

2007-07-01

The results of thoracic epidural and systemic patient controlled analgesia practice were evaluated retrospectively in patients with thoracic trauma. Patients who were admitted to the intensive care unit between 1997 and 2003, with a diagnosis of multiple rib fractures related to thoracic trauma were evaluated retrospectively. Data were recorded from 49 patients who met the following criteria; three or more rib fractures, initiation of PCA with I.V. phentanyl or thoracic epidural analgesia with phentanyl and bupivacaine. There were no significant differences between the groups concerning injury severity score. APACHE II score (8.1+/-1.6 and 9.2+/-1.7) and the number of rib fractures (4+/-1.1 and 6.8+/-2.7) were higher in thoracic epidural analgesia group (p<0.05). Pain scores of patients who received thoracic epidural analgesia were significantly lower as from 6th hour during whole therapy (p<0.05). Length of intensive care unit stay (15.6+/-5.9 and 12.1+/-4.4 day) was found to be shorter in thoracic epidural analgesia group (p<0.05). There were no differences between the groups regarding mechanical ventilation requirement, pulmonary and cardiac complications. We suggest that the use of thoracic epidural analgesia with infusion of local anesthetics and opioids are more appropriate as they provide more effective analgesia and shorten length of intensive care unit stay in chest trauma patients with more than three rib fractures who require intensive care.

Maternal positioning affects fetal heart rate changes after epidural analgesia for labour.

PubMed

Preston, R; Crosby, E T; Kotarba, D; Dudas, H; Elliott, R D

1993-12-01

Adverse fetal heart rate (FHR) changes suggestive of fetal hypoxia are seen in patients with normal term pregnancies after initiation of epidural block for labour analgesia. It was our hypothesis that, in some parturients, these changes were a consequence of concealed aortocaval compression resulting in decreased uterine blood flow. We expected that the full lateral position compared with the wedged supine position would provide more effective prophylaxis against aortocaval compression. To test our hypothesis we studied the role of maternal positioning on FHR changes during onset of epidural analgesia for labour. Eighty-eight ASA Class I or II term parturients were randomized into two groups: those to be nursed in the wedged supine position and those to be nursed in the full lateral position during induction of an epidural block. External FHR monitoring was employed to assess the fetal response to initiation of labour epidural analgesia. Epidural catheters were sited with the parturients in the sitting position and the patients then assumed the study position. After a negative test dose, a standardized regimen of bupivacaine 0.25% was employed to provide labour analgesia. The quality and efficacy of the block were assessed using VAS pain scores, motor block scores and sensory levels. The results demonstrated that there was no difference in the quality of analgesia provided nor in the incidence of asymmetric blocks. There was no difference in the observed incidence of FHR changes occurring during the initiation of the epidural block.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Problems of long-term spinal opioid treatment in advanced cancer patients.

PubMed

Mercadante, S

1999-01-01

Epidural and intrathecal techniques are well established techniques in cancer pain. However, several questions remain unresolved. The several problems of long-term spinal opioid treatment in advance cancer patients were reviewed. Indications for the use of spinal opioids include patients treated by systemic opioids with effective pain relief but with unacceptable side effects, or unsuccessful treatment with sequential strong opioid drug trials despite escalating doses. Therefore, the previous aggressive treatment with systemic opioids would leave as failures patients with difficult pain syndromes unresponsive to opioids. The choice of external or totally implanted delivery systems is based on different clinical considerations. The use of externalized tunneled intrathecal catheters has not been associated with higher rates of complications and is easier to place and use at home in debilitated patients late in the course of their disease. The intrathecal administration has a lower incidence of catheter occlusion, lower malfunctioning rate, lower dose requirement, and more effective pain control. Due to the lower daily doses and volumes, intrathecal treatment proved to be more suitable for treatment at home by a continuous infusion than the epidural treatment. Advantages of infusion techniques are more evident when using local anesthetics, since intermittent administration of bupivacaine often results in motor paralysis and hemodynamic instability. Morphine is the opioid of choice. An epidural dose of 10% of the systemic dose is often used. However, intrathecal administration of opioids and bupivacaine may substantially improve pain relief in patients unresponsive to high epidural doses of these drugs, Bupivacaine-induced adverse effects, including sensory deficits, motor complaints, signs of autonomic dysfunction or neurotoxicity have been reported to not occur with bupivacaine doses less than 30-60 mg/day. Adjuvant drugs may further improve analgesia. Different ranges of technical complication rates have been reported in the literature, most of them being associated with epidural catheters. Subcutaneous tunneling and fixation of the catheter, bacterial filters, minimum changes of tubings, careful exit site care weekly, site protection and monitoring of any sign of infection to prevent infection, and training for family under supervision, are recommended. Areas for additional research include the use of spinal adjuvants, the ideal spinal morphine-bupivacaine ratio. methods to improve spinal opioid responsiveness and long-term catheter management with appropriate home care programs.

A randomized controlled trial of the effect of intrapartum intravenous fluid management on breastfed newborn weight loss.

PubMed

Watson, Jo; Hodnett, Ellen; Armson, B Anthony; Davies, Barbara; Watt-Watson, Judy

2012-01-01

To determine the effect of conservative versus usual intrapartum intravenous (IV) fluid management for low-risk women receiving epidural analgesia on weight loss in breastfed newborns. A randomized controlled trial. A tertiary perinatal center in a large urban setting. Women experiencing uncomplicated pregnancies who planned to have epidural analgesia and to breastfeed. Healthy pregnant women were randomized to receive an IV epidural preload volume of <500 mLs continuing at an hourly rate of 75-100 mL/h (conservative care) or an epidural preload volume of ≥500 mLs and an hourly rate >125 mL/h (usual care). The primary study outcome was breastfed newborn weight loss >7% prior to hospital discharge. Secondary study outcomes included breastfeeding exclusivity, referral to outpatient breastfeeding clinic support, and delayed discharge. Other outcomes were admission to the neonatal intensive care unit and cord blood pH <7.25. Two hundred women participated (100 in the conservative care and 100 in the usual care groups). Forty-eight of 100 infants in the usual care group and 44 of the 100 infants in the conservative care group lost >7% of their birth weight prior to discharge, p < 0.52 RR 0.92 [0.68-1.24]. A policy of restricted IV fluids did not affect newborn weight loss. Women and their care providers should be reassured that the volumes of IV fluid <2500 mLs are unlikely to have a clinically meaningful effect on breastfed newborn weight loss >7%. Exploratory analyses suggest that breastfed newborn weight loss increases when intrapartum volumes infused are >2500 mLs. Care providers are encouraged to consider volumes of IV fluid infused intrapartum as a factor that may have contributed to early newborn weight loss in the first 48 h of life. © 2012 AWHONN, the Association of Women's Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses.

Assessment of Effectiveness of Percutaneous Adhesiolysis in Managing Chronic Low Back Pain Secondary to Lumbar Central Spinal Canal Stenosis

PubMed Central

Manchikanti, Laxmaiah; Cash, Kimberly A.; McManus, Carla D.; Pampati, Vidyasagar

2013-01-01

Background: Chronic persistent low back and lower extremity pain secondary to central spinal stenosis is common and disabling. Lumbar surgical interventions with decompression or fusion are most commonly performed to manage severe spinal stenosis. However, epidural injections are also frequently performed in managing central spinal stenosis. After failure of epidural steroid injections, the next sequential step is percutaneous adhesiolysis and hypertonic saline neurolysis with a targeted delivery. The literature on the effectiveness of percutaneous adhesiolysis in managing central spinal stenosis after failure of epidural injections has not been widely studied. Study Design: A prospective evaluation. Setting: An interventional pain management practice, a specialty referral center, a private practice setting in the United States. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of percutaneous epidural adhesiolysis in patients with chronic low back and lower extremity pain with lumbar central spinal stenosis. Methods: Seventy patients were recruited. The initial phase of the study was randomized, double-blind with a comparison of percutaneous adhesiolysis with caudal epidural injections. The 25 patients from the adhesiolysis group continued with follow-up, along with 45 additional patients, leading to a total of 70 patients. All patients received percutaneous adhesiolysis and appropriate placement of the Racz catheter, followed by an injection of 5 mL of 2% preservative-free lidocaine with subsequent monitoring in the recovery room. In the recovery room, each patient also received 6 mL of 10% hypertonic sodium chloride solution, and 6 mg of non-particulate betamethasone, followed by an injection of 1 mL of sodium chloride solution and removal of the catheter. Outcomes Assessment: Multiple outcome measures were utilized including the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), the Oswestry Disability Index 2.0 (ODI), employment status, and opioid intake with assessment at 3, 6, and 12, 18 and 24 months post treatment. The primary outcome measure was 50% or more improvement in pain scores and ODI scores. Results: Overall, a primary outcome or significant pain relief and functional status improvement of 50% or more was seen in 71% of patients at the end of 2 years. The overall number of procedures over a period of 2 years were 5.7 ± 2.73. Limitations: The lack of a control group and a prospective design. Conclusions: Significant relief and functional status improvement as seen in 71% of the 70 patients with percutaneous adhesiolysis utilizing local anesthetic steroids and hypertonic sodium chloride solution may be an effective management strategy in patients with chronic function limiting low back and lower extremity pain with central spinal stenosis after failure of conservatie management and fluoroscopically directed epidural injections. PMID:23289005

Epidural Dexamethasone Influences Postoperative Analgesia after Major Abdominal Surgery.

PubMed

Hong, Jeong-Min; Kim, Kyung-Hoon; Lee, Hyeon Jeong; Kwon, Jae-Young; Kim, Hae-Kyu; Kim, Hyae-Jin; Cho, Ah-Reum; Do, Wang-Seok; Kim, Hyo Sung

2017-05-01

Epidurally administered dexamethasone might reduce postoperative pain. However, the effect of epidural administration of dexamethasone on postoperative epidural analgesia in major abdominal surgery has been doubtful. To investigate the effects and optimal dose of epidural dexamethasone on pain after major abdominal surgery. A prospective randomized, double-blind study. University hospital. One hundred twenty ASA physical status I and II men, scheduled for gastrectomy, were enrolled. Patients were randomly assigned to receive one of 3 treatment regimens (n = 40 in each group): dexamethasone 5 mg (1 mL) with normal saline (1 mL) (group D) or dexamethasone 10 mg (2 mL) (group E) or 2 mL of normal saline (group C) mixed with 8 mL of 0.375% ropivacaine as a loading dose. After the surgery, 0.2% ropivacaine - fentanyl 4 ?g/mL was epidurally administered for analgesia. The infusion was set to deliver 4 mL/hr of the PCEA solution, with a bolus of 2 mL per demand and 15 minutes lockout time. The infused volume of PCEA, intensity of postoperative pain using visual analogue scale (VAS) during rest and coughing, incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), usage of rescue analgesia and rescue antiemetic, and side effects such as respiratory depression, urinary retention, and pruritus were recorded at 2, 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours after the end of surgery. The resting and effort VAS was significantly lower in group E compared to group C at every time point through the study period. On the contrary, only the resting VAS in group D was lower at 2 hours and 6 hours after surgery. Total fentanyl consumption of group E was significantly lower compared to other groups. There was no difference in adverse effect such as hypotension, bradycardia, PONV, pruritis, and urinary retention among groups. Use of epidural PCA with basal rate might interrupt an accurate comparison of dexamethasone effect. Hyperglycemia and adrenal suppression were not evaluated. Epidural dexamethasone was effective for reducing postoperative pain. Especially, an epidural dexamethasone dose of 10 mg was more effective than a lower dose in patients undergoing gastrectomy which was associated with moderate to severe postoperative pain.

Sciatica caused by lumbar epidural gas.

PubMed

Belfquih, Hatim; El Mostarchid, Brahim; Akhaddar, Ali; gazzaz, Miloudi; Boucetta, Mohammed

2014-01-01

Gas production as a part of disc degeneration can occur but rarely causes nerve compression syndromes. The clinical features are similar to those of common sciatica. CT is very useful in the detection of epidural gas accumulation and nerve root compression. We report a case of symptomatic epidural gas accumulation originating from vacuum phenomenon in the intervertebral disc, causing lumbo-sacral radiculopathy. A 45-year-old woman suffered from sciatica for 9 months. The condition worsened in recent days. Computed tomography (CT) demonstrated intradiscal vacuum phenomenon, and accumulation of gas in the lumbar epidural space compressing the dural sac and S1 nerve root. After evacuation of the gas, her pain resolved without recurrence.

[Analysis of inadvertent epidural injection of drugs].

PubMed

Kasaba, T; Uehara, K; Katsuki, H; Ono, Y; Takasaki, M

2000-12-01

We asked 31 anesthesiologists, who were on the Japanese Board of Anesthesiology, about inadvertent injection of drugs into the epidural space, and received answers from 28 (90%). Fifteen (54%) had an experience of inadvertent epidural injection, and five of them had two experiences. Injected drugs were ephedrine (6 times), a mixture of neostigmine and atropine (3), thiopental (2), etilefrine (2), vecuronium (1), suxamethonium (1), bicarbonate (1), midazolam (1), lactated Ringer's solution (1), nicardipine (1), and pentazocine (1). The inadvertent injection of thiopental or bicarbonate was noticed by back pain during injection. No treatment was added after the inadvertent injections, except a patient with an epidural steroid injection following thiopental. No neurological complications were found in any patients.

Cervical Epidural Abscess Mimicking as Stroke - Report of Two Cases

PubMed Central

Velpula, Jagan Mohana Reddy; Gakhar, Harinder; Sigamoney, Kohilavani; Bommireddy, Rajendra

2014-01-01

Background: Stroke is a common provisional diagnosis in patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) with unilateral neurological deficit. Cervical epidural abscess (CEA) may also present clinically with a unilateral neurological deficit. Objects: To highlight the inherent problems with diagnosing cervical epidural abscess and possible consequences of delay in diagnosis. Case Report: We would like to highlight two cases provisionally diagnosed as stroke. Both cases turned out to be cervical epidural abscesses. The delay in diagnosis and treatment led to suboptimal outcome in both cases. Summary: Cases with suspected stroke who deteriorate while under treatment or whose diagnosis is doubtful should have MRI whole spine in order to avoid potential complications. PMID:24551026

The effect of adding a background infusion to patient-controlled epidural labor analgesia on labor, maternal, and neonatal outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Heesen, Michael; Böhmer, Johannes; Klöhr, Sven; Hofmann, Thomas; Rossaint, Rolf; Straube, Sebastian

2015-07-01

Patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) has gained popularity, but it is still unclear whether adding a background infusion confers any benefit. A systematic literature search in PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, LILACS, CENTRAL, Clinicaltrials.gov, and ISI WOS was performed to identify randomized controlled double-blind trials that compare PCEA-only with PCEA combined with a continuous infusion (PCEA + CI) in parturients. The data were subjected to meta-analyses using the random-effects model. Our primary outcome was the incidence of instrumental vaginal delivery. Secondary outcomes were incidences of spontaneous vaginal and cesarean deliveries, duration of labor, analgesic outcomes, maternal outcomes (visual analog scale scores for pain, maternal satisfaction, nausea, pruritus, hypotension), and neonatal outcomes (Apgar score, umbilical artery pH). We identified 7 trials with a low risk of bias, reporting on 891 parturients, for inclusion in our systematic review. The risk of instrumental vaginal delivery was increased in the PCEA + CI group, risk ratio (RR) 1.66 (95% confidence interval 1.08-2.56, P = 0.02; I = 0%); the RR for cesarean delivery was 0.83 (95% confidence interval 0.61-1.13, I = 0%). The second stage of labor was prolonged (weighted mean difference 12.3 minutes, 95% confidence interval 5.1-19.5 minutes, P = 0.0008; I = 0%) in the PCEA + CI group. Fewer patients in the PCEA + CI group required physician-administered boluses (RR 0.35 [95% confidence interval 0.25-0.47, P < 0.00001; I = 0%]). No differences regarding maternal adverse events (nausea, pruritus, hypotension) or neonatal outcomes (Apgar scores <7, umbilical artery pH) were observed. On the basis of current evidence, no conclusion can be drawn regarding the risks or benefits of adding a continuous background infusion to PCEA compared with PCEA-only epidural labor analgesia. Further high-quality studies involving a sufficient number of patients are required.

Acute Pain Service and multimodal therapy for postsurgical pain control: evaluation of protocol efficacy.

PubMed

Moizo, E; Berti, M; Marchetti, C; Deni, F; Albertin, A; Muzzolon, F; Antonino, A

2004-11-01

The institution of a postoperative Acute Pain Control Service is mandatory to improve the control of pain induced by surgical injury. Treatment of postoperative pain may be achieved using a combination of analgesic agents and techniques, reducing the incidence of side effects owing to the lower doses of the individual drugs. In 1997 we established an Acute Pain Service (APS) at the San Raffaele Hospital in Milan. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of our APS both in terms of treatment protocols and organisational issues. In this prospective observational study we included 592 patients undergoing abdominal, gynecological, or orthopedic surgery with severe expected pain. According to general guidelines on pain treatment, the patients were assigned to different treatment protocols based on the kind of operation. All protocols were based on the multimodal therapy, with the association of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), opioids and regional anesthesia techniques. During the first 48 h of the postoperative period we recorded vital signs, level of pain and occurrence of any side effect. Our analgesic protocols proved to be effective and safe (low incidence of side effects) for every surgery. The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting was higher in patients receiving patient-controlled morphine than that with continuous epidural or nerve block. After lower abdominal surgery, pain at movement at 24 h was significantly lower in the epidural group than in the Patient Control Analgesia group. Nausea and vomiting, numbness and paresthesias at the lower limbs were higher in gynecological patients. A larger percentage of orthopedic patients in the epidural group reported numbness and paresthesias at the lower limbs in comparison with patients receiving continuous peripheral nerve block. In agreement with previous literature, this study confirmed that a multimodal approach to pain treatment provides an adequate control of postoperative pain, minimizing side effects.

Anesthetic considerations in the patients of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease undergoing laparoscopic surgeries

PubMed Central

Khetarpal, Ranjana; Bali, Kusum; Chatrath, Veena; Bansal, Divya

2016-01-01

The aim of this study was to review the various anesthetic options which can be considered for laparoscopic surgeries in the patients with the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The literature search was performed in the Google, PubMed, and Medscape using key words “analgesia, anesthesia, general, laparoscopy, lung diseases, obstructive.” More than thirty-five free full articles and books published from the year 1994 to 2014 were retrieved and studied. Retrospective data observed from various studies and case reports showed regional anesthesia (RA) to be valid and safer option in the patients who are not good candidates of general anesthesia like patients having obstructive pulmonary diseases. It showed better postoperative patient outcome with respect to safety, efficacy, postoperative pulmonary complications, and analgesia. So depending upon disease severity RA in various forms such as spinal anesthesia, paravertebral block, continuous epidural anesthesia, combined spinal epidural anesthesia (CSEA), and CSEA with bi-level positive airway pressure should be considered. PMID:26957682

Epidural Hematoma Complication after Rapid Chronic Subdural Hematoma Evacuation: A Case Report

PubMed Central

Akpinar, Aykut; Ucler, Necati; Erdogan, Uzay; Yucetas, Cem Seyho

2015-01-01

Patient: Male, 41 Final Diagnosis: Healty Symptoms: Headache Medication: — Clinical Procedure: Chronic subdural hematoma Specialty: Neurosurgery Objective: Diagnostic/therapeutic accidents Background: Chronic subdural hematoma generally occurs in the elderly. After chronic subdural hematoma evacuation surgery, the development of epidural hematoma is a very rare entity. Case Report: We report the case of a 41-year-old man with an epidural hematoma complication after chronic subdural hematoma evacuation. Under general anesthesia, the patient underwent a large craniotomy with closed system drainage performed to treat the chronic subdural hematoma. After chronic subdural hematoma evacuation, there was epidural leakage on the following day. Conclusions: Although trauma is the most common risk factor in young CSDH patients, some other predisposing factors may exist. Intracranial hypotension can cause EDH. Craniotomy and drainage surgery can usually resolve the problem. Because of rapid dynamic intracranial changes, epidural leakages can occur. A large craniotomy flap and silicone drainage in the operation area are key safety points for neurosurgeons and hydration is essential. PMID:26147957

Imaging of human vertebral surface using ultrasound RF data received at each element of probe for thoracic anesthesia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takahashi, Kazuki; Taki, Hirofumi; Onishi, Eiko; Yamauchi, Masanori; Kanai, Hiroshi

2017-07-01

Epidural anesthesia is a common technique for perioperative analgesia and chronic pain treatment. Since ultrasonography is insufficient for depicting the human vertebral surface, most examiners apply epidural puncture by body surface landmarks on the back such as the spinous process and scapulae without any imaging, including ultrasonography. The puncture route to the epidural space at thoracic vertebrae is much narrower than that at lumber vertebrae, and therefore, epidural anesthesia at thoracic vertebrae is difficult, especially for a beginner. Herein, a novel imaging method is proposed based on a bi-static imaging technique by making use of the transmit beam width and direction. In an in vivo experimental study on human thoracic vertebrae, the proposed method succeeded in depicting the vertebral surface clearly as compared with conventional B-mode imaging and the conventional envelope method. This indicates the potential of the proposed method in visualizing the vertebral surface for the proper and safe execution of epidural anesthesia.

Effective Dose of CT- and Fluoroscopy-Guided Perineural/Epidural Injections of the Lumbar Spine: A Comparative Study

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Schmid, Gebhard; Schmitz, Alexander; Borchardt, Dieter

The objective of this study was to compare the effective radiation dose of perineural and epidural injections of the lumbar spine under computed tomography (CT) or fluoroscopic guidance with respect to dose-reduced protocols. We assessed the radiation dose with an Alderson Rando phantom at the lumbar segment L4/5 using 29 thermoluminescence dosimeters. Based on our clinical experience, 4-10 CT scans and 1-min fluoroscopy are appropriate. Effective doses were calculated for CT for a routine lumbar spine protocol and for maximum dose reduction; as well as for fluoroscopy in a continuous and a pulsed mode (3-15 pulses/s). Effective doses under CTmore » guidance were 1.51 mSv for 4 scans and 3.53 mSv for 10 scans using a standard protocol and 0.22 mSv and 0.43 mSv for the low-dose protocol. In continuous mode, the effective doses ranged from 0.43 to 1.25 mSv for 1-3 min of fluoroscopy. Using 1 min of pulsed fluoroscopy, the effective dose was less than 0.1 mSv for 3 pulses/s. A consequent low-dose CT protocol reduces the effective dose compared to a standard lumbar spine protocol by more than 85%. The latter dose might be expected when applying about 1 min of continuous fluoroscopy for guidance. A pulsed mode further reduces the effective dose of fluoroscopy by 80-90%.« less

The effectiveness of repeat lumbar transforaminal epidural steroid injections.

PubMed

Murthy, Naveen S; Geske, Jennifer R; Shelerud, Randy A; Wald, John T; Diehn, Felix E; Thielen, Kent R; Kaufmann, Timothy J; Morris, Jonathan M; Lehman, Vance T; Amrami, Kimberly K; Carter, Rickey E; Maus, Timothy P

2014-10-01

The aim of this study was to determine 1) if repeat lumbar transforaminal epidural steroid injections (TFESIs) resulted in recovery of pain relief, which has waned since an index injection, and 2) if cumulative benefit could be achieved by repeat injections within 3 months of the index injection. Retrospective observational study with statistical modeling of the response to repeat TFESI. Academic radiology practice. Two thousand eighty-seven single-level TFESIs were performed for radicular pain on 933 subjects. Subjects received repeat TFESIs >2 weeks and <1 year from the index injection. Hierarchical linear modeling was performed to evaluate changes in continuous and categorical pain relief outcomes after repeat TFESI. Subgroup analyses were performed on patients with <3 months duration of pain (acute pain), patients receiving repeat injections within 3 months (clustered injections), and in patients with both acute pain and clustered injections. Repeat TFESIs achieved pain relief in both continuous and categorical outcomes. Relative to the index injection, there was a minimal but statistically significant decrease in pain relief in modeled continuous outcome measures with subsequent injections. Acute pain patients recovered all prior benefit with a statistically significant cumulative benefit. Patients receiving clustered injections achieved statistically significant cumulative benefit, of greater magnitude in acute pain patients. Repeat TFESI may be performed for recurrence of radicular pain with the expectation of recovery of most or all previously achieved benefit; acute pain patients will likely recover all prior benefit. Repeat TFESIs within 3 months of the index injection can provide cumulative benefit. Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Successful treatment of Aspergillus flavus spondylodiscitis with epidural abscess in a patient with chronic granulomatous disease.

PubMed

Chang, Hsien-Mei; Yu, Hsin-Hui; Yang, Yao-Hsu; Lee, Wen-I; Lee, Jyh-Hong; Wang, Li-Chieh; Lin, Yu-Tsan; Chiang, Bor-Luen

2012-01-01

Chronic granulomatous disease is a genetic disorder characterized by defects in the ability of the phagocytes to kill ingested microbes, leading to recurrent bacterial and fungal infections. Vertebral osteomyelitis complicated by an epidural abscess from aspergillosis is rare. We report a case of Aspergillus spondylodiscitis with an epidural abscess in a 17-year-old autosomal recessive chronic granulomatous disease patient.

A Comparison of Intrathecal and Epidural Analgesia and Its Effect on Length of Labor

DTIC Science & Technology

1997-09-10

time of delivery (Chestnut, Vandewalker, Owen, Bates, & Choi, 1987 ). Epidural or intiathecal injection of opioids has the potential to provide selective...exists pertaining to this issue (Miller, DeVore, & Eisler , 1993). Selective opioid analgesia whether epidural or intrathecal has also resulted in...of contraction of the utems and the pressure generated by these contractions (Miller, DeVore, & Eisler , 1993). Progress of labor: Increasing

Labour analgesia: Recent advances

PubMed Central

Pandya, Sunil T

2010-01-01

Advances in the field of labour analgesia have tread a long journey from the days of ether and chloroform in 1847 to the present day practice of comprehensive programme of labour pain management using evidence-based medicine. Newer advances include introduction of newer techniques like combined spinal epidurals, low-dose epidurals facilitating ambulation, pharmacological advances like introduction of remifentanil for patient-controlled intravenous analgesia, introduction of newer local anaesthetics and adjuvants like ropivacaine, levobupivacaine, sufentanil, clonidine and neostigmine, use of inhalational agents like sevoflourane for patient-controlled inhalational analgesia using special vaporizers, all have revolutionized the practice of pain management in labouring parturients. Technological advances like use of ultrasound to localize epidural space in difficult cases minimizes failed epidurals and introduction of novel drug delivery modalities like patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) pumps and computer-integrated drug delivery pumps have improved the overall maternal satisfaction rate and have enabled us to customize a suitable analgesic regimen for each parturient. Recent randomized controlled trials and Cochrane studies have concluded that the association of epidurals with increased caesarean section and long-term backache remains only a myth. Studies have also shown that the newer, low-dose regimes do not have a statistically significant impact on the duration of labour and breast feeding and also that these reduce the instrumental delivery rates thus improving maternal and foetal safety. Advances in medical technology like use of ultrasound for localizing epidural space have helped the clinicians to minimize the failure rates, and many novel drug delivery modalities like PCEA and computer-integrated PCEA have contributed to the overall maternal satisfaction and safety. PMID:21189877

Intracranial hypotension headache caused by a massive cerebrospinal fluid leak successfully treated with a targeted c2 epidural blood patch: a case report.

PubMed

Sykes, Kenneth T; Yi, Xiaobin

2013-01-01

Cervical epidural steroid injections, administered either interlaminarly or transforaminally, are common injection therapies used in many interventional pain management practices to treat cervicalgia or cervicobrachial pain secondary to spondylosis or intervertebral disc displacement of the cervical spine. Among the risks associated with these procedures are the risk for inadvertent dural puncture and the development of positional headache from intracranial hypotension. We report the case of a 31-year-old woman with a history of migraine and cervicalgia from cervical spine spondylosis and cervical disc degenerative disease that developed an intractable orthostatic headache accompanied by nausea and vomiting after a therapeutic high cervical intralaminar epidural steroid injection was administered directly to the C1-C2 spinal level. Although the initial magnetic resonance imaging of the brain was unremarkable, a computed tomography myelogram study revealed a massive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak from the cervical spine.  Repeated cervical epidural blood patches using a catheter targeted to the high cervical spine (C2) to inject 15 mL of autologous blood was required to totally alleviate her symptoms after she failed conservative therapy. Determining the optimal location or approach to administer an epidural blood patch can be a challenge depending on the location of the CSF leak. Our case demonstrates that targeted cervical epidural blood patch placement using an easily manipulated catheter under fluoroscopic guidance is a safe and effective approach to treat a massive CSF leak in the high cervical spine region caused by prior therapeutic cervical spine epidural steroid injection.

A survey on informed consent process for epidural analgesia in labor pain in Korea

PubMed Central

Lee, Nan-Ju; Sim, Jiyeon; Lee, Mi Soon; Han, Sun Sook; Lee, Hwa Mi

2010-01-01

Background There is a legal obligation to explain the procedure and use of epidural analgesia in labor primarily due to the possibility of potential risks and associated complications. The present study details on the survey carried out to ascertain the current status of obtaining informed consent (IC) for explaining the epidural analgesia in labor. Methods The present study is based on a survey through a telephone questionnaire that covered all the hospitals in Korea where the anesthesiologists' belonged to and are registered with Korean Society of Anesthesiologists. The questionnaire included questions pertaining to administration of epidural analgesia to a parturient, information on different steps of obtaining an IC, whether patient status was evaluated, when the consent was obtained, and the reasons behind, if the consent had not being given. Results A total of 1,434 respondents took part in the survey, with a response rate of 97% (1,434/1,467). One hundred seventy-four hospitals had conducted epidural analgesia on the parturient. The overall rate of obtaining IC for epidural analgesia during labor was 85%, of which only 13% was conducted by anesthesiologists. The rate of evaluating preoperative patient status was 74%, of which 45% was conducted by anesthesiologists. Almost all of the consent was obtained prior to the procedure. Conclusions The rate of obtaining IC for epidural analgesia in labor is relatively high (85%) in Korea. However, it is necessary to discuss the content of the consent and the procedure followed for obtaining IC during the rapid progress of labor. PMID:20651996

Acute Spinal Epidural Hematoma After Acupuncture: Personal Case and Literature Review.

PubMed

Domenicucci, Maurizio; Marruzzo, Daniele; Pesce, Alessandro; Raco, Antonino; Missori, Paolo

2017-06-01

Spinal acupuncture is a relatively safe and common analgesic treatment, but it may be complicated by serious adverse effects, such as direct spinal cord and nerve root injury, subdural empyema, and epidural abscesses. In this report we compare our case of an extremely uncommon spinal epidural hematoma, which appeared after treatment by acupuncture, with other similar documented cases. This is the case of a 64-year-old man who presented a left hemiparesis associated with paraesthesia. This appeared several hours after acupuncture treatment for left lumbosciatic pain. The cervicothoracic spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan showed a cervicothoracic spinal epidural hematoma from C2 to T12. The rapid improvement of the patient's neurologic symptoms justified the adoption of a conservative treatment strategy. This gave excellent long-term results. Although a post-acupuncture spinal epidural hematoma (paSEH) is very rare, there are only 6 documented cases, it is a possible complication from acupuncture on the back. The use of very thin needles can produce bleeding, probably venous, in the epidural space. In general, this evolves more slowly than other kinds of epidural hematomas. The symptoms are also less severe, warranting less frequent surgical intervention, and in general there is a good outcome. The possibility of hematoma makes acupuncture contraindicated in patients who have coagulation disorders. The onset of severe spinal pain after spinal or paraspinal acupuncture treatment should lead to the suspicion of a paSEH, and a spinal MRI should be carried out. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Documenting risk: A comparison of policy and information pamphlets for using epidural or water in labour.

PubMed

Newnham, Elizabeth C; McKellar, Lois V; Pincombe, Jan I

2015-09-01

Approximately 30% of Australian women use epidural analgesia for pain relief in labour, and its use is increasing. While epidural analgesia is considered a safe option from an anaesthetic point of view, its use transfers a labouring woman out of the category of 'normal' labour and increases her risk of intervention. Judicious use of epidural may be beneficial in particular situations, but its current common use needs to be assessed more closely. This has not yet been explored in the Australian context. To examine personal, social, institutional and cultural influences on women in their decision to use epidural analgesia in labour. Examining this one event in depth illuminates other birth practices, which can also be analysed according to how they fit within prevailing cultural beliefs about birth. Ethnography, underpinned by a critical medical anthropology methodology. These findings describe the influence of risk culture on labour ward practice; specifically, the policies and practices surrounding the use of epidural analgesia are contrasted with those on the use of water. Engaging with current risk theory, we identify the role of power in conceptualisations of risk, which are commonly perpetuated by authority rather than evidence. As we move towards a risk-driven society, it is vital to identify both the conception and the consequences of promulgations of risk. The construction of waterbirth as a 'risky' practice had the effect of limiting midwifery practice and women's choices, despite evidence that points to the epidural as the more 'dangerous' option. Copyright © 2015 Australian College of Midwives. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

An observational study of agreement between percentage pain reduction calculated from visual analog or numerical rating scales versus that reported by parturients during labor epidural analgesia.

PubMed

Pratici, E; Nebout, S; Merbai, N; Filippova, J; Hajage, D; Keita, H

2017-05-01

This study aimed to determine the level of agreement between calculated percentage pain reduction, derived from visual analog or numerical rating scales, and patient-reported percentage pain reduction in patients having labor epidural analgesia. In a prospective observational study, parturients were asked to rate their pain intensity on a visual analog scale and numerical rating scale, before and 30min after initiation of epidural analgesia. The percentage pain reduction 30min after epidural analgesia was calculated by the formula: 100×(score before epidural analgesia-score 30min after epidural analgesia)/score before epidural analgesia. To evaluate agreement between calculated percentage pain reduction and patient-reported percentage pain reduction, we computed the concordance correlation coefficient and performed Bland-Altman analysis. Ninety-seven women in labor were enrolled in the study, most of whom were nulliparous, with a singleton fetus and in spontaneous labor. The concordance correlation coefficient with patient-reported percentage pain reduction was 0.76 (95% CI 0.6 to 0.8) and 0.77 (95% CI 0.6 to 0.8) for the visual analog and numerical rating scale, respectively. The Bland-Altman mean difference between calculated percentage pain reduction and patient-reported percentage pain reduction for the visual analog and numerical rating scales was -2.0% (limits of agreement at 29.8%) and 0 (limits of agreement at 28.2%), respectively. The agreement between calculated percentage pain reduction from a visual analog or numerical rating scale and patient-reported percentage pain reduction in the context of labor epidural analgesia was moderate. The difference could range up to 30%. Patient-reported percentage pain reduction has advantages as a measurement tool for assessing pain management for childbirth but differences compared with other assessment methods should be taken into account. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Women's acute anxiety variations before and after epidural anesthesia for childbirth.

PubMed

Fernández-Campos, Francisco J; Escrivá, Dolores; Palanca, José M; Ridocci, Francisca; Barrios, Carlos; Gallego, Juan

2017-06-01

This study assessed changes in anxiety during different phases of childbirth in a sample of women demanding epidural anesthesia. Prospective, longitudinal case series. A total of 133 women who demanded epidural anesthesia for childbirth answered the questionnaires. Anxiety state was measured using the State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) questionnaire. The STAI-S (anxiety state) was administered in three phases during childbirth: Phase 1 was before applying epidural anesthesia, Phase 2 was 45 min after the application of epidural anesthesia and Phase 3 was at less than 24 h after delivery. Data were collected in two general hospitals: a third-level public hospital and a well-recognized private hospital. STAI scores. Anxiety state decreases significantly after applying the epidural anesthesia (Phase 2) compared to before anesthesia (Phase 1), and it remains low levels 24 h after childbirth (Phase 3). There were statistically significant differences in STAI scores between the different phases administrated (Phases 1 and 2: p < 0.001; effect size, d = 1.40; Phases 1 and 3: p < 0.001; effect size, d = 1.39). In Phase 3, women with cesarean section birth had significant differences in STAI scores relative to those with spontaneous birth (p = 0.037; d = 0.44). The type of health-care setting (public or private), the educational level and the numbers of previous births does not affect the level of anxiety state in women in any of the three phases. Women's anxiety decreases significantly after applying epidural anesthesia, and it remains low 24 h after delivery. Anxiety against childbirth was not influenced by the health system used by women, by the condition of primiparous or multiparous, or by the educational level. Women who received an epidural anesthesia with a cesarean section reported higher rates of anxiety state after birth.

A randomized trial of the effects of antibiotic prophylaxis on epidural-related fever in labor.

PubMed

Sharma, Shiv K; Rogers, Beverly B; Alexander, James M; McIntire, Donald D; Leveno, Kenneth J

2014-03-01

It has been suggested that the development of maternal fever during epidural analgesia could be due to intrapartum infection. We investigated whether antibiotic prophylaxis before epidural placement decreases the rate of epidural-related fever. In this double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 400 healthy nulliparous women requesting epidural analgesia were randomly assigned to receive either cefoxitin 2 g or placebo immediately preceding initiation of epidural labor analgesia. Maternal tympanic temperature was measured hourly, and intrapartum fever was defined as a maternal temperature of ≥38°C. Neonates born to women with fever were evaluated for possible sepsis, and available placentas were evaluated for the presence of neutrophilic inflammation. The primary outcome was maternal fever during epidural analgesia. Thirty-eight percent of women in the cefoxitin group and 40% of women in the placebo group developed fever (P = 0.68). The risk difference (95% confidence interval) for fever ≥38°C during labor (antibiotic versus placebo) was -2.0% (-11.5 to 7.5), and for fever >39°C during labor was -1.5% (-4.7 to 1.7). Approximately half of each study group had placental neutrophilic inflammation, but administration of cefoxitin had no significant effect on any grade of neutrophilic inflammation. Fever developed significantly more often in the women with placental neutrophilic inflammation compared with those without such inflammation (73/158 vs 33/144, P < 0.001; risk difference 23% [95% confidence interval, 13.0-34.0]). There were no significant differences in any neonatal outcomes between the antibiotic and placebo study groups. Sepsis was not diagnosed in any of the infants. There were no neonatal deaths. Fever during labor epidural analgesia is associated with placental inflammation, but fever and placental inflammation were not reduced with antibiotic prophylaxis. This finding suggests that infection is unlikely to be the cause in its development.

A comparison of epidural buprenorphine plus detomidine with morphine plus detomidine in horses undergoing bilateral stifle arthroscopy.

PubMed

Fischer, Berit L; Ludders, John W; Asakawa, Makoto; Fortier, Lisa A; Fubini, Susan L; Nixon, Alan J; Radcliffe, Rolfe M; Erb, Hollis N

2009-01-01

To compare the analgesic efficacy of buprenorphine plus detomidine with that of morphine plus detomidine when administered epidurally in horses undergoing bilateral stifle arthroscopy. Prospective, randomized, blinded clinical trial. Twelve healthy adult horses participating in an orthopedic research study. Group M (n = 6) received morphine (0.2 mg kg(-1)) and detomidine (0.15 mg kg(-1)) epidurally; group B (n = 6) received buprenorphine (0.005 mg kg(-1)) and detomidine (0.15 mg kg(-1)) epidurally. Horses received one of two epidural treatments following induction of general anesthesia for bilateral stifle arthroscopy. Heart rate (HR), mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), end-tidal CO(2) (Pe'CO(2)), and end-tidal isoflurane concentrations (E'Iso%) were recorded every 15 minutes following epidural administration. Post-operative assessment was performed at 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, 12, and 24 hours after standing; variables recorded included HR, respiratory rate (f(R)), abdominal borborygmi, defecation, and the presence of undesirable side effects. At the same times post-operatively, each horse was videotaped at a walk and subsequently assigned a lameness score (0-4) by three ACVS diplomates blinded to treatment and who followed previously published guidelines. Nonparametric data were analyzed using Wilcoxon's rank-sum test. Inter- and intra-rater agreement were determined using weighted kappa coefficients. Statistical significance was set at p

A Comparison of Efficacy of Segmental Epidural Block versus Spinal Anaesthesia for Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy.

PubMed

Nandanwar, Avinash S; Patil, Yogita; Wagaskar, Vinayak G; Baheti, Vidyasagar H; Tanwar, Harshwardhan V; Patwardhan, Sujata K

2015-08-01

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is done under general anaesthesia in most of the centres. Associated complications and cost are higher for general anaesthesia than for regional anaesthesia. Present study is designed to compare the efficacy of epidural block versus spinal anaesthesia with regards to intraoperative mean arterial pressure, heart rate, postoperative pain intensity, analgesic requirement, Postoperative complications and patient satisfaction in patients undergoing PCNL. After taking Ethical Committee clearance, patients were randomly allocated into 2 groups using table of randomization (n= 40 each) Group E- Epidural block, Group S- Spinal block. Various parameters like intraoperative mean arterial pressure, heart rate, postoperative pain intensity, analgesic requirement, postoperative complications and patient satisfaction were studied in these groups. Quantitative data was analysed using unpaired t-test and qualitative data was analysed using chi-square test. Twenty four times in Epidural as compared to fifteen times in spinal anaesthesia two or more attempts required. Mean time (min) required to achieve the block of anaesthesia in group E and group S was 15.45±2.8 and 8.52±2.62 min respectively. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) at 5 min, 10 min and 15 min were significantly lower in spinal group as compared to epidural group. After 30 minutes, differences were not significant but still MAP was lower in spinal group. After 30 minutes difference in heart rate between two groups was statistically significant and higher rate recorded in spinal group till the end of 3 hours. Postoperative VAS score was significantly higher in spinal group and 4 hours onwards difference was highly significant. Postoperative Nausea Vomiting (PONV) Score was significantly higher in spinal group as compared to epidural group. For PCNL, segmental epidural block is better than spinal anaesthesia in terms of haemodynamic stability, postoperative analgesia, patient satisfaction and reduced incidence of PONV. Epidural anaesthesia is difficult to execute and takes longer time to act as compared to spinal block which limits its use.

Finite Element Analysis of the Effect of Epidural Adhesions.

PubMed

Lee, Nam; Ji, Gyu Yeul; Yi, Seong; Yoon, Do Heum; Shin, Dong Ah; Kim, Keung Nyun; Ha, Yoon; Oh, Chang Hyun

2016-07-01

It is well documented that epidural adhesion is associated with spinal pain. However, the underlying mechanism of spinal pain generation by epidural adhesion has not yet been elucidated. To elucidate the underlying mechanism of spinal pain generation by epidural adhesion using a two-dimensional (2D) non-linear finite element (FE) analysis. A finite element analysis. A two-dimensional nonlinear FE model of the herniated lumbar disc on L4/5 with epidural adhesion. A two-dimensional nonlinear FE model of the lumbar spine was developed, consisting of intervertebral discs, dura, spinal nerve, and lamina. The annulus fibrosus and nucleus pulpous were modeled as hyperelastic using the Mooney-Rivlin equation. The FE mesh was generated and analyzed using Abaqus (ABAQUS 6.13.; Hibbitt, Karlsson & Sorenson, Inc., Providence, RI, USA). Epidural adhesion was simulated as rough contact, in which no slip occurred once two surfaces were in contact, between the dura mater and posterior annulus fibrosus. The FE model of adhesion showed significant stress concentration in the spinal nerves, especially on the dorsal root ganglion (DRG). The stress concentration was caused by the lack of adaptive displacement between the dura mater and posterior annulus fibrosus. The peak von Mises stress was higher in the epidural adhesion model (Adhesion, 0.67 vs. Control, 0.46). In the control model, adaptive displacement was observed with decreased stress in the spinal nerve and DRG (with adhesion, 2.59 vs. without adhesion, 3.58, P < 0.00). This study used a 2D non-linear FE model, which simplifies the 3D nature of the human intervertebral disc. In addition, this 2D non-linear FE model has not yet been validated. The current study clearly demonstrated that epidural adhesion causes significantly increased stress in the spinal nerves, especially at the DRG. We believe that the increased stress on the spinal nerve might elicit more pain under similar magnitudes of lumbar disc protrusion.

Thoracic Epidural Anesthesia Reduces Right Ventricular Systolic Function With Maintained Ventricular-Pulmonary Coupling.

PubMed

Wink, Jeroen; de Wilde, Rob B P; Wouters, Patrick F; van Dorp, Eveline L A; Veering, Bernadette Th; Versteegh, Michel I M; Aarts, Leon P H J; Steendijk, Paul

2016-10-18

Blockade of cardiac sympathetic fibers by thoracic epidural anesthesia may affect right ventricular function and interfere with the coupling between right ventricular function and right ventricular afterload. Our main objectives were to study the effects of thoracic epidural anesthesia on right ventricular function and ventricular-pulmonary coupling. In 10 patients scheduled for lung resection, right ventricular function and its response to increased afterload, induced by temporary, unilateral clamping of the pulmonary artery, was tested before and after induction of thoracic epidural anesthesia using combined pressure-conductance catheters. Thoracic epidural anesthesia resulted in a significant decrease in right ventricular contractility (ΔESV 25 : +25.5 mL, P=0.0003; ΔEes: -0.025 mm Hg/mL, P=0.04). Stroke work, dP/dt MAX , and ejection fraction showed a similar decrease in systolic function (all P<0.05). A concomitant decrease in effective arterial elastance (ΔEa: -0.094 mm Hg/mL, P=0.004) yielded unchanged ventricular-pulmonary coupling. Cardiac output, systemic vascular resistance, and mean arterial blood pressure were unchanged. Clamping of the pulmonary artery significantly increased afterload (ΔEa: +0.226 mm Hg/mL, P<0.001). In response, right ventricular contractility increased (ΔESV 25 : -26.6 mL, P=0.0002; ΔEes: +0.034 mm Hg/mL, P=0.008), but ventricular-pulmonary coupling decreased (Δ(Ees/Ea) = -0.153, P<0.0001). None of the measured indices showed significant interactive effects, indicating that the effects of increased afterload were the same before and after thoracic epidural anesthesia. Thoracic epidural anesthesia impairs right ventricular contractility but does not inhibit the native positive inotropic response of the right ventricle to increased afterload. Right ventricular-pulmonary arterial coupling was decreased with increased afterload but not affected by the induction of thoracic epidural anesthesia. URL: http://www.trialregister.nl/trialreg/admin/rctview.asp?TC=2844. Unique identifier: NTR2844. © 2016 American Heart Association, Inc.

[Continuous subcutaneous morphine to patients with terminal cancer. Analgesia at home].

PubMed

Laursen, J O

1994-04-04

Since 1992 it has been possible for cancer patients in the county of Southern Jutland to receive terminal care in their own homes. An essential part of this management is effective pain relief; more than 60% of cancer patients have chronic pain. In cases where oral medication or epidural administration of morphine is insufficient or complicated by side-effects continuous subcutaneous morphine administration may be suitable. The patient may be treated in this latter manner for long periods of time. A case story is described where a cancer patient was treated with continuous subcutaneous morphine in his home for more than 257 days without complications or major side-effects.

Epidural abscess treated with a medial supraorbital craniotomy through an incision in the eyebrow. Case report.

PubMed

Rosen, David S; Shafizadeh, Stephen; Baroody, Fuad M; Yamini, Bakhtiar

2008-02-01

The authors describe a medial supraorbital craniotomy performed through a medial eyebrow skin incision to approach an epidural abscess located in the medial anterior fossa of the skull. An 8-year-old boy presented with fevers and facial swelling. Imaging demonstrated pansinusitis and an epidural fluid collection adjacent to the frontal sinus. A medial supraorbital craniotomy was performed to access and drain the epidural abscess. The supraorbital nerve laterally and the supratrochlear nerve medially were preserved by incising the frontalis muscle vertically, parallel to the course of the nerves, and dissecting the subperiosteal plane to mobilize the nerves. This approach may be a useful access corridor for other lesions located near the medial anterior fossa.

Technique of fiber optics used to localize epidural space in piglets.

PubMed

Ting, Chien-Kun; Chang, Yin

2010-05-24

Technique of loss-of-resistance in epidural block is commonly used for epidural anesthesia in humans with approximately 90% successful rate. However, it may be one of the most difficult procedures to learn for anesthesia residents in hospital. A two-wavelength (650 nm and 532 nm) fiber-optical method has been developed according to the characteristic reflectance spectra of ex-vivo porcine tissues, which are associated with the needle insertion to localize the epidural space (ES). In an in-vivo study in piglets showed that the reflected lights from ES and its surrounding tissue ligamentum flavum (LF) are highly distinguishable. This indicates that this technique has potential to localize the ES on the spot without the help of additional guiding assistance.

[Dose-response relationship of ropivacaine for epidural block in early herpes zoster guided by CT].

PubMed

Xie, K Y; Ma, J B; Xu, Q; Huang, B; Yao, M; Ni, H D; Deng, J J; Chen, G D

2017-12-26

Objective: To determine the dose-response relationship of ropivacaine for epidural block in early herpes zoster by CT guided. Methods: From January 2015 to February 2017, according to the principle of completely random digital table, 80 patients with early herpes zoster who were prepared for epidural block were divided into 4 groups(each group 20 patients): in group A the concentration of ropivacaine was 0.08%, in group B was 0.10%, in group C was 0.12% and in group D was 0.14%.Under CT guidance, epidural puncture was performed in the relevant section, mixing liquid 5.0 ml (with 10% iodohydrin)were injected into epidural gap.CT scan showed that the mixing liquid covered the relevant spinal nerve segmental.The numeric rating scale(NRS) values before treatment and at 30 minutes, the incidence of adverse reactions were recorded, and the treatment were evaluated. The response to ropivacaine for epidural block in early herpes zoster was defined as positive when the NRS values was less than or equal to one.The ED(50), ED(95) and 95% confidence interval ( CI ) of ropivacaine for epidural block in early herpes zoster guided by CT were calculated by probit analysis. Results: The NRS values before treatment were 5.00(4.00, 6.00), 5.00(4.25, 6.00), 5.50(5.00, 6.00) and 5.00(4.00, 6.00), the difference was no significant( Z =2.576, P =0.462). The NRS values at 30 minutes decreased and the effective rate of the treatment increased(χ(2)=8.371, P =0.004), following ropivacaine dose gradient increasing, they were 1.50(1.00, 2.00), 1.00(1.00, 2.00), 0.50(0.00, 1.00) and 0.00(0.00, 1.00), the difference was statistically significant ( Z =17.421, P =0.001). There was one case in group C and four cases in group D were hypoesthesia, others were no significant adverse reactions occurred. The ED(50) and ED(95) (95% CI ) of ropivacaine for epidural block in early herpes zoster guided by CT were 0.078%(0.015%-0.095%)and 0.157%(0.133%-0.271%), respectively. Conclusion: Ropivacaine for epidural block in early herpes zoster guided by CT is effective for neuropathic pain, with no significant adverse reactions.

Is epidural analgesia during labor related to retained placenta?

PubMed

Sarit, Avraham; Sokolov, Amit; Many, Ariel

2016-05-01

To explore the influence of epidural analgesia on the course of the third stage of labor and on the incidence of the complete retained placenta as well as retained parts of the placenta. This is a population-based cohort study in a tertiary medical center. We collected data from all 4227 spontaneous singleton vaginal deliveries during 6 months and compared the incidence of retained placenta in deliveries with epidural analgesia with those without analgesia. Multivariable logistic regression was used to control for possible confounders. More than two-thirds of the women (69.25%) used epidural analgesia during their delivery. A need for intervention due to placental disorder during the third stage of labor was noted in 4.2% of all deliveries. Epidural analgesia appeared to be significantly (P=0.028) related to placental disorders compared with no analgesia: 4.8% vs. 3%, respectively. Deliveries with manual interventions during the third stage, for either complete retained placenta or suspected retained parts of the placenta, were associated with the use of epidural analgesia (P=0.008), oxytocin (P=0.002) and older age at delivery (P=0.000), but when including all factors in a multivariable analysis, using a stepwise logistic regression, the factors that were independently associated with interventions for placental disruption during the third stage of delivery were previous cesarean section, oxytocin use and, marginally, older age. Complete retained placenta and retained parts of the placenta share the same risk factors. Epidural analgesia does not directly influence the incidence of complete retained placenta or retained parts, though clinically linked through increased oxytocin use. The factors that were independently associated with interventions for placental disruption during the third stage of delivery were previous cesarean section, oxytocin use and older age.

The Influence of Oral Carbohydrate Solution Intake on Stress Response before Total Hip Replacement Surgery during Epidural and General Anaesthesia.

PubMed

Çeliksular, M Cem; Saraçoğlu, Ayten; Yentür, Ercüment

2016-06-01

The effects of oral carbohydrate solutions, ingested 2 h prior to operation, on stress response were studied in patients undergoing general or epidural anaesthesia. The study was performed on 80 ASA I-II adult patients undergoing elective total hip replacement, which were randomized to four groups (n=20). Group G patients undergoing general anaesthesia fasted for 8 h preoperatively; Group GN patients undergoing general anaesthesia drank oral carbohydrate solutions preoperatively; Group E patients undergoing epidural anaesthesia fasted for 8 h and Group EN patients undergoing epidural anaesthesia drank oral carbohydrate solutions preoperatively. Groups GN and EN drank 800 mL of 12.5% oral carbohydrate solution at 24:00 preoperatively and 400 mL 2 h before the operation. Blood samples were taken for measurements of glucose, insulin, cortisol and IL-6 levels. The effect of preoperative oral carbohydrate ingestion on blood glucose levels was not significant. Insulin levels 24 h prior to surgery were similar; however, insulin levels measured just before surgery were 2-3 times higher in groups GN and EN than in groups G and E. Insulin levels at the 24(th) postoperative hour in epidural groups were increased compared to those at basal levels, although general anaesthesia groups showed a decrease. From these measurements, only the change in Group EN was statistically significant (p<0.05). Plasma cortisol levels at the 2(nd) peroperative hour were higher in epidural groups than in general anaesthesia groups. Both anaesthesia techniques did not have an effect on IL-6 levels. We concluded that epidural anaesthesia suppressed stress response, although preoperative oral carbohydrate nutrition did not reveal a significant effect on surgical stress response.

Perioperative epidural or intravenous ketamine does not improve the effectiveness of thoracic epidural analgesia for acute and chronic pain after thoracotomy.

PubMed

Tena, Beatriz; Gomar, Carmen; Rios, Jose

2014-06-01

Persistent postsurgical pain (PPP) after thoracotomy effect 50% to 80%. Nerve damage and central sensitization involving NDMDAr activation may play an important role. This study evaluates the efficacy of adding intravenous (IV) or epidural ketamine to thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA) after thoracotomy. Double-blind randomized study on patients undergoing thoracotomy allocated to one of the following: group Kiv (IV racemic ketamine 0.5 mg/kg preincisional +0.25 mg/kg/h for 48 h), group Kep (epidural racemic ketamine 0.5 mg/kg preincisional +0.25 mg/kg/h for 48 h), or group S (saline). Postoperative analgesia was ensured by TEA with ropivacaine and fentanyl. Pain visual analog scales (VAS), Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory, Catastrophizing Scale, and Quantitative Sensory Testing, measuring both the peri-incisional and distant hyperalgesia area, were conducted preoperatively and postoperatively until 6 months. Plasma ketamine levels and stability of the analgesic solutions were analyzed. A total of 104 patients were included. PPP incidence was 20% at 6 months. Pain scores on coughing were significantly lower in Kiv and Kep than in S at 24 and 72 hours, but there were no differences afterwards. There were no significant differences in pain at rest, Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory, and Catastrophizing Scale, or in the area of mechanical allodynia at any time. Adverse effects were mild. Plasma ketamine levels did not differ significantly between groups. Analgesic solutions were stable. Adding epidural or IV racemic ketamine to TEA after thoracotomy did not lead to any reduction in PPP or allodynia. Epidural administration produced similar plasma ketamine levels to the IV route.

Incidence of delayed hair re-growth, pruritus, and urinary retention after epidural anaesthesia in dogs.

PubMed

Kalchofner Guerrero, K S; Guerrero, T G; Schweizer-Kölliker, M; Ringer, S K; Hässig, M; Bettschart-Wolfensberger, R

2014-04-16

Delayed hair re-growth, pruritus and urinary retention are known complications after epidural anaesthesia in dogs. The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate the effect of epidurally administered drugs on the occurrence of these complications in dogs. Ninety dogs were included in this study. Eighty client-owned dogs undergoing surgery were randomly assigned to one of three epidural treatment groups: either morphine and bupivacaine (MB), bupivacaine (B), or saline solution 0.9% (S) was administered epidurally to these patients. Ten dogs were only clipped in the lumbosacral area (C). Follow-up started 4 weeks after clipping and was performed every 4-5 weeks in cases of delayed hair re-growth or pruritus. Hair re-growth in the lumbosacral area was observed and compared to hair re-growth in the surgical field and the fentanyl patch area. Cytological analysis and a trichogram were performed if hair re-growth was delayed after 6 months. Time interval to first urination postoperatively was recorded (n = 80). Hair re-growth was delayed in 11 dogs (12.2%; B: n = 7, S: n = 2, MB: n = 1, C: n = 1) with no differences between groups. Pruritus was evident in two dogs (2.2%; MB: n = 1, S: n = 1). After 6 months, hair had started to re-grow in all but one dog (B). After 10 months the coat of this dog had re-grown. Time to first urination did not differ between groups. No direct correlation between the particular drugs injected epidurally and delayed hair re-growth, pruritus and urinary retention could be shown. Dog owners should be informed that hair re-growth after epidural anaesthesia could be markedly delayed.

Tensile strength decreases and perfusion pressure of 3-holed polyamide epidural catheters increases in long-term epidural infusion.

PubMed

Kim, Pascal; Meyer, Urs; Schüpfer, Guido; Rukwied, Roman; Konrad, Christoph; Gerber, Helmut

2011-01-01

Epidural analgesia is an established method for pain management. The failure rate is 8% to 12% due to technical difficulties (catheter dislocation and/or disconnection; partial or total catheter occlusion) and management. The mechanical properties of the catheters, like tensile strength and flow rate, may also be affected by the analgesic solution and/or the tissue environment. We investigated the tensile strength and perfusion pressure of new (n=20), perioperatively (n=30), and postoperatively (n=73) used epidural catheters (20-gauge, polyamide, closed tip, 3 side holes; Perifix [B. Braun]). To prevent dislocation, epidural catheters were taped (n=5) or fixed by suture (n=68) to the skin. After removal, mechanical properties were assessed by a tensile-testing machine (INSTRON 4500), and perfusion pressure was measured at flow rates of 10, 20, and 40 mL/h. All catheters demonstrated a 2-step force transmission. Initially, a minimal increase of length could be observed at 15 N followed by an elongation of several cm at additional forces (7 N). Breakage occurred in the control group at 23.5±1.5 N compared with 22.4±1.6 N in perioperative and 22.4±1.7 N in postoperative catheters (P<0.05). Duration of catheter use had no effect on tensile strength, whereas perfusion pressure at clinically used flow rates (10 mL/h) increased significantly from 19±1.3 to 44±72 mm Hg during long-term (≥7 days) epidural analgesia (P<0.05, analysis of variance). Fixation by suture had no influence on tensile strength or perfusion pressure. Epidural catheter use significantly increases the perfusion pressure and decreases the tensile strength. Copyright © 2011 by American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine

Epidural morphine and detomidine decreases postoperative hindlimb lameness in horses after bilateral stifle arthroscopy.

PubMed

Goodrich, Laurie R; Nixon, Alan J; Fubini, Susan L; Ducharme, Norm G; Fortier, Lisa A; Warnick, Lorin D; Ludders, John W

2002-01-01

To determine whether preoperative epidural administration of morphine and detomidine would decrease postoperative lameness after bilateral stifle arthroscopy in horses. Prospective clinical controlled study. Eight adult horses that had bilateral arthroscopic procedures, including drilling of cartilage and subchondral bone within the femoropatellar joints. Horses were randomly separated into 2 groups. Preoperatively, 4 horses were administered a combination of epidural morphine (0.2 mg/kg) and detomidine (30 microg/kg), and 4 horses were administered an equivalent volume of epidural saline (0.9% NaCl) solution. Postoperative pain was assessed using 6 video recordings made at hourly intervals of each horse at a walk. Assessments began 1 hour after recovery from anesthesia. The recordings were scrambled out of sequence and evaluated by 3 observers, unaware of treatment groups, who scored lameness from 0 to 4. Lameness scores of the 2 groups of horses were compared using a Wilcoxon's rank sum test. Heart and respiratory rates were also measured at each hourly interval and compared between groups using a repeated-measures ANOVA; statistical significance was set at P <.05. Preoperative administration of epidural morphine and detomidine significantly decreased lameness and heart rates after bilateral stifle arthroscopy. The greatest decrease was detected at hours 1 and 2 after recovery from anesthesia. We conclude that horses undergoing a painful arthroscopic procedure of the stifle joint benefit from the administration of preoperative epidural morphine and detomidine. Preoperative epidural administration of detomidine and morphine may be useful in decreasing postoperative pain after stifle arthroscopy as well as pain associated with other painful disorders involving the stifle joint, such as septic arthritis and trauma. Copyright 2002 by The American College of Veterinary Surgeons

Improved Outcomes Associated with the Liberal Use of Thoracic Epidural Analgesia in Patients with Rib Fractures.

PubMed

Jensen, Courtney D; Stark, Jamie T; Jacobson, Lewis L; Powers, Jan M; Joseph, Michael F; Kinsella-Shaw, Jeffrey M; Denegar, Craig R

2017-09-01

Each year, more than 150,000 patients with rib fractures are admitted to US trauma centers; as many as 10% die. Effective pain control is critical to survival. One way to manage pain is thoracic epidural analgesia. If this treatment reduces mortality, more frequent use may be indicated. We analyzed the patient registry of a level II trauma center. All patients admitted with one or more rib fractures (N = 1,347) were considered. Patients who were not candidates for epidural analgesia (N = 382) were eliminated. Mortality was assessed with binary logistic regressions. Across the total population, mortality was 6.7%; incidence of pneumonia was 11.1%; mechanical ventilation was required in 23.8% of patients, for an average duration of 10.0 days; average stay in the hospital was 7.7 nights; and 49.7% of patients were admitted to the ICU for an average of 7.2 nights. Epidural analgesia was administered to 18.4% of patients. After matching samples for candidacy, patients who received epidurals were 3.7 years older, fractured 2.6 more ribs, had higher injury severity scores, and were more likely to present with bilateral fractures, flail segments, pulmonary contusions, hemothoraces, and pneumothoraces. Despite greater injury severity, mortality among these patients was lower (0.5%) than those who received alternative care (1.9%). Controlling for age, injury severity, and use of mechanical ventilation, epidural analgesia predicted a 97% reduction in mortality. Thoracic epidural analgesia associates with reduced mortality in rib fracture patients. Better care of this population is likely to be facilitated by more frequent reliance on this treatment. © 2016 American Academy of Pain Medicine. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com

Regardless of where they give birth, women living in non-metropolitan areas are less likely to have an epidural than their metropolitan counterparts.

PubMed

Powers, Jennifer R; Loxton, Deborah J; O'Mara, Ashleigh T; Chojenta, Catherine L; Ebert, Lyn

2013-06-01

Can differences in Australian birth intervention rates be explained by women's residence at the time of childbearing?. Data were collected prospectively via surveys in 1996, 2000, 2003, 2006 and 2009 from women, born between 1973 and 1978, of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health. Analysis included data from 5886 women who had given birth to their first child between 1994 and 2009. Outcome measures were self-report of birth interventions: pharmacological pain relief (epidural and spinal block analgesia, inhalational analgesia and intramuscular injections), surgical births (an elective or emergency caesarean section) and instrumental births (forceps and ventouse). Primiparous women residing in non-metropolitan areas of Australia experienced fewer birth interventions than women residing in metropolitan areas: 43% versus 56% received epidural analgesia; 8% versus 11% had elective caesarean sections; and 16% versus 18% had emergency caesarean sections. Differences in maternal age and private health insurance status at first birth accounted for differences in surgical birth rates but did not fully explain differences in epidural analgesia. Non-metropolitan women had fewer birth interventions, particularly epidural analgesia, than metropolitan women. Differences in maternal age and private health insurance do not fully explain the differences in epidural analgesia rates, suggesting care provided to labouring women may differ by area of residence. The difference in epidural analgesia rates may be due to lack of choice in maternity services, however it could also be due to differing expectations leading to differences in birth interventions for primiparous women living in metropolitan and non-metropolitan areas. Copyright © 2012 Australian College of Midwives. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The use of lumbar epidural injection of platelet lysate for treatment of radicular pain.

PubMed

Centeno, Christopher; Markle, Jason; Dodson, Ehren; Stemper, Ian; Hyzy, Matthew; Williams, Christopher; Freeman, Michael

2017-11-25

Epidural steroid injections (ESI) are the most common pain management procedure performed in the US, however evidence of efficacy is limited. In addition, there is early evidence that the high dose of corticosteroids used can have systemic side effects. We describe the results of a case series evaluating the use of platelet lysate (PL) epidural injections for the treatment of lumbar radicular pain as an alternative to corticosteroids. Registry data was obtained for patients (N = 470) treated with PL epidural injections presenting with symptoms of lumbar radicular pain and MRI findings that were consistent with symptoms. Collected outcomes included numeric pain score (NPS), functional rating index (FRI), and a modified single assessment numeric evaluation (SANE) rating. Patients treated with PL epidurals reported significantly lower (p < .0001) NPS and FRI change scores at all time points compared to baseline. Post-treatment FRI change score means exceeded the minimal clinically important difference beyond 1 month. Average modified SANE ratings showed 49.7% improvement at 24 months post-treatment. Twenty-nine (6.3%) patients reported mild adverse events related to treatment. Patients treated with PL epidurals reported significant improvements in pain, exceeded the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for FRI, and reported subjective improvement through 2-year follow-up. PL may be a promising substitute for corticosteroid.

Focal epidural cooling reduces the infarction volume of permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion in swine.

PubMed

Zhang, Lihua; Cheng, Huilin; Shi, Jixin; Chen, Jun

2007-02-01

The protective effect against ischemic stroke by systemic hypothermia is limited by the cooling rate and it has severe complications. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of SBH induced by epidural cooling on infarction volume in a swine model of PMCAO. Permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion was performed in 12 domestic swine assigned to groups A and B. In group A, the cranial and rectal temperatures were maintained at normal range (37 degrees C-39 degrees C) for 6 hours after PMCAO. In group B, cranial temperature was reduced to moderate (deep brain, <30 degrees C) and deep (brain surface, <20 degrees C) temperature and maintained at that level for 5 hours after 1 hour after PMCAO, by the epidural cooling method. All animals were euthanized 6 hours after MCAO; their brains were sectioned and stained with 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride and their infarct volumes were calculated. The moderate and deep brain temperature (at deep brain and brain surface) can be induced by rapid epidural cooling, whereas the rectal temperature was maintained within normal range. The infarction volume after PMCAO was significantly reduced by epidural cooling compared with controls (13.73% +/- 1.82% vs 5.62% +/- 2.57%, P < .05). The present study has demonstrated, with histologic confirmation, that epidural cooling may be a useful strategy for reducing infarct volume after the onset of ischemia.

Saline as the Sole Contrast Agent for Successful MRI-guided Epidural Injections

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Deli, Martin, E-mail: martin.deli@web.de; Fritz, Jan, E-mail: jfritz9@jhmi.edu; Mateiescu, Serban, E-mail: mateiescu@microtherapy.de

Purpose. To assess the performance of sterile saline solution as the sole contrast agent for percutaneous magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided epidural injections at 1.5 T. Methods. A retrospective analysis of two different techniques of MRI-guided epidural injections was performed with either gadolinium-enhanced saline solution or sterile saline solution for documentation of the epidural location of the needle tip. T1-weighted spoiled gradient echo (FLASH) images or T2-weighted single-shot turbo spin echo (HASTE) images visualized the test injectants. Methods were compared by technical success rate, image quality, table time, and rate of complications. Results. 105 MRI-guided epidural injections (12 of 105 withmore » gadolinium-enhanced saline solution and 93 of 105 with sterile saline solution) were performed successfully and without complications. Visualization of sterile saline solution and gadolinium-enhanced saline solution was sufficient, good, or excellent in all 105 interventions. For either test injectant, quantitative image analysis demonstrated comparable high contrast-to-noise ratios of test injectants to adjacent body substances with reliable statistical significance levels (p < 0.001). The mean table time was 22 {+-} 9 min in the gadolinium-enhanced saline solution group and 22 {+-} 8 min in the saline solution group (p = 0.75). Conclusion. Sterile saline is suitable as the sole contrast agent for successful and safe percutaneous MRI-guided epidural drug delivery at 1.5 T.« less

Management of hypertrophic pylorus stenosis with ultrasound guided single shot epidural anaesthesia--a retrospective analysis of 20 cases.

PubMed

Willschke, Harald; Machata, Anette-Marie; Rebhandl, Winfried; Benkoe, Thomas; Kettner, Stephan C; Brenner, Lydia; Marhofer, Peter

2011-02-01

To retrospectively describe the performance of ultrasound guided thoracic epidural anaesthesia under sedation for anaesthesia management of open pyloromyotomy. Anaesthesia management for hypertrophic pylorus stenosis (HPS) is usually performed under general anaesthesia with tracheal intubation. Only a few publications describe avoidance of tracheal intubation in infants by using spinal or caudal anaesthesia. The present retrospective analysis describes the performance of ultrasound guided thoracic epidural anaesthesia under sedation for anaesthetic management of open pyloromyotomy. Twenty consecutive infants scheduled for pyloromyotomy according to the Weber-Ramstedt technique were retrospectively analysed. After sedation with nalbuphine and propofol, an ultrasound guided single shot thoracic epidural anaesthesia was performed with 0.75 ml·kg(-1) ropivacaine 0.475%. Insufficient blockade was defined as increase of HR > 15% from initial value and/or any movements at skin incision. In those cases we were prepared for rapid sequence intubation according to the departmental standard. All pyloromyotomies could be performed under single shot thoracic epidural anaesthesia and sedation. One case of moderate oxygen desaturation was treated with intermittent ventilation via face mask. Thoracic epidural anaesthesia under sedation for pyloromyotomy has been a useful technique in this retrospective series of infants suffering from HPS. In 1/20 infants short term assisted ventilation via face mask was required. Undisturbed surgery was possible in all cases. © 2010 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

[An Unusual Case of Acute Epidural Hematoma Showing Rapid Spontaneous Resolution with Delayed Recurrence].

PubMed

Yokoyama, Takahiro; Sugimoto, Tetsuaki; Yoneyama, Takumi; Futami, Munetomo; Takeshima, Hideo

2018-05-01

A 16-year-old boy collided with a passenger car while riding a motorcycle. He was thrown to a distance and experienced a head injury on impact. When brought to our medical facility, he was alert, had no neurological abnormalities, and did not complain of headache. A head computed tomography(CT)scan indicated a left cranial fracture and an acute epidural hematoma(15mm thick)directly under the fracture. Follow-up head CT performed 3 hours after the injury indicated no change in the size of the hematoma. The head CT performed on the following day indicated that most of the hematoma had disappeared. As the patient had neither headache nor neurological symptoms, he was placed under observation. However, a head CT performed 7 days after the injury indicated the formation of an epidural hematoma approximately the same size as the initial hematoma and located at the same site. We performed craniotomy to evacuate the hematoma, identify the source of the bleeding, and restore hemostasis. Although cases in which an acute epidural hematoma rapidly and spontaneously resolves have been reported, these are extremely rare. Recurrence of an epidural hematoma despite normal blood coagulation function after its initial rapid resolution has not been reported yet. We report on this rare case of acute epidural hematoma with reference to relevant literatures.

Thoracic osteomyelitis and epidural abscess formation due to cat scratch disease: case report.

PubMed

Dornbos, David; Morin, Jocelyn; Watson, Joshua R; Pindrik, Jonathan

2016-12-01

Osteomyelitis of the spine with associated spinal epidural abscess represents an uncommon entity in the pediatric population, requiring prompt evaluation and diagnosis to prevent neurological compromise. Cat scratch disease, caused by the pathogen Bartonella henselae, encompasses a wide spectrum of clinical presentations; however, an association with osteomyelitis and epidural abscess has been reported in only 4 other instances in the literature. The authors report a rare case of multifocal thoracic osteomyelitis with an epidural abscess in a patient with a biopsy-proven pathogen of cat scratch disease. A 5-year-old girl, who initially presented with vague constitutional symptoms, was diagnosed with cat scratch disease following biopsy of an inguinal lymph node. Despite appropriate antibiotics, she presented several weeks later with recurrent symptoms and back pain. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed 2 foci of osteomyelitis at T-8 and T-11 with an associated anterior epidural abscess from T-9 to T-12. Percutaneous image-guided vertebral biopsy revealed B. henselae by polymerase chain reaction analysis, and she was treated conservatively with doxycycline and rifampin with favorable clinical outcome.

Acute Epidural Hematoma Formation in Cervical Spine After Interlaminar Epidural Steroid Injection Despite Discontinuation of Clopidogrel.

PubMed

Benyamin, Ramsin M; Vallejo, Ricardo; Wang, Victor; Kumar, Nitesh; Cedeño, David L; Tamrazi, Anobel

2016-01-01

Perioperative management of patients on anticoagulant therapy prior to interventional pain procedures creates a challenge when balancing the risk of bleeding against thromboembolic events. We report a case of epidural hematoma formation in the cervical spine following interlaminar epidural steroid injection in an elderly woman with chronic neck and arm pain, who was on clopidogrel therapy. This is the first reported case of hematoma formation immediately following an epidural steroid injection possibly associated with clopidogrel, even though established guidelines on the timing of the discontinuation of clopidogrel prior to the procedure were exceeded. Severe pain appears to be the first symptom of hematoma formation, and therefore immediate diagnostic workup and evacuation of hematoma are essential in preventing neurological damage. It may be advisable to carry out a test specific for clopidogrel such as the P2Y12 to ensure that there is no residual action on platelet aggregation function, particularly in patients who may be slow metabolizers of clopidogrel. Caution is advised prior to administering analgesics with antiplatelet effects such as ketorolac.

[Frequency of colonization and isolated bacteria from the tip of the epidural catheter implanted for postoperative analgesia].

PubMed

Stabille, Débora Miranda Diogo; Filho, Augusto Diogo; Mandim, Beatriz Lemos da Silva; Araújo, Lúcio Borges de; Mesquita, Priscila Miranda Diogo; Jorge, Miguel Tanús

2015-01-01

The increased use of epidural analgesia with catheter leads to the need to demonstrate the safety of this method and know the incidence of catheter colonization, inserted postoperatively for epidural analgesia, and the bacteria responsible for this colonization. From November 2011 to April 2012, patients electively operated and maintained under epidural catheter for postoperative analgesia were evaluated. The catheter tip was collected for semiquantitative and qualitative microbiological analysis. Of 68 cultured catheters, six tips (8.8%) had positive cultures. No patient had superficial or deep infection. The mean duration of catheter use was 43.45hours (18-118) (p=0.0894). The type of surgery (contaminated or uncontaminated), physical status of patients, and surgical time showed no relation with the colonization of catheters. Microorganisms isolated from the catheter tip were Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Sphingomonas paucimobilis. Postoperative epidural catheter analgesia, under this study conditions, was found to be low risk for bacterial colonization in patients at surgical wards. Copyright © 2014 Sociedade Brasileira de Anestesiologia. Publicado por Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

Frequency of colonization and isolated bacteria from the tip of epidural catheter implanted for postoperative analgesia.

PubMed

Stabille, Débora Miranda Diogo; Diogo Filho, Augusto; Mandim, Beatriz Lemos da Silva; de Araújo, Lúcio Borges; Mesquita, Priscila Miranda Diogo; Jorge, Miguel Tanús

2015-01-01

The increased use of epidural analgesia with catheter leads to the need to demonstrate the safety of this method and know the incidence of catheter colonization, inserted postoperatively for epidural analgesia, and the bacteria responsible for this colonization. From November 2011 to April 2012, patients electively operated and maintained under epidural catheter for postoperative analgesia were evaluated. The catheter tip was collected for semiquantitative and qualitative microbiological analysis. Of 68 cultured catheters, six tips (8.8%) had positive cultures. No patient had superficial or deep infection. The mean duration of catheter use was 43.45 h (18-118) (p=0.0894). The type of surgery (contaminated or uncontaminated), physical status of patients, and surgical time showed no relation with the colonization of catheters. Microorganisms isolated from the catheter tip were Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Sphingomonas paucimobilis. Postoperative epidural catheter analgesia, under these study conditions, was found to be low risk for bacterial colonization in patients at surgical wards. Copyright © 2014 Sociedade Brasileira de Anestesiologia. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

Upper Cervical Epidural Abscess in Clinical Practice: Diagnosis and Management

PubMed Central

Al-Hourani, Khalid; Al-Aref, Rami; Mesfin, Addisu

2015-01-01

Study Design Narrative review. Objective Upper cervical epidural abscess (UCEA) is a rare surgical emergency. Despite increasing incidence, uncertainty remains as to how it should initially be managed. Risk factors for UCEA include immunocompromised hosts, diabetes mellitus, and intravenous drug use. Our objective is to provide a comprehensive overview of the literature including the history, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and management of UCEA. Methods Using PubMed, studies published prior to 2015 were analyzed. We used the keywords “Upper cervical epidural abscess,” “C1 osteomyelitis,” “C2 osteomyelitis,” “C1 epidural abscess,” “C2 epidural abscess.” We excluded cases with tuberculosis. Results The review addresses epidemiology, etiology, imaging, microbiology, and diagnosis of this condition. We also address the nonoperative and operative management options and the relative indications for each as reviewed in the literature. Conclusion A high index of suspicion is required to diagnose this rare condition with magnetic resonance imaging being the imaging modality of choice. There has been a shift toward surgical management of this condition in recent times, with favorable outcomes. PMID:27190742

Combined spinal epidural anesthesia during colon surgery in a high-risk patient: case report.

PubMed

Imbelloni, Luiz Eduardo; Fornasari, Marcos; Fialho, José Carlos

2009-01-01

Combined spinal epidural anesthesia (CSEA) has advantages over single injection epidural or subarachnoid blockades. The objective of this report was to present a case in which segmental subarachnoid block can be an effective technique for gastrointestinal surgery with spontaneous respiration. Patient with physical status ASA III, with diabetes mellitus type II, hypertension, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was scheduled for resection of a right colon tumor. Combined spinal epidural block was performed in the T5-T6 space and 8 mg of 0.5% isobaric bupivacaine with 50 microg of morphine were injected in the subarachnoid space. The epidural catheter (20G) was introduced four centimeters in the cephalad direction. Sedation was achieved with fractionated doses of 1 mg of midazolam (total of 6 mg). A bolus of 25 mg of 0.5% bupivacaine was administered through the catheter two hours after the subarachnoid block. Vasopressors and atropine were not used. This case provides evidence that segmental spinal block can be the anesthetic technique used in gastrointestinal surgeries with spontaneous respiration.

Paraesthesia during the needle-through-needle and the double segment technique for combined spinal epidural anaesthesia.

PubMed

Ahn, H J; Choi, D H; Kim, C S

2006-07-01

Paraesthesia during regional anaesthesia is an unpleasant sensation for patients and, more importantly, in some cases it is related to neurological injury. Relatively few studies have been conducted on the frequency of paraesthesia during combined spinal epidural anaesthesia. We compared two combined spinal epidural anaesthesia techniques: the needle-through-needle technique and the double segment technique in this respect. We randomly allocated 116 parturients undergoing elective Caesarean section to receive anaesthesia using one of these techniques. Both techniques were performed using a 27G pencil point needle, an 18G Tuohy needle, and a 20G multiport epidural catheter from the same manufacturer. The overall frequency of paraesthesia was higher in the needle-through-needle technique group (56.9% vs. 31.6%, p = 0.011). The frequency of paraesthesia at spinal needle insertion was 20.7% in the needle-through-needle technique group and 8.8% in the double segment technique group; whereas the frequency of paraesthesia at epidural catheter insertion was 46.6% in the needle-through-needle technique group and 24.6% in the double segment technique group.

[Pro: Epidural Analgesia Remains the Gold Standard for Abdominal and Thoracic Surgery].

PubMed

Listing, Hannah; Pöpping, Daniel

2018-04-01

Pain relief with epidural analgesia is superior compared to systemic opioid analgesia after major abdominal and thoracic surgery. It remains a safe procedure, as long as it is embedded in a concept covering the whole perioperative period. This includes the knowledge of the anesthesiologist how to operate the process of catheter insertion as well as to treat complications like the hypotension, associated with the application of epidural local anesthetics. A close postoperative monitoring by an acute pain service team is a responsible task and should be available 24/7. Despite the low incidence of complications, their consequences could be disastrous for patients. To avoid persisting neurological damage, standardized diagnostic procedures must be established and surgical intervention should be available within six hours if necessary. Non-analgetic benefits of epidural analgesia include reduced pulmonary complications like pneumonia and lower incidences for cardiac arrhythmia. Furthermore, perioperative mortality could be decreased by epidural analgesia. These effects should be considered as "add-on". The excellent pain relief is more than enough to recommend this method. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Hodgkin Lymphoma revealed by epidural spinal cord compression.

PubMed

Ghedira, Khalil; Matar, Nidhal; Bouali, Sofiene; Zehani, Alia; Boubaker, Adnen; Jemel, Hafedh

2018-01-30

Hodgkin Lymphoma is rarely diagnosed as spinal cord compression syndrome. Caused by an epidural mass, this complication is often encountered in a late stage of the disease. We report the case of a 40-year-old man presenting with symptoms of low thoracic spinal cord compression due to an epidural tumor on the MRI. Emergent surgery was undertaken on this patient, consisting in laminectomy and tumor resection. After surgery, pain relief and mild neurological improvement were noticed. The histological study revealed a Hodgkin Lymphoma and the patient was referred to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Though chemotherapy is the gold standard treatment for Hodgkin Lymphoma, surgical spinal decompression may be required in epidural involvement of the disease. Diagnosis may be suspected in the presence of lymphadenopathy and general health decay.

Intracranial Epidural Metastases of Adrenal Pheochromocytoma: A Rare Entity.

PubMed

Boettcher, Lillian B; Abou-Al-Shaar, Hussam; Ravindra, Vijay M; Horn, Jeffrey; Palmer, Cheryl Ann; Menacho, Sarah T

2018-06-01

Pheochromocytomas are uncommon neuroendocrine tumors of the adrenal medulla. Malignant behavior is seen in approximately 10% of these lesions, evidenced by distant metastasis to sites without chromaffin tissue. Here we report a rare case of intracranial epidural metastases of an adrenal pheochromocytoma in a 24-year-old man. The patient originally presented at age 10 years with adrenal pheochromocytoma and subsequently developed extensive metastatic bone and lung disease. He was monitored in the intervening years until recent imaging demonstrated an enlarging right parietal mass. On surgical resection of the parietal lesion, the tumor was highly vascularized and confined to the epidural space. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of metastatic epidural spread of pheochromocytoma without concomitant subdural or intraparenchymal extension. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Epidural myelolipoma in a Husky-cross: a case report

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Epidural spinal myelolipoma was diagnosed in an 11.5-year-old castrated male Husky-cross that was evaluated at the veterinary teaching hospital due to progressive thoracolumbar spinal hyperaesthesia and mild proprioceptive pelvic limb ataxia. A focal, ill-defined mildly inhomogenous extradural mass lesion was detected by MRI. The dog was euthanized. At necropsy an extradurally located reddish mass of about 2.5 cm in diameter was present in the vertebral canal. The mass was identified histopathologically as an epidural myelolipoma. PMID:23557489

Clinical experiences of performing transforaminal balloon adhesiolysis in patients with failed back surgery syndrome: two cases report

PubMed Central

Hwang, Bo-Young; Ko, Hong-Seok; Suh, Jeong-Hun; Shin, Jin-Woo; Leem, Jeong-Gill

2014-01-01

Epidural fibrosis is a contributing factor to the persistent pain that is associated with failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) and other pathophysiologies, particularly as it inhibits the passage of regional medications to areas responsible for pain. Therefore, effective mechanical detachment of epidural fibrosis can contribute to pain reduction and improve function in FBSS patients. In this report, we describe the successful treatment of FBSS patients with epidural adhesiolysis using a Fogarty catheter via the transforaminal approach. PMID:24624278

Destruction of the C2 Body due to Cervical Actinomycosis: Connection between Spinal Epidural Abscess and Retropharyngeal Abscess

PubMed Central

Kim, Dong Min; Kim, Seok Won

2017-01-01

Human actinomycosis with involvement of the spine is a rare condition, with only a limited number of case reports published. To the best of our knowledge, no cases have been reported of epidural abscess causing destruction of the C2 body, bringing about a direct connection between spinal epidural and retropharyngeal abscesses. Here, we present such a case that occurred after acupuncture, and we review the relevant literature. PMID:28407707

Idiopathic epidural lipomatosis as a cause of pain and neurological symptoms attributed initially to radiation damage.

PubMed

Millwater, C J; Jacobson, I; Howard, G C

1992-09-01

Epidural lipomatosis is a rare condition in which overgrowth of extradural fat can lead to back pain, spinal cord compression and radiculopathy. A 51-year-old man developed back pain and reduced mobility following a standard course of radiotherapy for a Stage I seminoma. His symptoms and radiological appearances were initially attributed to radiation fibrosis. Further investigations and operative intervention revealed epidural lipomatosis. The excess lipomatous tissue was removed with complete resolution of his symptoms.

Assessment of epidural versus intradiscal biocompatibility of PEEK implant debris: an in vivo rabbit model.

PubMed

Hallab, Nadim J; Bao, Qi-Bin; Brown, Tim

2013-12-01

To understand the relative histopathological effects of PEEK particulate debris when applied within the epidural versus the intervertebral disc space. We hypothesized that due to the avascular nature of the intervertebral disc acting as a barrier to immune cells, the intradiscal response would be less than the epidural response. The inflammatory effects of clinically relevant doses (3 mg/5-kg rabbit) and sizes (1.15 µm diameter) of PEEK implant debris were assed when placed dry on epidural and intradiscal tissues in an in vivo rabbit model. The size of the particulate was based on wear particulate analysis of wear debris generated from simulator wear testing of PEEK spinal disc arthroplasty devices. Local and systemic gross histology was evaluated at the 3- and 6-month time points. Quantitative immunohistochemistry of local tissues was used to quantify the common inflammatory mediators TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Both treatments did not alter the normal appearance of the dura mater and vascular structures; however, limited epidural fibrosis was observed. Epidural challenge of PEEK particles resulted in a significant (30 %) increase (p < 0.007) in TNF-α and IL-1β at both 3 and 6 months compared to that of controls, and IL-6 at 6 months (p < 0.0001). Intradiscal challenge of PEEK particles resulted in a significant increase in IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α at 6-months post-challenge (p ≤ 0.03). However, overall there were only moderate increases in the relative amount of these cytokines when compared with surgical controls (10-20 %). In contrast, epidural challenge resulted in a 50-100 % increase. The results of this study are similar to past investigations of PEEK, whose results have not been shown to elicit an aggressive immune response. The degree to which these results will translate to the clinical environment remains to be established, but the pattern of subtle elevations in inflammatory cytokines indicated both a mild persistence of responses to PEEK debris, and that intradiscal implant debris will likely result in less inflammation than epidural implant debris.

A Comparison of Efficacy of Segmental Epidural Block versus Spinal Anaesthesia for Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy

PubMed Central

Nandanwar, Avinash S; Patil, Yogita; Baheti, Vidyasagar H.; Tanwar, Harshwardhan V.; Patwardhan, Sujata K.

2015-01-01

Introduction Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is done under general anaesthesia in most of the centres. Associated complications and cost are higher for general anaesthesia than for regional anaesthesia. Present study is designed to compare the efficacy of epidural block versus spinal anaesthesia with regards to intraoperative mean arterial pressure, heart rate, postoperative pain intensity, analgesic requirement, Postoperative complications and patient satisfaction in patients undergoing PCNL. Materials and Methods After taking Ethical Committee clearance, patients were randomly allocated into 2 groups using table of randomization (n= 40 each) Group E- Epidural block, Group S- Spinal block. Various parameters like intraoperative mean arterial pressure, heart rate, postoperative pain intensity, analgesic requirement, postoperative complications and patient satisfaction were studied in these groups. Statistical Analysis Quantitative data was analysed using unpaired t-test and qualitative data was analysed using chi-square test. Results Twenty four times in Epidural as compared to fifteen times in spinal anaesthesia two or more attempts required. Mean time (min) required to achieve the block of anaesthesia in group E and group S was 15.45±2.8 and 8.52±2.62 min respectively. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) at 5 min, 10 min and 15 min were significantly lower in spinal group as compared to epidural group. After 30 minutes, differences were not significant but still MAP was lower in spinal group. After 30 minutes difference in heart rate between two groups was statistically significant and higher rate recorded in spinal group till the end of 3 hours. Postoperative VAS score was significantly higher in spinal group and 4 hours onwards difference was highly significant. Postoperative Nausea Vomiting (PONV) Score was significantly higher in spinal group as compared to epidural group. Conclusion For PCNL, segmental epidural block is better than spinal anaesthesia in terms of haemodynamic stability, postoperative analgesia, patient satisfaction and reduced incidence of PONV. Epidural anaesthesia is difficult to execute and takes longer time to act as compared to spinal block which limits its use. PMID:26436021

Epidural application of spinal instrumentation particulate wear debris: a comprehensive evaluation of neurotoxicity using an in vivo animal model.

PubMed

Cunningham, Bryan W; Hallab, Nadim J; Hu, Nianbin; McAfee, Paul C

2013-09-01

The introduction and utilization of motion-preserving implant systems for spinal reconstruction served as the impetus for this basic scientific investigation. The effect of unintended wear particulate debris resulting from micromotion at spinal implant interconnections and bearing surfaces remains a clinical concern. Using an in vivo rabbit model, the current study quantified the neural and systemic histopathological responses following epidural application of 11 different types of medical-grade particulate wear debris produced from spinal instrumentation. A total of 120 New Zealand White rabbits were equally randomized into 12 groups based on implant treatment: 1) sham (control), 2) stainless steel, 3) titanium alloy, 4) cobalt chromium alloy, 5) ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPe), 6) ceramic, 7) polytetrafluoroethylene, 8) polycarbonate urethane, 9) silicone, 10) polyethylene terephthalate, 11) polyester, and 12) polyetheretherketone. The surgical procedure consisted of a midline posterior approach followed by resection of the L-6 spinous process and L5-6 ligamentum flavum, permitting interlaminar exposure of the dural sac. Four milligrams of the appropriate treatment material (Groups 2-12) was then implanted onto the dura in a dry, sterile format. All particles (average size range 0.1-50 μm in diameter) were verified to be endotoxin free prior to implantation. Five animals from each treatment group were sacrificed at 3 months and 5 were sacrificed at 6 months postoperatively. Postmortem analysis included epidural cultures and histopathological assessment of local and systemic tissue samples. Immunocytochemical analysis of the spinal cord and overlying epidural fibrosis quantified the extent of proinflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-α, tumor necrosis factor-β, interleukin [IL]-1α, IL-1β, and IL-6) and activated macrophages. Epidural cultures were negative for nearly all cases, and there was no evidence of particulate debris or significant histopathological changes in the systemic tissues. Gross histopathological examination demonstrated increased levels of epidural fibrosis in the experimental treatment groups compared with the control group. Histopathological evaluation of the epidural fibrous tissues showed evidence of a histiocytic reaction containing phagocytized inert particles and foci of local inflammatory reactions. At 3 months, immunohistochemical examination of the spinal cord and epidural tissues demonstrated upregulation of IL-6 in the groups in which metallic and UHMWPe debris were implanted (p < 0.05), while macrophage activity levels were greatest in the stainless-steel and UHMWPe groups (p < 0.05). By 6 months, the levels of activated cytokines and macrophages in nearly all experimental cases were downregulated and not significantly different from those of the operative controls (p > 0.05). The spinal cord had no evidence of lesions or neuropathology. However, multiple treatments in the metallic groups exhibited a mild, chronic macrophage response to particulate debris, which had diffused intrathecally. Epidural application of spinal instrumentation particulate wear debris elicits a chronic histiocytic reaction localized primarily within the epidural fibrosis. Particles have the capacity to diffuse intrathecally, eliciting a transient upregulation in macrophage/cytokine activity response within the epidural fibrosis. Overall, based on the time periods evaluated, there was no evidence of an acute neural or systemic histopathological response to the materials included in the current project.

Decoding continuous three-dimensional hand trajectories from epidural electrocorticographic signals in Japanese macaques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shimoda, Kentaro; Nagasaka, Yasuo; Chao, Zenas C.; Fujii, Naotaka

2012-06-01

Brain-machine interface (BMI) technology captures brain signals to enable control of prosthetic or communication devices with the goal of assisting patients who have limited or no ability to perform voluntary movements. Decoding of inherent information in brain signals to interpret the user's intention is one of main approaches for developing BMI technology. Subdural electrocorticography (sECoG)-based decoding provides good accuracy, but surgical complications are one of the major concerns for this approach to be applied in BMIs. In contrast, epidural electrocorticography (eECoG) is less invasive, thus it is theoretically more suitable for long-term implementation, although it is unclear whether eECoG signals carry sufficient information for decoding natural movements. We successfully decoded continuous three-dimensional hand trajectories from eECoG signals in Japanese macaques. A steady quantity of information of continuous hand movements could be acquired from the decoding system for at least several months, and a decoding model could be used for ˜10 days without significant degradation in accuracy or recalibration. The correlation coefficients between observed and predicted trajectories were lower than those for sECoG-based decoding experiments we previously reported, owing to a greater degree of chewing artifacts in eECoG-based decoding than is found in sECoG-based decoding. As one of the safest invasive recording methods available, eECoG provides an acceptable level of performance. With the ease of replacement and upgrades, eECoG systems could become the first-choice interface for real-life BMI applications.

The association between incentive spirometry performance and pain in postoperative thoracic epidural analgesia.

PubMed

Harris, David J; Hilliard, Paul E; Jewell, Elizabeth S; Brummett, Chad M

2015-01-01

Effective use of postoperative incentive spirometry improves patient outcomes but is limited by pain after thoracic and upper abdominal surgery. Thoracic epidurals are frequently used to provide analgesia and attenuate postoperative pulmonary dysfunction. We hypothesized that, in patients with thoracic epidurals for thoracic and abdominal surgery, high pain scores would be associated with poorer incentive spirometry performance, even when accounting for other variables. Retrospective study of 468 patients who underwent upper abdominal or thoracic surgery using postoperative thoracic epidural analgesia between June 1, 2009, and August 31, 2013, at a single tertiary academic center. The association between incentive spirometry performance and pain was assessed as the primary outcome. Other independent predictors of incentive spirometry performance were also identified. Postoperative incentive spirometry performance was found to be inversely proportional to pain score, which correlated significantly stronger with deep breathing pain compared with pain at rest (-0.33 vs -0.14 on postoperative day 1; -0.23 vs -0.12 on postoperative day 2). Pain with deep breathing was independently associated with poorer incentive spirometry performance in the multivariable linear regression model (P < 0.0001), as was increasing age, female sex, thoracic surgery, and higher American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status score. The present study suggests that pain with deep breathing is more indicative of thoracic epidural efficacy than is pain at rest. Furthermore, incentive spirometry performance could be used as another indicator of thoracic epidural efficacy. This may be particularly useful in patients reporting high pain scores postoperatively.

Pediatric Spinal Epidural Lymphoma Presenting with Compressive Myelopathy: A Distinct Pattern of Disease Presentation.

PubMed

Dho, Yun-Sik; Kim, Hyoungmin; Wang, Kyu-Chang; Kim, Seung-Ki; Lee, Ji Yeoun; Shin, Hee Young; Park, Kyung Duk; Kang, Hyoung Jin; Kim, Il Han; Park, Sung-Hye; Phi, Ji Hoon

2018-06-01

Spinal epidural lymphoma with compressive myelopathy is a rarely found condition. The aims of this study are to describe the clinical features and to analyze its treatment outcome and prognostic factors. We searched for all pediatric patients with newly diagnosed spinal epidural lymphoma from 1999 to 2014 in our institution. We evaluated the clinical features, including neurologic status, time interval to treatment, treatment modality, and outcomes. Twelve of 302 pediatric patients with lymphoma (4.0%) presented with compressive myelopathy, and they were all found to have spinal epidural lymphoma. In 11 patients, epidural space was the only site of lymphoma involvement. The median age was 9 years (range, 5-15 years). Common initial symptoms were back pain and low extremity weakness. Surgery was performed on 9 patients, biopsy on 2 patients, and radiation therapy on 1 patient. In 9 patients who received surgery, 6 patients with preoperative motor power grade ≥II attained improvement in weakness. Three patients with preoperative motor power grade

Effects of epidural lidocaine analgesia on labor and delivery: A randomized, prospective, controlled trial

PubMed Central

Nafisi, Shahram

2006-01-01

Background Whether epidural analgesia for labor prolongs the active-first and second labor stages and increases the risk of vacuum-assisted delivery is a controversial topic. Our study was conducted to answer the question: does lumbar epidural analgesia with lidocaine affect the progress of labor in our obstetric population? Method 395 healthy, nulliparous women, at term, presented in spontaneous labor with a singleton vertex presentation. These patients were randomized to receive analgesia either, epidural with bolus doses of 1% lidocaine or intravenous, with meperidine 25 to 50 mg when their cervix was dilated to 4 centimeters. The duration of the active-first and second stages of labor and the neonatal apgar scores were recorded, in each patient. The total number of vacuum-assisted and cesarean deliveries were also measured. Results 197 women were randomized to the epidural group. 198 women were randomized to the single-dose intravenous meperidine group. There was no statistical difference in rates of vacuum-assisted delivery rate. Cesarean deliveries, as a consequence of fetal bradycardia or dystocia, did not differ significantly between the groups. Differences in the duration of the active-first and the second stages of labor were not statistically significant. The number of newborns with 1-min and 5-min Apgar scores less than 7, did not differ significantly between both analgesia groups. Conclusion Epidural analgesia with 1% lidocaine does not prolong the active-first and second stages of labor and does not increase vacuum-assisted or cesarean delivery rate. PMID:17176461

Epidural anesthesia and postoperatory analgesia with alpha-2 adrenergic agonists and lidocaine for ovariohysterectomy in bitches

PubMed Central

Pohl, Virgínia H.; Carregaro, Adriano B.; Lopes, Carlize; Gehrcke, Martielo I.; Muller, Daniel C.M.; Garlet, Clarissa D.

2012-01-01

The aim of this study was to determine the viability and cardiorespiratory effects of the association of epidural alpha-2 adrenergic agonists and lidocaine for ovariohysterectomy (OH) in bitches. Forty-two bitches were spayed under epidural anesthesia with 2.5 mg/kg body weight (BW) of 1% lidocaine with adrenaline (CON) or in association with 0.25 mg/kg BW of xylazine (XYL), 10 μg/kg BW of romifidine (ROM), 30 μg/kg BW of detomidine (DET), 2 μg/kg BW of dexmedetomidine (DEX), or 5 μg/kg BW of clonidine (CLO). Heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (fR) and arterial pressures were monitored immediately before and every 10 min after the epidural procedure. Blood gas and pH analysis were done before, and at 30 and 60 min after the epidural procedure. Animals were submitted to isoflurane anesthesia if they presented a slightest sign of discomfort during the procedure. Time of sensory epidural block and postoperative analgesia were evaluated. All animals in CON and DEX, 5 animals in ROM and CLO, 4 animals in XYL, and 3 in DET required supplementary isoflurane. All groups, except CLO, showed a decrease in HR. There was an increase in arterial pressures in all groups. Postoperative analgesia lasted the longest in XYL. None of the protocols were totally efficient to perform the complete procedure of OH; however, xylazine provided longer postoperative analgesia than the others. PMID:23277701

Spinal cord ischemia following thoracotomy without epidural anesthesia.

PubMed

Raz, Aeyal; Avramovich, Aharon; Saraf-Lavi, Efrat; Saute, Milton; Eidelman, Leonid A

2006-06-01

Paraplegia is an uncommon yet devastating complication following thoracotomy, usually caused by compression or ischemia of the spinal cord. Ischemia without compression may be a result of global ischemia, vascular injury and other causes. Epidural anesthesia has been implicated as a major cause. This report highlights the fact that perioperative cord ischemia and paraplegia may be unrelated to epidural intervention. A 71-yr-old woman was admitted for a left upper lobectomy for resection of a non-small cell carcinoma of the lung. The patient refused epidural catheter placement and underwent a left T5-6 thoracotomy under general anesthesia. During surgery, she was hemodynamically stable and good oxygen saturation was maintained. Several hours following surgery the patient complained of loss of sensation in her legs. Neurological examination disclosed a complete motor and sensory block at the T5-6 level. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed spinal cord ischemia. The patient received iv steroid treatment, but remained paraplegic. Five months following the surgery there was only partial improvement in her motor symptoms. A follow-up MRI study was consistent with a diagnosis of spinal cord ischemia. In this case of paraplegia following thoracic surgery for lung resection, epidural anesthesia/analgesia was not used. The MRI demonstrated evidence of spinal cord ischemia, and no evidence of cord compression. This case highlights that etiologies other than epidural intervention, such as injury to the spinal segmental arteries during thoracotomy, should be considered as potential causes of cord ischemia and resultant paraplegia in this surgical population.

Cervical spinal epidural arteriovenous fistula with coexisting spinal anterior spinal artery aneurysm presenting as subarachnoid hemorrhage--case report.

PubMed

Nakagawa, Ichiro; Park, Hun-Soo; Hironaka, Yasuo; Wada, Takeshi; Kichikawa, Kimihiko; Nakase, Hiroyuki

2014-01-01

Hemorrhagic presentation of spinal epidural arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) is rare in patients with cervical spinal vascular lesions. The present report describes a patient with cervical spine epidural AVFs associated with anterior spinal artery aneurysm at the same vertebral level presenting with subarachnoid hemorrhage. A 54-year-old man presented with sudden onset of headache. Computed tomography of the head showed subarachnoid hemorrhage. Diagnostic angiography revealed an epidural AVF located at the C1-2 level that was fed mainly by the dorsal somatic branches of the segmental arteries from the radicular artery and anterior spinal artery. This AVF drained only into the epidural veins without perimedullary venous reflux. Further, there was a 4-mm anterior spinal artery aneurysm in the vicinity of the fistula that was thought to be the cause of the hemorrhage. Endovascular transarterial fistulas embolization from the right radicular artery was performed to eliminate the AVF and to reduce hemodynamic stress on the aneurysm. No new symptoms developed after the treatment and discharged without neurological deficits. The aneurysm was noted to be reduced in size after the treatment and totally disappeared by 1 year later, according to follow-up angiography. Anterior spinal artery aneurysm from a separate vascular distribution may coexist with spinal epidural AVFs. In the setting of spinal subarachnoid hemorrhage, comprehensive imaging is indicated to rule out such lesions. Copyright © 2014 National Stroke Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Early versus late initiation of epidural analgesia for labour.

PubMed

Sng, Ban Leong; Leong, Wan Ling; Zeng, Yanzhi; Siddiqui, Fahad Javaid; Assam, Pryseley N; Lim, Yvonne; Chan, Edwin S Y; Sia, Alex T

2014-10-09

Pain during childbirth is arguably the most severe pain some women may experience in their lifetime. Epidural analgesia is an effective form of pain relief during labour. Many women have concerns regarding its safety. Furthermore, epidural services and anaesthetic support may not be available consistently across all centres. Observational data suggest that early initiation of epidural may be associated with an increased risk of caesarean section, but the same findings were not seen in recent randomised controlled trials. More recent guidelines suggest that in the absence of a medical contraindication, maternal request is a sufficient medical indication for pain relief during labour. The choice of analgesic technique, agent, and dosage is based on many factors, including patient preference, medical status, and contraindications. There is no systematically reviewed evidence on the maternal and foetal outcomes and safety of this practice. This systematic review aimed to summarise the effectiveness and safety of early initiation versus late initiation of epidural analgesia in women. We considered the obstetric and fetal outcomes relevant to women and side effects of the treatments, including risk of caesarean section, instrumental birth and time to birth. We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (12 February 2014), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library 2014, Issue 1), MEDLINE (January 1966 to February 2014), Embase (January 1980 to February 2014) and reference lists of retrieved studies. We included all randomised controlled trials involving women undergoing epidural labour analgesia that compared early initiation versus late initiation of epidural labour analgesia. Two review authors independently assessed trials for inclusion, extracted the data and assessed the trial quality. Data were checked for accuracy. We included nine studies with a total of 15,752 women.The overall risk of bias of the studies was low, with the exception of performance bias (blinding of participants and personnel).The nine studies showed no clinically meaningful difference in risk of caesarean section with early initiation versus late initiation of epidural analgesia for labour (risk ratio (RR) 1.02; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.96 to 1.08, nine studies, 15,499 women, high quality evidence). There was no clinically meaningful difference in risk of instrumental birth with early initiation versus late initiation of epidural analgesia for labour (RR 0.93; 95% CI 0.86 to 1.01, eight studies, 15,379 women, high quality evidence). The duration of second stage of labour showed no clinically meaningful difference between early initiation and late initiation of epidural analgesia (mean difference (MD) -3.22 minutes; 95% CI -6.71 to 0.27, eight studies, 14,982 women, high quality evidence). There was significant heterogeneity in the duration of first stage of labour and the data were not pooled.There was no clinically meaningful difference in Apgar scores less than seven at one minute (RR 0.96; 95% CI 0.84 to 1.10, seven studies, 14,924 women, high quality evidence). There was no clinically meaningful difference in Apgar scores less than seven at five minutes (RR 0.96; 95% CI 0.69 to 1.33, seven studies, 14,924 women, high quality evidence). There was no clinically meaningful difference in umbilical arterial pH between early initiation and late initiation (MD 0.01; 95% CI -0.01 to 0.03, four studies, 14,004 women, high quality evidence). There was no clinically meaningful difference in umbilical venous pH favouring early initiation (MD 0.01; 95% CI -0.00 to 0.02, four studies, 14,004 women, moderate quality evidence). There is predominantly high-quality evidence that early or late initiation of epidural analgesia for labour have similar effects on all measured outcomes. However, various forms of alternative pain relief were given to women who were allocated to delayed epidurals to cover that period of delay, so that is it hard to assess the outcomes clearly. We conclude that for first time mothers in labour who request epidurals for pain relief, it would appear that the time to initiate epidural analgesia is dependent upon women's requests.

A Randomized Comparison Between Conventional and Waveform-Confirmed Loss of Resistance for Thoracic Epidural Blocks.

PubMed

Arnuntasupakul, Vanlapa; Van Zundert, Tom C R V; Vijitpavan, Amorn; Aliste, Julian; Engsusophon, Phatthanaphol; Leurcharusmee, Prangmalee; Ah-Kye, Sonia; Finlayson, Roderick J; Tran, De Q H

2016-01-01

Epidural waveform analysis (EWA) provides a simple confirmatory adjunct for loss of resistance (LOR): when the needle tip is correctly positioned inside the epidural space, pressure measurement results in a pulsatile waveform. In this randomized trial, we compared conventional and EWA-confirmed LOR in 2 teaching centers. Our research hypothesis was that EWA-confirmed LOR would decrease the failure rate of thoracic epidural blocks. One hundred patients undergoing thoracic epidural blocks for thoracic surgery, abdominal surgery, or rib fractures were randomized to conventional LOR or EWA-LOR. The operator was allowed as many attempts as necessary to achieve a satisfactory LOR (by feel) in the conventional group. In the EWA-LOR group, LOR was confirmed by connecting the epidural needle to a pressure transducer using a rigid extension tubing. Positive waveforms indicated that the needle tip was positioned inside the epidural space. The operator was allowed a maximum of 3 different intervertebral levels to obtain a positive waveform. If waveforms were still absent at the third level, the operator simply accepted LOR as the technical end point. However, the patient was retained in the EWA-LOR group (intent-to-treat analysis).After achieving a satisfactory tactile LOR (conventional group), positive waveforms (EWA-LOR group), or a third intervertebral level with LOR but no waveform (EWA-LOR group), the operator administered a 4-mL test dose of lidocaine 2% with epinephrine 5 μg/mL. Fifteen minutes after the test dose, a blinded investigator assessed the patient for sensory block to ice. Compared with LOR, EWA-LOR resulted in a lower rate of primary failure (2% vs 24%; P = 0.002). Subgroup analysis based on experience level reveals that EWA-LOR outperformed conventional LOR for novice (P = 0.001) but not expert operators. The performance time was longer in the EWA-LOR group (11.2 ± 6.2 vs 8.0 ± 4.6 minutes; P = 0.006). Both groups were comparable in terms of operator's level of expertise, depth of the epidural space, approach, and LOR medium. In the EWA-LOR group, operators obtained a pulsatile waveform with the first level attempted in 60% of patients. However, 40% of subjects required performance at a second or third level. Compared with its conventional counterpart, EWA-confirmed LOR results in a lower failure rate for thoracic epidural blocks (2% vs 24%) in our teaching centers. Confirmatory EWA provides significant benefits for inexperienced operators.

Mitomycin C, 5-fluorouracil, and cyclosporin A prevent epidural fibrosis in an experimental laminectomy model.

PubMed

Yildiz, Kartal Hakan; Gezen, Ferruh; Is, Merih; Cukur, Selma; Dosoglu, Murat

2007-09-01

This study examined the preventive effects of the local application of mitomycin C (MMC), 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), and cyclosporine A (CsA) in minimizing spinal epidural fibrosis in a rat laminectomy model. Thirty-two 2-year-old male Wistar albino rats, each weighing 400 +/- 50 g, were divided into four equal groups: sham, MMC, 5-FU, and CsA. Each rat underwent laminectomy at the L5-L6 lumbar level. Cotton pads (4 x 4 mm2) soaked with MMC (0.5 mg/ml), 5-FU (5 ml/mg), or CsA (5 mg/ml) were placed on the exposed dura for 5 min. Thirty days after surgery, the rats were killed and the epidural fibrosis, fibroblast density, inflammatory cell density, and arachnoid fibrosis were quantified. The epidural and arachnoid fibroses were reduced significantly in the treatment groups compared to the sham group. Fibroblast cell density and inflammatory cell density were decreased significantly in the MMC and 5-FU groups, but were similar in the sham and CsA groups. The decreased rate of epidural fibrosis was promising. Further studies in humans are needed to determine the short- and long-term complications of the agents used here.

Spinal epidural abscess: Report on 27 cases

PubMed Central

Khursheed, Nayil; Dar, Sultan; Ramzan, Altaf; Fomda, Bashir; Humam, Nisar; Abrar, Wani; Singh, Sarbjit; Sajad, Arif; Mahek, Masood; Yawar, Shoaib

2017-01-01

Background: Spinal epidural abscess, although an uncommon disease, often correlates with a high morbidity owing to significant delay in diagnosis. Methods: In a prospective 5-year study, the clinical and magnetic resonance (MR) findings, treatment protocols, microbiology, and neurological outcomes were analyzed for 27 patients with spinal epidural abscess. Results: Patients were typically middle-aged with underlying diabetes and presented with lumbar abscesses. Those undergoing surgical intervention >36 h after the onset of symptoms had poor neurological outcomes. Conclusion: Early recognition and timely evacuation of spinal abscesses minimized neurological morbidity and potential mortality. PMID:29026676

Spinal epidural abscess: Report on 27 cases.

PubMed

Khursheed, Nayil; Dar, Sultan; Ramzan, Altaf; Fomda, Bashir; Humam, Nisar; Abrar, Wani; Singh, Sarbjit; Sajad, Arif; Mahek, Masood; Yawar, Shoaib

2017-01-01

Spinal epidural abscess, although an uncommon disease, often correlates with a high morbidity owing to significant delay in diagnosis. In a prospective 5-year study, the clinical and magnetic resonance (MR) findings, treatment protocols, microbiology, and neurological outcomes were analyzed for 27 patients with spinal epidural abscess. Patients were typically middle-aged with underlying diabetes and presented with lumbar abscesses. Those undergoing surgical intervention >36 h after the onset of symptoms had poor neurological outcomes. Early recognition and timely evacuation of spinal abscesses minimized neurological morbidity and potential mortality.

Spontaneous Rapid Resolution of Acute Epidural Hematoma in Childhood

PubMed Central

Gülşen, Ismail; Ak, Hakan; Sösüncü, Enver; Yavuz, Alpaslan; Kiymaz, Nejmi

2013-01-01

Acute epidural hematoma is a critical emergency all around the world, and its aggressive diagnosis and treatment are of vital importance. Emergent surgical evacuation of the hematoma is known as standard management; however, conservative procedures are also used for small ones. Spontaneous rapid resolution of these hematomas has also been reported in eight pediatric cases. Various theories have been proposed to explain the underlying pathophysiology of this resolution. Herein, we are reporting a new pediatric case with spontaneously resolving acute epidural hematoma 12 hours after admission to the emergency room. PMID:24489555

A 5-Year Audit of Accidental Dural Punctures, Postdural Puncture Headaches, and Failed Regional Anesthetics at a Tertiary-Care Medical Center

PubMed Central

Singh, Sukhdip; Chaudry, Shagufta Y.; Phelps, Amy L.; Vallejo, Manuel C

2009-01-01

Obstetric anesthesia-related complications occur as a result of labor epidural or spinal placement. The purpose of this continuous quality-improvement audit was to review the occurrence of accidental dural punctures (ADPs), postdural puncture headaches (PDPHs), and failed regional anesthetics at an academic tertiary-care medical center over a 5-year period. Obstetric anesthesia complications contained in three databases consisting of ADPs, PDPHs, and failed regional anesthetics were matched to a perinatal database, with no complications serving as controls. Of the 40,894 consecutive parturients, there were 765 documented complications. Complication rates were 0.73% (95% CI: 0.65–0.82) for ADP, 0.49% (95% CI: 0.43–0.56) for PDPH, and 0.65% (95% CI: 0.57–0.73) for failed regional anesthetic. When compared to the no complication group, factors associated with obstetric anesthesia complications included increased weight and BMI (p < 0.01), epidural block (p < 0.01), and vaginal delivery (p< 0.01). PMID:19649510

Assessing the Agreement Between Radiologic and Clinical Measurements of Lumbar and Cervical Epidural Depths in Patients Undergoing Prone Interlaminar Epidural Steroid Injection.

PubMed

Jones, James Harvey; Singh, Naileshni; Nidecker, Anna; Li, Chin-Shang; Fishman, Scott

2017-05-01

Fluoroscopy-guided epidural steroid injection (ESI) commonly is performed to treat radicular pain yet can lead to adverse events if the needle is not advanced with precision. Accurate preoperative assessment of the distance from the skin to the epidural space holds the potential for reducing the risks of adverse effects from ESI. It was hypothesized that the distance from the skin to the epidural space as measured on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) would agree with the distance traveled by a Tuohy needle to reach the epidural space during midline, interlaminar ESI. This study compared the final needle depth measurement at the point of loss of resistance (LOR) from cervical or lumbar ESI to the distance from the skin to the anterior and posterior borders of the epidural space on the associated cervical and lumbar preoperative MRI. This retrospective chart review analyzed the procedure notes, MRI, and demographic data of patients who received a prone, interlaminar ESI at an outpatient chronic pain clinic between June 1, 2013, and June 1, 2015. The following data were collected: body mass index (BMI), age, sex, intervertebral level of the ESI, and LOR depth. We then measured the distance from the skin surface to the anterior border of the ligamentum flavum (ligamentum flavum depth [LFD]) and dura (dura depth [DD]) on MRI. A total of 335 patients were categorized into the following patient subgroups: age ≥65 years, age <65 years, BMI ≥30 kg/m (obese), BMI <30 kg/m (nonobese), male, and female. Secondary analyses were then performed to compare the agreement between LOR depth and DD with that between LOR depth and LFD within each patient subgroup. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland-Altman plot were used to assess the agreement between DD or LFD and LOR depth. Data from 335 ESIs were analyzed, including 147 cervical ESIs and 188 lumbar ESIs. Estimated ICC values for the agreement between LOR depth and LFD for all lumbar and cervical measurements were 0.88 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.85-0.91) and 0.72 (95% CI, 0.64-0.79), respectively. Estimated ICC values for the agreement between LOR depth and DD for all lumbar and cervical measurements were 0.86 (95% CI, 0.82-0.89) and 0.69 (95% CI, 0.60-0.77), respectively. This study assessed the agreement between MRI-derived measurements of epidural depth and those determined clinically. MRI-derived measurements from the skin to the anterior border of the ligamentum flavum, which represents the most posterior aspect of the epidural space, revealed stronger agreement with LOR depths than did measurements to the dura or the most anterior aspect of the epidural space. These results require further analysis and refinement before supporting clinical application.

Do cervical epidural injections provide long-term relief in neck and upper extremity pain? A systematic review.

PubMed

Manchikanti, Laxmaiah; Nampiaparampil, Devi E; Candido, Kenneth D; Bakshi, Sanjay; Grider, Jay S; Falco, Frank J E; Sehgal, Nalini; Hirsch, Joshua A

2015-01-01

The high prevalence of chronic persistent neck pain not only leads to disability but also has a significant economic, societal, and health impact. Among multiple modalities of treatments prescribed in the management of neck and upper extremity pain, surgical, interventional and conservative modalities have been described. Cervical epidural injections are also common modalities of treatments provided in managing neck and upper extremity pain. They are administered by either an interlaminar approach or transforaminal approach. To determine the long-term efficacy of cervical interlaminar and transforaminal epidural injections in the treatment of cervical disc herniation, spinal stenosis, discogenic pain without facet joint pain, and post surgery syndrome. The literature search was performed from 1966 to October 2014 utilizing data from PubMed, Cochrane Library, US National Guideline Clearinghouse, previous systematic reviews, and cross-references. The evidence was assessed based on best evidence synthesis with Level I to Level V. There were 7 manuscripts meeting inclusion criteria. Of these, 4 assessed the role of interlaminar epidural injections for managing disc herniation or radiculitis, and 3 assessed these injections for managing central spinal stenosis, discogenic pain without facet joint pain, and post surgery syndrome. There were 4 high quality manuscripts. A qualitative synthesis of evidence showed there is Level II evidence for each etiology category. The evidence is based on one relevant, high quality trial supporting the efficacy of cervical interlaminar epidural injections for each particular etiology. There were no randomized trials available assessing the efficacy of cervical transforaminal epidural injections. Paucity of available literature, specifically conditions other than disc herniation. This systematic review with qualitative best evidence synthesis shows Level II evidence for the efficacy of cervical interlaminar epidural injections with local anesthetic with or without steroids, based on at least one high-quality relevant randomized control trial in each category for disc herniation, discogenic pain without facet joint pain, central spinal stenosis, and post surgery syndrome.

Sustained Local Release of Methylprednisolone From a Thiol-Acrylate Poly(Ethylene Glycol) Hydrogel for Treating Chronic Compressive Radicular Pain.

PubMed

Slotkin, Jonathan R; Ness, Jennifer K; Snyder, Kristin M; Skiles, Amanda A; Woodard, Eric J; OʼShea, Timothy; Layer, Rick T; Aimetti, Alex A; Toms, Steven A; Langer, Robert; Tapinos, Nikos

2016-04-01

A preclinical animal model of chronic ligation of the sciatic nerve was used to compare the effectiveness of a slow-release hydrogel carrying methylprednisolone to methylprednisolone injection alone, which simulates the current standard of care for chronic compressive radiculopathy (CR). To extend the short-term benefits of steroid injections by using a nonswelling, biodegradable hydrogel as carrier to locally release methylprednisolone in a regulated and sustained way at the site of nerve compression. CR affects millions worldwide annually, and is a cause of costly disability with significant societal impact. Currently, a leading nonsurgical therapy involves epidural injection of steroids to temporarily alleviate the pain associated with CR. However, an effective way to extend the short-term effect of steroid treatment to address the chronic component of CR does not exist. We induced chronic compression injury of the sciatic nerves of rats by permanent ligation. Forty-eight hours later we injected our methylprednisolone infused hydrogel and assessed the effectiveness of our treatment for 4 weeks. We quantified mechanical hyperalgesia using a Dynamic Plantar Aesthesiometer (Ugo Basile, Stoelting Co., IL, USA), whereas gait analysis was conducted using the Catwalk automated gait analysis platform (Noldus, Leesburg, VA, USA). Macrophage staining was performed with immunohistochemistry and quantification of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 in sciatic nerve lysates was performed with multiplex immunoassay using a SECTOR Imager 2400A (Meso Scale Discovery, Rockville, MA, USA). We demonstrate that using the hydrogel to deliver methylprednisolone results in significant (P < 0.05) reduction of hyperalgesia and improvement in the gait pattern of animals with chronic lesions as compared with animals treated with steroid alone. In addition, animals treated with hydrogel plus steroid showed significant reduction in the number of infiltrating macrophages at the sciatic nerve and reduced expression of the neuroinflammatory chemokine monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (P < 0.05). Use of hydrogels as carriers for sustained local release of steroids provides significantly better control of pain in an animal model of chronic CR. Our steroid-infused hydrogel could be an effective extender of the short-term benefits of epidural steroid injections for patients with chronic compression-induced radicular pain. N/A.

How I teach evidence-based epidural information in a hospital and keep my job.

PubMed

Tumblin, Ann

2007-01-01

A childbirth educator reveals her dilemma in teaching evidence-based practice in today's high-tech birth climate. She focuses on strategies to use when sharing epidural information with expectant parents.

Update on modern neuraxial analgesia in labour: a review of the literature of the last 5 years.

PubMed

Loubert, C; Hinova, A; Fernando, R

2011-03-01

Several strategies and alternative therapies have been used to provide analgesia for labour pain. Over the last few years, a number of improvements have enhanced the efficacy and safety of neuraxial analgesia and ultimately have improved mothers' satisfaction with their birth experience. As labour analgesia is a field of obstetric anaesthesia that is rapidly evolving, this review is an update, from a clinical point of view, of developments over the last 5-7 years. We discuss advantages and controversies related to combined spinal-epidural analgesia, patient controlled epidural analgesia and the integration of computer systems into analgesic modalities. We also review the recent literature on future clinical and research perspectives including ultrasound guided neuraxial block placement, epidural adjuvants and pharmacogenetics. We finally look at the latest work with regards to epidural analgesia and breastfeeding. © 2011 The Authors. Anaesthesia © 2011 The Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland.

Effect of transforaminal epidural polydeoxyribonucleotide injections on lumbosacral radiculopathy: A case report.

PubMed

Kang, Keum Nae; Kim, Tae Woong; Koh, Jin Woo; Oh, Han Byeol; Mun, Jong-Uk; Seo, Mi Sook; Kim, Young Uk

2017-06-01

Transforaminal epidural glucocorticoids administration is widely performed for the management of lumbosacral radiculopathy. However, it may worsen the condition of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) was recently noted as a substitute for glucocorticoids. A 44-year-old male patient was admitted to our pain clinic with symptoms of low back pain with severe pain and tingling sensation of left posterolateral leg. He had type 2 DM medicated with Glimepiride and Metformin. Blood glucose level was 367 mg/dL. He declined to use glucocorticoid. He was diagnosed as left foraminal disc protrusion at L4-5, left subarticular disc protrusion at L5-S1. Fluoroscopically guided transforaminal epidural PDRN injections were carried out. The patient was followed up for more than 6 months and demonstrated good improvement in lumbosacral radiculopathy without any complications. This is the first successful report on epidural injection of PDRN.

Bacterial infection in deep paraspinal muscles in a parturient following epidural analgesia.

PubMed

Yang, Ying-Wei; Chen, Wei-Ting; Chen, Jui-Yuan; Lee, She-Chin; Chang, Yi; Wen, Yeong-Ray

2011-06-01

We report a case of paraspinal muscle infection shortly after epidural analgesia for labor pain in a nulliparous parturient who was subjected to emergent Cesarean section because of fetal distress. Epidural morphine was administered for 3 days for postoperative pain control. She began to have constant lower back pain on postpartum Day 4. Magnetic resonance image study revealed a broad area of subcutaneous edema with a continuum along the catheter trajectory deep to the paraspinal muscles. An injection-related bacterial infection was suspected; the patient was treated with intravenous antibiotics and was soon cured uncomplicatedly. Epidural analgesia is effective to control labor pain and, in general, it is safe. However, the sequelae of complicated infection may be underestimated. We herein report a case complicated by iatrogenic infection, discuss the causes, and give suggestions for prevention. Copyright © 2011. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Risk factors for failed reactivation of a labor epidural for postpartum tubal ligation: a prospective, observational study.

PubMed

Powell, Mark F; Wellons, Douglas D; Tran, Steve F; Zimmerman, John M; Frölich, Michael A

2016-12-01

To determine specific risk factors that increase the failure rate of labor epidurals reactivated for use as a surgical block for postpartum tubal ligation. Prospective, observational study. Labor and delivery suite and operating rooms at the Women and Infants Center. One hundred patients undergoing postpartum tubal ligation with an existing labor epidural that is documented to be within 2 cm of initial placement. Body mass index, patient satisfaction with her epidural during labor and delivery, time from delivery to reactivation for tubal ligation, depth to loss of resistance, and the need for top-ups during labor were recorded preoperatively. Failure to reactivate was recorded and defined as any patient that (1) did not achieve a T 6 level to pinprick, (2) had perceived pain (pain score >3) that required administration of an intravenous opioid or local anesthetic infiltration, or (3) required conversion to general anesthesia. The overall success rate of reactivation was 78%. Significant risk factors for failure to reactivate were (1) poor patient satisfaction (P = .016), (2) increased time from delivery to reactivation (P = .044), and (3) the need for top-ups during labor and delivery (P = .032). Poor satisfaction score of the epidural during labor and delivery, increasing time from delivery to epidural reactivation for tubal ligation, and the need for top-ups during labor and delivery increase the incidence of reactivation failure. No correlation was found with body mass index or loss of resistance and failure to reactivate. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A randomized clinical trial of intrathecal magnesium sulfate versus midazolam with epidural administration of 0.75% ropivacaine for patients with preeclampsia scheduled for elective cesarean section.

PubMed

Paleti, Sophia; Prasad, P Krishna; Lakshmi, B Sowbhagya

2018-01-01

Magnesium sulfate and midazolam have been used as adjuvants to local anesthetics via intrathecal and epidural routes to augment the quality of block and prolong postoperative analgesia. This study compares addition of intrathecal magnesium sulfate versus intrathecal midazolam to epidurally administered isobaric ropivacaine as a part of combined spinal epidural technique in pre-eclamptic parturients undergoing elective cesarean section. After institutional ethics committee approval and written informed consent, 50 pre-eclamptic parturients were randomly allocated to one of the two groups of 25 each to either receive intrathecal magnesium sulfate (50 mg) or intrathecal midazolam (1 mg) in combination with epidural ropivacaine (0.75%; 14-16 ml). The onset and duration of sensory and motor blockade, duration of postoperative analgesia, postoperative visual analogue scores for pain, and perioperative side effects were noted. Data were analyzed statistically using Graphpad.com software. Onset times to sensory and motor blockade were faster in midazolam than in magnesium group ( P < 0.01). Duration of sensory and motor blockade, and time to first request of analgesia were significantly longer in the magnesium group compared to the midazolam group ( P < 0.01). The fetal outcomes according to APGAR scores were comparable in both the groups, the median APGAR score at 1 minute was 8 and at 5 minutes was 10 in both the groups. Intrathecal magnesium with epidural ropivacaine significantly prolonged postoperative analgesia compared to intrathecal midazolam without any complications. Perioperative hemodynamics were comparable in both groups.

Evaluation of Spinal and Epidural Anaesthesia for Day Care Surgery in Lower Limb and Inguinoscrotal Region

PubMed Central

Gupta, Asha; Kaur, Sarabjit; Khetarpal, Ranjana; Kaur, Haramritpal

2011-01-01

Background: Day care surgery is still in its infancy in India. Both regional and general anaesthesia can be used for this. Central neuraxial blocks are simple cheap and easy to perform. This study was done to evaluate usefulness of spinal and epidural anaesthesia for day care surgery. Patients & Method: 100 patients were randomized to either spinal (n=50) or epidural (n=50) group anaesthetized with either 0.5% hyperbaric 2ml bupivacaine or 0.5% 20ml bupivacaine respectively. In spinal group 27 gauze quincke needle and in epidural group 18 gazue tuohy needle was used. Both the groups were compared for haemodynamic stability, side effects, complications, postanaesthesia discharge score (PADS), time taken to micturate, total duration of stay in hospital and patient satisfaction score for technique. Results: We observed that spinal anaesthesia had significantly early onset of anaesthesia and better muscle relaxation (p<0.05) as compared to epidural block otherwise both groups were comparable for haemodynamic stability, side effects or complications. Although more patients in spinal group (64% vs 48%) achieved PADS earlier (in 4-8 hours) but statistically it was insignificant. Time to micturition (6.02 0.55 v/s 6.03 0.47 hours) and total duration of stay (7.49 1.36 v/s 8.03 1.33 hours) were comparable in both the groups. Conclusion: Both spinal and epidural anaesthesia can be used for day care surgery. Spinal anaesthesia with 27 gauze quincke needle and 2ml 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine provides added advantage of early onset and complete relaxation. PMID:21804709

Breast-feeding problems after epidural analgesia for labour: a retrospective cohort study of pain, obstetrical procedures and breast-feeding practices.

PubMed

Volmanen, P; Valanne, J; Alahuhta, S

2004-01-01

Various clinical practices have been found to be associated with breast-feeding problems. However, little is known about the effect of pain, obstetrical procedures and analgesia on breast-feeding behaviour. We designed a retrospective study with a questionnaire concerning pain, obstetrical procedures and breast-feeding practices mailed to 164 primiparae in Lapland. Altogether 99 mothers (60%) returned completed questionnaires that could be included in the analysis, which was carried out in two steps. Firstly, all accepted questionnaires were grouped according to the success or failure to breast-feed fully during the first 12 weeks of life. Secondly, an ad hoc cohort study was performed on the sub-sample of 64 mothers delivered vaginally. As many as 44% of the 99 mothers reported partial breast feeding or formula feeding during the first 12 weeks. Older age of the mother, use of epidural analgesia and the problem of "not having enough milk" were associated with the failure to breast-feed fully. Caesarean section, other methods of labour analgesia and other breast-feeding problems were not associated with partial breast feeding or formula feeding. In the sub-sample, 67% of the mothers who had laboured with epidural analgesia and 29% of the mothers who laboured without epidural analgesia reported partial breast feeding or formula feeding (P = 0.003). The problem of "not having enough milk" was more often reported by those who had had epidural analgesia. Further studies conducted prospectively are needed to establish whether a causal relationship exists between epidural analgesia and breast-feeding problems.

Dumbbell-Shaped Epidural Capillary Hemangioma Presenting as a Lung Mass: Case Report and Review of the Literature.

PubMed

García-Pallero, María A; Torres, Cristina V; García-Navarrete, Eduardo; Gordillo, Carlos; Delgado, Juan; Penanes, Juan R; García-Campos, María T; Sola, R G

2015-07-15

A case report and literature review. We present the fourth case of a spinal epidural capillary hemangioma with a dumbbell-shaped appearance in the magnetic resonance image reported in the literature and the second presented as a lung mass. Hemangiomas are congenital vascular malformations that pathologists frequently consider to be hamartomatous malformations. Hemangiomas of the spine are usually lesions of the vertebral bodies, but they can sit in other locations such as the intramedullary or epidural space. Purely epidural hemangiomas are rare and most of them are of cavernous type. We present a 67-year-old female with a thoracic dumbbell-shaped capillary hemangioma with both foraminal and intrathoracic extensions, whose presentation was pleural effusion associated with mediastinal mass suggestive of pulmonary neoplasia. Surgical treatment consisted of total removal en bloc of the lesion. Microscopic evaluation showed a fibrofatty tissue with a proliferation of vascular structures that were generally of a small size, with areas of myxoid appearance. To date, there have been 8 epidural capillary hemangiomas of the thoracic and lumbar spine reported in the literature, and only 3 of them were dumbbell-shaped with extraforaminal extension. It is important to consider the diagnosis of hemangiomas in the differential diagnosis of epidural lesions with dumbbell-shaped appearance in the magnetic resonance image, especially at the thoracic level. It is a benign and potentially curable disease and the most appropriate surgical treatment is en bloc resection of the entire lesion. They are usually presented as a progressive myelopathy, so early treatment may prevent permanent neurological deficits. 5.

Positive Impact of Epidural Analgesia on Oncologic Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Resection of Colorectal Liver Metastases.

PubMed

Zimmitti, Giuseppe; Soliz, Jose; Aloia, Thomas A; Gottumukkala, Vijaya; Cata, Juan P; Tzeng, Ching-Wei D; Vauthey, Jean-Nicolas

2016-03-01

Previous studies have suggested that the use of regional anesthesia can reduce recurrence risk after oncologic surgery. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of epidural anesthesia on recurrence-free (RFS) and overall survival (OS) after hepatic resection for colorectal liver metastases (CLM). After approval of the institutional review board, the records of all adult patients who underwent elective hepatic resection between January 2006 and October 2011 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were categorized according to use of perioperative epidural analgesia versus intravenous analgesia. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify factors influencing RFS and OS. Of 510 total patients, 390 received epidural analgesia (EA group) and 120 patients received intravenous analgesia (IVA group). Compared with the IVA group, more patients in the EA group underwent associated surgical procedures with consequently longer operative times (p < 0.001). In addition, the EA group received more intraoperative fluids and had higher urine output volumes (p ≤ 0.001). Five-year RFS was longer in the EA group (34.7%) compared with the IVA group (21.1%). On multivariate analysis, the receipt of epidural analgesia was an independent predictor of improved RFS (p = 0.036, hazard ratio [HR] 0.74; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.56-0.95), but not OS (p = 0.102, HR 0.72; 95% CI 0.49-1.07). This study suggests an association between epidural analgesia and improved RFS, but not OS, after CLM resection. These results warrant further prospective, randomized studies on the benefits of regional anesthesia on oncologic outcomes after hepatic resection for CLM.

Comparison of analgesic efficacy of subcostal transversus abdominis plane blocks with epidural analgesia following upper abdominal surgery.

PubMed

Niraj, G; Kelkar, A; Jeyapalan, I; Graff-Baker, P; Williams, O; Darbar, A; Maheshwaran, A; Powell, R

2011-06-01

Subcostal transversus abdominis plane (TAP) catheters have been reported to be an effective method of providing analgesia after upper abdominal surgery. We compared their analgesic efficacy with that of epidural analgesia after major upper abdominal surgery in a randomised controlled trial. Adult patients undergoing elective open hepatobiliary or renal surgery were randomly allocated to receive subcostal TAP catheters (n=29) or epidural analgesia (n=33), in addition to a standard postoperative analgesic regimen comprising of regular paracetamol and tramadol as required. The TAP group patients received bilateral subcostal TAP catheters and 1 mg.kg(-1) bupivacaine 0.375% bilaterally every 8 h. The epidural group patients received an infusion of bupivacaine 0.125% with fentanyl 2 μg.ml(-1) . The primary outcome measure was visual analogue pain scores during coughing at 8, 24, 48 and 72 h after surgery. We found no significant differences in median (IQR [range]) visual analogue scores during coughing at 8 h between the TAP group (4.0 (2.3-6.0 [0-7.5])) and epidural group (4.0 (2.5-5.3) [0-8.5])) and at 72 h (2.0 (0.8-4.0 [0-5]) and 2.5 (1.0-5.0 [0-6]), respectively). Tramadol consumption was significantly greater in the TAP group (p=0.002). Subcostal TAP catheter boluses may be an effective alternative to epidural infusions for providing postoperative analgesia after upper abdominal surgery. © 2011 The Authors. Anaesthesia © 2011 The Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland.

Block-Dependent Sedation during Epidural Anaesthesia is Associated with Delayed Brainstem Conduction

PubMed Central

Wadhwa, Anupama; Shah, Yunus M.; Lin, Chum-Ming; Haugh, Gilbert S.; Sessler, Daniel I.

2005-01-01

Neuraxial anaesthesia produces a sedative and anesthetic-sparing effect. Recent evidence suggests that spinal cord anaesthesia modifies reticulo-thalamo-cortical arousal by decreasing afferent sensory transmission. We hypothesized that epidural anaesthesia produces sensory deafferentation-dependent sedation that is associated with impairment of brainstem transmission. We used brainstem auditory evoked potentials (BAEP) to evaluate reticular function in 11 volunteers. Epidural anaesthesia was induced with 2% 2-chloroprocaine. Hemodynamic and respiratory responses, sensory block level, sedation depth and BAEP were assessed throughout induction and resolution of epidural anaesthesia. Sedation was evaluated using verbal rating score (VRS), observer's assessment alertness/sedation (OAA/S) score, and bispectral index (BIS). Prediction probability (PK) was used to associate sensory block with sedation, as well as BIS with other sedation measures. Spearman rank order correlation was used to associate block level and sedation with the absolute and interpeak BAEP latencies. Sensory block level significantly predicted VRS (PK = 0.747), OAA/S score (PK = 0.748) and BIS. Bispectral index predicted VRS and OAA/S score (PK = 0.728). The latency of wave III of BAEP significantly correlated with sedation level (rho = 0.335, P < 0.01) and sensory block (rho = 0.394, P < 0.01). The other BAEP parameters did not change during epidural anaesthesia. Hemodynamic and respiratory responses remained stable throughout the study. Sedation during epidural anaesthesia depends on sensory block level and is associated with detectable block-dependent alterations in the brainstem auditory evoked responses. Sensory deafferentation may reduce CNS alertness through mechanisms related to brainstem neural activity. PMID:15220178

Secondary Insults of Traumatic Brain Injury in CCATT Patients Returning from Iraq/Afghanistan: 2001-2006

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-08-31

and hemorrhage. Hemorrhage is further divided into epidural hematoma , subdural hematoma , and intracerebral hematoma . Diffuse brain injuries...fiber Brain Injury Focal Injuries Contusion Laceration Hemorrhage Epidural Hematoma Subdural Hematoma Intracerebral Hematoma Diffuse

Epidural blood patching for preventing and treating post-dural puncture headache.

PubMed

Sudlow, C; Warlow, C

2002-01-01

Dural puncture is a common procedure, but leakage of CSF from the resulting dural defect may cause postural headache after the procedure, and this can be disabling. Injecting an epidural blood patch around the site of the defect may stop this leakage, and so may have a role in preventing or treating post dural puncture headache. To assess the possible benefits and harms of epidural blood patching in both the prevention and the treatment of post-dural puncture headache. We searched the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register (Cochrane Library, Issue 4, 2000), MEDLINE (January 1994 to December 1998), and EMBASE (January 1980 to December 1998). We also searched the reference lists of relevant articles identified electronically, and asked both the authors of all included trials and colleagues with an interest in this area to let us know of any other potentially relevant studies not already identified. Date of last search: December 2000. We sought all properly randomised, unconfounded trials that compared epidural blood patch versus no epidural blood patch in the prevention or treatment of post-dural puncture headache among all types of patients undergoing dural puncture for any reason. The primary outcome of effectiveness was postural headache. One reviewer extracted details of trial methodology and outcome data from the reports of all trials considered eligible for inclusion. We invited the authors of all such trials both to check the information extracted and to provide any details that were unavailable in the published reports. Intention-to-treat analyses were performed using the Peto O-E method. Information about adverse effects (post-dural puncture backache, epidural infection and lower limb paraesthesia) was also extracted. Three trials (77 patients) were eligible for inclusion. Methodological details were generally incomplete. Although the results of our analyses suggested that both prophylactic and therapeutic epidural blood patching may be of benefit, the very small numbers of patients and outcome events, as well as uncertainties about trial methodology, precluded reliable assessments of the potential benefits and harms of this intervention. Further, adequately powered, randomised trials (including at least a few hundred patients) are required before reliable conclusions can be drawn about the role of epidural blood patching in the prevention and treatment of post-dural puncture headache.

The Analgesic Efficiency of Ultrasound-Guided Rectus Sheath Analgesia Compared with Low Thoracic Epidural Analgesia After Elective Abdominal Surgery with a Midline Incision: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Yassin, Hany Mahmoud; Abd Elmoneim, Ahmed Tohamy; El Moutaz, Hatem

2017-06-01

Ultrasound-guided rectus sheath blockade has been described to provide analgesia for midline abdominal incisions. We aimed to compare thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA) and rectus sheath analgesia (RSA) with respect to safety and efficacy. Sixty patients who underwent elective laparotomies through a midline incision were assigned randomly to receive either continuous TEA (TEA group, n = 31) or intermittent RSA (RSA group, n = 29). The number of patients who required analgesia, the time to first request analgesia, the interval and the cumulative morphine doses consumption during 72 hours postoperatively, and pain intensity using visual analog score (VAS) at rest and upon coughing were reported in addition to any side effects related to both techniques or administered drugs. While 17 (54.84 %) patients were in the TEA group, 25 (86.21%) patients in the RSA group required analgesia postoperatively, P = 0.008. Cumulative morphine consumed during the early 72 hours postoperatively median (interquartile range) = 33 mg (27 - 39 mg), 95% confidence interval (28.63 - 37.37 mg) for the TEA group. While in the RSA group, it was 51 mg (45 - 57 mg), 95% CI (47.4 - 54.6 mg), P < 0.001. The time for the first request of morphine was 256.77 ± 73.45 minutes in the TEA group versus 208.82 ± 64.65 min in the RSA group, P = 0.031. VAS at rest and cough were comparable in both groups at all time points of assessment, P > 0.05. The time to the ambulation was significantly shorter in the RSA group (38.47 ± 12.34 hours) as compared to the TEA group (45.89 ± 8.72 hours), P = 0.009. Sedation scores were significantly higher in the RSA group, only at 12 hours and 24 hours postoperatively than in TEA group, with P = 0.041 and 0.013, respectively. The incidence of other morphine-related side effects, time to pass flatus, and patients satisfaction scores were comparable between both groups. Continuous TEA had better opioid sparing effects markedly during the early 72 hours postoperatively than that of intermittent RSA with catheters inserted under real-time ultrasound guidance, both had comparable safety perspectives, and RSA had the advantage of early ambulation. RSA could be used as an effective alternative when TEA could not be employed in patients undergoing laparotomies with an extended midline incision, especially after the first postoperative day.

The Analgesic Efficiency of Ultrasound-Guided Rectus Sheath Analgesia Compared with Low Thoracic Epidural Analgesia After Elective Abdominal Surgery with a Midline Incision: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

Yassin, Hany Mahmoud; Abd Elmoneim, Ahmed Tohamy; El Moutaz, Hatem

2017-01-01

Background Ultrasound-guided rectus sheath blockade has been described to provide analgesia for midline abdominal incisions. We aimed to compare thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA) and rectus sheath analgesia (RSA) with respect to safety and efficacy. Methods Sixty patients who underwent elective laparotomies through a midline incision were assigned randomly to receive either continuous TEA (TEA group, n = 31) or intermittent RSA (RSA group, n = 29). The number of patients who required analgesia, the time to first request analgesia, the interval and the cumulative morphine doses consumption during 72 hours postoperatively, and pain intensity using visual analog score (VAS) at rest and upon coughing were reported in addition to any side effects related to both techniques or administered drugs. Results While 17 (54.84 %) patients were in the TEA group, 25 (86.21%) patients in the RSA group required analgesia postoperatively, P = 0.008. Cumulative morphine consumed during the early 72 hours postoperatively median (interquartile range) = 33 mg (27 - 39 mg), 95% confidence interval (28.63 - 37.37 mg) for the TEA group. While in the RSA group, it was 51 mg (45 - 57 mg), 95% CI (47.4 - 54.6 mg), P < 0.001. The time for the first request of morphine was 256.77 ± 73.45 minutes in the TEA group versus 208.82 ± 64.65 min in the RSA group, P = 0.031. VAS at rest and cough were comparable in both groups at all time points of assessment, P > 0.05. The time to the ambulation was significantly shorter in the RSA group (38.47 ± 12.34 hours) as compared to the TEA group (45.89 ± 8.72 hours), P = 0.009. Sedation scores were significantly higher in the RSA group, only at 12 hours and 24 hours postoperatively than in TEA group, with P = 0.041 and 0.013, respectively. The incidence of other morphine-related side effects, time to pass flatus, and patients satisfaction scores were comparable between both groups. Conclusions Continuous TEA had better opioid sparing effects markedly during the early 72 hours postoperatively than that of intermittent RSA with catheters inserted under real-time ultrasound guidance, both had comparable safety perspectives, and RSA had the advantage of early ambulation. RSA could be used as an effective alternative when TEA could not be employed in patients undergoing laparotomies with an extended midline incision, especially after the first postoperative day. PMID:28856110

Percutaneous epidural neurostimulation in modulation of paraplegic spasticity. Six case reports.

PubMed

Richardson, R R; Cerullo, L J; McLone, D G; Gutierrez, F A; Lewis, V

1979-01-01

Six cases of paraplegic, post-traumatic spasticity, alleviated by percutaneous epidural neurostimulation with temporary or permanent implanted neuroelectrodes from the L1 to L4 intervertebral levels are presented. Modulation of this spasticity and secondary beneficial physiological effects were achieved, including regulation of bowel regimens, production of sweating and piloerection below the level of the lesion, and morning erections. The main advantages of percutaneous epidural neurostimulation in modulating spasticity are the avoidance of destructive neurosurgical procedures, the regulation of secondary physiological and autonomic responses, the avoidance of antispasticity medications, and the reversibility of the neurostimulation procedure.

Cervical Epidural Hematoma That Induced Sudden Paraparesis After Cervical Spine Massage: Case Report and Literature Review.

PubMed

Ryu, Je Il; Han, Myung Hoon; Kim, Jae Min; Kim, Choong Hyun; Cheong, Jin Hwan

2018-04-01

Most people understand spinal manipulation therapy to be a safe procedure, and in many cases treatment is provided without a diagnosis if there is musculoskeletal pain. Cervical epidural hematoma occurs in extremely rare cases after cervical manipulation therapy. This study reports a case of epidural hematoma that occurred in the anterior spinal cord after cervical massage. A 38-year-old male patient was admitted to the emergency department for sudden weakness in the lower extremity after receiving a cervical spine massage. No fracture was found using cervical radiographs, and there were no particular findings on performing brain computed tomography or diffusion magnetic resonance imaging. However, using cervical magnetic resonance imaging, an acute epidural hematoma was observed in the anterior spinal cord from the C6 and C7 vertebrae to the T1 vertebra, compressing the spinal cord. There were no fractures or ligament injury. No surgical treatment was required as the patient showed spontaneous improvements in muscle strength and was discharged after just 1 week, following observation of the improvement in his symptoms. Although cervical epidural hematoma after cervical manipulation therapy is extremely rare, if suspected, a thorough examination must be performed in order to reduce the chances of serious neurologic sequelae. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Neisseria gonorrhoeae paravertebral abscess.

PubMed

Low, Sharon Y Y; Ong, Catherine W M; Hsueh, Po-Ren; Tambyah, Paul Ananth; Yeo, Tseng Tsai

2012-07-01

The authors present the case of an isolated gonococcal paravertebral abscess with an epidural component in a 42-year-old man. A primary epidural abscess of the spine is a rare condition and is most commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus. In this report, the authors present their therapeutic decisions and review the relevant literature on disseminated gonococcal infection in a patient presenting with an epidural abscess. A 42-year-old Indonesian man was admitted with symptoms of neck and upper back pain and bilateral lower-limb weakness. Clinical examination was unremarkable apart from tenderness over the lower cervical spine. Postgadolinium T1-weighted MRI of the cervical and thoracic spine demonstrated an enhancing lesion in the right paraspinal and epidural soft tissue at C-6 to T1-2, in keeping with a spinal epidural abscess. The patient underwent laminectomy of C-7 and T-1 with abscess drainage. Tissue cultures subsequently grew Neisseria gonorrhoeae that was resistant to quinolones by genotyping. Upon further questioning, the patient admitted to unprotected sexual intercourse with commercial sex workers. Further investigations showed that he was negative for other sexually transmitted infections. Postoperatively, he received a course of beta-lactam antibiotics with good recovery. Clinicians should be aware of this unusual disseminated gonococcal infection manifested in any patient with the relevant risk factors.

Ephedrine, but not phenylephrine, increases bispectral index values during combined general and epidural anesthesia.

PubMed

Ishiyama, Tadahiko; Oguchi, Takeshi; Iijima, Tetsuya; Matsukawa, Takashi; Kashimoto, Satoshi; Kumazawa, Teruo

2003-09-01

Ephedrine and phenylephrine are used to treat hypotension during combined general and epidural anesthesia, and they may change anesthetic depth. In the current study, we evaluated the effects of ephedrine versus phenylephrine on bispectral index (BIS) during combined general and epidural anesthesia. After injection of ropivacaine through the epidural catheter, general anesthesia was induced with propofol and vecuronium, and was maintained with 0.75% sevoflurane. Approximately 10 min after the intubation, BIS was recorded as a baseline value. Patients with decreases in arterial blood pressure <30% of the preanesthetic values were defined as control group (n = 9). Patients who had to be treated for larger decreases in arterial blood pressure were randomly assigned to receive ephedrine 0.1 mg/kg (n = 17) or phenylephrine 2 micro g/kg (n = 17). BIS values were recorded at 1-min intervals for 10 min. BIS in the ephedrine group was significantly larger from 7 to 10 min than that in the control and phenylephrine groups (P < 0.05). Seven patients in the ephedrine group had BIS >60, whereas no patient in the control and phenylephrine groups had BIS >60 (P < 0.005). Ephedrine, but not phenylephrine, increased BIS during general anesthesia combined with epidural anesthesia.

Etiology and use of the "hanging drop" technique: a review.

PubMed

Todorov, Ludmil; VadeBoncouer, Timothy

2014-01-01

Background. The hanging drop (HD) technique presumably relies on the presence of subatmospheric epidural pressure. It is not clear whether this negative pressure is intrinsic or an artifact and how it is affected by body position. There are few data to indicate how often HD is currently being used. Methods. We identified studies that measured subatmospheric pressures and looked at the effect of the sitting position. We also looked at the technique used for cervical and thoracic epidural anesthesia in the last 10 years. Results. Intrinsic subatmospheric pressures were measured in the thoracic and cervical spine. Three trials studied the effect of body position, indicating a higher incidence of subatmospheric pressures when sitting. The results show lower epidural pressure (-10.7 mmHg) with the sitting position. 28.8% of trials of cervical and thoracic epidural anesthesia that documented the technique used, utilized the HD technique. When adjusting for possible bias, the rate of HD use can be as low as 11.7%. Conclusions. Intrinsic negative pressure might be present in the cervical and thoracic epidural space. This effect is more pronounced when sitting. This position might be preferable when using HD. Future studies are needed to compare it with the loss of resistance technique.

Etiology and Use of the “Hanging Drop” Technique: A Review

PubMed Central

Todorov, Ludmil; VadeBoncouer, Timothy

2014-01-01

Background. The hanging drop (HD) technique presumably relies on the presence of subatmospheric epidural pressure. It is not clear whether this negative pressure is intrinsic or an artifact and how it is affected by body position. There are few data to indicate how often HD is currently being used. Methods. We identified studies that measured subatmospheric pressures and looked at the effect of the sitting position. We also looked at the technique used for cervical and thoracic epidural anesthesia in the last 10 years. Results. Intrinsic subatmospheric pressures were measured in the thoracic and cervical spine. Three trials studied the effect of body position, indicating a higher incidence of subatmospheric pressures when sitting. The results show lower epidural pressure (−10.7 mmHg) with the sitting position. 28.8% of trials of cervical and thoracic epidural anesthesia that documented the technique used, utilized the HD technique. When adjusting for possible bias, the rate of HD use can be as low as 11.7%. Conclusions. Intrinsic negative pressure might be present in the cervical and thoracic epidural space. This effect is more pronounced when sitting. This position might be preferable when using HD. Future studies are needed to compare it with the loss of resistance technique. PMID:24839558

The degree of labor pain at the time of epidural analgesia in nulliparous women influences the obstetric outcome.

PubMed

Woo, Jae Hee; Kim, Jong Hak; Lee, Guie Yong; Baik, Hee Jung; Kim, Youn Jin; Chung, Rack Kyung; Yun, Du Gyun; Lim, Chae Hwang

2015-06-01

The increased pain at the latent phase can be associated with dysfunctional labor as well as increases in cesarean delivery frequency. We aimed to research the effect of the degree of pain at the time of epidural analgesia on the entire labor process including the mode of delivery. We performed epidural analgesia to 102 nulliparous women on patients' request. We divided the group into three based on NRS (numeric rating scale) at the moment of epidural analgesia; mild pain, NRS 1-4; moderate pain, NRS 5-7; severe pain, NRS 8-10. The primary outcome was the mode of delivery (normal labor or cesarean delivery). There were significant differences in the mode of delivery among groups. Patients with severe labor pain had a significantly higher cesarean delivery compared to patients with moderate labor pain (P = 0.006). The duration of the first and second stage of labor, fetal heart rate, use of oxytocin and premature rupture of membranes had no differences in the three groups. Our research showed that the degree of pain at the time of epidural analgesia request might influence the rate of cesarean delivery. Further research would be necessary for clarifying the mechanism that the augmentation of pain affects the mode of delivery.

Comparison of saddle, lumbar epidural and caudal blocks on anal sphincter tone: A prospective, randomized study.

PubMed

Shon, Yoon-Jung; Huh, Jin; Kang, Sung-Sik; Bae, Seung-Kil; Kang, Ryeong-Ah; Kim, Duk-Kyung

2016-10-01

Objective To compare the effects of saddle, lumbar epidural and caudal blocks on anal sphincter tone using anorectal manometry. Methods Patients undergoing elective anorectal surgery with regional anaesthesia were divided randomly into three groups and received a saddle (SD), lumbar epidural (LE), or caudal (CD) block. Anorectal manometry was performed before and 30 min after each regional block. The degree of motor blockade of the anal sphincter was compared using the maximal resting pressure (MRP) and the maximal squeezing pressure (MSP). Results The study analysis population consisted of 49 patients (SD group, n = 18; LE group, n = 16; CD group, n = 15). No significant differences were observed in the percentage inhibition of the MRP among the three regional anaesthetic groups. However, percentage inhibition of the MSP was significantly greater in the SD group (83.6 ± 13.7%) compared with the LE group (58.4 ± 19.8%) and the CD group (47.8 ± 16.9%). In all groups, MSP was reduced significantly more than MRP after each regional block. Conclusions Saddle block was more effective than lumbar epidural or caudal block for depressing anal sphincter tone. No differences were detected between lumbar epidural and caudal blocks.

Incidence of inadvertent intra-articular lumbar facet joint injection during fluoroscopically guided interlaminar epidural steroid injection.

PubMed

Huang, Ambrose J; Palmer, William E

2012-02-01

To determine the incidence of inadvertent lumbar facet joint injection during an interlaminar epidural steroid injection (ESI). A total of 686 interlaminar lumbar ESIs were performed from January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2009. Archived images from these cases were retrospectively reviewed on the PACS. Positive cases of inadvertent lumbar facet joint injection were identified by the characteristic sigmoid-shaped contrast pattern projecting over the posterior elements on the lateral view and/or ovoid contrast projecting over the facet joints on the anteroposterior (AP) view. Eight positive events were identified (1.2%). There was no statistically significant gender or lumbar level predilection. In 3/8 of the positive cases (37.5%), the inadvertent facet joint injection was recognized by the operator. The needle was repositioned as a result, and contrast within the posterior epidural space was documented by the end of the procedure. In 5/8 of the positive cases (62.5%), the patients reported an immediate decrease in the presenting pain. The incidence of inadvertent lumbar facet joint injection during an interlaminar epidural steroid injection is low. Recognizing the imaging features of this event permits the operator to redirect the needle tip into the epidural space and/or identify the facet joint(s) as a source of the patient's presenting pain.

[Combined spinal epidural anesthesia during endoprosthetic surgeries for bone tumors in old-age children].

PubMed

Matinian, N V; Saltanov, A I

2005-01-01

Thirty-five patients (ASA II-III) aged 12 to 17 years, diagnosed as having osteogenic sarcoma and Ewing's sarcoma localizing in the femur and tibia, were examined. Surgery was performed as sectoral resection of the affected bone along with knee joint endoprosthesis. Surgical intervention was made under combined spinal and epidural anesthesia (CSEA) with sedation, by using the methods for exact dosing of propofol (6-4 mg/kg x h). During intervention, a child's respiration remains is kept spontaneous with oxygen insufflation through a nasal catheter. CSEA was performed in two-segmental fashion. The epidural space was first catheterized. After administration of a test dose, 0.5% marcaine spinal was injected into dermatomas below the subarachnoidal space, depending on body weight (3.0-4.0 ml). Sensory blockade developed following 3-5 min and lasted 90-120 min, thereafter a local anesthetic (bupivacaine) or its mixture plus promedole was epidurally administered. ??Anesthesia was effective in all cases, motor blockade. During surgery, there was a moderate arterial hypotension that did not require the use of vasopressors. The acid-alkali balance suggested the adequacy of spontaneous respiration. The only significant complication we observed was atony of the bladder that requires its catheterization till the following day. An epidural catheter makes it possible to effect adequate postoperative analgesia.

Mitomycin C, 5-fluorouracil, and cyclosporin A prevent epidural fibrosis in an experimental laminectomy model

PubMed Central

Yildiz, Kartal Hakan; Gezen, Ferruh; Cukur, Selma; Dosoglu, Murat

2007-01-01

This study examined the preventive effects of the local application of mitomycin C (MMC), 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), and cyclosporine A (CsA) in minimizing spinal epidural fibrosis in a rat laminectomy model. Thirty-two 2-year-old male Wistar albino rats, each weighing 400 ± 50 g, were divided into four equal groups: sham, MMC, 5-FU, and CsA. Each rat underwent laminectomy at the L5–L6 lumbar level. Cotton pads (4 × 4 mm2) soaked with MMC (0.5 mg/ml), 5-FU (5 ml/mg), or CsA (5 mg/ml) were placed on the exposed dura for 5 min. Thirty days after surgery, the rats were killed and the epidural fibrosis, fibroblast density, inflammatory cell density, and arachnoid fibrosis were quantified. The epidural and arachnoid fibroses were reduced significantly in the treatment groups compared to the sham group. Fibroblast cell density and inflammatory cell density were decreased significantly in the MMC and 5-FU groups, but were similar in the sham and CsA groups. The decreased rate of epidural fibrosis was promising. Further studies in humans are needed to determine the short- and long-term complications of the agents used here. PMID:17387523

Intact proprioception and control of labour pain during epidural analgesia.

PubMed

Abrahams, M; Higgins, P; Whyte, P; Breen, P; Muttu, S; Gardiner, J

1999-01-01

Accurate proprioception is critical while walking, yet an ambulatory epidural regimen that provides adequate analgesia for labour while simultaneously preserving proprioceptive input has not been described. Sixty primigravidae in established labour received bupivacaine 15 mg (15 ml of 0.1% w/v) and fentanyl 100 micrograms through a lumbar epidural catheter. Clinical assessment of dorsal column sensory function included: vibration sense, distal proprioception and the Romberg test, and were all performed before catheter insertion and 30 min after the study bolus. Sensory modalities were also tested compared to an unblocked dermatome. Pain was scored on a 0-10 cm visual analogue scale (VAS) before and 30 min after induction. Intensity of the motor block was tested using a modified Bromage score (grade 1-6). The study bolus provided reliable analgesia with 43 parturients attaining a VAS pain score of zero. Mean duration of analgesia was 67.5 min (SD 22.85). All parturients retained the ability to perform a partial knee bend while standing (grade 6). No mothers exhibited impaired distal proprioception, altered vibration sense or a positive Romberg sign. This study confirms that the addition of lumbar epidural fentanyl 100 micrograms to 15 mg of epidural bupivacaine provides good control of labour pain with no motor block and establishes that this combination preserves dorsal column sensory function.

[Comparison of blood pressure profiles with flunitrazepam/fentanyl/nitrous oxide vs cervical epidural anesthesia in surgery of the carotid artery].

PubMed

Pluskwa, F; Bonnet, F; Abhay, K; Touboul, C; Rey, B; Marcandoro, J; Becquemin, J B

1989-01-01

A study was carried out to compare the evolution of arterial blood pressure during carotid endarterectomy performed under either general anaesthesia (GA) or cervical epidural anaesthesia (CEA). 20 patients were randomly assigned to two equal groups. In the CEA group, 15 ml of 0.375% bupivacaine and 150 micrograms fentanyl were injected into the epidural space at C7-D1 level. In the GA group, patients were anaesthetized with 0.2 mg.kg-1 flunitrazepam and 5 micrograms.kg-1 fentanyl; intubation was carried out using 0.08 mg.kg-1 vecuronium, and the patients were ventilated with a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen (50% of each). Further injections, every 30 min, of 2 micrograms.kg-1 fentanyl were given to the patients in group GA. Blood pressure was monitored continuously, up to 4 h postoperatively, with a radial arterial catheter. Per- or postoperative hypertension was defined as a rise in systolic arterial blood pressure (Pasys) over 180 mmHg for greater than 3 min; this was treated with 20 mg nifedipine intranasally (group CEA) or 100 micrograms fentanyl with 0.5 mg flunitrazepam with or without nifedipine (group GA). Per- or postoperative hypotension was defined as a fall in Pasys below 100 mmHg and or a 30% fall in mean arterial blood pressure for greater than 3 min; this was treated, in both groups, with an intravenous bolus of 3 mg ephedrine. Patients in group CEA experienced more frequent episodes of peroperative hypertension (8/2; p less than 0.02) and postoperative hypotension (5/1) than group GA.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Descriptive Cadaveric Study Comparing the Accuracy of Ultrasound Versus Fluoroscopic Guidance for First Sacral Transforaminal Injections: A Comparison Study.

PubMed

Thompson, Bradley F; Pingree, Matthew J; Qu, Wenchun; Murthy, Naveen S; Lachman, Nirusha; Hurdle, Mark Friedrich

2018-04-01

Ultrasound is rarely used for guiding lumbosacral epidural steroid injections due to its technical limitations. For example, sonographic imaging lacks the ability to confirm epidural spread and identify vascular uptake. The perceived risk that these limitations pose to human subjects has precluded any large scale clinical trials to date. To compare the accuracy of ultrasound versus fluoroscopic guidance for first sacral transforaminal epidural injections. Cadaveric comparative study using dichotomous outcomes. A fluoroscopy suite and anatomic laboratory at an academic medical center. Four unembalmed adult human cadavers with no history of spinal surgery. Eight sites were injected twice by one interventionalist, using fluoroscopic and ultrasound guidance. In the fluoroscopy arm, contrast spread was assessed using computed tomography. In the ultrasound arm, latex spread was assessed using gross anatomic dissection. Any visible evidence of epidural spread constituted a positive result. Comparison of the success of obtaining epidural contrast flow was the primary outcome measure. Secondary outcome measures included average duration, rate of intravascular uptake, and quantity of intravascular uptake. All injections performed in both the ultrasound arm and the fluoroscopy arm had positive epidural spread. The average duration was 3.03 minutes with fluoroscopy and 4.76 minutes with ultrasound. The rate of intravascular uptake was 37.5% with fluoroscopy and 50% with ultrasound. Within the ultrasound arm, greater intravascular spread and duration variability were recorded. Although ultrasonography can provide reliable image guidance for cannulating the first sacral foramen in cadavers, it would have limited clinical utility due to its inability to visualize relevant neurovascular structures deep to the osseus roof and exclude intravascular uptake. IV. Copyright © 2018 American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Common neural structures activated by epidural and transcutaneous lumbar spinal cord stimulation: Elicitation of posterior root-muscle reflexes

PubMed Central

Freundl, Brigitta; Binder, Heinrich; Minassian, Karen

2018-01-01

Epidural electrical stimulation of the lumbar spinal cord is currently regaining momentum as a neuromodulation intervention in spinal cord injury (SCI) to modify dysregulated sensorimotor functions and augment residual motor capacity. There is ample evidence that it engages spinal circuits through the electrical stimulation of large-to-medium diameter afferent fibers within lumbar and upper sacral posterior roots. Recent pilot studies suggested that the surface electrode-based method of transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (SCS) may produce similar neuromodulatory effects as caused by epidural SCS. Neurophysiological and computer modeling studies proposed that this noninvasive technique stimulates posterior-root fibers as well, likely activating similar input structures to the spinal cord as epidural stimulation. Here, we add a yet missing piece of evidence substantiating this assumption. We conducted in-depth analyses and direct comparisons of the electromyographic (EMG) characteristics of short-latency responses in multiple leg muscles to both stimulation techniques derived from ten individuals with SCI each. Post-activation depression of responses evoked by paired pulses applied either epidurally or transcutaneously confirmed the reflex nature of the responses. The muscle responses to both techniques had the same latencies, EMG peak-to-peak amplitudes, and waveforms, except for smaller responses with shorter onset latencies in the triceps surae muscle group and shorter offsets of the responses in the biceps femoris muscle during epidural stimulation. Responses obtained in three subjects tested with both methods at different time points had near-identical waveforms per muscle group as well as same onset latencies. The present results strongly corroborate the activation of common neural input structures to the lumbar spinal cord—predominantly primary afferent fibers within multiple posterior roots—by both techniques and add to unraveling the basic mechanisms underlying electrical SCS. PMID:29381748

Transforaminal Endoscopic Decompression for a Giant Epidural Gas-Containing Pseudocyst: A Case Report and Literature Review.

PubMed

Zhu, Bin; Jiang, Liang; Liu, Xiao Guang

2017-03-01

The isolated epidural gas-containing pseudocyst is an uncommon pathogenic factor for severe pain of the lower limb as a result of nerve root compression. After reviewing these rare cases reported in the literature, we found that the name, pathogenesis, and treatment strategy of this pathology remained controversial. The most common treatment is conservative treatment or percutaneous aspiration which might result inpoor pain relief and high recurrence rates. Moreover, the patient who received open surgery had good clinical outcome; however, he or she might experience a significant soft tissue injury.In this study, we report the first case of a patient who had a giant epidural gas-containing pseudocyst and received percutaneous endoscopic surgery. This 57-year-old man had been complaining of severe radicular pain in his right ankle for one year. According to computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) prior to the surgery, the results showed an isolated epidural gas-containing pseudocyst was located in the right lateral recess of S1. At the last follow-up period, postoperative CT scan showed the gas-contained pseudocyst was completely resected and this patient was free from the pain.Due to the great advances in endoscopic techniques and equipment, it is easier to perform lumbar surgery through the endoscope. With this first case of percutaneous endoscopic treatment for the symptomatic epidural gas-containing pseudocyst reported in this study, we believe that this surgical method provides an option to treat this rare condition because it provides sufficient decompression, has a low recurrence rate, and is minimally invasive. Key words: Endoscopic surgery, pseudocyst, epidural gas, intraspinal gas, radiulopathy.

A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Epidural Clonidine vs Bupivacaine for Pain Control During and After Lower Abdominal Surgery

PubMed Central

Abd-Elsayed, Alaa A.; Guirguis, Maged; DeWood, Mark S.; Zaky, Sherif S.

2015-01-01

Background Alpha-2 adrenergic agonists produce safe and effective analgesia, but most investigations studying the analgesic effect of alpha-2 adrenoceptor agonists postoperatively included previous or concomitant administration of other analgesics. Because clonidine potentiates the effect of these drugs, its own intrinsic analgesic effect has been difficult to establish. This study was designed to compare the intraoperative and postoperative effects of epidural clonidine vs bupivacaine for patients undergoing lower abdominal surgery. Methods This randomized controlled trial included 40 patients aged 18-50 who were scheduled for elective lower abdominal surgery. Patients were randomly divided into 2 groups. Group I (n=20) received epidural clonidine; Group II (n=20) received epidural bupivacaine. Intraoperative and postoperative hemodynamics, pain scores, and complications were monitored. Results Mean pain scores were significantly lower in Group I compared to Group II (1.5 ± 0.5 compared to 3.4 ± 1.0, respectively) in the first 12 hours after surgery. Sedation was more prominent in Group I until 9 hours after surgery. Opioid requirements were significantly lower in Group I. Respiratory rate was similar in the 2 groups. Group I had larger decreases from baseline in systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure than Group II. Heart rate in Group I was reduced from baseline, while it was increased in Group II. Less postoperative nausea and vomiting, urinary retention, pruritus, and shivering were observed in Group I. Conclusion Compared to bupivacaine, epidural clonidine provided effective intraoperative and postoperative analgesia in selected patients, resulting in a decreased intravenous pain medication requirement and prolonged duration of analgesia after epidural infusion was discontinued. PMID:26130975

Increasing body mass index predicts increasing difficulty, failure rate, and time to discovery of failure of epidural anesthesia in laboring patients.

PubMed

Kula, Ayse O; Riess, Matthias L; Ellinas, Elizabeth H

2017-02-01

Obese parturients both greatly benefit from neuraxial techniques, and may represent a technical challenge to obstetric anesthesiologists. Several studies address the topic of obesity and neuraxial analgesia in general, but few offer well described definitions or rates of "difficulty" and "failure" of labor epidural analgesia. Providing those definitions, we hypothesized that increasing body mass index (BMI) is associated with negative outcomes in both categories and increased time needed for epidural placement. Single center retrospective chart review. Labor and Delivery Unit of an inner city academic teaching hospital. 2485 parturients, ASA status 2 to 4, receiving labor epidural analgesia for anticipated vaginal delivery. None. We reviewed quality assurance and anesthesia records over a 12-month period. "Failure" was defined as either inadequate analgesia or a positive test dose, requiring replacement, and/or when the anesthesia record stated they failed. "Difficulty" was defined as six or more needle redirections or a note indicating difficulty in the anesthesia record. Overall epidural failure and difficulty rates were 4.3% and 3.0%, respectively. Patients with a BMI of 30kg/m 2 or higher had a higher chance of both failure and difficulty with two and almost three fold increases, respectively. Regression analysis indicated that failure was best predicted by BMI and less provider training while difficulty was best predicted by BMI. Additionally, increased BMI was associated with increased time of discovery of epidural catheter failure. Obesity is associated with increasing technical difficulty and failure of neuraxial analgesia for labor. Practitioners should consider allotting extra time for obese parturients in order to manage potential problems. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Analysis and evaluation of the effectiveness of epidural analgesia and its relationship with eutocic or dystocic delivery.

PubMed

Sánchez-Migallón, V; Sánchez, E; Raynard, M; Miranda, A; Borràs, R M

Numerous studies have demonstrated the difference in the verbal rating scale with regard to obstructed labour and induced labour, so that obstructed labour and foetal macrosomia have been related to a greater sensation of pain during labour, particularly in the first stage. Even the epidural analgesia is linked to the need for instrumented or caesarean section due to foetal obstruction. The goal of the study is to analyze and evaluate the effectiveness of epidural analgesia in normal versus obstructed labour. One hundred and eighty pregnant women were included in an observational, analytical, longitudinal and prospective study, that was performed in the Obstetrics Department of the Hospital Universitario Dexeus. All the nulliparous or multiparous over 36 weeks of pregnancy, after 3cm of cervical dilatation in spontaneous or induced labor were included. All the patients were given epidural analgesia according to protocol. The basic descriptive methods were used for the univariate statistical analysis of the sample and the Mann-Whitney U test was used for the comparison of means between both groups. The correlations between variables were studied by means of the Spearman coefficient of correlation. The differences regarded as statistically significant are those whose P<.05. In our population there were no statistically significant differences in the effectiveness of epidural analgesia in normal versus obstructed labour. Patients who got epidural analgesia and had obstructed labors have the same degree of verbal rating scale as patients that do not had obstructed labors (P>.05). Copyright © 2016 Sociedad Española de Anestesiología, Reanimación y Terapéutica del Dolor. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Mitomycin C induces fibroblasts apoptosis and reduces epidural fibrosis by regulating miR-200b and its targeting of RhoE.

PubMed

Sun, Yu; Ge, Yingbin; Fu, Yuxuan; Yan, Lianqi; Cai, Jun; Shi, Kun; Cao, Xiaojian; Lu, Chun

2015-10-15

Mitomycin C (MMC) is known to reduce epidural fibrosis, but the underlying mechanisms have not yet been elucidated. Aberrant miR-200b expressions have been reported in multiple types of fibrotic tissues from many diseases. The aim of this study was to clarify the mechanism by which MMC induces fibroblasts apoptosis and reduces epidural fibrosis. The expression of miR-200b in human fibroblasts was determined after MMC treatment, and the targeted association between miR-200b and RhoE was determined using the luciferase activity assay. The effects of MMC and miR-200b on human fibroblasts apoptosis were evaluated using flow cytometry and western blot analysis. The effects of MMC and miR-200b on epidural fibrosis were evaluated using the Rydell classification, hydroxyproline content, apoptotic cell count and histological analysis. The study revealed that MMC could significantly downregulate miR-200b expression and induce human fibroblasts apoptosis. The direct downregulation of miR-200b could induce human fibroblasts apoptosis. Furthermore, we identified the binding sequence for miR-200b within the 3' untranslated region of RhoE. RhoE was confirmed to be a direct target of miR-200b, and RhoE itself acted as a promoter of fibroblasts apoptosis. The inhibition of miR-200b increased fibroblasts apoptosis and reduced epidural fibrosis in rats, which was in accordance with the effect of MMC. This study suggests that MMC induces fibroblasts apoptosis and reduces epidural fibrosis by regulating miR-200b expression and its targeting of RhoE. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[Combined spinal-epidural anesthesia for cesarean section in a parturient with myotonic dystrophy].

PubMed

Mori, Kosuke; Mizuno, Ju; Nagaoka, Takehiko; Harashima, Toshiya; Morita, Sigeho

2010-08-01

Myotonic dystrophy (MD) is a muscle disorder characterized by progressive muscle wasting and weakness, and is the most common form of muscular dystrophy that begins in adulthood, often after pregnancy. MD might be related to occurrence of malignant hyperthermia. Therefore, the cesarean section is often performed for the parturient with MD. We had an experience of combined spinal-epidural anesthesia for cesarean section in a parturient complicated with MD. A 40-year-old woman had rhabdomyolysis caused by ritodrine at 15-week gestation and was diagnosed as MD by electromyography. Her first baby died due to respiratory failure fourth day after birth. She had hatchet face, slight weakness of her lower extremities, and easy fatigability. Her manual muscle test was 5/5 at upper extremities and 4/5 at lower extremities. She underwent emergency cesarean section for premature rupture of the membrane, weak pain during labor, and obstructed labor at 33-week gestation. We placed an epidural catheter from T12/L1 and punctured arachnoid with 25 G spinal needle. We performed spinal anesthesia using 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine 1.5 ml and epidural anesthesia using 2% lidocaine 6 ml. Her anesthetic level reached bilaterally to T7 and operation started 18 minutes after combined spinal-epidural anesthesia. Her baby was born 23 minutes after the anesthesia. As her baby was 1/5 at Apgar score, the baby was tracheally intubated and artificially ventilated. The cesarean section was finished in 33 minutes uneventfully. She had no adverse events and was discharged on the 8th postoperative day. Later her baby was diagnosed as congenital MD by gene analysis. Combined spinal-epidural anesthesia with the amide-typed local anesthetic agents could be useful and safe for cesarean section in the parturient with MD.

Epidural versus local anaesthetic infiltration via wound catheters in open liver resection: a meta-analysis.

PubMed

Bell, Richard; Pandanaboyana, Sanjay; Prasad, K Raj

2015-01-01

This meta-analysis was designed to systematically analyse all published studies comparing local anaesthetic infiltration with wound catheters and epidural catheters in open liver resection. A literature search was performed using the Cochrane Colorectal Cancer Group Controlled Trials Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials in the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Embase and Science Citation Index Expanded. Randomized trials, and prospective and retrospective studies comparing wound catheters with epidural catheters were included. Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager Version 5.2 software. The primary outcome measures were pain scores in the post-operative period operation. Secondary outcome measures were hospital stay, time to opening bowels, overall complications and analgesia-specific complications. Four studies including 705 patients were included in the analysis. The pain scores were significantly lower in those patients with epidural on the first post-operative day (POD) (mean difference of -0.90 [-1.29, -0.52], Z = 4.61) (P < 0.00001) with comparable pain scores on PODs 2 and 3. There was no significant difference in the time to opening bowels, opioid use and hospital stay between the techniques. The post-operative complication rate was higher in the epidural group (risk ratio 1.40 [1.07, 1.83]; χ(2) = 0.60, df = 1) (P = 0.44); I(2) = 0%; Z = 2.42 (P = 0.02). Local anaesthetic infiltration via wound catheters combined with patient-controlled opiate analgesia provides comparable pain relief to epidural catheters except for the first POD. Both techniques are associated with similar hospital stay and opioid use with wound catheters associated with lower complication rate. © 2014 Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.

Comparison of efficacy and safety of lateral-to-medial continuous transversus abdominis plane block with thoracic epidural analgesia in patients undergoing abdominal surgery: A randomised, open-label feasibility study.

PubMed

Ganapathy, Sugantha; Sondekoppam, Rakesh V; Terlecki, Magdalena; Brookes, Jonathan; Das Adhikary, Sanjib; Subramanian, Lakshmimathy

2015-11-01

We recently described a lateral-to-medial approach for transversus abdominis plane (LM-TAP) block, which may permit preoperative initiation of the block. Our objective was to evaluate the feasibility of continuous LM-TAP blocks in clinical practice in comparison with thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA). A randomised, open-label study. University Hospital, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada from July 2008 to August 2012. Fifty adult patients undergoing open abdominal surgery via laparotomy were allocated randomly to receive preoperative catheter-congruent TEA or ultrasound-guided continuous bilateral LM-TAP block for 72 h postoperatively. Reasons for noninclusion were American Society of Anesthesiologists' physical status more than 4, known allergy to study drugs, chronic pain/opioid dependence, spinal abnormalities or psychiatric illness. In the TEA group (n = 24), patient-controlled epidural analgesia was maintained using bupivacaine 0.1% with hydromorphone 10 μg ml⁻¹ after establishment of the initial block. In the LM-TAP group (n = 26), ultrasound-guided LM-TAP catheters were inserted on each side preoperatively after a bolus of 30 ml of ropivacaine 0.5% (20 ml subcostal and 10 ml subumbilical injections on both sides). Analgesia was maintained with an infusion of ropivacaine 0.35% at a rate of 2 to 2.5 ml h⁻¹ through each catheter, along with rescue intravenous patient-controlled analgesia. The primary outcome was pain score on coughing 24 h after the end of surgery. Secondary outcomes were pain scores from 24 to 72 h, intraoperative and postoperative opioid consumption, time to onset of bowel movement and side effect profiles. Mean [95% confidence interval (95% CI)] pain scores at rest ranged from 1. 7 (0.9 to 2.5) to 2.3 (1.1 to 3.4) in TEA vs. 1.5 (0.7 to 2.2) to 2.2 (1.3 to 3.0) in LM-TAP (P = 0.829). The dynamic pain scores ranged from 2.9 (1.5 to 4.4) to 3.8 (2.8 to 4.8) in TEA vs. 3.3 (2.4 to 4.3) to 3.8 (2.7 to 4.9) in LM-TAP (P = 0.551). The variability in pain scores was lower in the LM-TAP group than in the TEA group in the first 24 h postoperatively. Patient satisfaction and other secondary outcomes were similar. Continuous bilateral LM-TAP block can be initiated preoperatively and may provide comparable analgesia to TEA in patients undergoing laparotomy. not registered because registration was not mandatory at the time of starting the trial.

Epidural analgesia in a child with sickle cell disease complicated by acute abdominal pain and priapism.

PubMed

Labat, F; Dubousset, A M; Baujard, C; Wasier, A P; Benhamou, D; Cucchiaro, G

2001-12-01

We describe a case of a 9-yr-old child with sickle cell disease complicated by abdominal vaso-occlusive crisis and priapism. Both complications were successfully treated with a combination of epidural local anesthetics and morphine.

Spinal epidural abscesses in children: a 15-year experience and review of the literature.

PubMed

Auletta, J J; John, C C

2001-01-01

We reviewed medical records and laboratory and diagnostic evaluations for 8 pediatric patients with spinal epidural abscesses who were treated during the last 15 years at our institution. Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from 5 of 8 epidural abscesses, including 2 abscesses with methicillin-resistant S. aureus. Unusual isolates were group B Streptococcus in a patient with chronic vesicouretral reflux associated with the posterior urethral valves and Aspergillus flavus in a patient with acute myelogenous leukemia. An analysis incorporating our results and a review of the English-language literature about abscesses in children and adults revealed differences related to age. Abscesses in children were more posterior in epidural location, had greater spinal column extension, and were associated with more favorable clinical outcomes than were abscesses in adults. Magnetic resonance imaging is the diagnostic procedure of choice; however, radionuclide bone scans should be considered for associated distant osteomyelitis in children. Prompt diagnosis and combined medical and surgical treatment remain the cornerstones for the prevention of adverse outcomes.

Correlates of a single cortical action potential in the epidural EEG

PubMed Central

Teleńczuk, Bartosz; Baker, Stuart N; Kempter, Richard; Curio, Gabriel

2015-01-01

To identify the correlates of a single cortical action potential in surface EEG, we recorded simultaneously epidural EEG and single-unit activity in the primary somatosensory cortex of awake macaque monkeys. By averaging over EEG segments coincident with more than hundred thousand single spikes, we found short-lived (≈ 0.5 ms) triphasic EEG deflections dominated by high-frequency components > 800 Hz. The peak-to-peak amplitude of the grand-averaged spike correlate was 80 nV, which matched theoretical predictions, while single-neuron amplitudes ranged from 12 to 966 nV. Combining these estimates with post-stimulus-time histograms of single-unit responses to median-nerve stimulation allowed us to predict the shape of the evoked epidural EEG response and to estimate the number of contributing neurons. These findings establish spiking activity of cortical neurons as a primary building block of high-frequency epidural EEG, which thus can serve as a quantitative macroscopic marker of neuronal spikes. PMID:25554430

Maternal and cord plasma concentrations of beta-lipotrophin, beta-endorphin and gamma-lipotrophin at delivery; effect of analgesia.

PubMed

Browning, A J; Butt, W R; Lynch, S S; Shakespear, R A; Crawford, J S

1983-12-01

Maternal venous plasma concentrations of beta-LPH, beta-EP and gamma-LPH were compared in (i) patients undergoing vaginal delivery, 11 with an epidural block and 13 with pethidine and nitrous oxide or no analgesics; (ii) patients delivered by caesarean section, 7 under epidural block and 8 under general anaesthesia. Patients delivered by either method under epidural block had significantly lower levels of all three peptides than those receiving no epidural. There were significant negative correlations between umbilical vein beta-LPH, beta-EP and gamma-LPH concentrations and umbilical artery pH and positive correlations between beta-LPH and beta-EP but not gamma-LPH and cord PCO2 in 29 patients. There was no relation between cord levels of any of the three peptides and the method of analgesia or the route of delivery. Although concentrations of all three peptides were closely correlated to one another in either maternal or cord plasma, there was no relationship between maternal and fetal levels.

Evaluation of two different epidural catheters in clinical practice. narrowing down the incidence of paresthesia!

PubMed

Bouman, E A C; Gramke, H F; Wetzel, N; Vanderbroeck, T H T; Bruinsma, R; Theunissen, M; Kerkkamp, H E M; Marcus, M A E

2007-01-01

Although epidural anesthesia is considered safe, several complications may occur during puncture and insertion of a catheter. Incidences of paresthesia vary between 0.2 and 56%. A prospective, open, cohort-controlled pilot study was conducted in 188 patients, ASA I-III, age 19-87 years, scheduled for elective surgery and epidural anesthesia. We evaluated a 20 G polyamide (standard) catheter and a 20 G combined polyurethane-polyamide (new) catheter. Spontaneous reactions upon catheter-insertion, paresthesia on questioning, inadvertent dural or intravascular puncture, and reasons for early catheter removal were recorded. The incidence of paresthesia reported spontaneously was 21.3% with the standard catheter and 16.7% with the new catheter. Systematically asking for paresthesia almost doubled the paraesthesia rate. Intravascular cannulation occurred in 5%. No accidental dural punctures occurred. An overall incidence of 13.3% of technical problems led to early catheter removal. The new catheter was at least equivalent to the standard regarding epidural success rate and safety : rate of paresthesia, intravascular and dural cannulation.

Safe use of epidural corticosteroid injections: recommendations of the WIP Benelux workgroup.

PubMed

Van Boxem, Koen; Rijsdijk, Mienke; Hans, Guy; de Jong, Jasper; Kallewaard, Jan Willem; Vissers, Kris; van Kleef, Maarten; Rathmell, James P; Van Zundert, Jan

2018-05-14

Epidural corticosteroid injections are used frequently worldwide in the treatment of radicular pain. Concerns have risen involving rare major neurologic injuries after this treatment. Recommendations to prevent these complications have been published, but local implementation is not always feasible due to local circumstances and necessitating local recommendations based on literature review. A workgroup of 4 stakeholder pain societies in Belgium, The Netherlands and Luxembourg (Benelux) has reviewed the literature involving neurological complications after epidural corticosteroid injections and possible safety measures to prevent these major neurologic injuries. Twenty-six considerations and recommendations were selected by the workgroup. These involve the use of imaging, injection equipment particulate and non-particulate corticosteroids, epidural approach and maximal volume to be injected. Raising awareness about possible neurological complications and adoption of safety measures recommended by the work group aim at reducing the risks of these devastating events. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of electrical nerve stimulation for epidural catheter positioning in the dog.

PubMed

Garcia-Pereira, Fernando L; Sanders, Robert; Shih, Andre C; Sonea, Ioana M; Hauptman, Joseph G

2013-09-01

To evaluate the accuracy of epidural catheter placement at different levels of the spinal cord guided solely by electrical nerve stimulation and resultant segmental muscle contraction. Prospective, experiment. Six male and two female Beagles, age (1 ± 0.17 years) and weight (12.9 ± 1.1 kg). Animals were anesthetized with propofol and maintained with isoflurane. An insulated epidural needle was used to reach the lumbosacral epidural space. A Tsui epidural catheter was inserted and connected to a nerve stimulator (1.0 mA, 0.1 ms, 2 Hz) to assess positioning of the tip at specific spinal cord segments. The catheter was advanced to three different levels of the spinal cord: lumbar (L2-L5), thoracic (T5-T10) and cervical (C4-C6). Subcutaneous needles were previously placed at these spinal levels and the catheter was advanced to match the needle location, guided only by corresponding muscle contractions. Catheter position was verified by fluoroscopy. If catheter tip and needle were at the same vertebral body a score of zero was assigned. When catheter tip was cranial or caudal to the needle, positive or negative numbers, respectively, corresponding to the number of vertebrae between them, were assigned. The mean and standard deviation of the number of vertebrae between catheter tip and needle were calculated to assess accuracy. Results are given as mean ± SD. The catheter position in relation to the needle was within 0.3 ± 2.0 vertebral bodies. Positive predictive values (PPV) were 57%, 83% and 71% for lumbar, thoracic and cervical regions respectively. Overall PPV was 70%. No significant difference in PPV among regions was found. Placement of an epidural catheter at specific spinal levels using electrical nerve stimulation was feasible without radiographic assistance in dogs. Two vertebral bodies difference from the target site may be clinically acceptable when performing segmental epidural regional anesthesia. © 2013 Association of Veterinary Anaesthetists and the American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia.

Neuraxial block and postoperative epidural analgesia: effects on outcomes in the POISE-2 trial†

PubMed Central

Leslie, K.; McIlroy, D.; Kasza, J.; Forbes, A.; Kurz, A.; Khan, J.; Meyhoff, C. S.; Allard, R.; Landoni, G.; Jara, X.; Lurati Buse, G.; Candiotti, K.; Lee, H-S.; Gupta, R.; VanHelder, T.; Purayil, W.; De Hert, S.; Treschan, T.; Devereaux, P. J.

2016-01-01

Background. We assessed associations between intraoperative neuraxial block and postoperative epidural analgesia, and a composite primary outcome of death or non-fatal myocardial infarction, at 30 days post-randomization in POISE-2 Trial subjects. Methods. 10 010 high-risk noncardiac surgical patients were randomized aspirin or placebo and clonidine or placebo. Neuraxial block was defined as intraoperative spinal anaesthesia, or thoracic or lumbar epidural anaesthesia. Postoperative epidural analgesia was defined as postoperative epidural local anaesthetic and/or opioid administration. We used logistic regression with weighting using estimated propensity scores. Results. Neuraxial block was not associated with the primary outcome [7.5% vs 6.5%; odds ratio (OR), 0.89; 95% CI (confidence interval), 0.73–1.08; P=0.24], death (1.0% vs 1.4%; OR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.53–1.35; P=0.48), myocardial infarction (6.9% vs 5.5%; OR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.74–1.12; P=0.36) or stroke (0.3% vs 0.4%; OR, 1.05; 95% CI, 0.44–2.49; P=0.91). Neuraxial block was associated with less clinically important hypotension (39% vs 46%; OR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.81–1.00; P=0.04). Postoperative epidural analgesia was not associated with the primary outcome (11.8% vs 6.2%; OR, 1.48; 95% CI, 0.89–2.48; P=0.13), death (1.3% vs 0.8%; OR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.35–1.99; P=0.68], myocardial infarction (11.0% vs 5.7%; OR, 1.53; 95% CI, 0.90–2.61; P=0.11], stroke (0.4% vs 0.4%; OR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.18–2.32; P=0.50] or clinically important hypotension (63% vs 36%; OR, 1.40; 95% CI, 0.95–2.09; P=0.09). Conclusions. Neuraxial block and postoperative epidural analgesia were not associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes among POISE-2 subjects. PMID:26209855

[Epidural aspergillosis secondary to lung aspergilloma despite long-term itraconazole treatment].

PubMed

Jeanrot, C; Guigui, P; Groussard, O; Deburge, A

2001-10-01

A 58-year-old man developed spinal cord compression at the T2-T3 level due to an Aspergillus epidural abscess. This presumably immunocompetent patient had been treated for two years by oral itraconazole (200 mg/day) for a lung aspergilloma that occurred seven years after removal of a lung adenocarcinoma. Surgical debridement was performed via a wide posterior approach associated with high-dose amphotericin B. Five months later, the patient's neurological deficit had not improved and the patient died from respiratory failure. Despite a long-term treatment with itraconazole, the infection spread locally from a lung aspergilloma to the epidural space.

Rectus sheath catheter infusions for post-operative pain management.

PubMed

Layzell, Mandy

2014-06-24

Managing pain following major abdominal surgery remains a challenge. Traditionally, patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) or epidural analgesia have been used, which have improved post-operative pain and the patient experience, but have presented some problems in recovery. PCA can cause adverse effects, including sedation, nausea, vomiting, and prolonged gastric ileus. While epidurals do have some advantages over PCA, there are risks involved related to catheter insertion and adverse effects, such as hypotension and motor blocks which limit mobility. This article examines rectus sheath catheter infusions, a relatively new and alternative technique to epidural analgesia, and presents some early audit data related to pain scores, analgesic use and mobility.

Epidural analgesia complicated by dural ectasia in the Marfan syndrome

PubMed Central

Gray, Chelsea; Hofkamp, Michael P.; Noonan, Patrick T.; McAllister, Russell K.; Pilkinton, Kimberly A.; Diao, Zhiying

2016-01-01

Patients with the Marfan syndrome are considered to be high risk during pregnancy and warrant a complete multidisciplinary evaluation. One goal is to minimize hemodynamic fluctuations during labor since hypertensive episodes may result in aortic dissection or rupture. Although they may prevent these complications, neuraxial techniques may be complicated by dural ectasia. The case of a parturient with the Marfan syndrome and mild dural ectasia is presented. During attempted labor epidural placement, unintentional dural puncture occurred. A spinal catheter was used for adequate labor analgesia, and a resultant postdural puncture headache was alleviated by an epidural blood patch under fluoroscopic guidance. PMID:27695168

Acute quadriplegia after interscalene block secondary to cervical body erosion and epidural abscess.

PubMed

Porhomayon, Jahan; Nader, Nader D

2012-10-01

Although the incidence of neurological complications after shoulder surgery with regional anesthesia remains low but serious negative outcomes have been reported in the literature. Here we report a case of acute quadriplegia secondary to cervical epidural abscess and possible neck manipulation.

The Effects of Local Anaesthetics on QT Parameters during Thoracic Epidural Anaesthesia Combined with General Anaesthesia: Ropivacaine versus Bupivacaine

PubMed Central

Güven, Özlem; Sazak, Hilal; Alagöz, Ali; Şavkılıoğlu, Eser; Demirbaş, Çilsem Sevgen; Yıldız, Ali; Karabulut, Erdem

2013-01-01

Background: Many studies focusing on the effects of local anaesthetics on QT intervals have been performed, but the articles evaluating the relationship between thoracic epidural anaesthesia combined with general anaesthesia and QT parameters are very limited. Aims: We aimed to compare the effects of bupivacaine and ropivacaine on QT interval, corrected QT, dispersion of QT, and corrected dispersion of QT in patients undergoing lung resection under thoracic epidural anaesthesia combined with general anaesthesia. Study Design: Prospective clinical study. Methods: Thirty ASA physical status 1–3 patients requiring thoracic epidural anaesthesia combined with general anaesthesia for thoracic surgery. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups, which were allocated to receive either bupivacaine (Group B) or ropivacaine (Group R) during thoracic epidural anaesthesia. Following haemodynamic monitoring, a thoracic epidural catheter was inserted. Local anaesthetic at an average dose of 1.5 mL/ segment was given through an epidural catheter. The same general anaesthesia protocol was administered in both groups. Records and measurements were performed on 10 phases that were between the thoracic epidural catheter insertion to the 5th min of endobronchial intubation. In all phases, systolic arterial pressure, diastolic arterial pressure, mean arterial pressure, heart rate, peripheral O2 saturation, and electrocardiogram monitoring were performed in patients. All QT parameters were recorded by 12-lead electrocardiogram and analysed manually by a cardiologist. Results: QT intervals were similar between two groups. In Group R, corrected QT values at the 20th min of local anaesthetic injection and the 5th min of endobronchial intubation were shorter than those in Group B (p<0.05). The basal dispersion of QT and dispersion of QT values at the 1st min of propofol injection were shorter than those in Group R (p<0.05). The corrected dispersion of QT value at the 1st min of propofol injection was shorter in Group R (p<0.05). In Group R, the decrease in mean arterial pressure at the 1st min of fentanyl injection was significant compared with Group B (p<0.05). There was no significant difference between the groups with respect to heart rate and complications. Conclusion: The corrected QT, dispersion of QT, and corrected dispersion of QT intervals were slightly longer in the patients receiving bupivacaine compared with those receiving ropivacaine in various phases of the present study. PMID:25207150

Engaging Cervical Spinal Cord Networks to Reenable Volitional Control of Hand Function in Tetraplegic Patients.

PubMed

Lu, Daniel C; Edgerton, V Reggie; Modaber, Morteza; AuYong, Nicholas; Morikawa, Erika; Zdunowski, Sharon; Sarino, Melanie E; Sarrafzadeh, Majid; Nuwer, Marc R; Roy, Roland R; Gerasimenko, Yury

2016-11-01

Paralysis of the upper limbs from spinal cord injury results in an enormous loss of independence in an individual's daily life. Meaningful improvement in hand function is rare after 1 year of tetraparesis. Therapeutic developments that result in even modest gains in hand volitional function will significantly affect the quality of life for patients afflicted with high cervical injury. The ability to neuromodulate the lumbosacral spinal circuitry via epidural stimulation in regaining postural function and volitional control of the legs has been recently shown. A key question is whether a similar neuromodulatory strategy can be used to improve volitional motor control of the upper limbs, that is, performance of motor tasks considered to be less "automatic" than posture and locomotion. In this study, the effects of cervical epidural stimulation on hand function are characterized in subjects with chronic cervical cord injury. Herein we show that epidural stimulation can be applied to the chronic injured human cervical spinal cord to promote volitional hand function. Two subjects implanted with a cervical epidural electrode array demonstrated improved hand strength (approximately 3-fold) and volitional hand control in the presence of epidural stimulation. The present data are sufficient to suggest that hand motor function in individuals with chronic tetraplegia can be improved with cervical cord neuromodulation and thus should be comprehensively explored as a possible clinical intervention. © The Author(s) 2016.

The effects of preemptive intravenous versus preemptive epidural morphine on postoperative analgesia and surgical stress response after orthopaedic procedures.

PubMed

Kiliçkan, L; Toker, K

2000-09-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of pre-emptive intravenous versus pre-emptive epidural morphine on both postoperative analgesic consumption and surgical stress response. Sixty patients, ASA I or II, aged 18-85, undergoing total hip or knee replacement were randomly assigned to three groups of 20 patients. In group pre-emptive epidural, patients were administered an epidural injection of 75 micrograms.kg-1 morphine about 45 minute before dermal incision. In group pre-emptive intravenous, patients were administered 0.15 mg.kg-1 of intravenous morphine following induction before dermal incision. In group control, patients were administered intravenous saline following induction before dermal incision. The pre-i.v. group used significantly less morphine than the pre-epi group (p < 0.0003). In all groups, plasma cortisol levels increased as compared to pre-op values, but plasma cortisol increased more significantly in the pre-i.v. and control groups within 4 hrs of surgery and was still significantly elevated at 7 am of the first postoperative morning compared to the pre-epi group (p < 0.001) and the increase persisted to the next morning in patients pre-i.v. and control groups. Although pre-emptive epidural morphine has failed to decrease postoperative analgesic consumption, it has been able to suppress the surgical stress more significantly than intravenous morphine and a saline control.

Acute spontaneous thoracic epidural hematoma, triggered by weight-lifting training, in a retired sportsman: case report and literature review.

PubMed

Anghelescu, Aurelian; Rasina, Alin

2017-01-01

Spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma (SSEH) is a rare clinical entity, most often with acute symptomatic spinal cord compression and potentially permanent neurologic deficits. SSEH usually has surgical solutions and a good outcome after hematoma evacuation. A 61-year-old professional weight-lifting coach presented to the emergency department with sudden back pain, rapidly progressive paraparesis, and neurogenic bladder, after an intense training, 5 h previously. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a ventral thoracic epidural hematoma with significant compression at Th3-Th6. Surgical procedure was performed within the first 12 h: decompressive laminectomy from Th3 to Th7 vertebral levels and near total epidural hematoma removal. The patient improved rapidly from Th5 AIS-C to Th7 AIS-D paraplegia with independent ambulation, after the intervention. The rehabilitation program led to further improvement of the neurologic deficits and a favorable outcome, to AIS-E. Weightlifting has been reported as SSEH precipitating factor in young athletes. Our case is unique however, because the athlete was older. The underlying pathophysiological mechanism is represented by intravenous pressure changes and bleeding of the epidural venous plexus during a prolonged Valsalva maneuver, induced by strenuous, repeated efforts. Spondylosis, hypertension, and low doses of aspirin were incriminated as risk factors for SSEH. Prompt diagnosis, emergent decompressive intervention, early rehabilitation, and secondary prophylaxis were essential for a good outcome.

Ethamsylate in vaginal surgery under lumbar epidural anaesthesia.

PubMed Central

Smith, G. B.; Eltringham, R. J.; Nightingale, J. J.

1983-01-01

Sixty patients scheduled for vaginal surgery under lumbar epidural block were randomly allocated into two groups, one of which received ethamsylate intravenously prior to induction of anaesthesia. Ethamsylate did not reduce the blood loss at operation in these patients. The possible factors underlying this observation are discussed. PMID:6338800

Epidural volume extension: A novel technique and its efficacy in high risk cases

PubMed Central

Tiwari, Akhilesh Kumar; Singh, Rajeev Ratan; Anupam, Rudra Pratap; Ganguly, S.; Tomar, Gaurav Singh

2012-01-01

We present a unique case series restricting ourselves only to the high-risk case of different specialities who underwent successful surgery in our Institute by using epidural volume extension's technique using 1 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine and 25 μg of fentanyl. PMID:25885627

Advances in labor analgesia

PubMed Central

Wong, Cynthia A

2010-01-01

The pain of childbirth is arguably the most severe pain most women will endure in their lifetimes. The pain of the early first stage of labor arises from dilation of the lower uterine segment and cervix. Pain from the late first stage and second stage of labor arises from descent of the fetus in the birth canal, resulting in distension and tearing of tissues in the vagina and perineum. An array of regional nerve blocks, systemic analgesic, and nonpharmacologic techniques are currently used for labor analgesia. Nonpharmacologic methods are commonly used, but the effectiveness of these techniques generally lacks rigorous scientific study. Continuous labor support has been shown to decrease the use of pharmacologic analgesia and shorten labor. Intradermal water injections decrease back labor pain. Neuraxial labor analgesia (most commonly epidural or combined spinal-epidural) is the most effective method of pain relief during childbirth, and the only method that provides complete analgesia without maternal or fetal sedation. Current techniques commonly combine a low dose of local anesthetic (bupivacaine or ropivacaine) with a lipid soluble opioid (fentanyl or sufentanil). Neuraxial analgesia does not increase the rate of cesarean delivery compared to systemic opioid analgesia; however, dense neuraxial analgesia may increase the risk of instrumental vaginal delivery. PMID:21072284

Air versus saline in the loss of resistance technique for identification of the epidural space.

PubMed

Antibas, Pedro L; do Nascimento Junior, Paulo; Braz, Leandro G; Vitor Pereira Doles, João; Módolo, Norma S P; El Dib, Regina

2014-07-18

The success of epidural anaesthesia depends on correct identification of the epidural space. For several decades, the decision of whether to use air or physiological saline during the loss of resistance technique for identification of the epidural space has been governed by the personal experience of the anaesthesiologist. Epidural block remains one of the main regional anaesthesia techniques. It is used for surgical anaesthesia, obstetrical analgesia, postoperative analgesia and treatment of chronic pain and as a complement to general anaesthesia. The sensation felt by the anaesthesiologist from the syringe plunger with loss of resistance is different when air is compared with saline (fluid). Frequently fluid allows a rapid change from resistance to non-resistance and increased movement of the plunger. However, the ideal technique for identification of the epidural space remains unclear. • To evaluate the efficacy and safety of both air and saline in the loss of resistance technique for identification of the epidural space.• To evaluate complications related to the air or saline injected. We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (2013, Issue 9), MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Latin American and Caribbean Health Science Information Database (LILACS) (from inception to September 2013). We applied no language restrictions. The date of the most recent search was 7 September 2013. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-randomized controlled trials (quasi-RCTs) on air and saline in the loss of resistance technique for identification of the epidural space. Two review authors independently assessed trial quality and extracted data. We included in the review seven studies with a total of 852 participants. The methodological quality of the included studies was generally ranked as showing low risk of bias in most domains, with the exception of one study, which did not mask participants. We were able to include data from 838 participants in the meta-analysis. We found no statistically significant differences between participants receiving air and those given saline in any of the outcomes evaluated: inability to locate the epidural space (three trials, 619 participants) (risk ratio (RR) 0.88, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.33 to 2.31, low-quality evidence); accidental intravascular catheter placement (two trials, 223 participants) (RR 0.90, 95% CI 0.33 to 2.45, low-quality evidence); accidental subarachnoid catheter placement (four trials, 682 participants) (RR 2.95, 95% CI 0.12 to 71.90, low-quality evidence); combined spinal epidural failure (two trials, 400 participants) (RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.44 to 2.18, low-quality evidence); unblocked segments (five studies, 423 participants) (RR 1.66, 95% CI 0.72 to 3.85); and pain measured by VAS (two studies, 395 participants) (mean difference (MD) -0.09, 95% CI -0.37 to 0.18). With regard to adverse effects, we found no statistically significant differences between participants receiving air and those given saline in the occurrence of paraesthesias (three trials, 572 participants) (RR 0.89, 95% CI 0.69 to 1.15); difficulty in advancing the catheter (two trials, 227 participants) (RR 0.91, 95% CI 0.32 to 2.56); catheter replacement (two trials, 501 participants) (RR 0.69, 95% CI 0.26 to 1.83); and postdural puncture headache (one trial, 110 participants) (RR 0.83, 95% CI 0.12 to 5.71). Low-quality evidence shows that results do not differ between air and saline in terms of the loss of resistance technique for identification of the epidural space and reduction of complications. Applicability might be compromised, as most of the results described in this review were obtained from parturient patients. This review underlines the need to conduct well-designed trials in this field. 

[Usefullness of transesophageal echocardiography in early detection of coronary spasm].

PubMed

Sagara, M; Haraguchi, M; Hamu, Y; Isowaki, S; Yoshimura, N

1996-04-01

Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) was performed on a 62-year-old man who underwent abdominal aortic replacement for abdominal aortic aneurysm under general anesthesia combined with epidural anesthesia. Coronary artery spasm occurred after unexpected massive hemorrhage, and TEE showed hypokinesis in the posterior-inferior left ventricular wall. The changes in TEE preceded the ST elevation in the ECG. Bolus infusion of isosorbide dinitrate and continuous infusion of nitroglycerin alleviated these changes. TEE enabled us to detect and evaluate coronary spasm before the appearance of ST changes in ECG.

[Anesthetic management of a Dialysis Patient with Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy].

PubMed

Takahashi, Yoshihiro; Hara, Koji; Sata, Takeyoshi

2015-11-01

We report the successful management of anesthesia in a 46-year-old male dialysis patient with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). He underwent an osteosynthesis of the ankle joint using general anesthesia combined with epidural anesthesia. The anesthetic concerns in patients with CIDP are the possibility of postoperative respiratory dysfunction due to anesthetics or muscle relaxants and that of postoperative neurological deterioration due to spinal or epidural anesthesia. In this case, sevoflurane (1.5-2%) did not cause respiratory dysfunction postoperatively and muscle relaxant effect of rocuronium was effectively reversed by sugammadex. Epidural anesthesia using ropivacaine (0.2-0.375%) and fentanyl did not worsen the neurological symptoms of CIDP post-operatively.

A rare remote epidural hematoma secondary to decompressive craniectomy.

PubMed

Xu, Gang-Zhu; Wang, Mao-De; Liu, Kai-Ge; Bai, Yin-An

2014-01-01

Remote epidural hematoma (REDH) is an uncommon complication of decompressive craniectomy. Remote epidural hematomas of the parietal occiput region have been reported only rarely. We report a unique case of delayed-onset bilateral extensive straddle postsagittal sinus and bilateral lateral sinus parietal occiput REDH after decompressive craniectomy, of which volume was approximately 130 mL, with left deviating midline structures. The patient was immediately taken back to the operating room for evacuation of the REDH via bilateral parietal and occiput craniectomy. Postoperatively, serial computed tomographic scans performed 3 days later showed that the REDH had been completely evacuated. Two months later, the patient regained full consciousness and obtained a near-complete recovery except for right facial paralysis.

Cervicothoracic epidural hematoma in a toddler with miosis, ptosis, nonspecific symptoms, and no history of major trauma: case report.

PubMed

Root, Brandon K; Schartz, Derrek A; Calnan, Dan R; Hickey, William F; Bauer, David F

2018-06-01

Spinal epidural hematomas are uncommon in children. The diagnosis can be elusive as most cases present without a history of trauma, while symptoms can be atypical. We encountered a 35-month-old male presenting with nonspecific symptoms and no history of trauma. He later developed unilateral miosis and ptosis; MRI discovered a subacute cervicothoracic epidural which was promptly evacuated. The patient made an excellent recovery. We emphasize the frequent absence of identifiable trauma and the importance of thorough imaging when this entity is suspected. Miosis and ptosis, likely representing a partial Horner syndrome, is an extremely rare presentation, this being one of the only reported cases.

Takayasu's arteritis: Anesthetic significance and management of a patient for cesarean section using the epidural volume extension technique

PubMed Central

Tiwari, Akhilesh Kumar; Tomar, Gaurav Singh; Chadha, Madhur; Kapoor, Mukul C.

2011-01-01

Takayasu's arteritis (TA) is a rare, chronic progressive pan-endarteritis involving the aorta and its main branches. Anesthesia for patients with TA is complicated by severe uncontrolled hypertension, end-organ dysfunction, stenosis of major blood vessels, and difficulties in monitoring arterial blood pressure. We present the successful anesthetic management of a 23-year-old woman having TA with bilateral subclavian and renal artery stenosis posted for emergency cesarean section by using the epidural volume extension technique, which offers the combined advantage of both spinal and epidural anesthesia and, at the same time, also avoids the need of sophisticated neurological monitors like EEG and transcranial Doppler. PMID:25885310

The use of botulinum toxin and epidural analgesia for the treatment of spasticity and pain in a patient with maple syrup urine disease

PubMed Central

Kaki, Abdullah M.; Arab, Abeer A.

2012-01-01

A 7-year-old boy, weighing 18 kg, was diagnosed with maple syrup urine disease (MSUD). He suffered from spasticity of the lower limbs and pain that did not respond to oral medications. Injections of botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) at 10 sites and epidural analgesia with 0.125% bupivacaine were used to treat spasticity with good results. We conclude that BTX-A combined with epidural analgesia may be a useful treatment option for incapacitating, painful spasticity related to MSUD. This treatment modality allowed a comprehensive rehabilitation program to be completed and it lasted longer than 9 months. PMID:22754448

[Ultrasound-guided rectus sheath block for upper abdominal surgery].

PubMed

Osaka, Yoshimune; Kashiwagi, Masanori; Nagatsuka, Yukio; Oosaku, Masayoshi; Hirose, Chikako

2010-08-01

Upper abdominal surgery leads to severe postoperative pain. Insufficient postoperative analgesia accompanies a high incidence of complications. Therefore, postoperative analgesia is very important. The epidural analgesia has many advantages. However it has a high risk of epidural hematoma in anticoagulated patients. Rectus sheath block provided safer and more reliable analgesia in recent years, by the development of ultrasound tools. We experienced two cases of the rectus sheath block in upper abdominal surgery under ultrasound guidance. Ultrasound guided rectus sheath block can reduce the risk of peritoneal puncture, bleeding, and other complications. Rectus sheath block is very effective to reduce postoperative pain in upper abdominal surgery as an alternative method to epidural anesthesia in anticoagulated patients.

Case report: Anesthesia management for emergency cesarean section in a patient with dwarfism.

PubMed

Li, Xiaoxi; Duan, Hongjun; Zuo, Mingzhang

2015-04-28

Dwarfism is characterized by short stature. Pregnancy in women with dwarfism is uncommon and cesarean section is generally indicated for delivery. Patients with dwarfism are high-risk population for both general and regional anesthesia, let alone in an emergency surgery. In this case report we present a 27-year-old Chinese puerpera with dwarfism who underwent emergency cesarean section under combined spinal and epidural anesthesia. It is an original case report, which provides instructive significance for anesthesia management especially combined spinal and epidural anesthesia in this rare condition. There was only one former article that reported a puerpera who underwent combined spinal and epidural anesthesia for a selective cesarean section.

Continuous lumbar hemilaminectomy for intervertebral disc disease in an Amur tiger (Panthera tigris altaica).

PubMed

Flegel, Thomas; Böttcher, Peter; Alef, Michaele; Kiefer, Ingmar; Ludewig, Eberhard; Thielebein, Jens; Grevel, Vera

2008-09-01

A 13-yr-old Amur tiger (Panthera tigris altaica) was presented for an acute onset of paraplegia. Spinal imaging that included plain radiographs, myelography, and computed tomography performed under general anesthesia revealed lateralized spinal cord compression at the intervertebral disc space L4-5 caused by intervertebral disc extrusion. This extrusion was accompanied by an extensive epidural hemorrhage from L3 to L6. Therefore, a continuous hemilaminectomy from L3 to L6 was performed, resulting in complete decompression of the spinal cord. The tiger was ambulatory again 10 days after the surgery. This case suggests that the potential benefit of complete spinal cord decompression may outweigh the risk of causing clinically significant spinal instability after extensive decompression.

Spontaneous extracranial decompression of epidural hematoma.

PubMed

Neely, John C; Jones, Blaise V; Crone, Kerry R

2008-03-01

Epidural hematoma (EDH) is a common sequela of head trauma in children. An increasing number are managed nonsurgically, with close clinical and imaging observation. We report the case of a traumatic EDH that spontaneously decompressed into the subgaleal space, demonstrated on serial CT scans that showed resolution of the EDH and concurrent enlargement of the subgaleal hematoma.

Epidural labour analgesia using Bupivacaine and Clonidine

PubMed Central

Syal, K; Dogra, RK; Ohri, A; Chauhan, G; Goel, A

2011-01-01

Background: To compare the effects of addition of Clonidine (60 μg) to Epidural Bupivacaine (0.125%) for labour analgesia, with regard to duration of analgesia, duration of labour, ambulation, incidence of instrumentation and caesarean section, foetal outcome, patient satisfaction and side effects. Patients & Methods: On demand, epidural labour analgesia was given to 50 nulliparous healthy term parturients (cephalic presentation), divided in two groups randomly. Group I received bupivacaine (0.125%) alone, whereas Group II received bupivacaine (0.125%) along with Clonidine (60 μg). 10 ml of 0.125% bupivacaine was injected as first dose and further doses titrated with patient relief (Numerical Rating Scale <3). Top ups were given whenever Numerical Rating Scale went above 5. Results: There was statistically significant prolongation of duration of analgesia in Group II, with no difference in duration of labour, ambulation, incidence of instrumentation and caesarean section or foetal outcome. Also clonidine gave dose sparing effect to bupivacaine and there was better patient satisfaction without any significant side effects in Group II. Conclusion: Clonidine is a useful adjunct to bupivacaine for epidural labour analgesia and can be considered as alternative to opioids. PMID:21804714

Pain Management of Malignant Psoas Syndrome Under Epidural Analgesia During Palliative Radiotherapy.

PubMed

Ota, Takayo; Makihara, Masaru; Tsukuda, Hiroshi; Kajikawa, Ryuji; Inamori, Masayuki; Miyatake, Nozomi; Tanaka, Noriko; Tokunaga, Masahiro; Hasegawa, Yoshikazu; Tada, Takuhito; Fukuoka, Masahiro

2017-06-01

Malignant psoas syndrome is a rare malignant condition presenting as lumbosacral plexopathy and painful fixed flexion of the hip. Metastasis to the psoas muscle is observed, which damages the nerve bundles in the lumbosacral plexuses. The syndrome presents as refractory lower back pain with several other neurological symptoms. The pain is difficult to control because it is a mixture of nociceptive and neuropathic pain, which indicates that treatment requires a versatile approach. The authors report a case of severe back pain caused by metastasis to the psoas muscle of advanced gastric cancer in a patient who underwent palliative radiotherapy under epidural analgesia. Despite conventional analgesics and subcutaneous oxycodone, he had difficulties in maintaining supine position because of the back pain and had a problem to receive radiotherapy, which required him to stay still in the same position during the treatment. By epidural analgesia, he could remain in supine position and complete radiotherapy without increasing opioid administration. His back pain was improved after the radiotherapy. Epidural analgesia is an effective treatment choice for a patient who is unable to keep the position during palliative radiotherapy.

Maternal and Cord Serum Cytokine Changes with Continuous and Intermittent Labor Epidural Analgesia: A Randomized Study

PubMed Central

Mantha, Venkat R.; Vallejo, Manuel C.; Ramesh, Vimala; Jones, Bobby L.; Ramanathan, Sivam

2012-01-01

Background. Maternal fever during labor epidural analgesia (LEA) may cause increased maternal and cord serum inflammatory cytokines. We report the effects of intermittent and continuous LEA on these cytokines. Methods. Ninety-two women were randomly assigned to continuous (CLEA) or intermittent (ILEA) groups, 46 in each. Maternal temperature was checked and blood drawn at epidural insertion (baseline) and four-hourly until 4 h postpartum (4 PP). Cord blood was drawn after placental delivery. Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were measured and analyzed according to group randomization, and then combined and reanalyzed as febrile (temperature ≥38°C) or afebrile groups. Results. Significant intragroup changes from baseline were noted in some groups. Data are pg/mL, median (Q1/Q3). IL-6 rose at all time points in all groups. CLEA: baseline: 18.5 (12.5/31.1), 4 h: 80.0 (46.3/110.8), 8 h: 171.9 (145.3/234.3), and 4 PP: 81 (55.7/137.4). ILEA: baseline: 15.7 (10.2/27.1), 4 h: 68.2 (33.3/95.0), 8 h: 125.0 (86.3/195.0), and 4 PP: 70.2 (54.8/103.6). Febrile group: baseline: 21.6 (13.8/40.9), 4 h: 83.9 (47.5/120.8), 8 h: 186.7 (149.6/349.9), and 4 PP: 105.8 (65.7/158.8). Afebrile group: baseline: 10.9 (2.1/17.4), 4 h: 38.2 (15.0/68.2), 8 h: 93.8 (57.1/135.7), and 4 PP: 52.9 (25.1/78). IL-8 rose at all time points in CLEA: baseline: 2.68 (0.0/4.3), 4 h: 3.7 (0.0/6.5), 8 h: 6.0 (3.3/9.6), 4 PP: 5.6 (0.8/8.0), and afebrile group baseline: 2.5 (0.0/4.7), 4 h: 3.3 (0.0/6.2), 8 h: 5.3 (1.9/9.8), and 4 PP: 4.7 (0.0/7.6). It fell at 4 PP in febrile group: baseline: 4.1 (0.0/6.4), 4 h: 3.8 (0.0/6.5), 8 h: 5.2 (2.5/8.0), and 4 PP: 2.9 (0.0/4.0). GM-CSF increased at 8 h and decreased at 4 PP in ILEA baseline: 2.73 (0.0/7.2), 4 h: 2.73 (0.0/7.9), 8 h: 3.9 (2.7/11.5), and 4 PP: 2.0 (0.0/7.2). It increased at 4 h and 8 h and decreased at 4 PP in febrile group: baseline: 2.6 (0.0/4.2), 4 h: 3.2 (2.1/7.0), 8 h: 4.0 (3.2/12.3), and 4 PP: 2.4 (1.7/12.6). There were no intergroup cytokine changes in maternal or cord serum in CLEA versus ILEA or febrile versus afebrile groups. Conclusions. Some cytokines, especially IL-6, rise physiologically during labor epidural analgesia. PMID:22629160

Transient paraplegia due to accidental intrathecal bupivacaine infiltration following pre-emptive analgesia in a patient with missed sacral dural ectasia.

PubMed

Kanna, P Rishimugesh; Sekar, Chelliah; Shetty, Ajoy Prasad; Rajasekaran, Shanmughanathan

2010-11-15

A case report with review of the literature. To highlight the need for careful magnetic resonance imaging evaluation for the presence of incidental lumbosacral dural anomalies before attempting caudal epidural interventions. Pre-emptive analgesia through the caudal epidural route provides good postoperative pain relief in spine surgeries. Several precautions have been advised in the literature. Presence of sacral-dural ectasia should be considered a relative contraindication for this procedure. A 50-year old woman underwent posterior instrumented spinal fusion for L4-L5 spondylolisthesis under general anesthesia. She received single shot caudal epidural analgesia at the start of the procedure. After complete emergence from anesthesia, she had complete motor and sensory loss below the T12 spinal level, which reversed to normal neurology in 6 hours. Retrospective evaluation of the patient's magnetic resonance imaging showed an ectatic, low lying lumbosacral dural sac which had been overlooked in the initial evaluation. The drugs given by the caudal route have been accidentally administered into the thecal sac causing a brief period of neurologic deficit. This unexpected complication has been reported only in the pediatric literature before. It is important to look for the presence of lumbosacral dural anomalies before planning caudal epidural injections in adults also. Sacral dural ectasia and other lumbosacral anomalies must be recognized as contraindications for caudal epidural pre-emptive analgesia for spine surgery. Other modes of postoperative pain relief should be tried in these patients.

Epidural analgesia versus intravenous patient-controlled analgesia following minimally invasive pectus excavatum repair: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PubMed Central

Stroud, Andrea M.; Tulanont, Darena D.; Coates, Thomasena E.; Goodney, Philip P.; Croitoru, Daniel P.

2017-01-01

Background/Purpose The minimally invasive pectus excavatum repair (MIPER) is a painful procedure. The ideal approach to postoperative analgesia is debated. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the efficacy and safety of epidural analgesia compared to intravenous Patient Controlled Analgesia (PCA) following MIPER. Methods We searched MEDLINE (1946–2012) and the Cochrane Library (inception–2012) for randomized controlled trials (RCT) and cohort studies comparing epidural analgesia to PCA for postoperative pain management in children following MIPER. We calculated weighted mean differences (WMD) for numeric pain scores and summarized secondary outcomes qualitatively. Results Of 699 studies, 3 RCTs and 3 retrospective cohorts met inclusion criteria. Compared to PCA, mean pain scores were modestly lower with epidural immediately (WMD −1.04, 95% CI −2.11 to 0.03, p = 0.06), 12 hours (WMD −1.12; 95% CI −1.61 to −0.62, p < 0.001), 24 hours (WMD −0.51, 95%CI −1.05 to 0.02, p = 0.06), and 48 hours (WMD −0.85, 95% CI −1.62 to −0.07, p = 0.03) after surgery. We found no statistically significant differences between secondary outcomes. Conclusions Epidural analgesia may provide superior pain control but was comparable with PCA for secondary outcomes. Better designed studies are needed. Currently the analgesic technique should be based on patient preference and institutional resources. PMID:24851774

Impact of Helmet Use on Severity of Epidural Hematomas in Cambodia.

PubMed

Gupta, Saksham; Iv, Vycheth; Sam, Nang; Vuthy, Din; Klaric, Katherine; Shrime, Mark G; Park, Kee B

2017-04-01

Traumatic brain injury is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, often necessitating neurosurgical intervention to evacuate intracranial bleeding. Since the early 2000s, Cambodia has been undergoing a rapid increase in motorcycle transit and in road traffic accidents, but the prevalence of helmet usage remains low. Epidural hematomas are severe traumatic brain injuries that can necessitate neurosurgical intervention. This is a retrospective cohort study of patients with epidural hematoma secondary to motorcycle accidents who presented to a major national tertiary care center in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, between November 2013 and March 2016. All patients were diagnosed with computed tomography of the head. In this cohort, 21.6% of patients in motorcycle accidents presented with epidural hematoma and 89.1% of patients were men, 47.6% were intoxicated, and were 87.8% were not wearing helmets at the moment of impact. Not wearing a helmet was associated with a 6.90-fold increase in odds of presenting with a moderate-to-severe Glasgow coma scale score and a 3.76-fold increase in odds of requiring craniotomy or craniectomy for evacuation of hematoma. Male sex was also associated with increased odds of higher clinical severity at presentation and indication for craniotomy or craniectomy, and alcohol intoxication at the time of accident was not associated with either. Helmet usage is protective in reducing the severity of presentation and need for neurosurgical intervention for patients with epidural hematoma secondary to motorcycle accidents. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Spinal epidural angiolipomas: Clinical characteristics, management and outcomes

PubMed Central

Bouali, Sofiene; Maatar, Nidhal; Bouhoula, Asma; Abderrahmen, Khansa; Said, Imed Ben; Boubaker, Adnen; Kallel, Jalel; Jemel, Hafedh

2016-01-01

Purpose: The spinal epidural angiolipomas are rare expansive processes made of mature lipomatous and angiomatous elements. They often have a benign character. Their etiology, pathogenesis remains uncertain, and it is a cause of spinal cord compression. The magnetic resonance imaging is the most important neuroradiological examination. Histological examination is the only examination to confirm the diagnosis. Surgery is the treatment of choice. Methods: A retrospective study of all patients operated on for a spinal epidural angiolipoma at the Department of Neurosurgery at the National Institute of Neurology of Tunis between January 2000 and December 2014 (15 years) was performed. The aim of this study is to describe the clinical, radiological, histological characteristics and the treatment of this tumor. Results: A total of nine patients were operated from January 01, 2000 to November 30, 2014. The average age of our patients was 51 years with ages that ranged from 29 to 65 with a male predominance. The period between onset of symptoms and diagnosis ranged from 24 months with an average 12 months. Posterior localization of the tumor was seen in all patients. Surgical resection was performed for all cases. The postoperative course has been satisfactory, with a complete recovery of neurological functions in all patients. Conclusions: The spinal epidural angiolipomas is rare expansive process causing spinal cord compression. Treatment is exclusively surgical resection. The functional outcome of spinal epidural angiolipomas is particularly favorable with a complete neurological recovery is if the patient was quickly operated. PMID:27695535

Spinal epidural angiolipomas: Clinical characteristics, management and outcomes.

PubMed

Bouali, Sofiene; Maatar, Nidhal; Bouhoula, Asma; Abderrahmen, Khansa; Said, Imed Ben; Boubaker, Adnen; Kallel, Jalel; Jemel, Hafedh

2016-01-01

The spinal epidural angiolipomas are rare expansive processes made of mature lipomatous and angiomatous elements. They often have a benign character. Their etiology, pathogenesis remains uncertain, and it is a cause of spinal cord compression. The magnetic resonance imaging is the most important neuroradiological examination. Histological examination is the only examination to confirm the diagnosis. Surgery is the treatment of choice. A retrospective study of all patients operated on for a spinal epidural angiolipoma at the Department of Neurosurgery at the National Institute of Neurology of Tunis between January 2000 and December 2014 (15 years) was performed. The aim of this study is to describe the clinical, radiological, histological characteristics and the treatment of this tumor. A total of nine patients were operated from January 01, 2000 to November 30, 2014. The average age of our patients was 51 years with ages that ranged from 29 to 65 with a male predominance. The period between onset of symptoms and diagnosis ranged from 24 months with an average 12 months. Posterior localization of the tumor was seen in all patients. Surgical resection was performed for all cases. The postoperative course has been satisfactory, with a complete recovery of neurological functions in all patients. The spinal epidural angiolipomas is rare expansive process causing spinal cord compression. Treatment is exclusively surgical resection. The functional outcome of spinal epidural angiolipomas is particularly favorable with a complete neurological recovery is if the patient was quickly operated.

The Dose-response of Intrathecal Ropivacaine Co-administered with Sufentanil for Cesarean Delivery under Combined Spinal-epidural Anesthesia in Patients with Scarred Uterus

PubMed Central

Xiao, Fei; Xu, Wen-Ping; Zhang, Yin-Fa; Liu, Lin; Liu, Xia; Wang, Li-Zhong

2015-01-01

Background: Spinal anesthesia is considered as a reasonable anesthetic option in lower abdominal and lower limb surgery. This study was to determine the dose-response of intrathecal ropivacaine in patients with scarred uterus undergoing cesarean delivery under combined spinal-epidural anesthesia. Methods: Seventy-five patients with scarred uterus undergoing elective cesarean delivery under combined spinal-epidural anesthesia were enrolled in this randomized, double-blinded, dose-ranging study. Patients received 6, 8, 10, 12, or 14 mg intrathecal hyperbaric ropivacaine with 5 μg sufentanil. Successful spinal anesthesia was defined as a T4 sensory level achieved with no need for epidural supplementation. The 50% effective dose (ED50) and 95% effective dose (ED95) were calculated with a logistic regression model. Results: ED50 and ED95 of intrathecal hyperbaric ropivacaine for patients with scarred uterus undergoing cesarean delivery under combined spinal-epidural anesthesia (CSEA) were 8.28 mg (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.28–9.83 mg) and 12.24 mg (95% CI: 10.53–21.88 mg), respectively. Conclusion: When a CSEA technique is to use in patients with scarred uterus for an elective cesarean delivery, the ED50 and ED95 of intrathecal hyperbaric ropivacaine along with 5 μg sufentanil were 8.28 mg and 12.24 mg, respectively. In addition, this local anesthetic is unsuitable for emergent cesarean delivery, but it has advantages for ambulatory patients. PMID:26415793

Antinociception induced by epidural motor cortex stimulation in naive conscious rats is mediated by the opioid system.

PubMed

Fonoff, Erich Talamoni; Dale, Camila Squarzoni; Pagano, Rosana Lima; Paccola, Carina Cicconi; Ballester, Gerson; Teixeira, Manoel Jacobsen; Giorgi, Renata

2009-01-03

Epidural motor cortex stimulation (MCS) has been used for treating patients with neuropathic pain resistant to other therapeutic approaches. Experimental evidence suggests that the motor cortex is also involved in the modulation of normal nociceptive response, but the underlying mechanisms of pain control have not been clarified yet. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of epidural electrical MCS on the nociceptive threshold of naive rats. Electrodes were placed on epidural motor cortex, over the hind paw area, according to the functional mapping accomplished in this study. Nociceptive threshold and general activity were evaluated under 15-min electrical stimulating sessions. When rats were evaluated by the paw pressure test, MCS induced selective antinociception in the paw contralateral to the stimulated cortex, but no changes were noticed in the ipsilateral paw. When the nociceptive test was repeated 15 min after cessation of electrical stimulation, the nociceptive threshold returned to basal levels. On the other hand, no changes in the nociceptive threshold were observed in rats evaluated by the tail-flick test. Additionally, no behavioral or motor impairment were noticed in the course of stimulation session at the open-field test. Stimulation of posterior parietal or somatosensory cortices did not elicit any changes in the general activity or nociceptive response. Opioid receptors blockade by naloxone abolished the increase in nociceptive threshold induced by MCS. Data shown herein demonstrate that epidural electrical MCS elicits a substantial and selective antinociceptive effect, which is mediated by opioids.

Comparison of Morphine and Tramadol in Transforaminal Epidural Injections for Lumbar Radicular Pain

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Transforaminal epidural steroid injections are known to reduce inflammation by inhibiting synthesis of various proinflammatory mediators and have been used increasingly. The anti-inflammatory properties of opioids are not as fully understood but apparently involve antagonism sensory neuron excitability and pro-inflammatory neuropeptide release. To date, no studies have addressed the efficacy of transforaminal epidural morphine in patients with radicular pain, and none have directly compared morphine with a tramadol for this indication. The aim of this study was to compare morphine and tramadol analgesia when administered via epidural injection to patients with lumbar radicular pain. Methods A total of 59 patients were randomly allocated to 1 of 2 treatment groups and followed for 3 months after procedure. Each patient was subjected to C-arm guided transforaminal epidural injection (TFEI) of an affected nerve root. As assigned, patients received either morphine sulfate (2.5 mg/2.5 ml) or tramadol (25 mg/0.5 ml) in combination with 0.2% ropivacaine (1 ml). Using numeric rating scale was subsequently rates at 2 weeks and 3 months following injection for comparison with baseline. Results Both groups had significantly lower mean pain scores at 2 weeks and at 3 months after treatment, but outcomes did not differ significantly between groups. Conclusions TFEI of an opioid plus local anesthetic proved effective in treating radicular pain. Although morphine surpassed tramadol in pain relief scores, the difference was not statistically significant. PMID:23862000

Dynamics of vascular volume and hemodilution of lactated Ringer’s solution in patients during induction of general and epidural anesthesia*

PubMed Central

Li, Yu-hong; Lou, Xian-feng; Bao, Fang-ping

2006-01-01

Objective: To investigate the dynamics of vascular volume and the plasma dilution of lactated Ringer’s solution in patients during the induction of general and epidural anesthesia. Methods: The hemodilution of i.v. infusion of 1000 ml of lactated Ringer’s solution over 60 min was studied in patients undergoing general (n=31) and epidural (n=22) anesthesia. Heart rate, arterial blood pressure and hemoglobin (Hb) concentration were measured every 5 min during the study. Surgery was not started until the study period had been completed. Results: General anesthesia caused the greater decrease of mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) (mean 15% versus 9%; P<0.01) and thereby followed by a more pronounced plasma dilution, blood volume expansion (VE) and blood volume expansion efficiency (VEE). A strong linear correlation between hemodilution and the reduction in MAP (r=−0.50; P<0.01) was found. At the end of infusion, patients undergoing general anesthesia retained 47% (SD 19%) of the infused fluid in the circulation, while epidural anesthesia retained 29% (SD 13%) (P<0.001). Correspondingly, a fewer urine output (mean 89 ml versus 156 ml; P<0.05) and extravascular expansion (454 ml versus 551 ml; P<0.05) were found during general anesthesia. Conclusion: We concluded that the induction of general anesthesia caused more hemodilution, volume expansion and volume expansion efficiency than epidural anesthesia, which was triggered only by the lower MAP. PMID:16909476

Engaging cervical spinal cord networks to re-enable volitional control of hand function in tetraplegic patients

PubMed Central

Lu, Daniel C.; Edgerton, V. Reggie; Modaber, Morteza; AuYong, Nicholas; Morikawa, Erika; Zdunowski, Sharon; Sarino, Melanie E.; Nuwer, Marc R.; Roy, Roland R.; Gerasimenko, Yury

2016-01-01

Background Paralysis of the upper-limbs from spinal cord injury results in an enormous loss of independence in an individual’s daily life. Meaningful improvement in hand function is rare after one year of tetraparesis. Therapeutic developments that result in even modest gains in hand volitional function will significantly impact the quality of life for patients afflicted with high cervical injury. The ability to neuromodulate the lumbosacral spinal circuitry via epidural stimulation in regaining postural function and volitional control of the legs has been recently shown. A key question is whether a similar neuromodulatory strategy can be used to improve volitional motor control of the upper-limbs, i.e., performance of motor tasks considered to be less “automatic” than posture and locomotion. In this study, the effects of cervical epidural stimulation on hand function are characterized in subjects with chronic cervical cord injury. Objective Herein we show that epidural stimulation can be applied to the chronic injured human cervical spinal cord to promote volitional hand function. Methods and results Two subjects implanted with an cervical epidural electrode array demonstrated improved hand strength (approximately three-fold) and volitional hand control in the presence of epidural stimulation. Conclusions The present data are sufficient to suggest that hand motor function in individuals with chronic tetraplegia can be improved with cervical cord neuromodulation and thus should be comprehensively explored as a possible clinical intervention. PMID:27198185

Comparison of epidural butorphanol and fentanyl as adjuvants in the lower abdominal surgery: A randomized clinical study

PubMed Central

Kaur, Jasleen; Bajwa, Sukhminder Jit Singh

2014-01-01

Background: Epidural opioids acting through the spinal cord receptors improve the quality and duration of analgesia along with dose-sparing effect with the local anesthetics. The present study compared the efficacy and safety profile of epidurally administered butorphanol and fentanyl combined with bupivacaine (B). Materials and Methods: A total of 75 adult patients of either sex of American Society of Anesthesiologist physical status I and II, aged 20-60 years, undergoing lower abdominal under epidural anesthesia were enrolled into the study. Patients were randomly divided into three groups of 25 each: B, bupivacaine and butorphanol (BB) and bupivacaine + fentanyl (BF). B (0.5%) 20 ml was administered epidurally in all the three groups with the addition of 1 mg butorphanol in BB group and 100 μg fentanyl in the BF group. The hemodynamic parameters as well as various block characteristics including onset, completion, level and duration of sensory analgesia as well as onset, completion and regression of motor block were observed and compared. Adverse events and post-operative visual analgesia scale scores were also noted and compared. Data was analyzed using ANOVA with post-hoc significance, Chi-square test and Fisher's exact test. Value of P < 0.05 was considered significant and P < 0.001 as highly significant. Results: The demographic profile of patients was comparable in all the three groups. Onset and completion of sensory analgesia was earliest in BF group, followed by BB and B group. The duration of analgesia was significantly prolonged in BB group followed by BF as compared with group B. Addition of butorphanol and fentanyl to B had no effect on the time of onset, completion and regression of motor block. No serious cardio-respiratory side effects were observed in any group. Conclusions: Butorphanol and fentanyl as epidural adjuvants are equally safe and provide comparable stable hemodynamics, early onset and establishment of sensory anesthesia. Butorphanol provides a significantly prolonged post-operative analgesia. PMID:24843326

A randomized, controlled, double-blind trial of fluoroscopic caudal epidural injections in the treatment of lumbar disc herniation and radiculitis.

PubMed

Manchikanti, Laxmaiah; Singh, Vijay; Cash, Kimberly A; Pampati, Vidyasagar; Damron, Kim S; Boswell, Mark V

2011-11-01

A randomized, controlled, double-blind trial. To assess the effectiveness of fluoroscopically directed caudal epidural injections in managing chronic low back and lower extremity pain in patients with disc herniation and radiculitis with local anesthetic with or without steroids. The available literature on the effectiveness of epidural injections in managing chronic low back pain secondary to disc herniation is highly variable. One hundred twenty patients suffering with low back and lower extremity pain with disc herniation and radiculitis were randomized to one of the two groups: group I received caudal epidural injections with an injection of local anesthetic, lidocaine 0.5%, 10 mL; group II patients received caudal epidural injections with 0.5% lidocaine, 9 mL, mixed with 1 mL of steroid. The Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), the Oswestry Disability Index 2.0 (ODI), employment status, and opioid intake were utilized with assessment at 3, 6, and 12 months posttreatment. The percentage of patients with significant pain relief of 50% or greater and/or improvement in functional status with 50% or more reduction in ODI scores was seen in 70% and 67% in group I and 77% and 75% in group II with average procedures per year of 3.8 ± 1.4 in group I and 3.6 + 1.1 in group II. However, the relief with first and second procedures was significantly higher in the steroid group. The number of injections performed was also higher in local anesthetic group even though overall relief was without any significant difference among the groups. There was no difference among the patients receiving steroids. Caudal epidural injection with local anesthetic with or without steroids might be effective in patients with disc herniation or radiculitis. The present evidence illustrates potential superiority of steroids compared with local anesthetic at 1-year follow-up.

Effects of Epidural Labor Analgesia With Low Concentrations of Local Anesthetics on Obstetric Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

PubMed

Wang, Ting-Ting; Sun, Shen; Huang, Shao-Qiang

2017-05-01

Low concentrations of local anesthetics (LCLAs) are increasingly popular for epidural labor analgesia. The effects of epidural analgesia with low concentrations of anesthetics on the duration of the second stage of labor and the instrumental birth rate, however, remain controversial. A systematic review was conducted to compare the effects of epidural analgesia with LCLAs with those of nonepidural analgesia on obstetric outcomes. The databases of PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane controlled trials register were independently searched by 2 researchers, and randomized controlled trials that compared epidural labor analgesia utilizing LCLAs with nonepidural analgesia were retrieved. The primary outcomes were the duration of the second stage of labor and the instrumental birth rate; secondary outcomes included the cesarean delivery rate, the spontaneous vaginal delivery rate, and the duration of the first stage of labor. Ten studies (1809 women) were included. There was no significant difference between groups in the duration of the second stage of labor (mean difference = 5.71 minutes, 95% confidence interval [CI], -6.14 to 17.83; P = .36) or the instrumental birth rate (risk ratio [RR] = 1.52, 95% CI, 0.97-2.4; P = .07). There was no significant difference between groups in the cesarean delivery rate (RR = 0.8, 95% CI, 0.6-1.05; P = .11), the spontaneous vaginal delivery rate (RR = 0.98, 95% CI, 0.91-1.06; P = .62), or the duration of the first stage of labor (mean difference = 17.34 minutes, 95% CI, -5.89 to 40.56; P = .14). Compared with nonepidural analgesia, epidural analgesia with LCLAs is not associated with a prolonged duration of the second stage of labor or an increased instrumental birth rate. The results of this meta-analysis are based on small trials of low quality. These conclusions require confirmation by large-sample and high-quality trials in the future.

Effect of Parecoxib as an Adjunct to Patient-Controlled Epidural Analgesia after Abdominal Hysterectomy: A Multicenter, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

Liu, Wei-Feng; Shu, Hai-Hua; Zhao, Guo-Dong; Peng, Shu-Ling; Xiao, Jin-Fang; Zhang, Guan-Rong; Liu, Ke-Xuan; Huang, Wen-Qi

2016-01-01

Objective This multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled study evaluated the efficacy and side effects of parecoxib during patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) after abdominal hysterectomy. Methods A total of 240 patients who were scheduled for elective abdominal hysterectomy under combined spinal-epidural anesthesia received PCEA plus postoperative intravenous parecoxib 40 mg or saline every 12 h for 48 h after an initial preoperative dose of parecoxib 40 mg or saline. An epidural loading dose of a mixture of 6 mL of 0.25% ropivacaine and 2 mg morphine was administered 30 min before the end of surgery, and PCEA was initiated using 1.25 mg/mL ropivacaine and 0.05 mg/mL morphine with a 2-mL/h background infusion and 2-mL bolus with a 15-min lockout. The primary end point of this study was the quantification of the PCEA-sparing effect of parecoxib. Results Demographic data were similar between the two groups. Patients in the parecoxib group received significantly fewer self-administrated boluses (0 (0, 3) vs. 7 (2, 15), P < 0.001) and less epidural morphine (5.01 ± 0.44 vs. 5.95 ± 1.29 mg, P < 0.001) but experienced greater pain relief compared with the control group (P < 0.001). Patient global satisfaction was higher in the parecoxib group than the control group (P < 0.001). Length of hospitalization (9.50 ± 2.1, 95% CI 9.12~9.88 vs. 10.41 ± 2.6, 95% CI 9.95~10.87, P = 0.003) and postoperative vomiting (17% vs. 29%, P < 0.05) were also reduced in the parecoxib group. There were no serious adverse effects in either group. Conclusion Our data suggest that adjunctive parecoxib during PCEA following abdominal hysterectomy is safe and efficacious in reducing pain, requirements of epidural analgesics, and side effects. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01566669) PMID:27622453

Effect of Parecoxib as an Adjunct to Patient-Controlled Epidural Analgesia after Abdominal Hysterectomy: A Multicenter, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Liu, Wei-Feng; Shu, Hai-Hua; Zhao, Guo-Dong; Peng, Shu-Ling; Xiao, Jin-Fang; Zhang, Guan-Rong; Liu, Ke-Xuan; Huang, Wen-Qi

2016-01-01

This multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled study evaluated the efficacy and side effects of parecoxib during patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) after abdominal hysterectomy. A total of 240 patients who were scheduled for elective abdominal hysterectomy under combined spinal-epidural anesthesia received PCEA plus postoperative intravenous parecoxib 40 mg or saline every 12 h for 48 h after an initial preoperative dose of parecoxib 40 mg or saline. An epidural loading dose of a mixture of 6 mL of 0.25% ropivacaine and 2 mg morphine was administered 30 min before the end of surgery, and PCEA was initiated using 1.25 mg/mL ropivacaine and 0.05 mg/mL morphine with a 2-mL/h background infusion and 2-mL bolus with a 15-min lockout. The primary end point of this study was the quantification of the PCEA-sparing effect of parecoxib. Demographic data were similar between the two groups. Patients in the parecoxib group received significantly fewer self-administrated boluses (0 (0, 3) vs. 7 (2, 15), P < 0.001) and less epidural morphine (5.01 ± 0.44 vs. 5.95 ± 1.29 mg, P < 0.001) but experienced greater pain relief compared with the control group (P < 0.001). Patient global satisfaction was higher in the parecoxib group than the control group (P < 0.001). Length of hospitalization (9.50 ± 2.1, 95% CI 9.12~9.88 vs. 10.41 ± 2.6, 95% CI 9.95~10.87, P = 0.003) and postoperative vomiting (17% vs. 29%, P < 0.05) were also reduced in the parecoxib group. There were no serious adverse effects in either group. Our data suggest that adjunctive parecoxib during PCEA following abdominal hysterectomy is safe and efficacious in reducing pain, requirements of epidural analgesics, and side effects. ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01566669).

Evaluation of epidural and peripheral nerve catheter heating during magnetic resonance imaging.

PubMed

Owens, Sean; Erturk, M Arcan; Ouanes, Jean-Pierre P; Murphy, Jamie D; Wu, Christopher L; Bottomley, Paul A

2014-01-01

Many epidural and peripheral nerve catheters contain conducting wire that could heat during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), requiring removal for scanning. We tested 2 each of 6 brands of regional analgesia catheters (from Arrow International [Reading, Pennsylvania], B. Braun Medical Inc [Bethlehem, Pennsylvania], and Smiths Medical/Portex [Keene, New Hampshire]) for exposure to clinical 1.5- and 3-T MRI. Catheters testing as nonmagnetic were placed in an epidural configuration in a standard human torso-sized phantom, and an MRI pulse sequence applied at the maximum scanner-allowed radiofrequency specific absorption rate (SAR) for 15 minutes. Temperature and SAR exposure were sampled during MRI using multiple fiberoptic temperature sensors. Two catheters (the Arrow StimuCath Peripheral Nerve and B. Braun Medical Perifix FX Epidural) were found to be magnetic and not tested further. At 3 T, exposure of the remaining 3 epidural and 1 peripheral nerve catheter to the scanner's maximum RF exposure elicited anomalous heating of 4°C to 7°C in 2 Arrow Epidural (MultiPort and Flex-Tip Plus) catheters at the entry points. Temperature increases for the other catheters at 3 T, and all catheters at 1.5 T were 1.4°C or less. When normalized to the body-average US Food and Drug Administration guideline SAR of 4 W/kg, maximum projected temperature increases were 0.1°C to 2.5°C at 1.5 T and 0.7°C to 2.7°C at 3 T, except for the Arrow MultiPort Flex-Tip Plus catheter at 3 T whose increase was 14°C. Most but not all catheters can be left in place during 1.5-T MRI scans. Heating of less than 3°C during MRI for most catheters is not expected to be injurious. While heating was lower at 1.5 T versus 3 T, performance differences between products underscore the need for safety testing before performing MRI.

Evaluation of Epidural and Peripheral Nerve Catheter Heating During Magnetic Resonance Imaging

PubMed Central

Owens, Sean; Erturk, M. Arcan; Ouanes, Jean-Pierre P.; Murphy, Jamie D.; Wu, Christopher L.; Bottomley, Paul A.

2014-01-01

Background Many epidural and peripheral nerve catheters contain conducting wire that could heat during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), requiring removal for scanning. Methods We tested 2 each of 6 brands of regional analgesia catheters (from Arrow International, B. Braun Medical, and Smiths Medical/Portex) for exposure to clinical 1.5 and 3 Tesla (T) MRI. Catheters testing as non-magnetic were placed in an epidural configuration in a standard human torso-sized phantom, and an MRI pulse sequence applied at the maximum scanner-allowed radio frequency (RF) specific absorption rate (SAR) for 15 minutes Temperature and SAR exposure were sampled during MRI using multiple fiber-optic temperature sensors. Results Two catheters (the Arrow StimuCath Peripheral Nerve, and Braun Medical Perifix FX Epidural) were found to be magnetic and not tested further. At 3T, exposure of the remaining 3 epidural and 1 peripheral nerve catheter to the scanner’s maximum RF exposure, elicited anomalous heating of 4 to 7°C in 2 Arrow Epidural (MultiPort and Flex-Tip Plus) catheters at the entry points. Temperature increases for the other catheters at 3T and all catheters at 1.5T were ≤1.4°C. When normalized to the body-average FDA guideline SAR of 4W/kg, maximum projected temperature increases were 0.1 to 2.5°C at 1.5T and 0.7 to 2.7°C at 3T, except for the Arrow MultiPort Flex-Tip Plus catheter at 3T whose increase was 14°C. Conclusions Most but not all catheters can be left in place during 1.5T MRI scans. Heating of <3°C during MRI for most catheters is not expected to be injurious. While heating was lower at 1.5T vs 3T, performance differences between products underscore the need for safety testing before performing MRI. PMID:25275576

Heavily T2-weighted MR myelography vs CT myelography in spontaneous intracranial hypotension.

PubMed

Wang, Y-F; Lirng, J-F; Fuh, J-L; Hseu, S-S; Wang, S-J

2009-12-01

To assess the diagnostic accuracy of heavily T2-weighted magnetic resonance myelography (MRM) in patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH). Patients with SIH were recruited prospectively, and first underwent MRM and then computed tomographic myelography (CTM). The results of MRM were validated with the gold standard, CTM, focusing on 1) CSF leaks along the nerve roots, 2) epidural CSF collections, and 3) high-cervical (C1-3) retrospinal CSF collections. Comparisons of these 3 findings between the 2 studies were made by kappa statistics and agreement rates. Targeted epidural blood patches (EBPs) were placed at the levels of CSF leaks if supportive treatment failed. Nineteen patients (6 men and 13 women, mean age 37.9 +/- 8.6 years) with SIH completed the study. MRM did not differ from CTM in the detection rates of CSF leaks along the nerve roots (84% vs 74%, p = 0.23), high-cervical retrospinal CSF collections (32% vs 16%, p = 0.13), and epidural CSF collections (89% vs 79%, p = 0.20). MRM demonstrated more spinal levels of CSF leaks (2.2 +/- 1.7 vs 1.5 +/- 1.5, p = 0.011) and epidural collections (12.2 +/- 5.9 vs 7.1 +/- 5.8, p < 0.001) than CTM. The overall level-by-level concordance was substantial for CSF leaks along the nerve roots (C1-L3) (kappa = 0.71, p < 0.001, agreement = 95%) and high-cervical retrospinal CSF collections (C1-3) (kappa = 0.73, p < 0.001, agreement = 92%), and moderate for epidural CSF collections (C1-L3) (kappa = 0.47, p < 0.001, agreement = 72%). Ten of the 14 patients (71%) receiving targeted EBPs experienced sustained symptomatic relief after a single attempt. Heavily T2-weighted magnetic resonance myelography was accurate in localizing CSF leaks for patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension. This noninvasive technique may be an alternative to computed tomographic myelography before targeted epidural blood patches.

Reinforcement of subarachnoid block by epidural volume effect in lower abdominal surgery: A comparison between fentanyl and tramadol for efficacy and block properties

PubMed Central

Mohan, Atiharsh; Singh, Preet Mohinder; Malviya, Deepak; Arya, Sunil Kumar; Singh, Dinesh Kumar

2012-01-01

Background: Epidural volume extension (EVE) is claimed to increase the block height and decrease the dose requirement for intrathecal drug. However, almost all studies have been done in obstetric population and none actually compares the effect of additional drugs added to epidural volume. Materials and Methods: Seventy-five (ASA I and II) patients scheduled for lower abdominal surgery were randomly divided into three groups. All groups received intrathecal 10 mg bupivacaine; two groups received additional 10 ml of normal saline epidurally with 25 mg tramadol or 25 mg of fentanyl. Groups were than compared for maximal block height, rate of sensory block regression to T10, and motor block regression to Bromage scale of 0. Time to first analgesia and adverse effects were also compared among the three groups. Materials and Methods: Seventy-five (ASA I and II) patients scheduled for lower abdominal surgery were randomly divided into three groups. All groups received intrathecal 10 mg bupivacaine; two groups received additional 10 ml of normal saline epidurally with 25 mg tramadol or 25 mg of fentanyl. Groups were than compared for maximal block height, rate of sensory block regression to T10, and motor block regression to Bromage scale of 0. Time to first analgesia and adverse effects were also compared among the three groups. Results: Groups with EVE had statistically significant higher block height, with a significant faster regression that the control group. However, both fentanyl and tramadol groups were inseparable in respect to motor or sensory block regression. Fentanyl group had maximal time to first analgesia, followed by tramadol and control groups. Hemodynamic alterations were also more common in EVE groups. Conclusion: EVE can increase the block height significantly, but it seems to be limited only to the physical property of additional volume in epidural space and fentanyl or tramadol do not seem to differ in their ability to alter block properties. PMID:25885615

The Effect of Adding Magnesium Sulfate to Epidural Bupivacaine and Morphine on Post-Thoracotomy Pain Management: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Clinical Trial.

PubMed

Farzanegan, Behrooz; Zangi, Mahdi; Saeedi, Kimia; Khalili, Ali; Rajabi, Mehdi; Jahangirifard, Alireza; Emami, Habib; Ali Mahboobipour, Amir; Baniasadi, Shadi

2018-05-22

Post-thoracotomy pain is very severe and may cause pulmonary complications. Thoracic epidural analgesia can greatly decrease the pain experience and its consequences. However, finding new methods to decrease the amount of administered opioids is an important issue of research. We aimed to evaluate the effect of adding epidural magnesium sulfate to bupivacaine and morphine on pain control and the amount of opioid consumption after thoracotomy. Eighty patients undergoing thoracotomy at a tertiary cardiothoracic referral centre were enrolled in a randomized, double-blind trial. Patients were randomly allocated to two groups. Bupivacaine (12.5 mg) plus morphine (2 mg) were administered epidurally to all patients at the end of operation. Patients in magnesium (Mg) group received epidural magnesium sulfate (50 mg) and patients in control (C) group received normal saline as an adjuvant. Visual analogue scale (VAS) score and the amount of morphine consumption were measured during 24 hr post-operation. Thirty-nine patients in Mg group and 41 patients in C group completed the study. Patients in Mg group had significantly less VAS score at recovery time (p<0.05), 2 h (p<0.01) and 4 hr (p<0.05) after surgery. The patients-controlled analgesia pump was started earlier in C group than in Mg group (p< 0.05). The amount of morphine needed in Mg group was significantly lower than C group (5.64±1.69 mg/24 hr versus 8.44±3.98 mg/24 hr; P<0.001). Pruritus was seen in C group (9.7%) and absent in Mg group (p<0.05). Co-administration of magnesium sulfate with bupivacaine and morphine for thoracic epidural analgesia after thoracotomy leads to reduction in post-operative pain score and the need for opioid administration. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Anaesthesia for Caesarean section in a patient with diastrophic dwarfism.

PubMed

Porter, M; Mendonca, C

2007-04-01

Diastrophic dwarfism is a rare disease in which pregnancy is uncommon. In this report we present a woman with diastrophic dwarfism who underwent caesarean section under epidural anaesthesia. Her care was successfully managed with multidisciplinary team planning. The total dose of local anaesthetic needed for epidural block was greater than the doses reported for achondroplastic dwarfism.

Two occurrences of delayed epidural hematoma in different areas following decompressive craniectomy for acute subdural hematoma in a single patient: a case report.

PubMed

Wu, Ruhong; Shi, Jia; Cao, Jiachao; Mao, Yumin; Dong, Bo

2017-12-04

Delayed epidural hematoma (DEH) following evacuation of traumatic acute subdural hematoma (ASDH) or acute epidural hematoma (EDH) is a rare but devastating complication, especially when it occurs sequentially in a single patient. A 19-year-old man who developed contralateral DEH following craniotomy for evacuation of a traumatic right-side ASDH and then developed a left-side DEH of the posterior cranial fossa after craniotomy for evacuation of the contralateral DEH. He was immediately returned to the operating room for additional surgeries and his neurological outcome was satisfactory. Although DEH occurring after evacuation of ASDH or acute EDH is a rare event, timely recognition is critical to prognosis.

Epidural analgesia for treatment of a sickle cell crisis during pregnancy.

PubMed

Winder, Abigail D; Johnson, Stacie; Murphy, Jamie; Ehsanipoor, Robert M

2011-08-01

More than 50% of obstetric patients with sickle cell disease will have a pain crisis during pregnancy, and the management of these cases can be challenging. A 20-year-old African American with sickle cell disease presented at 29 4/7 weeks of gestation with severe, debilitating leg and back pain. Large doses of intravenous narcotics did not result in significant pain relief, so a lumbar epidural was placed. This resulted in complete pain relief within several minutes. The patient's symptoms resolved over several days and after a short course of narcotics she was discharged to home, and the remainder of her pregnancy was uncomplicated. Epidural anesthesia should be considered as a potentially effective treatment for a severe sickle cell crisis in obstetric patients.

Autonomic hyper-reflexia modulated by percutaneous epidural neurostimulation: a preliminary report.

PubMed

Richardson, R R; Cerullo, L J; Meyer, P R

1979-06-01

Our clinical experience in the management of five paraplegic or quadriplegic patients with subjective complaints and objective findings of autonomic hyper-reflexia is presented. These five patients had epidural neurostimulation systems implanted percutaneously to regulate intractable spasticity. During a follow-up period varying from 2 months to almost 2 years, four of the five patients experienced no episodes of autonomic dysfunction with the use of a low frequency, low voltage, square wave pulse output. From their responses and from recent neurophysiological evidence, the potential benefit of percutaneous epidural neurostimulation in the modulation of autonomic hyper-reflexia without antihypertensive medication is suggested. Further follow-up of these patients and additional clinical research should be performed to confirm our initial clinical impressions.

Rupture of the retrocorporeal artery: a rare cause of spontaneous spinal epidural haematoma.

PubMed

Guédon, Alexis; Clarençon, Frédéric; Law-Ye, Bruno; Sourour, Nader; Gabrieli, Joseph; Rojas, Patricia; Chiras, Jacques; Peyre, Matthieu; Di Maria, Federico

2016-06-01

A 22-year-old man presented with a sudden backache and paraplegia (ASIA = B). Magnetic resonance imaging showed an anterior pan-spinal epidural haematoma. Digital subtraction angiography was performed and ruled out an underlying vascular malformation but showed an active contrast media leakage into the T-4 ventral epidural space with a pattern of pseudo-aneurysm. A rupture of a T-4 retrocorporeal artery was considered as the aetiology, possibly caused by a haemorrhagic sub-adventitial dissection. Treatment consisted in the embolisation of both the pseudo-aneurysm and the parent artery with liquid acrylic glue, followed by neurosurgical decompression in emergency. The patient had totally recovered (ASIA = E) by the 10-month clinical follow-up.

Diagnosis and treatment of epidural haematomas in infancy and childhood in the recent 8 years.

PubMed

Pásztor, A

1987-01-01

Age-dependent characteristics of the clinical course of traumatic epidural haematomas of the infant and child have been summarized in a survey of 34 cases. Establishing the diagnosis of epidural haematoma is not an immediate indication for surgery in the infant, because there are cases of spontaneous drainage of the haematoma from the intracranial spaces (3 cases), when after 2-3 days of observation surgery can be carried out in an improved peadiatric condition (8 cases) and, as in the presented survey, there were only 9 cases when an immediate surgery had to be done. For the children over the age of 2 years the indication for an immediate surgery was not different in nature from that for the adults.

Multiple Myeloma and Epidural Spinal Cord Compression : Case Presentation and a Spine Surgeon's Perspective

PubMed Central

Ha, Kee-Yong; Kim, Hyun-Woo

2013-01-01

Multiple myeloma, a multicentric hematological malignancy, is the most common primary tumor of the spine. As epidural myeloma causing spinal cord compression is a rare condition, its therapeutic approach and clinical results have been reported to be diverse, and no clear guidelines for therapeutic decision have been established. Three patients presented with progressive paraplegia and sensory disturbance. Image and serological studies revealed multiple myeloma and spinal cord compression caused by epidural myeloma. Emergency radiotherapy and steroid therapy were performed in all three cases. However, their clinical courses and results were distinctly different. Following review of our cases and the related literature, we suggest a systematic therapeutic approach for these patients to achieve better clinical results. PMID:24175035

A systematic approach to vertebral hemangioma.

PubMed

Gaudino, Simona; Martucci, Matia; Colantonio, Raffaella; Lozupone, Emilio; Visconti, Emiliano; Leone, Antonio; Colosimo, Cesare

2015-01-01

Vertebral hemangiomas (VHs) are a frequent and often incidental finding on computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of the spine. When their imaging appearance is "typical" (coarsened vertical trabeculae on radiographic and CT images, hyperintensity on T1- and T2-weighted MR images), the radiological diagnosis is straightforward. Nonetheless, VHs might also display an "atypical" appearance on MR imaging because of their histological features (amount of fat, vessels, and interstitial edema). Although the majority of VHs are asymptomatic and quiescent lesions, they can exhibit active behaviors, including growing quickly, extending beyond the vertebral body, and invading the paravertebral and/or epidural space with possible compression of the spinal cord and/or nerve roots ("aggressive" VHs). These "atypical" and "aggressive" VHs are a radiological challenge since they can mimic primary bony malignancies or metastases. CT plays a central role in the workup of atypical VHs, being the most appropriate imaging modality to highlight the polka-dot appearance that is representative of them. When aggressive VHs are suspected, both CT and MR are needed. MR is the best imaging modality to characterize the epidural and/or soft-tissue component, helping in the differential diagnosis. Angiography is a useful imaging adjunct for evaluating and even treating aggressive VHs. The primary objectives of this review article are to summarize the clinical, pathological, and imaging features of VHs, as well as the treatment options, and to provide a practical guide for the differential diagnosis, focusing on the rationale assessment of the findings from radiography, CT, and MR imaging.

Spinal deformity in children treated for neuroblastoma

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mayfield, J.K.; Riseborough, E.J.; Jaffe, N.

1981-02-01

Of seventy-four children who were treated at a mean age of seventeen months for neuroblastoma and survived more than five years, fifty-six had spinal deformity due either to the disease or to the treatment after a mean follow-up of 12.9 years. Of these fifty-six, 50 per cent had post-radiation scoliosis, and 16 per cent had post-radiation kyphosis, most frequently at the thoracolumbar junction, at the time of follow-up. Two kyphotic thoracolumbar curve patterns were identified: an angular kyphosis with a short radius of curvature and its apex at the twelfth thoracic and first lumbar vertebrae, and a thoracic kyphosis withmore » a long radius of curvature that extended into the lumbar spine. The post-radiation deformity - both the scoliosis and the kyphosis - progressed with growth, the scoliosis at a rate of 1 degree per year and the kyphosis at a rate of 3 degrees per year. Epidural spread of the neuroblastoma was associated with most of the cases of severe scoliosis and kyphosis. The deformity was due either to the laminectomy or to the paraplegia acting in conjunction with the radiation. Eighteen per cent of 419 children with this malignant disease survived more than five years, and of the survivors, 20 per cent had spinal deformity severe enough to warrant treatment. The factors associated with the development of spinal deformity in patient treated for neuroblastoma were: orthovoltage radiation exceeding 3000 rads, asymmetrical radiation of the spine, thoracolumbar kyphosis, and epidural spread of the tumor.« less

The risks of epidural and transforaminal steroid injections in the Spine: Commentary and a comprehensive review of the literature

PubMed Central

Epstein, Nancy E.

2013-01-01

Background: Multiple type of spinal injections, whether epidural/translaminar or transforaminal, facet injections, are offered to patients with/without surgical spinal lesions by pain management specialists (radiologists, physiatrists, and anesthesiologists). Although not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), injections are being performed with an increased frequency (160%), are typically short-acting and ineffective over the longer-term, while exposing patients to major risks/complications. Methods: For many patients with spinal pain alone and no surgical lesions, the “success” of epidural injections may simply reflect the self-limited course of the disease. Alternatively, although those with surgical pathology may experience transient or no pain relief, undergoing these injections (typically administered in a series of three) unnecessarily exposes them to the inherent risks, while also delaying surgery and potentially exposing them to more severe/permanent neurological deficits. Results: Multiple recent reports cite contaminated epidural steroid injections resulting in meningitis, stroke, paralysis, and death. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) specifically identified 25 deaths (many due to Aspergillosis), 337 patients sickened, and 14,000 exposed to contaminated steroids. Nevertheless, many other patients develop other complications that go unreported/underreported: Other life-threatening infections, spinal fluid leaks (0.4-6%), positional headaches (28%), adhesive arachnoiditis (6-16%), hydrocephalus, air embolism, urinary retention, allergic reactions, intravascular injections (7.9-11.6%), stroke, blindness, neurological deficits/paralysis, hematomas, seizures, and death. Conclusions: Although the benefits for epidural steroid injections may include transient pain relief for those with/without surgical disease, the multitude of risks attributed to these injections outweighs the benefits. PMID:23646278

Development of Predictive Algorithms for Pre-Treatment Motor Deficit and 90-Day Mortality in Spinal Epidural Abscess.

PubMed

Shah, Akash A; Ogink, Paul T; Harris, Mitchel B; Schwab, Joseph H

2018-06-20

Spinal epidural abscess is a high-risk condition that can lead to paralysis or death. It would be of clinical and prognostic utility to identify which subset of patients with spinal epidural abscess is likely to develop a motor deficit or die within 90 days of discharge. We identified all patients ≥18 years of age who were admitted to our hospital system with a diagnosis of spinal epidural abscess during the period of 1993 to 2016. Explanatory variables were collected retrospectively. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression was performed using these variables to identify independent predictors of motor deficit and 90-day mortality. Nomograms were then constructed to quantify the risk of these outcomes. Of the 1,053 patients we identified with spinal epidural abscess, 362 presented with motor weakness. One hundred and thirty-four patients died within 90 days of discharge, inclusive of those who died during hospitalization. Multivariable logistic regression yielded 8 independent predictors of pre-treatment motor deficit and 8 independent predictors of 90-day mortality. We constructed nomograms that generated a probability of pre-treatment motor deficit or 90-day mortality on the basis of the presence of these factors. By quantifying the risk of pre-treatment motor deficit and 90-day mortality, our nomograms may provide useful prognostic information for the treatment team. Timely treatment of neurologically intact patients with a high risk of developing a motor deficit is necessary to avoid residual motor weakness and improve survival. Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of Levels of Evidence.

Study of the newborn feeding behaviors and fentanyl concentration in colostrum after an analgesic dose of epidural and intravenous fentanyl in cesarean section.

PubMed

Goma, Hala M; Said, Reem N; El-Ela, Amr M

2008-05-01

To compare the effects of epidural and intravenous fentanyl on breast feeding behaviors and fentanyl concentration in the colostrum after an analgesic dose. This study was conducted at the Obstetrics Department of Kasr El-Aini Hospital-Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt. The studied mothers were 100 multipara, who have been subjected to cesarean section, and have a previous history of successful breast feeding. The study was conducted from May 2005 to May 2007. They were divided into 2 groups: group I included 50 patients who received epidural anesthesia with fentanyl, and group II included 50 patients who received spinal anesthesia with intravenous fentanyl, and both groups were observed for initial breast feeding behaviors of newborns, and fentanyl concentration in the colostrum at 45 minutes, and 24 hours after birth. The study included 100 multipara, 2 samples of colostrum were taken from each patients at 45 minutes, and at 24 hours. The levels of fentanyl concentration were greatest at 45 minutes of the initial sampling time, reaching 0.40+/-0.059 ng/ml in the epidural group, and 0.19+/-0.019 ng/ml in intravenous fentanyl group. There was no statistical difference in breast feeding behaviors at birth, or at 24 hours of age in both groups. Although the levels of fentanyl concentration were greatest at 45 minutes of the initial sampling time, it can be used safely as intravenous or epidural without affecting the initial breast feeding behaviors of the newborn.

Cancer Seeding Risk from an Epidural Blood Patch in Patients with Leukemia or Lymphoma.

PubMed

Demaree, Christopher J; Soliz, Jose M; Gebhardt, Rodolfo

2017-04-01

Lumber punctures are a common procedure in patients with cancer. However, a potential complication of a lumbar puncture is a postdural puncture headache. The risk of neoplastic seeding to the central nervous system has led to concern over performing epidural blood patches (EBPs) for the treatment of postdural puncture headaches in patients with cancer. The goal of this retrospective study was to evaluate cancer seeding in the central nervous system in patients diagnosed with leukemia or lymphoma. Institutional electronic records were queried over a 13-year period from 2000 to 2013 for patients with leukemia and/or lymphoma and who received at least one EBP. Demographic and procedural data, cancer treatments, and mortality were all examined. Patient records were reviewed for evidence of new-onset neoplastic central nervous system seeding after an epidural blood patch. A total of 80 patients were identified for review. Eighteen patients had a diagnosis of leukemia, and 62 had lymphoma. Following an EBP, none of the patients experienced new cancer or cancer seeding in the central nervous system following an epidural blood patch at a median follow-up of 3.74 years. Though the risks of EBP in the cancer patient population have been hypothesized, no previous studies have assessed the risk of seeding cancer to the central nervous system. Based on our results, an epidural blood patch bears low risk of cancer seeding when used to treat postdural puncture headache that is unresponsive to conservative treatments. © 2016 American Academy of Pain Medicine. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com

Effects of intravenously administered yohimbine on antinociceptive, cardiorespiratory, and postural changes induced by epidural administration of detomidine hydrochloride solution to healthy mares.

PubMed

Skarda, R T; Muir, W W

1999-10-01

To determine effects of i.v. administered yohimbine on perineal analgesia, cardiovascular and respiratory activity, and head and pelvic limb position in healthy mares following epidural administration of detomidine hydrochloride solution. 8 healthy mares. Each mare received detomidine hydrochloride (0.06 mg/kg of body weight), administered in the caudal epidural space, followed 61 minutes later by yohimbine (0.05 mg/kg; test) or sterile saline (0.9% NaCl) solution (control), administered i.v., in a randomized, crossover study design with > or = 2 weeks between treatments. Analgesia was determined by lack of sensory perception to electrical stimulation of perineal dermatomes and needle-prick stimulation of coccygeal to 15th thoracic dermatomes. Arterial pH, PaCO2, PaO2, heart and respiratory rates, rectal temperature, arterial blood pressure, and cardiac output were determined, and mares were observed for sweating and urination. Mean scores obtained for test and control groups were compared. Intravenously administered yohimbine significantly reduced mean scores of detomidine-induced perineal analgesia, head ptosis, changes in pelvic limb position, and sweating and diuresis; antagonized detomidine-induced decreases in heart rate and cardiac output; but did not affect detomidine-induced decrease in respiratory rate. Most effects of epidurally administered detomidine, except bradypnea, were antagonized by yohimbine, suggesting that detomidine may influence respiratory rate by mechanisms other than stimulation of alpha2-adrenoceptors, or that yohimbine induces respiratory depressant effects. Yohimbine may be an effective alpha2-adrenoceptor antagonist for all but respiratory depression following epidural administration of detomidine to mares.

Comparison of analgesic interventions for traumatic rib fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Peek, Jesse; Smeeing, Diederik P J; Hietbrink, Falco; Houwert, Roderick M; Marsman, Marije; de Jong, Mirjam B

2018-02-06

Many studies report on outcomes of analgesic therapy for (suspected) traumatic rib fractures. However, the literature is inconclusive and diverse regarding the management of pain and its effect on pain relief and associated complications. This systematic review and meta-analysis summarizes and compares reduction of pain for the different treatment modalities and as secondary outcome mortality during hospitalization, length of mechanical ventilation, length of hospital stay, length of intensive care unit stay (ICU) and complications such as respiratory, cardiovascular, and/or analgesia-related complications, for four different types of analgesic therapy: epidural analgesia, intravenous analgesia, paravertebral blocks and intercostal blocks. PubMed, EMBASE and CENTRAL databases were searched to identify comparative studies investigating epidural, intravenous, paravertebral and intercostal interventions for traumatic rib fractures, without restriction for study type. The search strategy included keywords and MeSH or Emtree terms relating blunt chest trauma (including rib fractures), analgesic interventions, pain management and complications. A total of 19 papers met our inclusion criteria and were finally included in this systematic review. Significant differences were found in favor of epidural analgesia for the reduction of pain. No significant differences were observed between epidural analgesia, intravenous analgesia, paravertebral blocks and intercostal blocks, for the secondary outcomes. Results of this study show that epidural analgesia provides better pain relief than the other modalities. No differences were observed for secondary endpoints like length of ICU stay, length of mechanical ventilation or pulmonary complications. However, the quality of the available evidence is low, and therefore, preclude strong recommendations.

Comparison of Epidural Analgesia with Transversus Abdominis Plane Analgesia for Postoperative Pain Relief in Patients Undergoing Lower Abdominal Surgery: A Prospective Randomized Study.

PubMed

Iyer, Sadasivan Shankar; Bavishi, Harshit; Mohan, Chadalavada Venkataram; Kaur, Navdeep

2017-01-01

Anesthesiologists play an important role in postoperative pain management. For analgesia after lower abdominal surgery, epidural analgesia and ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block are suitable options. The study aims to compare the analgesic efficacy of both techniques. Seventy-two patients undergoing lower abdominal surgery under spinal anesthesia were randomized to postoperatively receive lumbar epidural catheter (Group E) or ultrasound-guided TAP block (Group T) through intravenous cannulas placed bilaterally. Group E received 10 ml 0.125% bupivacaine stat and 10 ml 8 th hourly for 48 h. Group T received 20 ml 0.125% bupivacaine bilaterally stat and 20 ml bilaterally 8 th hourly for 48 h. Pain at rest and on coughing, total paracetamol and tramadol consumption were recorded. Analgesia at rest was comparable between the groups in the first 16 h. At 24 and 48 h, Group E had significantly better analgesia at rest ( P = 0.001 and 0.004 respectively). Patients in Group E had significantly higher number of patients with nil or mild pain on coughing at all times. Paracetamol consumption was comparable in both groups, but tramadol consumption was significantly higher in Group T at the end of 48 h ( P = 0.001). For lower abdominal surgeries, analgesia provided by intermittent boluses of 0.125% is comparable for first 16 h between epidural and TAP catheters. However, the quality of analgesia provided by the epidural catheter is superior to that provided by TAP catheters beyond that both at rest and on coughing with reduced opioid consumption.

Epidural cortical stimulation as adjunctive treatment for non-fluent aphasia: preliminary findings.

PubMed

Cherney, Leora R; Erickson, Robert K; Small, Steven L

2010-09-01

This study evaluated the safety and feasibility of targeted epidural cortical stimulation delivered concurrently with intensive speech-language therapy for treatment of chronic non-fluent aphasia. Eight stroke survivors with non-fluent aphasia received intensive behavioural therapy for 3 h daily for 6 weeks using a combination of articulation drills, oral reading and conversational practice. Four of these participants (investigational participants) also underwent functional MRI guided surgical implantation of an epidural stimulation device which was activated only during therapy sessions. Behavioural data were collected before treatment, immediately after treatment and at 6 and 12 weeks following termination of therapy. Imaging data were collected before and after treatment. Investigational participants showed a mean Aphasia Quotient change of 8.0 points immediately post-therapy and at the 6 week follow-up, and 12.3 points at 12 weeks. The control group had changes of 4.6, 5.5 and 3.6 points, respectively. Similar changes were noted on subjective caregiver ratings. Functional imaging suggested increased consolidation of activity in interventional participants. Behavioural speech-language therapy improves non-fluent aphasia, independent of cortical stimulation. However, epidural stimulation of the ipsilesional premotor cortex may augment this effect, with the largest effects after completion of therapy. The neural mechanisms underlying these effects are manifested in the brain by decreases in the volume of activity globally and in particular regions. Although the number of participants enrolled in this trial precludes definitive conclusions, targeted epidural cortical stimulation appears safe and may be a feasible adjunctive treatment for non-fluent aphasia, particularly when the aphasia is more severe.

[Comparison of two different methods of analgesia. Postoperative course after colorectal cancer surgery].

PubMed

Rimaitis, Kestutis; Marchertiene, Irena; Pavalkis, Dainius

2003-01-01

The purpose of our study is to compare two methods of postoperative analgesia in colorectal cancer patients after resectional operations, and to evaluate advantages and limitations of each method on the postoperative course of these patients. One hundred patients scheduled to undergo elective colorectal cancer surgery were randomized into two groups; after general anesthesia, one group received epidural analgesia (n=50) and the second one - intramuscular pethidine analgesia (n=50). Visual analogue scale at rest and on coughing was used to compare intensiveness of pain between the two groups during the day of surgery and first three postoperative days. Patients' mood and self-satisfaction were evaluated using self-assessment manikin scale. Side effects of both analgesia techniques were registered. All complications and postoperative hospital stay were also evaluated. Visual analogue scale pain scores at rest and on coughing were significantly better in epidural analgesia group as compared to systemic intramuscular pethidine analgesia group (p<0.05). Additional analgesics were needed for 10 (20%) and 28 (56%) patients respectively to keep visual analogue scale pain scores below 5. Adverse effects such as profound sedation, nausea and vomiting were more frequent in systemic intramuscular pethidine group, but pruritus - very uncommon to compare with epidural analgesia group (p<0.05). There were no significant differences between the two groups in respect to complications and postoperative hospital stay. Epidural analgesia has demonstrated significantly better effectiveness than intramuscular pethidine analgesia after colorectal cancer surgery with fewer adverse events. Self-assessment manikin scores showed better self-satisfaction in patients of epidural analgesia group as compared to patients in systemic pethidine group.

A simple epidural simulator: a blinded study assessing the 'feel' of loss of resistance in four fruits.

PubMed

Raj, Diana; Williamson, Roy M; Young, David; Russell, Douglas

2013-07-01

Complex epidural simulators are now available, but these are expensive and not widely available. Simple simulators using fruit have been described before. To ascertain which easily available fruit would best simulate the 'feel' of loss of resistance experienced in epidural insertion and be used as a teaching tool. A single blinded study using four different fruits housed in a purpose-built box to conceal the identities of the fruits. The fruits were labelled A, B, C and D. Two teaching hospitals in Glasgow, Scotland between 2006 and 2007. Fifty participants consisting of consultant anaesthetists, specialist registrars and senior house officers all with previous epidural experience. Insertion of a Tuohy needle into the four concealed fruits (orange, banana, kiwi and honeydew melon). Each participant then completed a questionnaire that included recording of the realism of the 'feel' of loss of resistance of each fruit. The 'feel' of loss of resistance for each fruit was scored on a 100-mm Visual Analogue Scale. A '0  mm' represented 'completely unrealistic feel' and '100  mm' represented 'indistinguishable feel from a real patient'. A total of 62.6% of participants recorded the banana as their first choice. This result was statistically significant after taking into account the grades of the participants, their years of experience, the needle gauge used and the participants' chosen technique. The banana is a cheap and easily available training tool to introduce novice anaesthetists to the feel of loss of resistance, which is best experienced before the first insertion of an epidural in a patient.

Undifferentiated granulocytic sarcoma: a case with epidural onset preceding acute promyelocytic leukemia.

PubMed

Tosi, A; De Paoli, A; Fava, S; Luoni, M; Sironi, M; Tocci, A; Assi, A; Cassi, E

1995-01-01

This study reports a case of granulocytic sarcoma that developed in the epidural zone 25 days before clinical evidence of an acute promyelocytic leukemia. The case presented the diagnostic difficulties that are common to all aleukemic granulocytic sarcomas. Moreover, it highlights the very rare association between granulocytic sarcoma and acute promyelocytic leukemia, which is far from being explained.

Cervical spondylodiscitis with spinal epidural abscess caused by Aggregatibacter aphrophilus.

PubMed

Pasqualini, Leonella; Mencacci, Antonella; Scarponi, Anna Maria; Leli, Christian; Fabbriciani, Gianluigi; Callarelli, Laura; Schillaci, Giuseppe; Bistoni, Francesco; Mannarino, Elmo

2008-05-01

Spondylodiscitis caused by Aggregatibacter aphrophilus, formerly known as Haemophilus paraphrophilus, is an unusual condition and can be very difficult to diagnose. We report a case of cervical spondylodiscitis complicated by spinal epidural abscess in a 63-year-old woman, without underlying predisposing conditions. The source of infection was identified as a periodontal infection. The patient was successfully treated with systemic antibiotics.

Anterior interbody fusion for cervical osteomyelitis

PubMed Central

Bartal, A. D.; Schiffer, J.; Heilbronn, Y. D.; Yahel, M.

1972-01-01

Interbody fusion for stabilization of the cervical spine after osteomyelitic destruction of the body of C5 vertebra is reported in a patient with quadriplegia and sphincter disturbances secondary to an epidural abscess. The successful union of the bone graft along with complete neurological recovery after anterior decompression and evacuation of the epidural mass seem to justify the procedure. Images PMID:4554587

Vertebral osteomyelitis and epidural abscess due to Aspergillus nidulans resulting in spinal cord compression: case report and literature review.

PubMed

Jiang, Zheng; Wang, Yunyan; Jiang, Yuquan; Xu, Yonghao; Meng, Bin

2013-04-01

Vertebral osteomyelitis caused by Aspergillus nidulans is rare and usually affects immunocompromised patients. This report presents a case of thoracic vertebral osteomyelitis with epidural abscesses due to A. nidulans in a 40-year-old immunocompetent female who presented with back pain, numbness and weakness of both lower limbs. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated osteomyelitis involving the thoracic (T)1-T3 vertebral bodies with epidural abscesses, resulting in spinal compression. The patient underwent a decompression laminectomy of T1-T3 and debridement of the thoracic epidural inflammatory granuloma. Histopathology revealed fungal granulomatous inflammation. The patient received 6 mg/kg voriconazole every 12 h (loading dose on day 1) followed by 4 mg/kg voriconazole twice daily for 1 month, administered intravenously. The patient returned with recurrent back pain 16 months after initial presentation. A. nidulans was identified by fungal culture and polymerase chain reaction. The patient showed no evidence of recurrence 1 year after a 6-month course of oral voriconazole. The key to the effective treatment of Aspergillus osteomyelitis is not to excise the abscess, but to administer systemic antifungal drug therapy.

Combined spinal epidural anesthesia in achondroplastic dwarf for femur surgery

PubMed Central

Bakhshi, Rochana Girish; Jagtap, Sheetal R.

2011-01-01

Achondroplasia is the commonest form of short-limbed dwarfism and occurs in 1:26,000-40,000 live births. This is an autosomal dominant disorder with abnormal endochondral ossification whereas periosteal and intramembranous ossification are normal. The basic abnormality is a disturbance of cartilage formation mainly at the epiphyseal growth plates and at the base of the skull. The anesthetic management of achondroplastic dwarfs is a challenge to the anesthesiologist. Both regional as well as general anesthesia have their individual risks and consequences. We report a case of an achondroplastic dwarf in whom combined spinal epidural anesthesia was used for fixation of a fractured femur. The patient had undergone previous femur surgery under general anesthesia since he had been informed that spinal anesthesia could be very problematic. There was no technical difficulty encountered during the procedure and an adequate level was achieved with low-dose local anesthetics without any problem. Postoperative pain relief was offered for three consecutive postoperative days using epidural tramadol. We discuss the anesthetic issues and highlight the role of combined spinal epidural anesthesia with low-dose local anesthetics in this patient. This approach also helped in early ambulation and postoperative pain relief. PMID:24765361

The behavioral assessment and alleviation of pain associated with castration in beef calves treated with flunixin meglumine and caudal lidocaine epidural anesthesia with epinephrine

PubMed Central

Currah, Jan M.; Hendrick, Steven H.; Stookey, Joseph M.

2009-01-01

The objectives of this study were 1) to determine the effects of flunixin megulmine in combination with caudal epidural anesthesia as a postoperative analgesic in beef calves following surgical castration, and 2) to consider stride length and pedometry as potential behavioral assessment tools for detecting postcastration pain. Surgical castration was performed in 101 beef calves randomly assigned to 3 treatment subgroups: 1) castration without anesthesia (SURG); 2) castration following lidocaine with epinephrine caudal epidural anesthesia (SURG + EPI); 3) castration following lidocaine with epinephrine caudal epidural anesthesia and flunixin meglumine (SURG + EPI + F). Several outcomes, including pedometer counts, changes in stride length, subjective visual assessment of pain, instantaneous scan sampling of the calves’ postoperative activities, and the amount of movement and vocalization during the castration procedure, were measured to identify and quantify pain. The results indicated that stride length and the number of steps taken by calves after castration appear to be good measures of pain. Significant differences found between treatment groups for stride length and visual assessments suggest that flunixin meglumine can be considered to provide visible pain relief up to 8 hours postcastration. PMID:19436444

The behavioral assessment and alleviation of pain associated with castration in beef calves treated with flunixin meglumine and caudal lidocaine epidural anesthesia with epinephrine.

PubMed

Currah, Jan M; Hendrick, Steven H; Stookey, Joseph M

2009-04-01

The objectives of this study were 1) to determine the effects of flunixin megulmine in combination with caudal epidural anesthesia as a postoperative analgesic in beef calves following surgical castration, and 2) to consider stride length and pedometry as potential behavioral assessment tools for detecting postcastration pain. Surgical castration was performed in 101 beef calves randomly assigned to 3 treatment subgroups: 1) castration without anesthesia (SURG); 2) castration following lidocaine with epinephrine caudal epidural anesthesia (SURG + EPI); 3) castration following lidocaine with epinephrine caudal epidural anesthesia and flunixin meglumine (SURG + EPI + F). Several outcomes, including pedometer counts, changes in stride length, subjective visual assessment of pain, instantaneous scan sampling of the calves' postoperative activities, and the amount of movement and vocalization during the castration procedure, were measured to identify and quantify pain. The results indicated that stride length and the number of steps taken by calves after castration appear to be good measures of pain. Significant differences found between treatment groups for stride length and visual assessments suggest that flunixin meglumine can be considered to provide visible pain relief up to 8 hours postcastration.

Local skull trephination before transfer is associated with favorable outcomes in cerebral herniation from epidural hematoma.

PubMed

Nelson, James A

2011-01-01

The patient with epidural hematoma and cerebral herniation has a good prognosis with immediate drainage, but a poor prognosis with delay to decompression. Such patients who present to nonneurosurgical hospitals are commonly transferred without drainage to the nearest neurosurgical center. This practice has never been demonstrated to be the safest approach to treating these patients. A significant minority of emergency physicians (EPs) have advised and taught bedside burr hole drainage or skull trephination before transfer for herniating patients. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of nonneurosurgeon drainage on neurologic outcome in patients with cerebral herniation from epidural hematoma. A structured literature review was performed using EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and the Emergency Medicine Abstracts database. No evidence meeting methodologic criteria was found describing outcomes in patients transferred without decompressive procedures. For patients receiving local drainage before transfer, 100% had favorable outcomes. Although the total number of patients is small and the population highly selected, the natural history of cerebral herniation from epidural hematoma and the best available evidence suggests that herniating patients have improved outcomes with drainage procedures before transport. © 2010 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine.

Decoding of motor intentions from epidural ECoG recordings in severely paralyzed chronic stroke patients

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spüler, M.; Walter, A.; Ramos-Murguialday, A.; Naros, G.; Birbaumer, N.; Gharabaghi, A.; Rosenstiel, W.; Bogdan, M.

2014-12-01

Objective. Recently, there have been several approaches to utilize a brain-computer interface (BCI) for rehabilitation with stroke patients or as an assistive device for the paralyzed. In this study we investigated whether up to seven different hand movement intentions can be decoded from epidural electrocorticography (ECoG) in chronic stroke patients. Approach. In a screening session we recorded epidural ECoG data over the ipsilesional motor cortex from four chronic stroke patients who had no residual hand movement. Data was analyzed offline using a support vector machine (SVM) to decode different movement intentions. Main results. We showed that up to seven hand movement intentions can be decoded with an average accuracy of 61% (chance level 15.6%). When reducing the number of classes, average accuracies up to 88% can be achieved for decoding three different movement intentions. Significance. The findings suggest that ipsilesional epidural ECoG can be used as a viable control signal for BCI-driven neuroprosthesis. Although patients showed no sign of residual hand movement, brain activity at the ipsilesional motor cortex still shows enough intention-related activity to decode different movement intentions with sufficient accuracy.

Inadvertent intrathecal injection of labetalol in a patient undergoing post-partum tubal ligation.

PubMed

Balestrieri, P J; Hamza, M S; Ting, P H; Blank, R S; Grubb, C T

2005-10-01

After receiving a continuous spinal anesthetic for labor following an inadvertent dural puncture with a 17-gauge epidural needle, a morbidly obese parturient underwent post-partum tubal ligation 12 h after vaginal delivery. The patient received a total of 2 mL of 0.75% hyperbaric bupivacaine for the surgery. In response to moderate hypertension the patient received intravenous labetalol hydrochloride 20 mg. She subsequently was inadvertently administered approximately 15 mg of labetalol through the spinal catheter. The spinal catheter was removed immediately after the procedure. She suffered no apparent adverse neurologic effects.

Neuraxial analgesia effects on labor progression: facts, fallacies, uncertainties, and the future

PubMed Central

Grant, Erica N.; Tao, Weike; Craig, Margaret; McIntire, Donald; Leveno, Kenneth

2014-01-01

Approximately 60% of women who labor receive some form of neuraxial analgesia, but concerns have been raised regarding whether it negatively impacts the labor and delivery process. In this review, we attempt to clarify what has been established as truths, falsities, and uncertainties regarding the effects of this form of pain relief on labor progression, negative and/or positive. Additionally, although the term “epidural” has become synonymous with neuraxial analgesia, we discuss two other techniques, combined spinal-epidural and continuous spinal analgesia, that are gaining popularity, as well as their effects on labor progression. PMID:25088476

[Accelerated course in hip arthroplasty].

PubMed

Rasmussen, S; Kramhøft, M U; Sperling, K P; Pedersen, J H; Falck, I B; Pedersen, E M; Kehlet, H

2001-12-03

The aim of the study was to assess the results of a well-defined rehabilitation programme after hip arthroplasty. The effects of a revised, optimised, perioperative care programme with continuous epidural analgesia, oral nutrition, and physiotherapy were assessed in 60 patients before intervention and 60 patients after intervention. The hospital stay was reduced from nine to six days (p < 0.01), there were fewer complications and less need for rehabilitation after discharge (p < 0.05) in the intervention group. A clinical programme focusing on pain relief, oral nutrition, and rehabilitation may reduce the stay in hospital and improve recovery after hip arthroplasty.

Three-Dimensional Printing: An Aid to Epidural Access for Neuromodulation.

PubMed

Taverner, Murray G; Monagle, John P

2017-08-01

The case report details to use of three-dimensional (3D) printing as an aid to neuromodulation. A patient is described in whom previous attempts at spinal neuromodulation had failed due to lack of epidural or intrathecal access, and the use of a 3D printed model allowed for improved planning and ultimately, success. Successful spinal cord stimulation was achieved with the plan developed by access to a 3D model of the patient's spine. Neuromodulation techniques can provide the optimal analgesic techniques for individual patients. At times these can fail due to lack of access to the site for intervention, in this case epidural access. 3D printing may provide additional information to improve the likelihood of access when anatomy is distorted and standard approaches prove difficult. © 2017 International Neuromodulation Society.

Epidural Steroid Injections are Safe and Effective: Multisociety Letter in Support of the Safety and Effectiveness of Epidural Steroid Injections.

PubMed

Kennedy, David J; Levin, Joshua; Rosenquist, Richard; Singh, Virtaj; Smith, Clark; Stojanovic, Milan P; Vorobeychik, Yakov

2015-05-01

In April 2014, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a Drug Safety Communication requesting that corticosteroid labeling include warnings that injection of corticosteroids into the epidural space of the spine may result in rare but serious adverse events, including loss of vision, stroke, paralysis, and death. The International Spine Intervention Society spearheaded a collaboration of more than a dozen other medical societies in submitting the letter below to the FDA on November 7, 2014. We are publishing the letter to ensure that the readership of Pain Medicine is aware of the multisociety support for the safety and effectiveness of these procedures. A special note of thanks to all of the societies who signed on in support of the message. Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Patient and provider perceptions of decision making about use of epidural analgesia during childbirth: a thematic analysis.

PubMed

Goldberg, Holly Bianca; Shorten, Allison

2014-01-01

This study examines the nature of differences in perceptions of decision making between patients and providers about use of epidural analgesia during labor. Thematic analysis was used to identify patterns in written survey responses from 14 patients, 13 labor nurses, and 7 obstetrician-gynecologists. Results revealed patients attempted to place themselves in an informed role in decision making and sought respect for their decisions. Some providers demonstrated paternalism and a tendency to steer patients in the direction of their own preferences. Nurses observed various pressures on decision making, reinforcing the importance of patients being supported to make an informed choice. Differences in perceptions suggest need for improvement in communication and shared decision-making practices related to epidural analgesia use in labor.

Pathophysiology and management of spontaneous intracranial hypotension--a review.

PubMed

Syed, Nadir Ali; Mirza, Farhan Arshad; Pabaney, Aqueel Hussain; Rameez-ul-Hassan

2012-01-01

Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension is a syndrome involving reduced intracranial pressure secondary to a dural tear which occurs mostly due to connective tissue disorders such as Marfans Syndrome, and Ehler Danlos Syndrome. Patients with dural ectasias leading to CSF leakage into the subdural or epidural space classically present with orthostatic headaches and cranial nerve deficits mostly seen in cranial nerves V-VIII. Diagnosis of SIH is confirmed with the aid of neuroimaging modalities of which Cranial MR imaging is most widely used. SIH can be treated conservatively or with epidural blood patches which are now widely being used to repair dural tears, and their effectiveness is being recognized. Recently epidural injection of fibrin glue has also been used which has been found to be effective in certain patients.

Spinal Epidural Hematoma After Thrombolysis for Deep Vein Thrombosis with Subsequent Pulmonary Thromboembolism: A Case Report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Han, Young-Min, E-mail: ymhan@chonbuk.ac.kr; Kwak, Ho-Sung; Jin, Gong-Young

2006-06-15

A 38-year-old male was initially admitted for left leg swelling. He was diagnosed as having deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the left leg and a pulmonary thromboembolism by contrast-enhanced chest computed tomography (CT) with delayed lower extremity CT. The DVT was treated by thrombolysis and a venous stent. Four hours later, he complained of severe back pain and a sensation of separation of his body and lower extremities; he experienced paraplegia early in the morning of the following day. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a spinal epidural hematoma between T11 and L2, which decompressed following surgery. We, therefore, report a casemore » of a spinal epidural hematoma after thrombolysis in a case of DVT with a pulmonary thromboembolism.« less

[Effectiveness of Sacral Intervertebral Epidural Block for Umbilical Hernia Repair in Children].

PubMed

Nagamine, Norimitsu; Furuya, Atsushi; Suzuki, Sho; Kondo, Satoko; Kiuchi, Riko; Suzuki, Satomi; Nonaka, Akihiko

2015-02-01

Effectiveness of sacral intervertebral epidural block (S 2-3 block) for umbilical hernia repair has not been clarified. We investigate 24 children, undergoing umbilical hernia repair; mean age of 3 years (age range: 20-65 months). Under general anesthesia, epidural block was performed at S 2-3 interspace with 1 ml x kg(-1) ropivacaine (0.2%) at injecting rate of 1 ml x sec(-1) followed by 0.25 ml x kg(-1) normal saline. In all cases, neither systolic blood pressure nor heart rate increased > 15% from those just before the block. Postoperative analgesics were given in 6 patients (25%) rectally. Mean time between the block and the administration of analgesic was 10.5 hours. S 2-3 block can be effective for postoperative pain in umbilical hernia repair.

En Route Use of Analgesics in Nonintubated, Critically Ill Patients Transported by U.S. Air Force Critical Care Air Transport Teams.

PubMed

Mora, Alejandra G; Ganem, Victoria J; Ervin, Alicia T; Maddry, Joseph K; Bebarta, Vikhyat S

2016-05-01

U.S. Critical Care Air Transport Teams (CCATTs) evacuate critically ill patients with acute pain in the combat setting. Limited data have been reported on analgesic administration en route, and no study has reported analgesic use by CCATTs. Our objective was to describe analgesics used by CCATTs for nonintubated, critically ill patients during evacuation from a combat setting. We conducted an institutional review board-approved, retrospective review of CCATT records. We included nonintubated, critically ill patients who were administered analgesics in flight and were evacuated out of theater (2007-2012). Demographics, injury description, analgesics and anesthetics, and predefined clinical adverse events were recorded. Data were presented as mean ± standard deviation or percentage (%). Of 1,128 records, we analyzed 381 subjects with the following characteristics: age 26 ± 7.0 years; 98% male; and 97% trauma (70% blast, 17% penetrating, 11% blunt, and 3% burn). The injury severity score was 19 ± 9. Fifty-one percent received morphine, 39% hydromorphone, 15% fentanyl, and 5% ketamine. Routes of delivery were 63% patient-controlled analgesia (PCA), 32% bolus intravenous (IV) administration, 24% epidural delivery, 21% continuous IV infusions, and 9% oral opioids. Patients that were administered local anesthetics (nerve block or epidural delivery) with IV opioids received a lower total dose of opioids than those who received opioids alone. No differences were associated between analgesics and frequency of complications in flight or postflight. About half of nonintubated, critically ill subjects evacuated out of combat by CCATT received morphine and more than half had a PCA. In our study, ketamine was not frequently used and pain scores were rarely recorded. However, we detected an opioid-sparing effect associated with local anesthetics (regional nerve blocks and epidural delivery). Reprint & Copyright © 2016 Association of Military Surgeons of the U.S.

[In vitro comparison of epidural bacteria filters permeability and screening scanning electron microscopy].

PubMed

Sener, Aysin; Erkin, Yuksel; Sener, Alper; Tasdogen, Aydin; Dokumaci, Esra; Elar, Zahide

2015-01-01

Epidural catheter bacteria filters are barriers in the patient-controlled analgesia/anaesthesia for preventing contamination at the epidural insertion site. The efficiency of these filters varies according to pore sizes and materials. The bacterial adhesion capability of the two filters was measured in vitro experiment. Adhesion capacities for standard Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853) strains of the two different filters (Portex and Rusch) which have the same pore size were examined. Bacterial suspension of 0.5 Mc Farland was placed in the patient-controlled analgesia pump, was filtered at a speed of 5mL/h. in continuous infusion for 48h and accumulated in bottle. The two filters were compared with colony counts of bacteria in the filters and bottles. At the same time, the filters and adhered bacteria were monitored by scanning electron microscope. Electron microscopic examination of filters showed that the Portex filter had a granular and the Rusch filter fibrillary structure. Colony counting from the catheter and bottle showed that both of the filters have significant bacterial adhesion capability (p<0.001). After the bacteria suspension infusion, colony countings showed that the Portex filter was more efficient (p<0.001). There was not any difference between S. aureus and P. aeruginosa bacteria adhesion. In the SEM monitoring after the infusion, it was physically shown that the bacteria were adhered efficiently by both of the filters. The granular structured filter was found statistically and significantly more successful than the fibrial. Although the pore sizes of the filters were same - of which structural differences shown by SEM were the same - it would not be right to attribute the changes in the efficiencies to only structural differences. Using microbiological and physical proofs with regard to efficiency at the same time has been another important aspect of this experiment. Copyright © 2013 Sociedade Brasileira de Anestesiologia. Publicado por Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

In vitro comparison of epidural bacteria filters permeability and screening scanning electron microscopy.

PubMed

Sener, Aysin; Erkin, Yuksel; Sener, Alper; Tasdogen, Aydin; Dokumaci, Esra; Elar, Zahide

2015-01-01

Epidural catheter bacteria filters are barriers in the patient-controlled analgesia/anaesthesia for preventing contamination at the epidural insertion site. The efficiency of these filters varies according to pore sizes and materials. The bacterial adhesion capability of the two filters was measured in vitro experiment. Adhesion capacities for standard Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853) strains of the two different filters (Portex and Rusch) which have the same pore size were examined. Bacterial suspension of 0.5 Mc Farland was placed in the patient-controlled analgesia pump, was filtered at a speed of 5 mL/h. in continuous infusion for 48 h and accumulated in bottle. The two filters were compared with colony counts of bacteria in the filters and bottles. At the same time, the filters and adhered bacteria were monitored by scanning electron microscope. Electron microscopic examination of filters showed that the Portex filter had a granular and the Rusch filter fibrillary structure. Colony counting from the catheter and bottle showed that both of the filters have significant bacterial adhesion capability (p<0.001). After the bacteria suspension infusion, colony countings showed that the Portex filter was more efficient (p<0.001). There was not any difference between S. aureus and P. aeruginosa bacteria adhesion. In the SEM monitoring after the infusion, it was physically shown that the bacteria were adhered efficiently by both of the filters. The granular structured filter was found statistically and significantly more successful than the fibrial. Although the pore sizes of the filters were same - of which structural differences shown by SEM were the same - it would not be right to attribute the changes in the efficiencies to only structural differences. Using microbiological and physical proofs with regard to efficiency at the same time has been another important aspect of this experiment. Copyright © 2013 Sociedade Brasileira de Anestesiologia. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

[High dose L-dopa infusion during general anesthesia for gastrectomy in a patient with parkinsonism].

PubMed

Horai, Tetsuya; Nishiyama, Tomoki; Yamamoto, Hirotoshi; Hanaoka, Kazuo

2002-01-01

A 68-year-old man with parkinsonism was scheduled for gastrectomy. Levodopa 1400 mg, droxidopa 300 mg and bromocriptine-mesylate 7.5 mg had been administered orally per day to control the symptom before surgery. On the day before surgery, oral medication was stopped and intravenous infusion of levodopa 100 mg.h-1 was started. Without any premedication but with levodopa infusion, anesthesia was induced with thiopental 175 mg and fentanyl 0.05 mg. Tracheal intubation was facilitated with vecuronium 6 mg and an epidural catheter was inserted. Anesthesia was maintained with O2, N2O and sevoflurane, combined with epidural block using mepivacaine. When blood pressure decreased, phenylephrine but not ephedrine was effective to increase blood pressure. Intravenous infusion of levodopa was continued for 19 days with decreasing doses from 8th postoperative day when injection of levodopa into the intestinal tube was started. On the 53rd day, he left the hospital without any complications. Serum concentrations of levodopa during and after surgery were 50 to 100 times higher than the therapeutic levels. However, he developed no complications, which suggests a wide safety range of levodopa. In conclusion, high dose levodopa infusion was effective in controlling the symptoms of Parkinsonism during general anesthesia.

A prospective, randomized evaluation of the effects of epidural needle rotation on the distribution of epidural block.

PubMed

Borghi, Battista; Agnoletti, Vanni; Ricci, Alessandro; van Oven, Hanna; Montone, Nicoletta; Casati, Andrea

2004-05-01

We evaluated the effects of turning the tip of the Tuohy needle 45 degrees toward the operative side before threading the epidural catheter (45 degrees -rotation group, n = 24) as compared to a conventional insertion technique with the tip of the Tuohy needle oriented at 90 degrees cephalad (control group, n = 24) on the distribution of 10 mL of 0.75% ropivacaine with 10 microg sufentanil in 48 patients undergoing total hip replacement. The catheter was introduced 3 to 4 cm beyond the tip of the Tuohy needle. A blinded observer recorded sensory and motor blocks on both sides, quality of analgesia, and volumes of local anesthetic used during the first 48 h of patient-controlled epidural analgesia. Readiness to surgery required 21 +/- 6 min in the control group and 17 +/- 7 min in the 45 degree-rotation group (P > 0.50). The maximum sensory level reached on the operative side was T10 (T10-7) in the control group and T9 (T10-6) in the 45 degree-rotation group (P > 0.50); whereas the maximum sensory level reached on the nonoperative side was T10 (T12-9) in the control group and L3 (L5-T12) in the 45 degree-rotation group (P = 0.0005). Complete motor blockade of the operative limb was achieved earlier in the 45 degree-rotation than in the control group, and motor block of the nonoperative side was more intense in patients in the control group. Two-segment regression of sensory level on the surgical side was similar in the two groups, but occurred earlier on the nonoperative side in the 45 degree-rotation group (94 +/- 70 min) than in the control group (178 +/- 40 min) (P = 0.0005). Postoperative analgesia was similar in the 2 groups, but the 45 degree-rotation group consumed less local anesthetic (242 +/- 35 mL) than the control group (297 +/- 60 mL) (P = 0.0005). We conclude that the rotation of the Tuohy introducer needle 45 degrees toward the operative side before threading the epidural catheter provides a preferential distribution of sensory and motor block toward the operative side, reducing the volume of local anesthetic solution required to maintain postoperative analgesia. Turning the Tuohy introducer needle 45 degrees toward the operative side before threading the epidural catheter is a simple maneuver that produces a preferential distribution of epidural anesthesia and analgesia toward the operative side, minimizing the volume of local anesthetic required to provide adequate pain relief after total hip arthroplasty.

Epidural analgesia does not increase the rate of inpatient falls after major upper abdominal and thoracic surgery: a retrospective case-control study.

PubMed

Elsharydah, Ahmad; Williams, Tiffany M; Rosero, Eric B; Joshi, Girish P

2016-05-01

Postoperative epidural analgesia for major upper abdominal and thoracic surgery can provide significant benefits, including superior analgesia and reduced pulmonary dysfunction. Nevertheless, epidural analgesia may also be associated with decreased muscle strength, sympathetic tone, and proprioception that could possibly contribute to falls. The purpose of this retrospective case-control study was to search a large national database in order to investigate the possible relationship between postoperative epidural analgesia and the rate of inpatient falls. Data from the nationwide inpatient sample for 2007-2011 were queried for adult patients who underwent elective major upper abdominal and thoracic surgery. Multiple International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification codes for inpatient falls and accidents were combined into one binary variable. Univariate analyses were used for initial statistical analysis. Logistic regression analyses and McNemar's tests were subsequently used to investigate the association of epidural analgesia with inpatient falls in a 1:1 case-control propensity-matched sample after adjustment of patients' demographics, comorbidities, and hospital characteristics. Forty-two thousand six hundred fifty-eight thoracic and 54,974 upper abdominal surgical procedures were identified. The overall incidence of inpatient falls in the thoracic surgery group was 6.54% with an increasing trend over the study period from 4.95% in 2007 to 8.11% in 2011 (P < 0.001). Similarly, the overall incidence of inpatient falls in the upper abdominal surgery group was 5.30% with an increasing trend from 4.55% in 2007 to 6.07% in 2011 (P < 0.001). Postoperative epidural analgesia was not associated with an increased risk for postoperative inpatient falls in the thoracic surgery group (relative risk [RR], 1.18; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.95 to 1.47; P = 0.144) and in the upper abdominal surgery group (RR, 0.84; 95% CI 0.64 to 1.09; P = 0.220). Inpatient falls compared with non-falls were associated with a longer median (interquartile range) length of hospital stay in both the thoracic surgery group (11 [7-17] days vs 9 [6-16] days, respectively; P < 0.001) and the upper abdominal surgery group (12 [7-20] days vs 10 [6-17] days, respectively; P < 0.001). Our study suggests that postoperative epidural analgesia for patients undergoing major upper abdominal and thoracic surgery is not associated with an increased risk of inpatient falls.

Effect of fluoroscopically guided caudal epidural steroid or local anesthetic injections in the treatment of lumbar disc herniation and radiculitis: a randomized, controlled, double blind trial with a two-year follow-up.

PubMed

Manchikanti, Laxmaiah; Singh, Vijay; Cash, Kimberly A; Pampati, Vidyasagar; Damron, Kim S; Boswell, Mark V

2012-01-01

Lumbar disc herniation and radiculitis are common elements of low back and lower extremity pain. Among minimally invasive treatments, epidural injections are one of the most commonly performed interventions. However, the literature is mixed about their effectiveness in managing low back and lower extremity pain. In general, individual studies and systematic reviews of epidural steroid injections have been hampered by their study design, baseline differences between treatment groups, inadequate sample sizes, highly controlled settings, lack of validated outcome measures, and the inability to confirm the injectate location because fluoroscopy was not used. A randomized, controlled, double blind, active control trial. A private, interventional pain management practice, specialty referral center in the United States. To assess the effectiveness of fluoroscopically directed caudal epidural injections with local anesthetic with or without steroids in managing chronic low back and lower extremity pain in patients with disc herniation and radiculitis. One hundred twenty patients were randomized to two groups: Group I received 10 mL caudal epidural injections of local anesthetic, lidocaine 0.5%; Group II patients received caudal epidural injections of 0.5% lidocaine, 9 mL, mixed with 1 mL of steroid. Multiple outcome measures were utilized. The primary outcome measures were Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) and the Oswestry Disability Index 2.0 (ODI). Secondary outcome measures were employment status and opioid intake. Significant pain relief improvement was defined as 50% or more improvement in NRS and ODI scores. In the successful category, 77% of Group I had significant pain relief of >/= 50% and functional status improvement of >/= 50% reduction in ODI scores; in Group II it was 76%, whereas overall it was 60% and 65% in Groups I and II. Over the two years, Group I had an average number of procedures of 5.5 ± 2.8; Group II was 5.3 ± 2.4. Even though there was no significant difference in overall relief between the two groups, the average relief for each procedure was superior for steroids. Presumed limitations of this evaluation include lack of a placebo group. Caudal epidural injections of local anesthetic with or without steroids might be an effective therapy for patients with disc herniation or radiculitis. The present evidence illustrates the potential superiority of steroids compared with local anesthetic at two year follow up based on average relief per procedure. NCT00370799.

Thoracolumbar Junction Syndrome Causing Pain around Posterior Iliac Crest: A Case Report.

PubMed

Kim, Soo-Ryu; Lee, Min-Ji; Lee, Seung-Jun; Suh, Young-Sung; Kim, Dae-Hyun; Hong, Ji-Hee

2013-03-01

Thoracolumbar junction syndrome is characterized by referred pain which may originate at the thoracolumbar junction, which extends from 12th thoracic vertebra to 2nd lumbar vertebra, due to functional abnormalities. Clinical manifestations include back pain, pseudo-visceral pain and pseudo-pain on the posterior iliac crest, as well as irritable bowel symptoms. During clinical examination, pain can be demonstrated by applying pressure on the facet joints or to the sides of the spinous processes. Radiological studies show only mild and insignificant degenerative changes in most cases. We report a 42-year-old female patient with osteogenesis imperfecta who suffered from chronic low back pain. Under the diagnosis of thoracolumbar junction syndrome, she was treated with an epidural block and a sympathetic nerve block, which improved her symptoms.

Idiopathic Interdural Hematoma in Adult: A Case Report

PubMed Central

Yoo, Minwook; Kim, Jung-Soo; Jin, Sung-Chul; Lee, Sun-Il

2016-01-01

Interdural hematomas are primarily observed in infants, and adult interdural hematomas are rare. We describe a 54-year-old woman with a round, well-defined mass. The mass was an interdural hematoma that was misdiagnosed as an epidural hematoma. Unlike an epidural hematoma, interdural hematomas are located between the two layers of the dura mater, and the dural tail sign can be observed. PMID:28664008

Epidural anaesthesia for caesarean section in pituitary dwarfism.

PubMed

Li, Hongbo; Li, Ruihua; Lang, Bao

2017-04-01

We describe the anaesthetic management for caesarean section in a 32-year-old patient with pituitary dwarfism. In addition to supportive treatment, we offered a postoperative epidural analgesia pump. The patient recovered well without any complications. Copyright © 2016 Société française d'anesthésie et de réanimation (Sfar). Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Postoperative epidural analgesia compared with intraoperative periarticular injection for pain control following total knee arthroplasty under spinal anesthesia: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Tsukada, Sachiyuki; Wakui, Motohiro; Hoshino, Akiho

2014-09-03

Although epidural analgesia has been used for postoperative pain control after total knee arthroplasty, its usefulness is being reevaluated because of possible adverse effects. Recent studies have proven the efficacy of periarticular analgesic injection and its low prevalence of adverse effects. The present study compares the clinical efficacies of epidural analgesia and periarticular injection after total knee arthroplasty. This is a prospective, single-center, randomized controlled trial involving patients scheduled for unilateral total knee arthroplasty. One hundred and eleven patients were randomly assigned to periarticular injection or epidural analgesia groups. All patients were managed with spinal anesthesia. The surgical technique and postoperative medication protocol were identical in both groups. The primary outcome was postoperative pain at rest, quantified as the area under the curve of the scores on a visual analog pain scale to seventy-two hours postoperatively. The Student t test and chi-square test were used to compare the data between groups. In the intention-to-treat analysis, the periarticular injection group had a significantly lower area under the curve for pain score at rest (788.0 versus 1065.9; p = 0.0059). In the periarticular injection group, the mean knee flexion angle was small but significantly better at postoperative day 1 (64.2° versus 54.6°; p = 0.0072) and postoperative day 2 (70.3° versus 64.6°; p = 0.021) than in the epidural analgesia group. The incidence of nausea at postoperative day 1 was significantly lower in the periarticular injection group (4.0% versus 44.3%; p < 0.0001). Transient peroneal nerve palsy was frequently seen in the periarticular injection group (12.0% versus 1.6%; p = 0.026). Compared with epidural analgesia, periarticular injection offers better postoperative pain relief, earlier recovery of knee flexion angle, and lower incidence of nausea. Care should be taken to avoid transient peroneal nerve palsy when using periarticular injection. Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence. Copyright © 2014 by The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, Incorporated.

Comparison of clinical effects of epidural levobupivacaine morphine versus bupivacaine morphine in dogs undergoing elective pelvic limb surgery.

PubMed

Cerasoli, Ilaria; Tutunaru, Alexandru; Cenani, Alessia; Ramirez, Juan; Detilleux, Johann; Balligand, Marc; Sandersen, Charlotte

2017-03-01

To evaluate the efficacy, in terms of the amount of rescue analgesia required, and the clinical usefulness of epidural injection of morphine with bupivacaine or levobupivacaine for elective pelvic limb surgery in dogs during a 24-hour perioperative period. Prospective, blinded, randomized clinical study. A group of 26 dogs weighing 31.7 ± 14.2 (mean ± standard deviation) kg and aged 54 ± 36 months. All dogs were premedicated with methadone intravenously (0.2 mg kg -1 ) and anaesthesia induced with diazepam (0.2 mg kg -1 ) and propofol intravenously to effect. After induction of anaesthesia, dogs randomly received a lumbosacral epidural injection of morphine 0.1 mg kg -1 with either levobupivacaine 0.5% (1 mg kg -1 ; group LevoBM) or bupivacaine 0.5% (1 mg kg -1 ; group BM). Cardiovascular, respiratory and temperature values were recorded during the intra- and postoperative period. A visual analogue scale, subjective pain scale, sedation scale and the short form of the Glasgow pain scale were assessed every 6 hours after epidural injection during 24 hours. The ability to stand and walk, neurological deficits and other side effects were assessed at the same time points. The amount of rescue analgesia (sufentanil intraoperatively and methadone postoperatively) was recorded. No statistically significant differences were found between groups for any of the recorded data, with the exception of the incidence of spontaneous urination and postoperative rescue analgesia requirement. In group LevoBM four dogs spontaneously urinated at recovery while none of the dogs in group BM did (p = 0.03) and seven dogs of group LevoBM required postoperative rescue analgesia versus none of the dogs in the BM group (p = 0.005). and clinical relevance Epidural LevoBM is a suitable alternative to BM in healthy dogs during elective pelvic limb surgery. Epidural BM produced more urinary retention but better pain control compared to the same concentration and dose of LevoBM in dogs. Copyright © 2017 Association of Veterinary Anaesthetists and American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Comparison of tissue distribution, phrenic nerve involvement, and epidural spread in standard- vs low-volume ultrasound-guided interscalene plexus block using contrast magnetic resonance imaging: a randomized, controlled trial.

PubMed

Stundner, O; Meissnitzer, M; Brummett, C M; Moser, S; Forstner, R; Koköfer, A; Danninger, T; Gerner, P; Kirchmair, L; Fritsch, G

2016-03-01

Ultrasound guidance allows for the use of much lower volumes of local anaesthetics for nerve blocks, which may be associated with less aberrant spread and fewer complications. This randomized, controlled study used contrast magnetic resonance imaging to view the differential-volume local anaesthetic distribution, and compared analgesic efficacy and respiratory impairment. Thirty patients undergoing shoulder surgery were randomized to receive ultrasound-guided interscalene block by a single, blinded operator with injection of ropivacaine 0.75% (either 20 or 5 ml) plus the contrast dye gadopentetate dimeglumine, followed by magnetic resonance imaging. The primary outcome was epidural spread. Secondary outcomes were central non-epidural spread, contralateral epidural spread, spread to the phrenic nerve, spirometry, ultrasound investigation of the diaphragm, block duration, pain scores during the first 24 h, time to first analgesic consumption, and total analgesic consumption. All blocks provided fast onset and adequate intra- and postoperative analgesia, with no significant differences in pain scores at any time point. Epidural spread occurred in two subjects of each group (13.3%); however, spread to the intervertebral foramen and phrenic nerve and extensive i.m. local anaesthetic deposition were significantly more frequent in the 20 ml group. Diaphragmatic paralysis occurred twice as frequently (n=8 vs 4), and changes from baseline peak respiratory flow rate were larger [Δ=-2.66 (1.99 sd) vs -1.69 (2.0 sd) l min(-1)] in the 20 ml group. This study demonstrates that interscalene block is associated with epidural spread irrespective of injection volume; however, less central (foraminal) and aberrant spread after low-volume injection may be associated with a more favourable risk profile. This study was registered with the European Medicines Agency (Eudra-CT number 2013-004219-36) and with the US National Institutes' of Health registry and results base, clinicaltrials.gov (identifier NCT02175069). © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Journal of Anaesthesia. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Two-year follow-up results of fluoroscopic cervical epidural injections in chronic axial or discogenic neck pain: a randomized, double-blind, controlled trial.

PubMed

Manchikanti, Laxmaiah; Cash, Kimberly A; Pampati, Vidyasagar; Malla, Yogesh

2014-01-01

A randomized, double-blind, active-controlled trial. To assess the effectiveness of cervical interlaminar epidural injections of local anesthetic with or without steroids for the management of axial or discogenic pain in patients without disc herniation, radiculitis, or facet joint pain. Cervical discogenic pain without disc herniation is a common cause of suffering and disability in the adult population. Once conservative management has failed and facet joint pain has been excluded, cervical epidural injections may be considered as a management tool. Despite a paucity of evidence, cervical epidural injections are one of the most commonly performed nonsurgical interventions in the management of chronic axial or disc-related neck pain. One hundred and twenty patients without disc herniation or radiculitis and negative for facet joint pain as determined by means of controlled diagnostic medial branch blocks were randomly assigned to one of the 2 treatment groups. Group I patients received cervical interlaminar epidural injections of local anesthetic (lidocaine 0.5%, 5 mL), whereas Group II patients received 0.5% lidocaine, 4 mL, mixed with 1 mL or 6 mg of nonparticulate betamethasone. The primary outcome measure was ≥ 50% improvement in pain and function. Outcome assessments included numeric rating scale (NRS), Neck Disability Index (NDI), opioid intake, employment, and changes in weight. Significant pain relief and functional improvement (≥ 50%) was present at the end of 2 years in 73% of patients receiving local anesthetic only and 70% receiving local anesthetic with steroids. In the successful group of patients, however, defined as consistent relief with 2 initial injections of at least 3 weeks, significant improvement was illustrated in 78% in the local anesthetic group and 75% in the local anesthetic with steroid group at the end of 2 years. The results reported at the one-year follow-up were sustained at the 2-year follow-up. Cervical interlaminar epidural injections with or without steroids may provide significant improvement in pain and functioning in patients with chronic discogenic or axial pain that is function-limiting and not related to facet joint pain.

Epidural injections with or without steroids in managing chronic low back pain secondary to lumbar spinal stenosis: a meta-analysis of 13 randomized controlled trials

PubMed Central

Meng, Hai; Fei, Qi; Wang, Bingqiang; Yang, Yong; Li, Dong; Li, Jinjun; Su, Nan

2015-01-01

Background Epidural injections of anesthetic with or without steroids are widely used for treating lumbar spinal stenosis, a common cause of chronic low back pain, but there is a lack of rigorous data comparing the effectiveness of epidural injections of anesthetic with and without steroids. This meta-analysis presents a current, comprehensive picture of how epidural injections of anesthetic with steroids compare with those using local anesthetic alone. Methods PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases were searched from their inception through February 5, 2015. Weight mean difference, risk ratio, and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. A random effects model or fixed effects model was used to pool the estimates, according to the heterogeneity between the included studies. Results We included 13 randomized controlled trials, involving 1,465 patients. Significant pain relief (≥50%) was demonstrated in 53.7% of patients administered with epidural injections of anesthetic with steroids (group 1) and in 56.4% of those administered with local anesthetic alone (group 2). Patients showed a reduction in numeric rating scale pain score of 3.7 and 3.6 in the two groups, respectively. Significant functional improvement was achieved in 65.2% of patients in group 1 and 63.1% of patients in group 2, with Oswestry Disability Index reductions of 13.8 and 14.5 points, respectively. The overall number of injections per year was 3.2±1.3 and 3.4±1.2 with average total relief per year of 29.3±19.7 and 33.8±19.3 weeks, respectively. The opioid intakes decreased from baseline by 12.4 and 7.8 mg, respectively. Among the outcomes listed, only total relief time differed significantly between the two groups. Conclusion Both epidural injections with steroids or with local anesthetic alone provide significant pain relief and functional improvement in managing chronic low back pain secondary to lumbar spinal stenosis, and the inclusion of steroids confers no advantage compared to local anesthetic alone. PMID:26316704

Epidural injections with or without steroids in managing chronic low back pain secondary to lumbar spinal stenosis: a meta-analysis of 13 randomized controlled trials.

PubMed

Meng, Hai; Fei, Qi; Wang, Bingqiang; Yang, Yong; Li, Dong; Li, Jinjun; Su, Nan

2015-01-01

Epidural injections of anesthetic with or without steroids are widely used for treating lumbar spinal stenosis, a common cause of chronic low back pain, but there is a lack of rigorous data comparing the effectiveness of epidural injections of anesthetic with and without steroids. This meta-analysis presents a current, comprehensive picture of how epidural injections of anesthetic with steroids compare with those using local anesthetic alone. PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases were searched from their inception through February 5, 2015. Weight mean difference, risk ratio, and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. A random effects model or fixed effects model was used to pool the estimates, according to the heterogeneity between the included studies. We included 13 randomized controlled trials, involving 1,465 patients. Significant pain relief (≥50%) was demonstrated in 53.7% of patients administered with epidural injections of anesthetic with steroids (group 1) and in 56.4% of those administered with local anesthetic alone (group 2). Patients showed a reduction in numeric rating scale pain score of 3.7 and 3.6 in the two groups, respectively. Significant functional improvement was achieved in 65.2% of patients in group 1 and 63.1% of patients in group 2, with Oswestry Disability Index reductions of 13.8 and 14.5 points, respectively. The overall number of injections per year was 3.2±1.3 and 3.4±1.2 with average total relief per year of 29.3±19.7 and 33.8±19.3 weeks, respectively. The opioid intakes decreased from baseline by 12.4 and 7.8 mg, respectively. Among the outcomes listed, only total relief time differed significantly between the two groups. Both epidural injections with steroids or with local anesthetic alone provide significant pain relief and functional improvement in managing chronic low back pain secondary to lumbar spinal stenosis, and the inclusion of steroids confers no advantage compared to local anesthetic alone.

Fungal Infections Associated with Contaminated Methylprednisolone in Tennessee

PubMed Central

Kainer, Marion A.; Reagan, David R.; Nguyen, Duc B.; Wiese, Andrew D.; Wise, Matthew E.; Ward, Jennifer; Park, Benjamin J.; Kanago, Meredith L.; Baumblatt, Jane; Schaefer, Melissa K.; Berger, Brynn E.; Marder, Ellyn P.; Min, Jea-Young; Dunn, John R.; Smith, Rachel M.; Dreyzehner, John; Jones, Timothy F.

2015-01-01

BACKGROUND We investigated an outbreak of fungal infections of the central nervous system that occurred among patients who received epidural or paraspinal glucocorticoid injections of preservative-free methylprednisolone acetate prepared by a single compounding pharmacy. METHODS Case patients were defined as patients with fungal meningitis, posterior circulation stroke, spinal osteomyelitis, or epidural abscess that developed after epidural or paraspinal glucocorticoid injections. Clinical and procedure data were abstracted. A cohort analysis was performed. RESULTS The median age of the 66 case patients was 69 years (range, 23 to 91). The median time from the last epidural glucocorticoid injection to symptom onset was 18 days (range, 0 to 56). Patients presented with meningitis alone (73%), the cauda equina syndrome or focal infection (15%), or posterior circulation stroke with or without meningitis (12%). Symptoms and signs included headache (in 73% of the patients), new or worsening back pain (in 50%), neurologic symptoms (in 48%), nausea (in 39%), and stiff neck (in 29%). The median cerebrospinal fluid white-cell count on the first lumbar puncture among patients who presented with meningitis, with or without stroke or focal infection, was 648 per cubic millimeter (range, 6 to 10,140), with 78% granulocytes (range, 0 to 97); the protein level was 114 mg per deciliter (range, 29 to 440); and the glucose concentration was 44 mg per deciliter (range, 12 to 121) (2.5 mmol per liter [range, 0.7 to 6.7]). A total of 22 patients had laboratory confirmation of Exserohilum rostratum infection (21 patients) or Aspergillus fumigatus infection (1 patient). The risk of infection increased with exposure to lot 06292012@26, older vials, higher doses, multiple procedures, and translaminar approach to epidural glucocorticoid injection. Voriconazole was used to treat 61 patients (92%); 35 patients (53%) were also treated with liposomal amphotericin B. Eight patients (12%) died, seven of whom had stroke. CONCLUSIONS We describe an outbreak of fungal meningitis after epidural or paraspinal glucocorticoid injection with methylprednisolone from a single compounding pharmacy. Rapid recognition of illness and prompt initiation of therapy are important to prevent complications. (Funded by the Tennessee Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.) PMID:23131029

Labour epidural analgesia in Poland in 2009 - a survey.

PubMed

Furmanik, Jacek

2013-01-01

Labour analgesia in most developed countries is funded by the state, available to every woman in labour, and plays an important role in the everyday activities of most anaesthetists. This paper presents the second part of an Obstetric Anaesthesia Survey which was conducted in 2009. The first part of the Survey, relating to anaesthesia for caesarean sections, was published in 2010. The author sent out 432 questionnaires containing questions about hospital size and location, staffing levels and numbers of deliveries per year. There were also questions regarding regional and other pain relief methods used in labour, ways of administration, drugs used and monitoring of patients. The response rate was 24%. Around 45% of responding hospitals had only 1-3 deliveries per year, which makes it difficult to provide separate obstetric anaesthetic cover. Only ten hospitals (11%) employed an anaesthetist for the labour ward. Epidural analgesia was used in 55% of hospitals but only 20% provided the service for 24 hours per day and free of charge. Entonox was used very occasionally, but the most common means of pain relief was pethidine injection. There were marked differences in the medication used for labour epidurals, with 18% of units using high concentrations of local anaesthetics which could result in motor block. Despite a lack of regulations in Polish law and a lack of proper training in 50% of units, midwives were looking after the patients with established labour epidural which could create medico-legal consequences. There was also a marked variation in the parameters monitored during labour analgesia. Epidural labour analgesia was offered for 24 hours per day and free of charge in only 20% of hospitals. Without public pressure it will be difficult to get more funding from the National Health Fund (NFZ) to enable other hospitals, especially those with small obstetric units, to introduce regional labour analgesia. Although the 2009 guidelines addressed most of the issues regarding the conduct of epidural labour analgesia, changes need to be made in Polish law to allow midwives to be appropriately trained to look after parturients with regional labour analgesia.

Comparison of the hanging-drop technique and running-drip method for identifying the epidural space in dogs.

PubMed

Martinez-Taboada, Fernando; Redondo, José I

2017-03-01

To compare the running-drip and hanging-drop techniques for locating the epidural space in dogs. Prospective, randomized, clinical trial. Forty-five healthy dogs requiring epidural anaesthesia. Dogs were randomized into four groups and administered epidural anaesthesia in sternal (S) or lateral (L) recumbency. All blocks were performed by the same person using Tuohy needles with either a fluid-prefilled hub (HDo) or connected to a drip set attached to a fluid bag elevated 60 cm (RDi). The number of attempts, 'pop' sensation, clear drop aspiration or fluid dripping, time to locate the epidural space (TTLES) and presence of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were recorded. A morphine-bupivacaine combination was injected after positive identification. The success of the block was assessed by experienced observers based on perioperative usage of rescue analgesia. Data were checked for normality. Binomial variables were analysed with the chi-squared or Fisher's exact test as appropriate. Non-parametric data were analysed using Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests. Normal data were studied with an anova followed by a Tukey's means comparison for groups of the same size. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered to indicate statistical significance. Lateral recumbency HDo required more attempts (six of 11 dogs required more than one attempt) than SRDi (none of 11 dogs) (p = 0.0062). Drop aspiration was observed more often in SHDo (nine of 11 dogs) than in LHDo (two of 11 dogs) (p = 0.045). Mean (range) TTLES was longer in LHDo [47 (18-82) seconds] than in SHDo [20 (14-79) seconds] (p = 0.006) and SRDi [(34 (17-53) seconds] (p = 0.038). There were no differences in 'pop' sensation, presence of CSF, rescue analgesia or pain scores between the groups. The running-drip method is a useful and fast alternative technique for identifying the epidural space in dogs. The hanging-drop technique in lateral recumbency was more difficult to perform than the other methods, requiring more time and attempts. Copyright © 2017 Association of Veterinary Anaesthetists and American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Absence of histological changes after the administration of a continuous intrathecal clonidine in Wistar rats.

PubMed

Guevara-López, Uriah; Aldrete, J Antonio; Covarrubias-Gómez, Alfredo; Hernández-Pando, Rogelio E; López-Muñoz, Francisco J

2009-01-01

The administration of epidural and spinal clonidine has demonstrated an antinociceptive effect in animals and humans. For that reason, its spinal administration has been proposed as an adjuvant in chronic pain management. However, there is limited information about its possible neurotoxic effect after its continuous neuraxial administration. Twelve male Wistar rats were randomly divided into two groups. Using an osmotic mini-pump a continuous infusion of intrathecal clonidine, (21.4 micrograms/day, Group A) or saline solution (Group B), was administered for 14 consecutive days. For evaluating the neurological damage a neuropathological analysis of the spinal cord was performed by light microscopy. Neurohistopathologic examination of the spinal cord specimens failed to show evidence of neurotoxic damage in either group. These findings showed that continuous intrathecal administration of clonidine did not produce evidence of histological neurotoxicity; therefore it is possible that continuous administration of intrathecal clonidine might be a safe option for treatment of chronic intractable pain; however, further investigations are necessary for evaluating diverse doses and periods of time, and to define its possible behavioral effects.

Postoperative pain control in cats: clinical trials with pre-emptive lidocaine epidural co-administered with morphine or methadone.

PubMed

DeRossi, Rafael; Hermeto, Larissa Correa; Jardim, Paulo Henrique Affonseca; de Andrade Bicudo, Natalia; de Assis, Klebs Tavares

2016-11-01

Objectives The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of epidural lidocaine in combination with either methadone or morphine for postoperative analgesia in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy. Methods Under general anesthesia, 24 cats that underwent ovariohysterectomy were randomly allocated into three treatment groups of eight each. Treatment 1 included 2% lidocaine (4.0 mg/kg); treatment 2 included lidocaine and methadone (4.0 mg/kg and 0.3 mg/kg, respectively); and treatment 3 included lidocaine and morphine (4.0 mg/kg and 0.1 mg/kg, respectively). All drugs were injected in a total volume of 0.25 ml/kg via the lumbosacral route in all cats. During the anesthetic and surgical periods, the physiologic variables (respiratory and heart rate, arterial blood pressure and rectal temperature) were measured at intervals of time zero, 10 mins, 20 mins, 30 mins, 60 mins and 120 mins. After cats had recovered from anesthesia, a multidimensional composite pain scale was used to assess postoperative analgesia 2, 4, 8, 12, 18 and 24 h after epidural. Results The time to first rescue analgesic was significantly ( P <0.05) prolonged in cats that received both lidocaine and methadone or lidocaine and morphine treatments compared with those that received lidocaine treatment alone. All cats that received lidocaine treatment alone required rescue analgesic within 2 h of epidural injections. All treatments produced significant cardiovascular and respiratory changes but they were within an acceptable range for healthy animals during the surgical period. Conclusions and relevance The two combinations administered via epidural allowed ovariohysterectomy with sufficient analgesia in cats, and both induced prolonged postoperative analgesia.

External cephalic version facilitation for breech presentation at term.

PubMed

Hofmeyr, G J

2000-01-01

Successful external cephalic version at a late stage of pregnancy was considered to be possible only with the use of tocolytic drugs to relax the uterus. Other methods are also used in an attempt to facilitate external cephalic version at term. The objective of this review was to assess the effects of routine tocolysis, fetal acoustic stimulation, epidural anaesthesia and transabdominal amnioinfusion for external cephalic version at term on successful version and measures of pregnancy outcome. The Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group trials register and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register were searched. Date of last search: February 1999. Randomised and quasi-randomised trials comparing routine versus selective tocolysis; fetal acoustic stimulation in midline fetal spine positions versus dummy or no stimulation; epidural analgesia versus no epidural analgesia; or transabdominal amnioinfusion versus no amnioinfusion for external cephalic version at term. Eligibility and trial quality were assessed by the reviewer. Six trials were included. Routine tocolysis was associated with fewer failures of external cephalic version (relative risk 0.77, 95% confidence interval 0.64 to 0.92). There were no significant differences between non-cephalic presentations and caesarean sections. Fetal acoustic stimulation in midline fetal spine positions was associated with fewer failures of external cephalic version at term (relative risk 0.17, 95% confidence interval 0.05 to 0.60). No randomised trials of epidural analgesia or transabdominal amnioinfusion for external cephalic version at term were located. Routine tocolysis appears to reduce the failure rate of external cephalic version at term. Although promising, there is not enough evidence to evaluate the use of fetal acoustic stimulation in midline fetal spine positions. There is not enough evidence to evaluate the use of epidural analgesia or transabdominal amnioinfusion for external cephalic version at term.

Effects of natural childbirth preparation versus standard antenatal education on epidural rates, experience of childbirth and parental stress in mothers and fathers: a randomised controlled multicentre trial.

PubMed

Bergström, M; Kieler, H; Waldenström, U

2009-08-01

To examine the effects of antenatal education focussing on natural childbirth preparation with psychoprophylactic training versus standard antenatal education on the use of epidural analgesia, experience of childbirth and parental stress in first-time mothers and fathers. Randomised controlled multicentre trial. Fifteen antenatal clinics in Sweden between January 2006 and May 2007. A total of 1087 nulliparous women and 1064 of their partners. Natural group: Antenatal education focussing on natural childbirth preparation with training in breathing and relaxation techniques (psychoprophylaxis). Standard care group: Standard antenatal education focussing on both childbirth and parenthood, without psychoprophylactic training. Both groups: Four 2-hour sessions in groups of 12 participants during third trimester of pregnancy and one follow-up after delivery. Epidural analgesia during labour, experience of childbirth as measured by the Wijma Delivery Experience Questionnaire (B), and parental stress measured by the Swedish Parenthood Stress Questionnaire. The epidural rate was 52% in both groups. There were no statistically significant differences in the experience of childbirth or parental stress between the randomised groups, either in women or men. Seventy percent of the women in the Natural group reported having used psychoprophylaxis during labour. A minority in the Standard care group (37%) had also used this method, but subgroup analysis where these women were excluded did not change the principal findings. Natural childbirth preparation including training in breathing and relaxation did not decrease the use of epidural analgesia during labour, nor did it improve the birth experience or affect parental stress in early parenthood in nulliparous women and men, compared with a standard form of antenatal education.

Extraforaminal needle tip position reduces risk of intravascular injection in CT-fluoroscopic lumbar transforaminal epidural steroid injections

PubMed Central

Yu, Robinson K.; Ghodadra, Anish; Agarwal, Vikas

2016-01-01

Background Lumbar transforaminal epidural steroid injection is a common and effective tool for managing lumbar radicular pain, although accidental intravascular injection can rarely result in paralysis. The purpose of this study is to determine the safest needle tip position for computed tomography (CT)-guided lumbar transforaminal epidural steroid injections as determined by incidence of intravascular injection. Methods Three radiologists, in consensus, reviewed procedural imaging for consecutive CT-fluoroscopic lumbar transforaminal epidural steroid injections performed during a 16-month period. Intravascular injections were identified and categorized by needle tip position, vessel type injected, intravascular injection volume and procedural phase containing the intravascular injection. Pearson chi-square and logistic regression testing were used to assess differences between groups, as appropriate. Results Intravascular injections occurred in 9% (52/606) of injections. The intravascular injection rate was significantly lower (P<0.001) for extraforaminal needle position (0%, 0/109) compared to junctional (8%, 27/319) and foraminal (14%, 25/178) needle tip positions. Of the intravascular injections, 4% (2/52) were likely arterial, 35% (18/52) were likely venous, and 62% (32/52) were indeterminate for vessel type injected. 46% (24/52) of intravascular injections were large volume, 33% (17/52) were small volume, and 21% (11/52) were trace volume. 56% (29/52) of intravascular injections occurred with the contrast trial dose, 29% (15/52) with the steroid/analgesic cocktail, and 15% (8/52) with both. Conclusions An extraforaminal needle position for CT-fluoroscopic lumbar transforaminal epidural steroid injections decreases the risk of intravascular injection and therefore may be safer than other needle tip positions. PMID:28097241

Effects of natural childbirth preparation versus standard antenatal education on epidural rates, experience of childbirth and parental stress in mothers and fathers: a randomised controlled multicentre trial

PubMed Central

Bergström, M; Kieler, H; Waldenström, U

2009-01-01

Objective To examine the effects of antenatal education focussing on natural childbirth preparation with psychoprophylactic training versus standard antenatal education on the use of epidural analgesia, experience of childbirth and parental stress in first-time mothers and fathers. Design Randomised controlled multicentre trial. Setting Fifteen antenatal clinics in Sweden between January 2006 and May 2007. Sample A total of 1087 nulliparous women and 1064 of their partners. Methods Natural group: Antenatal education focussing on natural childbirth preparation with training in breathing and relaxation techniques (psychoprophylaxis). Standard care group: Standard antenatal education focussing on both childbirth and parenthood, without psychoprophylactic training. Both groups: Four 2-hour sessions in groups of 12 participants during third trimester of pregnancy and one follow-up after delivery. Main outcome measures Epidural analgesia during labour, experience of childbirth as measured by the Wijma Delivery Experience Questionnaire (B), and parental stress measured by the Swedish Parenthood Stress Questionnaire. Results The epidural rate was 52% in both groups. There were no statistically significant differences in the experience of childbirth or parental stress between the randomised groups, either in women or men. Seventy percent of the women in the Natural group reported having used psychoprophylaxis during labour. A minority in the Standard care group (37%) had also used this method, but subgroup analysis where these women were excluded did not change the principal findings. Conclusion Natural childbirth preparation including training in breathing and relaxation did not decrease the use of epidural analgesia during labour, nor did it improve the birth experience or affect parental stress in early parenthood in nulliparous women and men, compared with a standard form of antenatal education. PMID:19538406

Results of Lumbar Endoscopic Adhesiolysis Using a Radiofrequency Catheter in Patients with Postoperative Fibrosis and Persistent or Recurrent Symptoms After Discectomy.

PubMed

Pereira, Paulo; Severo, Milton; Monteiro, Pedro; Silva, Pedro Alberto; Rebelo, Virgínia; Castro-Lopes, José Manuel; Vaz, Rui

2016-01-01

To evaluate the results of lumbar epiduroscopic adhesiolysis using mechanical methods and a radiofrequency catheter followed by epidural steroid and local anesthetic administration in patients with postoperative fibrosis and persistent or recurrent symptoms. Prospective study. Patients with persistent or recurrent low back and/or lower limb pain after lumbar spine surgery, in whom no relevant findings were present on MR images besides epidural scar tissue, were submitted to epiduroscopic adhesiolysis. Patient-reported outcomes including pain and disability were assessed in predefined time intervals and compared to baseline. Twenty-four patients were enrolled. It was possible to elicit the patient's usual pain by probing the epidural scar tissue in all patients. Statistically significant improvement in low back and lower limb pain was observed in all assessment periods up to 12 months. A pain relief over 50% was achieved in 71% of the patients at 1 month, 63% at 3 and 6 months, and 38% at 12 months. Disability scores significantly improved for around 6 months. Mean patient satisfaction rates were 80% at 1 month, 75% at 3 months, 70% at 6 months, and 67% 1 year after intervention. Only 1 transient postprocedural complication was detected. Endoscopic adhesiolysis is a potentially useful treatment for the relief of chronic intractable low back and lower limb pain in patients with previous lumbar spine surgery and epidural fibrosis. The use of larger volumes of saline during endoscopy and the employment of radiofrequency for the lysis of epidural adhesions are safe procedures, which may provide an additional benefit to the intervention. © 2014 World Institute of Pain.

A Coaxial Dual-element Focused Ultrasound Probe for Guidance of Epidural Catheterization: An Experimental Study.

PubMed

Dong, Guo-Chung; Chiu, Li-Chen; Ting, Chien-Kun; Hsu, Jia-Ruei; Huang, Chih-Chung; Chang, Yin; Chen, Gin-Shin

2017-09-01

Ultrasound guidance for epidural block has improved clinical blind-trial problems but the design of present ultrasonic probes poses operating difficulty of ultrasound-guided catheterization, increasing the failure rate. The purpose of this study was to develop a novel ultrasonic probe to avoid needle contact with vertebral bone during epidural catheterization. The probe has a central circular passage for needle insertion. Two focused annular transducers are deployed around the passage for on-axis guidance. A 17-gauge insulated Tuohy needle containing the self-developed fiber-optic-modified stylet was inserted into the back of the anesthetized pig, in the lumbar region under the guidance of our ultrasonic probe. The inner transducer of the probe detected the shallow echo signals of the peak-peak amplitude of 2.8 V over L3 at the depth of 2.4 cm, and the amplitude was decreased to 0.8 V directly over the L3 to L4 interspace. The outer transducer could detect the echoes from the deeper bone at the depth of 4.5 cm, which did not appear for the inner transducer. The operator tilted the probe slightly in left-right and cranial-caudal directions until the echoes at the depth of 4.5 cm disappeared, and the epidural needle was inserted through the central passage of the probe. The needle was advanced and stopped when the epidural space was identified by optical technique. The needle passed without bone contact. Designs of the hollow probe for needle pass and dual transducers with different focal lengths for detection of shallow and deep vertebrae may benefit operation, bone/nonbone identification, and cost.

Gamma Knife surgery for clival epidural-osseous dural arteriovenous fistulas.

PubMed

Lee, Cheng-Chia; Chen, Ching-Jen; Chen, Shao-Ching; Yang, Huai-Che; Lin, Chung Jung; Wu, Chih-Chun; Chung, Wen-Yuh; Guo, Wan-Yuo; Hung-Chi Pan, David; Shiau, Cheng-Ying; Wu, Hsiu-Mei

2018-05-01

OBJECTIVE Clival epidural-osseous dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) is often associated with a large nidus, multiple arterial feeders, and complex venous drainage. In this study the authors report the outcomes of clival epidural-osseous DAVFs treated using Gamma Knife surgery (GKS). METHODS Thirteen patients with 13 clival epidural-osseous DAVFs were treated with GKS at the authors' institution between 1993 and 2015. Patient age at the time of GKS ranged from 38 to 76 years (median 55 years). Eight DAVFs were classified as Cognard Type I, 4 as Type IIa, and 1 as Type IIa+b. The median treatment volume was 17.6 cm 3 (range 6.2-40.3 cm 3 ). The median prescribed margin dose was 16.5 Gy (range 15-18 Gy). Clinical and radiological follow-ups were performed at 6-month intervals. Patient outcomes after GKS were categorized as 1) complete improvement, 2) partial improvement, 3) stationary, and 4) progression. RESULTS All 13 patients demonstrated symptomatic improvement, and on catheter angiography 12 of the 13 patients had complete obliteration and 1 patient had partial obliteration. The median follow-up period was 26 months (range 14-186 months). The median latency period from GKS to obliteration was 21 months (range 8-186 months). There was no intracranial hemorrhage during the follow-up period, and no deaths occurred. Two adverse events were observed following treatment, and 2 patients required repeat GKS treatment with eventual complete obliteration. CONCLUSIONS Gamma Knife surgery offers a safe and effective primary or adjuvant treatment modality for complex clival epidural-osseous DAVFs. All patients in this case series demonstrated symptomatic improvement, and almost all patients attained complete obliteration.

Comparative Analysis of the Paravertebral Analgesic Pump Catheter with the Epidural Catheter in Elderly Trauma Patients with Multiple Rib Fractures.

PubMed

Shapiro, Brian S; Wasfie, Tarik; Chadwick, Mathew; Barber, Kimberly R; Yapchai, Raquel

2017-04-01

Presently, trauma guidelines recommend epidural analgesia as the optimal modality of pain relief from rib fractures. They are not ideally suited for elderly trauma patients and have disadvantages including bleeding risk. The paravertebral analgesic pump (PVP) eliminates such disadvantages and includes ease of placement in the trauma setting. This study compares pain control in patients treated by EPI versus PVP. This is a retrospective, historical cohort study comparing two methods of pain management in the trauma setting. Before 2010, patients who had epidural catheters (EPI) placed for pain control were compared with patients after 2010 in which the PVP was used. All patients had multiple rib fractures as diagnosed by CT scan. Analysis was adjusted for age, number of fractures, and comorbid conditions. Multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to compare average reported pain. A total of 110 patients, 31 PVP and 79 epidural catheters, were included in the study. Overall mean age was 65 years. The mean Injury Severity Score was 12.0 (EPI) and 11.1 (PVP). Mean number rib fractures was 4.29 (EPI) and 4.71 (PVP). PVP was associated with a 30 per cent greater decrease in pain than that seen with EPI (6.0-1.9 vs 6.4-3.4). After controlling for age, Injury Severity Score, and number of rib fractures, there were no differences in intensive care unit or total length of stay (P = 0.35) or in pain score (3.76 vs 3.56, P = 0.64). In conclusion, the PVP compares well with epidural analgesia in older trauma patients yet is safe, well tolerated, and easily inserted.

Spontaneous obliteration of spontaneous vertebral arteriovenous fistula associated with fibromuscular dysplasia after partial surgery: A case report.

PubMed

Iampreechakul, Prasert; Siriwimonmas, Somkiet

2016-12-01

We describe a patient with spontaneous obliteration of spontaneous vertebral arteriovenous fistula (VAVF) associated with fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) after partial surgery. A 52-year-old hypertensive female woke up one morning with left shoulder pain and weakness of the left upper extremity. A few days later, she developed left-sided audible bruit. She was treated for left frozen shoulder and supportive treatment for audible bruit for four years. She was referred from her general physician to a neurosurgeon because of left arm weakness. Physical examination showed signs of cervical radiculomyelopathy. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed an extradural mass on the left side of the cervical spinal canal from level C2 to C6. Provisional diagnosis was epidural vascular tumour. Laminectomy and partial removal of the mass was performed at level C5 to C6. Pathological report revealed suspected vascular malformation. Postoperative MRI showed thrombosed epidural vascular structure. Angiography showed dysplastic changes of both vertebral arteries representing FMD with VAVF of the left vertebral artery at level C1-C2. Two years after surgery, follow-up MRI demonstrated complete spontaneous resolution of the large thrombosed epidural vein. Disappearance of her audible bruit immediately after surgery and gradual improvement of her cervical radiculomyelopathy were observed after two years of clinical follow-up. From the literature, we found another 11 patients with 12 VAVFs who had spontaneous obliteration or cure of their fistulas. In the present case, spontaneous obliteration of the fistula seems to correlate with surgery inducing closure of the epidural venous exit leading to thrombosis of the enlarged epidural draining vein. © The Author(s) 2016.

Three-times-daily subcutaneous unfractionated heparin and neuraxial anesthesia: a retrospective review of 928 cases.

PubMed

Davis, Jennifer J; Bankhead, Byron R; Eckman, Erik J; Wallace, Austin; Strunk, Joseph

2012-01-01

Subcutaneous (SC) unfractionated heparin (UFH) administered 3 times daily (TID) is widely used for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in the perioperative period. There are no data in the literature regarding the incidence of adverse outcomes with neuraxial analgesia in the setting of this regimen. In this retrospective review, we report the incidence of untoward events related to anticoagulation with SC UFH TID in patients with indwelling epidural catheters. We queried the electronic hospital databases to identify patients receiving thoracic epidural analgesia in conjunction with 5000 U UFH SC TID from July 2008 to October 2010. In this group, we identified the diagnoses of neuraxial hematoma, deep vein thrombosis, or pulmonary embolism and examined measured blood coagulation parameters. In addition, we determined the percentage of patients receiving concomitant therapy with ketorolac. We identified 928 patients who received thoracic epidural analgesia in conjunction with 5000 U UFH SC TID during this period. There were no cases of neuraxial bleeding. Seven patients had a diagnosed deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. Thirty-four percent (315/928) of patients received ketorolac. The measured activated thromboplastin time was more than 40 seconds (35 seconds being the upper limit of normal) in 115 patients (12%). Given the rare incidence of neuraxial hematoma, statements regarding the appropriateness of epidural analgesia in the setting of TID SC UFH cannot be made from this limited sample size. At present, information regarding epidural hematoma in the setting of a TID SC UFH dosing regimen does not exist in the literature. Our study represents an initial step in the accumulation of data needed to prove or disprove the safety of this practice.

Comparison of Epidural Analgesia with Transversus Abdominis Plane Analgesia for Postoperative Pain Relief in Patients Undergoing Lower Abdominal Surgery: A Prospective Randomized Study

PubMed Central

Iyer, Sadasivan Shankar; Bavishi, Harshit; Mohan, Chadalavada Venkataram; Kaur, Navdeep

2017-01-01

Background: Anesthesiologists play an important role in postoperative pain management. For analgesia after lower abdominal surgery, epidural analgesia and ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block are suitable options. The study aims to compare the analgesic efficacy of both techniques. Materials and Methods: Seventy-two patients undergoing lower abdominal surgery under spinal anesthesia were randomized to postoperatively receive lumbar epidural catheter (Group E) or ultrasound-guided TAP block (Group T) through intravenous cannulas placed bilaterally. Group E received 10 ml 0.125% bupivacaine stat and 10 ml 8th hourly for 48 h. Group T received 20 ml 0.125% bupivacaine bilaterally stat and 20 ml bilaterally 8th hourly for 48 h. Pain at rest and on coughing, total paracetamol and tramadol consumption were recorded. Results: Analgesia at rest was comparable between the groups in the first 16 h. At 24 and 48 h, Group E had significantly better analgesia at rest (P = 0.001 and 0.004 respectively). Patients in Group E had significantly higher number of patients with nil or mild pain on coughing at all times. Paracetamol consumption was comparable in both groups, but tramadol consumption was significantly higher in Group T at the end of 48 h (P = 0.001). Conclusion: For lower abdominal surgeries, analgesia provided by intermittent boluses of 0.125% is comparable for first 16 h between epidural and TAP catheters. However, the quality of analgesia provided by the epidural catheter is superior to that provided by TAP catheters beyond that both at rest and on coughing with reduced opioid consumption. PMID:28928569

Irreversible Electroporation (IRE) in the Epidural Space of the Porcine Spine: Effects on Adjacent Structures

PubMed Central

Tam, Alda L.; Figueira, Tomas A.; Gagea, Mihai; Ensor, Joe E.; Dixon, Katherine; McWatters, Amanda; Gupta, Sanjay; Fuentes, David T.

2018-01-01

Purpose To determine the effects of irreversible electroporation (IRE) on the neural tissues following ablation in the epidural space of the porcine spine. Material and Methods The institutional animal care and use committee approved this study. With the IRE electrode positioned in the right lateral recess of the spinal epidural space, twenty CT-guided IRE ablations were performed using different applied voltages in four terminal animals. Histopathology of the neural tissues was assessed and used to select a voltage for a survival study. Sixteen CT-guided IRE ablations in the epidural space were performed using 667 V in four animals that were survived for 7-days. Clinical observation, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings (obtained 6-hours post-IRE and pre-euthanasia),, histopathology, and simulated electric field strengths were assessed. A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare the simulated electric field strength to histological findings. Results The mean distance between the IRE electrode and the spinal cord or nerve root was 1.71 ± 0.90 mm and 8.47 + 3.44 mm, respectively. There was no clinical evidence of paraplegia after IRE ablation. MRI and histopathology showed no neural-tissue lesions within the spinal cord; however, 31.2% (5/16) of nerve roots demonstrated moderate Wallerian degeneration in the survival group. Severity of histopathological injury in the survival group was not significantly related to either the simulated electric field strength or the distance between the IRE electrode and neural structure, (p >.05). Conclusions While the spinal cord appears resistant to the toxic effects of IRE, injury to the nerve roots may be a limiting factor for the use of IRE ablation in the epidural space. PMID:27266723