Regional anesthesia and pain medicine
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Reg Anesth Pain Med · Apr 2022
Randomized Controlled TrialDepth of cervical plexus block and phrenic nerve blockade: a randomized trial.
Cervical plexus blocks are commonly used to facilitate carotid endarterectomy (CEA) in the awake patient. These blocks can be divided into superficial, intermediate, and deep blocks by their relation to the fasciae of the neck. We hypothesized that the depth of block would have a significant impact on phrenic nerve blockade and consequently hemi-diaphragmatic motion. ⋯ We studied the characteristics and side effects of cervical plexus blocks by depth of injection. Diaphragmatic dysfunction was most pronounced in the deep cervical plexus block group.
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Reg Anesth Pain Med · Apr 2022
Novel approach for pericapsular radiofrequency ablation of sacrococcygeal junction for patients with coccydynia.
Coccydynia is a multifactorial complex clinical challenge. A multimodal approach with both conservative measures and procedural interventions is often recommended. We described a novel approach of radiofrequency (RF) ablation for the management of coccydynia. ⋯ The configuration of the two bipolar lesions with multi-tined needles in this case series stimulates the thinking of new approach for the ablation technique for pain from coccyx. Further prospective large case cohort study is needed.
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Reg Anesth Pain Med · Apr 2022
Association of perioperative midazolam use and complications: a population-based analysis.
The benzodiazepine midazolam is the main sedative used in the perioperative setting, resulting in anxiolysis and a reduction in anesthetic dose requirements. However, benzodiazepine use is also associated with potentially serious side effects including respiratory complications, and postoperative delirium (POD). A paucity of population level data exists on current perioperative midazolam use in adult orthopedic surgery and its effects on complications. Using a large national dataset, we aimed to determine perioperative midazolam utilization patterns and to analyze its effect on postoperative outcomes. ⋯ Perioperative midazolam use was associated with an increase in postoperative patient falls, and a decrease in cardiac complications. Notably, the combined use of midazolam and gabapentinoids was associated with a substantial increase in the odds for respiratory failure and delirium. Given the high prevalence of benzodiazepines perioperatively, the risk benefit profile should be more clearly established to inform perioperative decision making.
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Reg Anesth Pain Med · Apr 2022
Dose-dependent effects of high intensity focused ultrasound on compound action potentials in an ex vivo rodent peripheral nerve model: comparison to local anesthetics.
In animal models, focused ultrasound can reversibly or permanently inhibit nerve conduction, suggesting a potential role in managing pain. We hypothesized focused ultrasound's effects on action potential parameters may be similar to those of local anesthetics. ⋯ While some action potential parameters were altered comparably by focused ultrasound and local anesthetics, there were small but notable differences. It is not evident if these differences may lead to differences in clinical pain effects when focused ultrasound is applied in vivo or if focused ultrasound pressures that result in clinically relevant changes damage nerve structures. Given the potential advantages of a non-invasive technique for managing pain conditions, further investigation may be warranted in an in vivo pain model.