Multimodal analgesic treatment in video-assisted thoracic surgery lobectomy using an intraoperative intercostal catheter†

Kim Wildgaard, Rene H. Petersen, Henrik J. Hansen, Hasse Møller-sørensen, Thomas K. Ringsted, Henrik Kehlet

Abstract

Objectives: No golden standard for analgesia in video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) lobectomy exists. A simple multimodal approach using an intercostal catheter (ICC) may be of benefit since acute post-operative pain following VATS lobectomy primarily originates from the chest drain area. Methods: Prospective observational cohort. Forty-eight consecutive patients received a standardized regimen consisting of paracetamol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug and gabapentin. Further, surgeons performed a single-shot paravertebral block (PVB) at five levels (15 ml of 0.5% bupivacaine) and inserted an ICC at the drain site level for continuous delivery of 6 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine h-1. Pain scores at rest, mobilization and with the extended arms were followed until discharge or for 4 days. Results: Forty-eight patients, mean age 64 years (CI: 61-68), were included. The mean time for the PVB and ICC placement was 5 min (CI: 4.7-5.9). The mean pain score at rest using a numerical rating scale (NRS, 0-10) was <3 for 1-16 h and decreased from 4.7 to 1.7 (NRS day 1-4, getting out of bed). The ICC was removed with the drain in 48/73/92% on day 1/2/3 after surgery. The median day of discharge was 3 (interquartile range 2-4) with >85% of patients reporting satisfactory or very satisfactory pain treatment all days. Conclusions: Acute pain after VATS lobectomy may be adequately controlled using a multimodal non-opioid regime including PVB and an ICC. The low pain scores and reduced time used inserting the ICC may present an alternative to continuous epidural analgesia or conventional PVB.

OriginalsprogEngelsk
TidsskriftEuropean Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery
Vol/bind41
Udgave nummer5
Sider (fra-til)1072-1077
ISSN1010-7940
DOI
StatusUdgivet - 1 maj 2012

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