Efficacy of Rectus Sheath Block for Postoperative Pain Management: A Comparison with Epidural Analgesia

Title: Efficacy of Rectus Sheath Block for Postoperative Pain Management: A Comparison with Epidural Analgesia

Authors: Santhanam Sampath, Padmini HS, Raju Agarwal, Prasad Lele

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v4i12.54

Abstract

Background: Rectus sheath block is an effective modality in postoperative management of pain after midline laparotomy. It compares favourably with gold standard of epidural analgesia in terms of pain scores and need for rescue doses of opioids and NSAIDs. We report our experience with rectus sheath block administered via catheters placed surgically by operating surgeon during midline laparotomies.

Material and Methods: 50 patients undergoing midline laparotomy for gynaecological oncosurgery were randomized to epidural block (EA) and rectus sheath block arms. Pain scores. need of and time to rescue analgesia, time to ambulation and functional GI recovery were compared in the two groups.

Results: Rectus sheath block was associated with an earlier onset of analgesia and a trend towards lower pain scores, earlier ambulation and GI recovery compared to epidural block.

Conclusion: Rectus sheath block is an effective modality for postoperative pain relief in gynaecological oncosurgery and is comparable to epidural analgesia in efficacy with minimal adverse effects.

Keywords: Rectus sheath block, gynaecological oncosurgery, midline laparotomy, epidural analgesia, pain scores.

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Corresponding Author

Dr Santhanam Sampath

Classified Specialist (Obgyn and Gynae Onco)

Command Hospital, Lucknow

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