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Introduction. Enhanced recovery after surgery and the early initiation of chemotherapy is a significant advantage of laparoscopic surgeries for malignant tumors of abdominal cavity in children. Despite the extensive experience in using caudal block in pediatric patients, it has not yet been determined whether the use of ultrasound navigation provides any clinical advantage in post-operative recovery after laparoscopic surgeries in pediatric oncology. Materials and methods. The study included 40 patients of Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Federal Blokhin National Medical Research Center, ASA II–III, who underwent laparoscopic surgeries for malignant tumors of the abdominal cavity during 2017–2019. Patients were divided randomly into 2 groups. The CB (caudal blockade) group included 23 children. In CB group caudal epidural block as a regional component of combined anesthesia was used (CB group n = 23). GA (general anesthesia) group included 17 children who underwent general anesthesia (GA group, n = 17). Results. The median of the total dose of fentanyl in the CB group was 7.29 (6; 9.25) μg/kg, in the GA group — 10.7 (7.6; 12.5) μg/kg (р ≤ 0.012). In the postoperative period, patients in CB group didn’t require additional analgesia for 24 hours after caudal-epidural administration of morphine. After caudal-epidural administration of trimeperidin, 12 hours later. Enteral nutrition in children in the CB group was started in 4.7 ± 0.5 hours. In the GA group, enteral nutrition in 10 (59 %) patients was started in 20 hours after the end of the surgery. 5 children developed Conclusions. This study demonstrates that caudal epidural block for laparoscopic surgeries performed under ultrasound navigation provides effective analgesia in both perioperative and postoperative periods, promotes early start of enteral nutrition, minimizing the frequency of postoperative nausea and vomiting. Ultrasound navigation increases the likelihood of success and safety of the caudal epidural block.

BACKGROUND Caudal epidural injections are easy, effective, and safe methods and are good options for patients with low back pain and radicular lower extremity pain. Although various complications related to the technique of the procedure or the drugs used in the procedure have been described, Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES) has not yet been defined for this intervention. CASE In this case report, we describe a case of PRES, which we supported with MRI findings in our patient who developed convulsions, changes in consciousness, and vision loss after being administered with caudal epidural steroid, and whose imaging findings regressed with the regression of clinical symptoms during the treatment process. CONCLUSION Although PRES is rarely reported, it should be kept in mind that it is a complication that can develop after caudal epidural steroid injection.

Background and Aims: Caudal epidural block (CEB) is commonly performed using surface landmark-based technique in the paediatric patients, with a good success rate. Failure to perform CEB is usually attributable to anatomic variations. The aim of this study was to perform measurements of the anatomical landmarks that are generally used to perform CEB and find a relation between these measurements and successful needle placement. Methods: This was an observational study that included 114 patients, aged up to 15 years. Ultrasonography (USG) scan of the sacrococcygeal region with measurement of cornu height, skin to cornu distance, inter-cornu distance (ICD), vertical and oblique size of hiatus were done. Needle placement for CEB was done using the usual palpatory hiatal approach. Needle position was checked by using ultrasound. Spearman correlation coefficient and multi-variate logistic regression were used for measuring the correlation and predictors of correct needle placement, respectively. Results: Correct placement of needle was found in 84% patients. Statistically significant correlation was found between all the anatomical parameters. Regression analysis revealed that only ICD had a statistically significant contribution (OR1.67, 95% CI 1.024–2.7; P = 0.04) in predicting an incorrect needle placement. If ICD was less than 12.5 mm, it predicted a difficult needle placement; all the children were less than 1.5 years in age; AUC was 77%, P = 0.001, sensitivity 83% and specificity 76.5%. Conclusion: ICD can be used as predictor of difficult needle placement for CEB. USG guidance may be of help while performing CEB in children less than 1.5 years.

Ultrasound (US)-guided caudal epidural injection is a method of drug administration into the epidural space through the sacral hiatus for both chronic pain management and perioperative analgesia. Here, we describe the usefulness of US sacral examination performed before a caudal epidural injection procedure, in which the results revealed a sacrococcygeal ligament ossification prompting us to avoid its puncture by placing the Thouy needle in the appropriate direction. This prevented an unwanted calcification rupture with a possible drag of material into the sacral canal. US has already been used as a diagnostic tool in caudal epidural injection, mainly to detect the agenesis of sacral hiatus or to measure its diameter. Our case underlines the possibility of finding ossification and calcification using US, which can make the injection difficult or impossible and be a side effect if not recognised.

AimTo investigate total serum levobupivacaine concentrations after a caudal‐epidural loading dose followed by a maintenance infusion in infants aged 3‐6 months over 48 hours.BackgroundThe local anaesthetic, levobupivacaine, is the safer enantiomer of racemic bupivacaine. Present protocols for levobupivacaine are based on studies and pharmacokinetic modelling with racemic bupivacaine. This study will inform clinical practice in this age group and validate the pharmacokinetic model for levobupivacaine infusions in infants, aged 3‐6months.MethodsThe clinical trial was conducted in 8 infants aged 3‐6 months, undergoing bladder exstrophy repair. Pharmacokinetic modelling allowed optimisation of clinical sampling to measure total levobupivacaine and α1‐acid glycoprotein and prediction of the effect of α1‐acid glycoprotein on levobupivacaine plasma protein binding.ResultsThe observed median total levobupivacaine serum concentration was 0.30 mg.L−1 (range: 0.20‐0.70 mg.L−1) at 1 hour after the loading dose of 2 mg.kg−1. The median total levobupivacaine concentration after 47 hours of infusion, at 0.2 mg.h−1.kg−1, was 1.21 mg.L−1 (0.07‐1.85 mg.L−1). Concentrations of α1‐acid glycoprotein were found to rise throughout the study period. Pharmacokinetic modelling suggested that unbound levobupivacaine quickly reached steady state at a concentration of approximately 0.03 mg.L−1.ConclusionThis study examines the pharmacokinetics of levobupivacaine after a loading dose (given over 5 minutes) followed by a maintenance infusion in infants 3‐6 months. The study allows the development of a pharmacokinetic model, combining levobupivacaine and α1‐acid glycoprotein data. Modelling indicates that unbound levobupivacaine quickly reaches steady state once the infusion is started. Simulations suggest that it may be possible to continue the infusion beyond 48 hours.

Zerihun Abera,1 Amanuel Girma,2 Assegedech Bekele,2 Mohammed Oumer2,3 1Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arsi University, Arsi, Oromia, Ethiopia; 2Department of Human Anatomy, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Amhara, Ethiopia; 3Department of Epidemiology, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Amhara, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Amanuel Girma Tel +251 913554235Email amanuelgirma.w@gmail.comBackground: The sacral hiatus is an opening present at the lower end of the sacral canal. The anatomy of the sacral hiatus and its variations are clinically important during administration of caudal epidural block (CEB) in obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedic, urology and general surgical practices. The success and reliability of CEB depends upon the sound knowledge of anatomical variations of the sacral hiatus.Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the morphological and morphometric variation of the sacral hiatus in dry human sacrum.Methods: An institution-based observational cross-sectional study design was conducted to assess morphological and morphometric variations of the sacral hiatus in 61 dry human sacrum specimens at the anatomy departments of Gondar, Addis Ababa, Hawassa and Jimma universities and Hayat and Korea Medical Colleges in Addis Ababa. Descriptive analysis was applied to analyze the data.Results: The most commonly recorded shape of the sacral hiatus is inverted-V (41%) followed by inverted-U (37.7%). The least common was complete bifida (1.6%). The apex of the sacral hiatus is mostly seen at the level of the 4th sacral vertebra (60.7%), while the base is commonly located at the level of the 5th sacral vertebra (78.7%). The mean length of the sacral hiatus is 22.67 ± 11.84 mm. The mean transverse width and mean anteroposterior diameter of the sacral hiatus at the apex are 13.14 mm ± 2.85 mm and 5.57 mm ± 1.53 mm, respectively.Conclusion: The sacral hiatus has anatomical variations. These variations should be kept in mind during administration of caudal epidural anesthesia and analgesia.Keywords: assessment, sacrum, sacral hiatus, variations, Ethiopia

Caudal anesthesia is commonly used a regional anesthesia technique for sub-umbilical surgeries in pediatrics and for chronic pain management in adults. Ultrasound guided caudal epidural block improves the success rate with minimizes complications. We report a patient who underwent lateral sphincterotomy under ultrasound guided caudal epidural anesthesia and developed transient urinary incontinence with prolonged perineal sensory loss postoperatively. Key words: Anesthesia, Caudal epidural, Ultrasound. Citation: Preethipriyadharshini R, Vadhanan CP, Bokka N. Transient bladder incontinence following ultrasound guided caudal epidural block. Anaesth. pain intensive care 2021;25(1):102–104; DOI: 10.35975/apic.v25i1.1437 Received: 17 October 2020; Reviewed: 4 November 2020; Accepted: 5 December 2020

Objectives To investigate the anatomical differences of sacral hiatus, pain levels and success rates during caudal epidural steroid injection (CESE) using ultrasonography. Methods In the study, 255 patients (148 male and 107 female) with lower lumbar back pain and sciatica were included. These patients were applied caudal epidural steroid injection by ultrasonography. Sonograms were obtained by ultrasonography (USG) guideline. Patients' pain levels were assessed by the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) during the CESE procedure performed on USG guided, and success rates were saved. The intercornual distance, sacral distance and sacrococcygeal ligament thickness were measured. Results There was no statistically significant difference between the demographic data of the patients (p>0.05). There was a significant difference between male and female patients concerning intercornual distance (15.8 versus 16.6 mm; p=0.004) and sacrococcygeal ligament thickness (4.1 mm vs. 3.7 mm; p=0.018). There was no significant difference between patients about KESE success rate, VAS values and sacral distance (p>0.05). Conclusion We found that sacral hiatus has anatomical differences between male and female patients. According to current evidence, the success rate of caudal epidural steroid injection increased when the anatomical structures of sacral hiatus are shown correctly in USG guided.

espanolRESUMEN Objetivos: Valorar la eficacia de la musicoterapia en la disminucion de la ansiedad en pacientes a los que se les realiza tecnica intervencionista (TI) en la Unidad del Dolor (UD) del Hospital Universitario Sagrat Cor de Barcelona. Material y metodo: Estudio cuasi experimental con grupo control, prospectivo, pre y postintervencion, transversal, no aleatorizado. Aprobado por el Comite Etico de Investigacion IDC Salud Catalunya. Poblacion estudio: pacientes programados para realizacion de TI en la UD. Criterios inclusion: > 18 anos de edad. Indicacion de TI. Criterios exclusion: trastorno psiquiatrico, incapacidad contestar variables de estudio. Grupo intervencion: se ha realizado la TI reproduciendose aleatoriamente la musica elegida, libre de contaminacion acustica. Grupo control: se ha realizado la TI sin musicoterapia. Se ha empleado la escala visual analoga modificada como instrumento de medida para valorar el nivel de ansiedad. Resultados: 80 pacientes (71,6 % mujeres, media de edad 66,7 [SD 14] anos, 49,4 % estudios medios, 64,2 % pensionistas). El 60,5 % no realiza tratamiento con ansioliticos. El 59 % presenta lumborradiculalgia, se les realiza bloqueo epidural caudal. Al 33,3 % se les realiza tecnica intervencionista por primera vez. En el grupo control el valor de EVA intra es de 5,83 (SD 3,2) y en el grupo de musicoterapia de 5,0 (SD 2,2), esta diferencia no es estadisticamente significativa (F = 1,614, p = 0,208). En el valor de EVA postintervencion sucede lo mismo. En el grupo control el valor de EVA post es de 3,7 (SD 3,3) y en el grupo de musicoterapia de 3,1 (SD 2,4); esta diferencia no es estadisticamente significativa (F = 0,755, p = 0,387). En el grupo control el valor de la escala visual analogica intra es de 4,3 (SD 3,1) y en el grupo de musicoterapia de 3,0 (SD 2,0), esta diferencia si es estadisticamente significativa (F = 4,83, p = 0,031). En el grupo control el valor de la escala visual analogica post es de 2,7 (SD 2,8) y en el grupo de musicoterapia de 1,3 (SD 1,5); esta diferencia tambien es estadisticamente significativa (F = 7,427, p = 0,008). El 81,5 % considera que ha recibido suficiente informacion sobre la tecnica intervencionista y el 18,5 % estan satisfechos. El 95,1 % considera que los profesionales le han aportado confianza y seguridad y el 4,9 % restante se consideran satisfechos. De los que han valorado (40 pacientes) si la musica ha creado un ambiente relajado el 80 % se consideran muy satisfechos y el 20 % restante satisfechos. Conclusion: Aunque el dolor no se ve mejorado significativamente en el grupo intervencionista si lo hace la ansiedad tanto en la fase intra como en la post TI. Los pacientes se sienten muy satisfechos sobre la informacion recibida y consideran muy satisfactoria la confianza y seguridad que les aportan los profesionales. Ademas, el grupo de musicoterapia considera, en general, muy satisfactorio el ambiente relajado que les crea la musica. La musicoterapia es una excelente herramienta terapeutica, facil de usar, accesible y economica, que puede utilizarse como coadyuvante en las TI en la UD. EnglishABSTRACT Objective: To assess the efficacy of music therapy in reducing anxiety in patients undergoing interventional technique (IT) in the Pain Unit (UD) of the University Hospital Sagrat Cor in Barcelona. Material and method: Quasi-experimental study with a control group, prospective, pre-and post-intervention, transversal, non-randomized. Approved by the Research Ethics Committee IDC Salud Catalunya. Study population: patients scheduled to perform IT in the UD. Inclusion criteria: > 18 years old. IT indication. Exclusion criteria: psychiatric disorder, inability to answer study variables. Intervention group: IT has been performed by randomly playing the chosen music, free of noise pollution. Control group: IT has been performed without music therapy. The modified analog visual scale has been used as a measuring instrument to assess the level of anxiety. Results: 80 patients (71.6 % women, mean age 66.7 (SD 14) years, 49.4 % average studies, 64.2 % pensioners). 60.5 % do not perform treatment with anxiolytics. 59 % have low back pain, caudal epidural block is performed. 33.3 % underwent interventional technique for the first time. In the control group the value of intra VAS is 5.83 (SD 3.2) and in the music therapy group 5.0 (SD 2.2), this difference is not statistically significant (F = 1.614, p = 0.208). The same happens in the value of post-intervention EVA. In the control group the value of post VAS is 3.7 (SD 3.3) and in the music therapy group 3.1 (SD 2.4), this difference is not statistically significant (F = 0.755, p = 0.387). In the control group the value of the intra analog visual scale is 4.3 (SD 3.1) and in the music therapy group 3.0 (SD 2.0), this difference is statistically significant (F = 4, 83 p = 0.031). In the control group the value of the post analog visual scale is 2.7 (SD 2.8) and in the music therapy group 1.3 (SD 1.5), this difference is also statistically significant (F = 7.427, p = 0.008). 81.5 % consider that they have received enough information about the interventionist technique and 18.5 % are satisfied. 95.1 % consider that the professionals have given him confidence and security and the remaining 4.9 % are considered satisfied. Of those who have assessed (40 patients) if music has created a relaxed atmosphere, 80% are considered very satisfied and the remaining 20 % satisfied. Conclusion: Although pain is not significantly improved in the interventionist group, anxiety does in both the intra and post-IT phases. Patients feel very satisfied about the information received and consider the confidence and security provided by professionals very satisfactory. In addition, the music therapy group considers, in general, the relaxed atmosphere created by the music. Music therapy is an excellent therapeutic tool, easy to use, accessible and economical, which can be used as an adjunct in IT in the UD.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), first described in 1834, is an X-linked dystrophinopathy, leading to early onset skeletal muscle weakness. Life expectancy is reduced to early adulthood as a result of involvement of voluntary skeletal muscles with respiratory failure, orthopedic deformities, and associated cardiomyopathy. Given its multisystem involvement, surgical intervention may be required to address the sequelae of the disease process. We present a 36-year-old adult with DMD, who required anesthetic care during surgical debridement of an ischial pressure sore. Given his significant respiratory muscle involvement, ultrasound-guided caudal epidural anesthesia was used instead of general during the surgical procedure. The technique and its applications are discussed, with particular emphasis on the feasibility and safety of using regional anesthetic techniques in patients with DMD.

Objectives To compare the efficacy and safety between leucocyte-rich platelet-rich plasma (LR-PRP) and corticosteroid in fluoroscopically guided caudal epidural injection for patients with complex chronic lumbar spinal pain. Study design A prospective randomized controlled double-blinded study. Methods Fifty eligible patients with complex chronic degenerative spinal pain were randomly assigned with a 1:1 allocation ratio to receive caudal epidural injection of corticosteroid (triamcinolone acetonide, 60 mg) or LR-PRP (isolated from 60 mL autologous blood) under fluoroscopic guidance. Levels of low back pain, quality of life, and complications (or adverse effects) were evaluated at 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment. Pain levels and quality of life were assessed using the VAS and Short Form 36-Item Health Survey (SF-36), respectively. Results No significant difference was shown at baseline between the 2 groups. Compared with the pretreatment values, there were significant reductions in the VAS score in both groups. A significantly lower VAS score at 1-month follow-up was detected in patients who received corticosteroid injection. However, the scores were lower in the LR-PRP group at 3- and 6-month follow-up. SF-36 responses at 6 months showed significant improvement in all domains in the LR-PRP group. There were no complications or adverse effects related to treatment at 6-month follow-up in either group. Conclusions Both autologous LR-PRP and corticosteroid for caudal epidural injections under fluoroscopic guidance are equally safe and therapeutically effective in patients with complex chronic lumbar spinal pain. However, LR-PRP is superior to corticosteroid for a longer pain-relieving effect and improvement in quality of life.

Background: Lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LSTV) are a relatively common variant and have been considered as one of the reasons for back pain. It is not unusual for clinicians to encounter patients with LSTV who require caudal epidural block (CEB) for pain management. Objective: We investigated the termination level of the dural sac (DS) and anatomical features of the lumbosacral region relevant to CEB in patients with LSTV and compared these findings between sacralization and lumbarization groups. Study Design: A retrospective evaluation. Setting: A university hospital with inpatient and outpatient LSTV cases presenting low back pain. Methods: Four hundred ninety-four LSTV patients were included and categorized into sacralization (n = 201) or lumbarization groups (n = 293). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of all of the LSTV patients were reviewed to determine the level of DS termination, the shortest distance between the apex of the sacral hiatus and DS, and the presence and the caudal level of sacral perineural cysts. Each lumbosacral vertebra column was divided into 3 equal portions (upper, middle, and lower thirds). The MRI findings in both of the groups were compared and analyzed. Results: The distribution frequency of the levels of DS termination demonstrated a significant difference between the 2 groups. The mean caudal DS level in the lumbarization group was significantly lower than the sacralization group (lower third of the S2 [131 {44.7%} of 293 patients] vs. lower third of the S1 [78 {38.8%} of 201 patients]). The DS terminated at the S3 in more than 19% of the lumbarization group, whereas in only one case of the sacralization group. Although the incidence of perineural cysts was not significantly different between the 2 groups, the mean level of caudal margin of perineural cysts in the lumbarization group was significantly lower than the sacralization group (middle third of the S3 [10 {35.7%} of 28 cases] vs. middle third of the S2 [11 {44%} of 25 cases]). Limitations: This study reveals several limitations including the practical challenge of accurate enumeration of the transitional segment and the constraints on generalizability posed by the single-country study. Conclusion: When planning CEB for patients with LSTV, pre-procedural MRI to check the anatomical structures, including the level of DS termination and caudal margin of perineural cysts, would be of great use for lowering the risk of unexpected dural puncture during the procedure, especially in the lumbarization cases. Key words: Termination of the dural sac, dural sac termination, lumbosacral transitional vertebrae, transitional vertebra, caudal epidural block

SummaryBackground Caudo-lumbar and caudo-thoracic epidural anesthesia is an established technique that carries a low risk of dural puncture or spinal cord trauma in infants. Traditionally catheter advancement is based on external measurements. However, malpositioning of catheters are known to occur. We hypothesized that caudal-epidural catheters inserted under real-time ultrasound guidance may be more accurate than the accuracy of the measurements traditionally used for their placement. Methods We studied 25 patients, aged 2 days to 5 months, posted for abdominal or thoracic surgery, receiving general anesthesia followed by caudo-epidural continuous block. External measurement defined as the distance from the caudal space and the surgically congruent vertebral level was measured in centimeters with the back gently flexed. Subsequently, a caudo-epidural block was performed in the same position. The epidural catheter insertion was followed under real-time ultrasound guidance till the predetermined vertebral level was reached. The actual length placed under real-time ultrasound scan was defined as the actual length. The high-frequency probe was placed longitudinal and paramedian to the spine. The vertebral level was determined by identifying the lumbosacral junction in longitudinal saggital view and counting the vertebrae up from L5. The catheter length at the skin was compared with the length recorded by external measurement. Results The actual length placed under real-time ultrasound scan were consistently longer than the external distance between the caudal space and selected vertebral level. The mean values of ultrasound were higher than the mean values of external measurement with a difference of 4.28 cm. Accuracy was not affected by age or affected by the selected vertebral level in the age group we studied. Conclusion We conclude that catheters placed under ultrasound guidance are more accurate than the traditional method developed before the advent of ultrasound in young infants.

Caudal epidural catheters provide exceptional analgesia while avoiding or minimizing opioids. Historically, the catheter tip location (dermatomal level) was estimated or verified via epidurogram. According to the Pediatric Regional Anesthesia Database, the majority of caudal-to-thoracic epidural catheters are placed without imaging guidance or verification of the position of the catheter tip. Ponde et al demonstrated that catheter insertion depth was longer when using ultrasound guidance than when estimated by external measurement. We report a simple yet novel ultrasound approach for catheter localization.

Background and objectivesCaudal epidural anesthesia is a widely used popular technique for postoperative analgesia but it has potential side effects and duration of analgesia is short. Quadratus lumborum block (QLB) was found to be an effective method for postoperative analgesia in lower abdominal surgeries. In this double-blind prospective randomized trial, we aimed to compare the postoperative analgesic efficacies of QLB and the caudal block in pediatric patients undergoing inguinal hernia repair and orchiopexy surgeries under general anesthesia.Materials and methodsAfter approval was obtained from the ethics committee, in this prospective randomized double-blind trial, 53 patients under general anesthesia undergoing inguinal hernia repair and orchiopexy surgeries randomly received caudal block or QLB. Demographic data, postoperative analgesic requirement, Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, and Consolability (FLACC) scores at 30 min, 1, 2, 4, 6, 12 and 24 hours, parent satisfaction scores and complications were recorded.ResultsThe study included 52 patients, after excluding one patient because of a failed caudal block. There were no significant differences between the groups based on demographic data (p>0.05). The number of patients who required analgesics in the first 24 hours was significantly lower in QLB group (p=0.001). Postoperative 4, 6, 12 hours FLACC scores were significantly lower in the QLB group (pConclusionAccording to the results of this study, QLB can provide much more effective analgesia than caudal block without adjuvants in multimodal analgesia management of children undergoing inguinal hernia repair and orchiopexy surgeries.Trial registration numberNCT03294291.

We report a complication from caudal epidural block for anesthesia in a 4-year-old child with Marfan syndrome who was undergoing lensectomy, orchidopexy, and circumcision resulting in apparent accidental dural puncture. Subsequent magnetic resonance imaging revealed a lumbosacral spinal meningeal cyst.

Objective Caudal epidural blocks often fail due to the difficulty of appropriate needle insertion. This study aimed to evaluate the anatomy of the sacral hiatus using ultrasound imaging. Methods This was a retrospective study involving 76 patients with spinal disorders. The following factors were analyzed to see if they affected the palpability of the sacral hiatus: sex, body mass index (BMI), and the morphology of the sacral hiatus on ultrasound imaging. The difficulty of needle insertion and the factors that influenced it were investigated in 28 of the 76 patients, who underwent landmark-based caudal epidural block procedures performed by the same doctor. Results Among the 76 patients, the mean length of the sacral hiatus was 21.3 ± 5.6 mm, the mean distance from the skin to the sacral cornua was 5.2 ± 3.4 mm, and the mean angle of the sacral hiatus was 16.4 ± 5.5 degrees. Sacral base protrusion was present and absent in 35 and 41 cases, respectively. The sacral hiatus exhibited good and poor palpability in 53 and 23 cases, respectively. The mean distance from the skin to the sacral cornua and BMI were found to significantly influence the palpability of the sacral hiatus. Only sacral base protrusion significantly influenced the difficulty of needle insertion. Conclusion The mean distance from the skin to the sacral cornua and BMI were found to be associated with the palpability of the sacral hiatus, and sacral base protrusion was demonstrated to be associated with the difficulty of needle insertion into the sacral hiatus.

Context: Regional anesthesia may attenuate adverse physiological stress responses associated with cardiothoracic surgery. In this study, hemodynamic stress response at the different time of surgical stimuli was compared between patients receiving general anesthesia (GA) along with caudal epidural analgesia with GA with intravenous analgesia in pediatric population undergoing open-heart surgery. Aims: This study aims to compare the hemodynamic response at the different time of surgical stimuli and postoperative pain score, in pediatric patients undergoing open-heart procedures. Settings and Design: We designed a prospective randomized controlled trial to study hemodynamic effects between Group I and Group II. Fifty patients were randomly allocated equally into Group I (GA + caudal epidural) and Group II (GA + intravenous analgesia) by sealed envelope technique. Subjects and Methods: After obtaining approval from Institutional Ethical Committee, this prospective study was conducted in 50 American Society of Anesthesiologist Classes II and III pediatric patients aged between 1 and 12 years posted for cardiac surgery in our institution. Statistical Analysis: ANOVA, two-way ANOVA, and Student's test. Results: The heart rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and mean blood pressure variations were compared between Groups I and II at different time intervals. The variations were found to be significantly higher at the time of skin incision and 2 min after skin incision in Group II as compared to Group I. Pain score was compared between the groups and was found to be significantly lower with Group I (2.5 ± 1.2) as compared to Group II (4.6 ± 1.7), P = (0.004). Conclusions: Caudal analgesia with GA (Group I) was found to have better hemodynamic control and significantly better postoperative pain relief in the first 24 h after awakening.

Sang Jun Park,1,2 Kyung Bong Yoon,1,2 Dong Ah Shin,3 Kiwook Kim,1 Tae Lim Kim,1 Shin Hyung Kim1,2 1Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea; 2Anesthesia and Pain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea; 3Department of Neurosurgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea Background: A caudal epidural steroid injection (CESI) is a commonly used method to improve symptoms of lumbosacral pain. We compared the achievement of successful epidurograms and patient-reported clinical outcomes following different needle-insertion depths during CESI.Methods: For the conventional method group, the needle was advanced into the sacral canal. For the alternative method group, the needle was positioned immediately after penetration of the sacrococcygeal ligament. Epidural filling patterns and vascular uptake during fluoroscopy were determined to verify successful epidural injection. Procedural pain scores were investigated immediately after the procedure. Pain scores and patient global impression of symptom change were evaluated at 1-month follow-up.Results: Assessments were completed by 127 patients (conventional method, n=64; alternative method, n=63). The incidence of intravascular injection was significantly lower in the alternative method group than in the conventional method group (3.2% vs 20.3%, P=0.005). Procedural pain during needle insertion was significantly lower in the alternative method group (3.7±1.3 vs 5.3±1.2, P

Background To reduce intraoperative use of volatile anesthetics, a successful caudal blockade affords the anesthesiologist this opportunity. The use of a narcotic-sparing approach may benefit the patient, with providing a better postoperative course with less nausea. Aim of the work To compare the effects of plain levobupivacaine 0.25% 1 ml/kg and levobupivacaine 0.25% 1 ml/kg plus nalbuphine 0.1 mg/kg single-shot caudal epidural for perioperative pain relief in children undergoing surgeries of lower half of the body. Patients and methods The study was conducted in Abou El-Reesh pediatric hospital, Cairo University, after approval of ethical committee and obtaining consent from parents on 40 patient aged 1–9 years scheduled for surgeries of lower half of the body. (Group L, n = 20): Caudal block was done in this group using levobupivacaine 0.25% with the dose of 1 ml/kg after induction of general anesthesia. (Group L + N, n = 20): Caudal block was done in this group using levobupivacaine 0.25% with the dose of 1 ml/kg and nalbuphine 0.1 mg/kg after induction of general anesthesia. Results The time to first analgesia was significantly longer in Group L + N ( P 0.01) than that in the other group. The mean time for first rescue analgesia was 5.9 ± 1.0 h in Group L compared to that in Group L + N, which was 11.2 ± 1.6 h. Comparing the pain scores (AIIMS pain score) of the two groups at 2, 4, 6, 12 and 24 h postoperatively revealed that there was significant difference between Group L + N and Group L at 4, 6 and 12 h with higher pain scores in the (Group L) than in the other Group (L + N). This shows that the duration of analgesia in the (L + N) group was longer than the other group. The results show there was difference in the sedation score between the two groups in the 1st hour postoperative. The L + N group had higher sedation scores at 30 min and at 1 h postoperative. Conclusion Caudal epidural nalbuphine is safe in pediatric surgeries including the lower half of the body and effectively reduces postoperative pain. However it may cause early postoperative sedation, yet without respiratory depression.

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.

BACKGROUND The migration of pediatric thoracic epidural catheters via a thoracic insertion site has been described. We assessed the migration of caudally threaded thoracic epidural catheters in neonates and infants at our institution. METHODS The anesthesia records and diagnostic imaging studies of neonates and infants who had caudal epidural catheters placed during a 26-month period at our hospital were analyzed. Imaging studies were reviewed for changes in epidural catheter tip position. RESULTS Eighty-five patients 1-325 days of age (median, 51 days; interquartile range, 39-78 days) and weights of 2.5-9.5 kg (median, 5 kg; interquartile range, 4.3-5.8 kg) met the study criteria. Fifty-four (64%) of the patients (95% CI, 52%-73%) experienced catheter migration of 1 or more vertebral levels (range, 3 levels caudad [outward] to 3 levels cephalad [inward]), and 23 (27%) of the patients (95% CI, 18%-38%) experienced catheter migration to the T4 level or higher. Migration of 2 or more vertebral levels occurred only in children who weighed

Background: There continues to be a significant focus on the value of regional and neuraxial anesthesia techniques for adjunctive use when combined with general anesthesia. The reported advantages include decreased patient opiate exposure, decreased medication-related adverse effects, decreased postanesthesia recovery room time and hospital stay, and increased patient satisfaction. Materials and Methods: The authors present a case-controlled series evaluating the use of a single caudal epidural injection prior to incision as an adjunct to general anesthesia for the open repair of slipped capital femoral epiphysis. Opiate consumption, pain scores, and hospital stay were compared between the two cohorts of 16 adolescent patients. All patients received a demand-only patient-controlled opiate delivery system. Results: Although the failed block rate was high (31%), there was decreased opioid use in the perioperative arena as well as during the first 24 postoperative hours in patients who had a successful caudal epidural block. Furthermore, discharge home was possible in 27% of patients who received a caudal epidural block compared to 0% of patients who did not receive a caudal block. Conclusion: The potential utility of caudal epidural block as an adjunct to general anesthesia during major hip surgery in adolescents is presented. Factors resulting in a failed block in this patient population as well as the use of the ultrasound as an added modality to increase block success are reviewed.

Background Information regarding the position and relationship of vital structures within the caudal canal is important for anesthesiologists who perform a caudal block. This information can be acquired by anatomical dissection, with ultrasound technology, or radiological studies. Aims The aim of this study was to determine the position of the dural sac in neonates by measuring the distance of the termination of the dural sac from the apex of the sacral hiatus in neonatal cadavers. Methods After careful dissection, the distance from the apex of the sacral hiatus to the dural sac was measured in a sample of neonatal cadavers. Results In 39 neonatal cadavers, the mean distance from the apex of the sacral hiatus to the dural sac was 10.45 mm. The range of this distance was between 4.94 and 26.28 mm. The mean distance for females was 9.64 mm (range from 6.66 to 15.09); that for males was 10.90 mm (range between 4.94 and 26.28). Linear regression with the log of this distance as the outcome variable gave an estimated 3.3% increase in the distance for each 1 cm increase in the length of the neonate (95% CI for this proportion was 1.91-4.71). Conclusion Anesthesiologists should be aware of the short distance between the sacral hiatus and the dural sac when performing caudal blocks, the shortest distance was 4.94 mm. Armed with this knowledge, caudal techniques should be modified to improve the safety and reduce the risk of complications, such as dural puncture.

Summary The anatomy of the sacral hiatus and caudal canal is prone to significant variation, yet studies assessing this in the pediatric population remain limited. Awareness of the possible anatomical variations is critical to the safety and success of caudal epidural blocks, particularly when image guidance is not employed. This systematic review analyzes the available evidence on the clinical anatomy of the caudal canal in pediatric patients, emphasizing surface anatomy and internal anatomical variations. A literature search using three electronic databases and standard pediatric and anatomy reference texts was conducted yielding 24 primary and seven secondary English-language sources. Appreciating that our current landmark-guided approaches to the caudal canal are not well studied in the pediatric population is important for both clinicians and researchers.

Caudal epidural block is used to treat pain in the lower back and lower extremities. The procedure can be difficult to perform, particularly when a blind technique is being used. The authors of this study aimed to identify variables affecting the difficulty of caudal epidural blocks performed using a blind technique by measuring relevant anatomical variables using ultrasonography., BACKGROUND: In unaided caudal epidural block (CEB), incorrect needle insertion has been reported to occur in 15% to 38% of attempts. OBJECTIVE: To statistically analyze the anatomical variables affecting difficult CEB using ultrasonographic measurement. METHODS: Preprocedural ultrasonography was performed and the following measurements were obtained in 146 patients: the distance from the skin to the apex of the sacral hiatus; the depth of the sacral canal at the apex of the sacral hiatus; the length of the sacrococcygeal ligament between the apex of the sacral hiatus and sacral base; the distance from the skin to the apex of the sacral cornu; and the distance between the apexes of bilateral cornua. One clinician, unaware of the ultrasonographic findings, performed the injections using the landmark technique. The procedures were videotaped and were subsequently reviewed by an independent investigator. RESULTS: The means (± SDs) of the abovementioned measurements were 12.1±3.7 mm, 6.1±2.1 mm, 25.9±7.4 mm, 10.0±4.0 mm and 16.4±3.2 mm, respectively. Injections failed in 16 (11%) patients and were defined as difficult in 21 (14.4%) patients. The depth of the sacral canal at the apex of sacral hiatus (P

Background Caudal blocks are performed through the sacral hiatus in order to provide pain control in children undergoing lower abdominal surgery. During the block, it is important to avoid advancing the needle beyond the sacrococcygeal ligament too much to prevent unintended dural puncture. This study used demographic data to establish simple guidelines for predicting a safe needle depth in the caudal epidural space in children. Methods A total of 141 children under 12 years old who had undergone lumbar-sacral magnetic resonance imaging were included. The T2 sagittal image that provided the best view of the sacrococcygeal membrane and the dural sac was chosen. We used Picture Achieving and Communication System (Centricity® PACS, GE Healthcare Co.) to measure the distance between the sacrococcygeal ligament and the dural sac, the length of the sacrococcygeal ligament, and the maximum depth of the caudal space. Results There were strong correlations between age, weight, height, and BSA, and the distance between the sacrococcygeal ligament and dural sac, as well as the length of the sacrococcygeal ligament. Based on these findings, a simple formula to calculate the distance between the sacrococcygeal ligament and dural sac was developed: 25 × BSA (mm). Conclusion This simple formula can accurately calculate the safe depth of the caudal epidural space to prevent unintended dural puncture during caudal block in children. However, further clinical studies based on this formula are needed to substantiate its utility.

Air injected into the epidural space may spread along the nerves of the paravertebral space. Depending on the location of the air, neurologic complications such as multiradicular syndrome, lumbar root compression, and even paraplegia may occur. However, cases of motor weakness caused by air bubbles after caudal epidural injection are rare. A 44-year-old female patient received a caudal epidural injection after an air-acceptance test. Four hours later, she complained of motor weakness in the right lower extremity and numbness of the S1 dermatome. Magnetic resonance imaging showed no anomalies other than an air bubble measuring 13 mm in length and 0.337 ml in volume positioned near the right S1 root. Her symptoms completely regressed within 48 hours.

There have been reports of abnormalities in the lumbosacral region involving a lower-than-normal termination of the dural sac, which is caused by disease or anatomical variation. Inadvertent dural puncture or other unexpected complications can occur during caudal epidural block or adhesiolysis in patients with these variations, but only a small number of case reports have described this issue. We report a case of dural puncture by the introducer needle before attempting caudal epidural adhesiolysis, which occurred even though the needle was not advanced upward after penetrating the sacrococcygeal ligament. Dural puncture was caused by a morphological abnormality in the lumbosacral region, with no pathological condition; the dural sac terminal was located more distally than normal. However, dural puncture could have been prevented if we had checked for such an abnormality in the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) taken before the procedure. (Korean J Pain 2013; 26: 203-206)

Background: Anecdotal evidence suggests that a vertical small-needle injection method enters the caudal epidural space with com- parable ecacy to cephalad-directed methods, with less intravascular injection. Objectives: Assess the success rate of vertical caudal epidural injection using epidurography and the frequency of intravascular injection using a vertical small-needle approach. Patients and Methods: Participants had chronic generalized non-surgical low back pain and either gluteal and/or leg pain and were enrolled in a simultaneous clinical trial assessing the analgesic eect of 5% dextrose epidural injection. A 25 gauge 3.7 cm hy- podermic needle was placed at the sacral hiatus using a fingertip-guided vertical technique without imaging assistance, followed by fluoroscopic epidurography. Minimal needle redirection was allowed up to 10 degrees from the vertical plane if the initial epiduro- gram showed an extradural pattern, followed by repeat epidurography. Results: First needle placement without imaging resulted in blood return in 1/199 participants and positive epidurography in 179/199 (90%). Minimal needle repositioning resulted in a positive epidurogram in the remaining 19 attempts. No intravascular injection patterns were observed. Conclusions: This compares favorably to published success rates of fluoroscopically-guided technique and was well tolerated. Ver- tical caudal epidural injection may be suitable for combination with ultrasound-guided methods with Doppler flow monitoring.

Objectives: The authors evaluated the effectiveness of percutaneous epidural adhesiolysis (PEA) in patients with low back pain due to contained disc herniation. Patients and Methods: Twenty patients with low back pain due to contained disc herniation underwent PEA treatment with the Racz technique. The patients were evaluated for pain score, medication intake, significant pain relief, and complications. Results: At three days, one month, three months, and six months after PEA compared to pre-PEA evaluations, the pain scores and medication intake were significantly decreased. Significant pain relief declined from 95% at three days to 75% at six months. Conclusions: PEA for low back pain due to contained disc herniation is a safe and effective procedure. Therefore, it may be considered as an option for treatment before invasive operations are performed.

Summary A caudal epidural injection was performed on a middle-aged woman for pain in her right foot. Although the procedure was uncomplicated and a good epidurogram was obtained, the patient went on to develop an orthostatic headache with generalised weakness and syncopal episodes that were treated successfully by epidural blood patching. We describe the aetiology, presentation and treatment of spontaneous intracranial hypotension and review the similarities with our patient’s clinical presentation. We hypothesise as to how our intervention may have resulted in a dural tear.

SummaryWe report a case of a premature neonate born at 34 weeks and operated at 6 weeks of age developing unexplained seizures 10 hours after the end of surgery under single shot caudal epidural analgesia with bupivacaine and lidocaine combined with general anesthesia.

Background: The reliability and success of caudal epidural anesthesia depends on anatomic variations of sacral hiatus (SH) as observed by various authors. SH is an important landmark during caudal epidural block (CEB).The purpose of the present study was to clarify the morphometric characteristics of the SH in human Egyptian dry sacra and pelvic radiographs and identification of nearest ony landmarks to permit correct and uncomplicated caudal epidural accesses. Methods: The present study was done on 46 human adult Egyptian dry sacra. The maximum height, midventral curved length, and maximum breadth of each sacrum were measured and sacral and curvature indices were calculated. According to sacral indices, sacra were divided into 2 groups (22 male and 24 female sacra). SH was evaluated in each sacrum according to its shape, level of its apex, and base according to sacral and coccygeal vertebrae, length, anteroposterior (AP) diameter at its apex, and transverse width at its base. Linear distances were measured between the apex of SH and second sacral foramina, right and left superolateral sacral crests. The distance between the 2 superolateral sacral crests also was measured. Results: The most common types of SH were the inverted U and inverted V (in male) and inverted V and dumbbell shaped (in female). Absent SH was observed in male group only. The most common location of SH apex was at the level of S4 in all groups of dry sacra and S3 in all groups of lumbosacral spine radiographs, whereas S5 was the common level of its base. The mean SH length, transverse width of its base, and AP diameter of its apex were 2.1±0.80, 1.7±0.26, and 0.48±0.19 cm. Female sacra showed narrower SH apex than male. The distance between the S2 foramen and the apex of the SH was 4.1±1.14, 3.67±1.21, and 4.48±1.01 cm in total, female and male sacra, respectively. Conclusion: Sacrum and SH showed morphometric variations in adult Egyptians. The equilateral triangle is an important guide to detect SH easily and increases the success rate of CEB. Insertion of a needle into the SH for caudal block is suggested to be done at its base to avoid the anatomic variations of its apex.

The caudal epidural space is a popular site for analgesia in pediatrics. High variation in blind needle placement is common during caudal epidurals, increasing the risk of intravascular and intrathecal spread. Knowledge of safe distances and angles for accessing the caudal epidural space in premature infants can improve the safety of caudal epidural blocks.Thirty-nine fetuses with crown-heel length between 33 and 50 cm, corresponding to gestational age of 7-9 months, were included. The dorsal surface of the sacrum from the fourth lumbar vertebra to the tip of the coccyx was dissected, following which measurements were taken on dorsal surface and midsagittal sections. The angle of depression of the needle was measured using a goniometer following the two-step method of needle insertion.Right and left sacral cornua were palpable in 23 of 39 fetuses (58.97%). Termination of dural sac was at S2 in most of the fetuses (53.84%), whereas the apex of the sacral hiatus was at S3 in most (58.97%). The distance from the apex of the hiatus to the termination of dura ranged from 3 to 13 mm; the anteroposterior distance of the canal at the apex of the hiatus ranged from 1.72 to 4.38 mm. All sacral parameters correlated with crown-heel length except inter-cornual distance, depth of canal at hiatus, and height of sacral hiatus.Distances and angles for accessing the caudal epidural space in fetuses do not provide all parameters for safe performance of caudal epidural blocks in premature and low birth weight infants because the apex of the sacral hiatus and the termination of the dura show wide variation in location.

Summary Background and objectives Caudal epidural anesthesia is the most popular regional anesthesia technique used in children. With advanced age, only the relative difficulty in localizing the sacral hiatus limits its use. However, in adults this technique has been widely used to control chronic pain by adjuvant use of fluoroscopy. Thus, the ability to locate the hiatus and define anatomical variations is the main determinant of the success and safety of caudal epidural anesthesia. In this context, the use of the ultrasound in caudal epidural anesthesia has been increasing. The objective of this review was to determine the role of the ultrasound in caudal epidural anesthesia and to demonstrate that this technique, widely used in children, is also useful and can be used in adults. Content A review of the literature on sacral anatomy and the anesthetic technique necessary to perform caudal epidural anesthesia was undertaken. Recent studies in ultrasound-guided caudal epidural anesthesia both in children and adults were also included. Conclusions Despite its limitations, the ultrasound can be a useful tool to position the needle in the caudal space. It allows prompt identification of the sacral anatomy and real-time visualization of the injection. Considering it is portable, non-invasive, and free of radiation exposure, it is an attractive technique in the operating room especially in difficult cases. However, since its use in neuroaxis anesthesia is very primitive, more studies are necessary to make it a routine technique in anesthetic practice.

Background: The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy of clonidine and fentanyl as an additive to ropivacaine given via single shot caudal epidural in pediatric patients for postoperative pain relief. Materials and Methods: In the present double blind study, 90 children of ASA-I-II aged 3-8 years scheduled for infraumblical surgical procedures were randomly allocated to two groups to receive either ropivacaine 0.25% 1 ml/kg + clonidine 2 μg/kg (group I) or ropivacaine 0.25% 1 μl/kg + fentanyl 1 μg/kg (group II). Caudal block was performed after the induction of general anesthesia. Postoperatively patients were observed for analgesia, sedation, hemodynamics, and side effects/complications. Results: Both the groups were similar with respect to patient and various block characteristics. The analgesic properties and hemodynamics were also comparable in both groups (P > 0.05). Side effects such as respiratory depression, vomiting bradycardia were significantly less in group I than group II (P < 0.05) ensuing more patient comfort. Conclusions: The analgesic properties of clonidine and fentanyl as additives to ropivacaine in single shot caudal epidural in children are comparable but clonidine offers a more favorable side effect profile. The use of clonidine as additive to ropivacaine in caudal epidural is superior choice to fentanyl because of lack of unwanted side effects and increased patient comfort.

Postoperative analgesia for male circumcision surgery has been traditionally provided by a landmark-based dorsal penile nerve block (DPNB-LM) or by caudal epidural analgesia (CEA). In this study we report on a retrospective analysis of the effectiveness and safety of CEA, DPNB-LM and ultrasound-guided dorsal penile nerve block (DPNB-US) in our institution over a six-year period. Information was gathered from each patient's medical record. A total of 216 circumcisions were performed on patients aged from five months to 15 years. One hundred and fifteen patients received CEA, 46 DPNB-LM and 55 DPNB-US. Patients in the DPNB-LM group required rescue morphine administration in the recovery unit more frequently (30.4%) than either the DPNB-US (3.5%) or CEA groups (3.6%). Similarly, the DPNB-LM group required a larger total dose of morphine, and had longer recovery ward stays than CEA or DPNB-US groups. Time to first analgesia was greatest for the CEA group while there was no significant difference between time to first analgesia for DPNB-LM and DPNB-US. Sixty-three percent of patients in the DPNB-LM group, 1.7% of CEA and 5.5% of the DPNB-US required intraoperative opiates (P

Epidural steroid injections (ESIs) are routinely used for the treatment of a variety of spinal ailments. Various methods for accessing the epidural space have been described over the decades. In the recent past, more and more emphasis has been on targeted delivery of drugs to the site of pain generation. Techniques differ according to the level of epidural space accessed. Use of fluoroscopic guidance can provide the most precise delivery of the drug. Although relatively safe, these injections can lead to morbidity and mortality if performed in a wrong manner. Several reports have been published recently describing disastrous results from transforaminal injections in the cervical spine. The importance of monitoring the spread of the injectate with injection of radio-opaque contrast material cannot be underestimated. The following chapter will summarize these techniques and highlight various technical considerations for the epidural injections.

Caudal epidural steroid injection and sacroiliac joint injection are two very commonly employed interventions at any pain clinic. These injections are traditionally performed under fluoroscopic guidance, but recently the use of ultrasound (US) guidance has been reported. We will review the relevant anatomy, sonoanatomy, and the US-guided technique.

Summary Background: This study was designed to investigate whether a fall in heart rate (HR) with injection of local anesthetic into the caudal space can be used as a predictor of correct needle placement. Methods: Two hundred and twenty pediatric patients undergoing infraumbilical surgery were recruited to the study. After induction of general anesthesia, baseline HR was recorded and caudal block was performed using 0.75–1 ml·kg−1 0.25% bupivacaine, which was injected at a rate of 1 ml·3 s−1. The change in HR while injecting an initial 0.2 ml·kg−1 of drug and during total drug injection was recorded. HR reduction of ≥3 b·min−1 was considered a positive test for correct needle placement. The success of block was judged by HR response to skin incision, endtidal halothane concentration required for maintenance of anesthesia and postoperative pain scores. Results: Caudal block was successful in 209/220 (95%) patients. Mean HR following the initial drug injection (111 ± 17.7, P

Study Objective To investigate the use of caudal epidural anesthesia for postoperative pain after total hip arthroplasty. Design Prospective study. Setting University-affiliated hospital. Patients 32 (4 men and 28 women) patients, aged 49 to 89 years, scheduled for total hip arthroplasty for osteoarthritis of the hip. Interventions and Measurements Patients were allocated to three groups: lumbar epidural anesthesia (EA group; n = 16) or caudal epidural anesthesia (CA group; n = 16) groups, which were case-matched according to patient demographics. Nine patients received general anesthesia only (GA group). We evaluated the level of postoperative pain using a 100-mm Visual Analog Scale (VAS) recorded at 3, 6, 9, 12, and 24 hours after surgery. Main Results Total requirement of diclofenac sodium suppositories was significantly larger in the GA group than in the EA or CA groups (444 ± 302 vs 188 ± 124 and 145 ± 130 mg). The number of days requiring analgesics was significantly prolonged in the GA group compared with the EA or CA groups (14 ± 9 vs 4 ± 3 and 4 ± 4 days). These items were similar between the EA group and the CA group. All VAS values for pain, rest, and movement in the postsurgical period over 24 hours were significantly higher in the GA group than in either the EA or CA groups. Conclusions Caudal epidural anesthesia provides effective postoperative analgesia similar to lumbar epidural anesthesia.

Summary Background : Caudal analgesia is widely used in pediatric anesthesia practice. The ‘whoosh’ test which uses air to identify the epidural space, has been recommended as a guide for successful needle placement. However, the use of air may be associated with an incidence of neurological complications. The ‘swoosh’ test avoids the injection of air and was originally performed using injection of a local anesthetic solution. A comparison was made between the ‘whoosh’ test and a modified ‘swoosh’ test using saline to identify the caudal epidural space in children. Methods : We studied 60 children of either sex in the age group of 2–8 years undergoing inguinal herniotomy. During insertion of the caudal block, a stethoscope was placed over the lower lumbar spine to note the presence or absence of ‘whoosh’ or ‘swoosh’, by an independent observer who was blinded to the injection of 1 ml of air or saline which was given simultaneously by the operator into the caudal space. The operator's clinical impression of successful insertion of the needle was also recorded and correlated with the presence or absence of ‘whoosh’ or ‘swoosh’. In addition, the need for supplemental intraoperative analgesia was noted. Results : Overall success rate of caudal block using the ‘whoosh’ and modified ‘swoosh’ tests was found to be 96.6% and 93.3%, respectively as judged by the lack of supplementary perioperative analgesia. The sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value of the ‘whoosh’ test and clinical predictors of caudal placement was found to be 100% whereas the modified ‘swoosh’ test had a sensitivity of 93%, specificity of 50% and a positive predictive value of 96%. However, statistically there was no significant difference between the clinical predictors, ‘whoosh’ and the modified ‘swoosh’ test for identification of the caudal epidural space. Conclusions : The modified ‘swoosh’ test is as reliable as the ‘whoosh’ test and we recommend it for identification of the caudal epidural space in children as it avoids injection of air into the caudal space.