EXTENDED INTERPLEURAL BLOCKAS A METHOD OF POSTOPERATIVE ANALGESIA IN CHILDREN WITH IDIOPATHIC SCOLIOSIS

Abstract

Objective. To assess the efficacy of extended interpleural block in the early postoperative period in children operated for idiopathic scoliosis using thoracic approach.

Material and Methods. Forty two patients of 14 to 18 years of age operated on for idiopathic scoliosis through thoracic approach were examined. Postoperative anesthetization was performed by interpleural analgesia in patients from the study group (n = 23), and by administration of narcotic analgesics and NSAIDs in patients from the control group (n = 19). Visual analog scale (VAS) was used to appreciate the adequacy of anesthesia. Respiratory function was examined using spirometry.

Results. In the control group, postoperative anesthetization was required earlier than in the study group, recovery agitation symptoms were observed in two cases, and four children (21 %) had vomiting and nausea. In the study group, reduction in analgesic daily intake was noted, with more effective adequacy of anesthetization in terms of VAS scores as compared to the control group. Spirometry findings showed that interpleural analgesia exerted a positive effect on respiratory function in patients from the study group.

Conclusion. Interpleural analgesia used during surgical correction of scoliotic deformity through thoracic approach provides effective postoperative anesthetization.