Background: We hypothesize that being an editorial board member (EBM) in a high impact factor specialty medical journal increases the chances of publishing in the same journal. Materials and Methods: The publication trends of the first five EBMs in the five highest impact factor Anesthesiology and Gastroenterology journals were analyzed. Preceding 5 years' publications appearing on PubMed were grouped into as follows: number of publications in the journal in which the EBM serves (N1), number of publications by the same author in the other four highest impact factor (IF) journals (N2) and number of publications in all the other journals (N3). We evaluated the probability of the observed distribution of publications in the five highest IF journals happening by chance alone, assuming that all the EBMs had the same opportunity of publishing in any of these journals. The probability of publishing in their own journal was assumed to be one fifth. Results: The EBMs published their manuscripts in their own journal at a very high frequency. Encompassing all ten journals, the calculated P value for such a distribution was <0.001. In two journals, Anesthesia and Analgesia and Anaesthesia, the EBMs' publications in their journal were more than twice the cumulative total in the remaining four journals. In three of the five gastroenterology journals analyzed, combined publications of the five EBMs were greater in their own journal than the remaining four journals combined. Conclusions: Despite proclaimed fair peer review process, EBMs seem to get preference in their own journals.

Context: Music therapy is a nonpharmacological modality which can provide promising results for postcesarean section recovery. Aims: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of two types of intraoperative meditation music with control group on postcesarean section pain, anxiety, nausea, vomiting, and psychological maternal wellbeing. Settings and Design: A prospective, randomized, controlled study was conducted on 189 patients. Patients and Methods: The inclusion criteria were the American Society of Anaesthesiologists physical status classes 1E and 2E women aged over 18 years posted for emergency cesarean section under spinal anesthesia. The exclusion criteria were patients with hearing/ear abnormalities and psychiatric disorders. Patients were randomly allocated into three groups – soothing meditation music (M) group, binaural beat meditation music (B) group, and control (C) group – where no music was played. After intervention, data were collected and statistically analyzed. Statistical Analysis Used: Student's t-test was applied for calculation of normative distribution and Mann–Whitney U-test for nonnormative distribution. Nominal categorical data between the groups were compared using Chi-squared test. P <0.05 indicated a statistically significant difference. Results: Both intraoperative meditation music groups had statistically significant less postoperative pain and anxiety and a better overall psychological wellbeing as compared to the control. There was no statistically significant difference in the occurrence and severity of postoperative nausea and vomiting across all three groups. Conclusions: Intraoperative meditation music as good adjunct to spinal anesthesia can improve a cesarean section patient's postoperative experience by reducing postoperative pain, anxiety, and psychological wellbeing.

Context: Postoperative sore throat (POST) occurs in 21%–65% of patients. Nebulization of ketamine reduces POST. Aims: The aim of this study is to see the effectiveness of nebulized ketamine in different doses to reduce POST and observe adverse effects, if any. Settings and Design: This was a prospective, randomized, and double-blind controlled trial. One hundred and fifty patients of the American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status Classes I and II, in the age group of 18–60 years, of either sex, undergoing surgery under general anesthesia were randomized into three groups. Subjects and Methods: Patients had nebulized with 5 ml solution (Group K1 – 1 ml of ketamine [50 mg/ml] +4 ml normal saline, Group K2 – 0.5 ml of ketamine [50 mg/ml] +4.5 normal saline, and Group S – 5 ml normal saline). Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative hemodynamic monitoring was done. The POST monitoring was done at 2, 4, 8, 12, and 24 h postoperatively. POST was graded on a four-point scale (0–3). Statistical Analysis Used: Chi-square test using MSTAT software for POST and ANOVA test using INDOSTAT software for hemodynamics were used in this study. Results: The overall incidence of POST in the present study was 29.33% (44/150). In Group S, the incidence of POST was observed to be 46% (23/50). In Group K1, the incidence was 20% (10/50), and in Group K2, it was 22% (11/50) (P ≤ 0.05), and intraoperative vital signs were more stable at all time intervals. Conclusions: We concluded that both doses (25 and 50 mg) of nebulized ketamine were almost equally effective in preventing POST, with no adverse effects.

Aim: To compare the role of single intravenous (IV) bolus of lignocaine and dexamethasone on pain score and quality of recovery score (QoR40) after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Setting and Design: The study was conducted at the postoperative recovery area, This was a double-blind randomized controlled study Materials and Methods: Seventy patients 18–60 years of age, American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status Class I and II, who underwent elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy, were enrolled in this study after approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee. Patients were randomly allocated to two groups. Group 1 received: 2 mg/kg lignocaine diluted to 10 ml with normal saline, and Group 2 received 0.1 mg/kg IV dexamethasone diluted to 10 ml with normal saline. Global QoR-40 is a 40-item questionnaire that provides a global score and subscores across five dimensions: psychological support, comfort, independence, pain, and emotions. It was assessed on a preoperative day as baseline to assess patient's basic quality of life and at 24 h postoperative. Visual analog scale (VAS) static and dynamic, total analgesic consumption in a day, nausea and vomiting, and antiemetic per day were assessed. Statistical Analysis Used: Student's t-test, Chi-square test, Fisher's exact, Levene's test were used for statistical analysis. Results: Dexamethasone group had higher Global QoR-40 than lignocaine group 187.94 versus 182.85. Among dimensions of QoR-40, dexamethasone had statistically better physical comfort, physical independence, and pain relief as compared to lignocaine. Dexamethasone group had lower VAS compared to lignocaine group. Similarly, there was less fentanyl consumption in dexamethasone group (364.08 ± 127.31) in the postoperative period when compared to the lignocaine group (412.31 ± 147.8). Conclusions: Preoperative administration of a single dose of dexamethasone enhanced QoR after laparoscopic cholecystectomy as compared to lignocaine bolus dose.

Background: In patients undergoing laparoscopic surgeries, postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a serious concern. With an incidence of 46%–72%, PONV hampers the postoperative recovery in spite of the availability of many antiemetic drugs. The purpose of this study was to prospectively evaluate the efficacy of palonosetron and granisetron for the prevention of PONV in patients undergoing laparoscopic abdominal surgery. Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the efficacy of palonosetron and granisetron in preventing PONV and to compare the duration of action and side effects in patients undergoing laparoscopic abdominal surgery under general anesthesia. Settings and Design: Eighty patients who were comparable in all aspects were considered for this study. After their consent, they participated in this prospective, randomized, double-blinded, comparative study. Materials and Methods: In this observational study, 80 patients of either gender who were undergoing laparoscopic abdominal surgery under general anesthesia were enrolled in the study. Based on computer randomization, these patients were divided equally into two groups of 40 patients each in double-blinded manner. The treatments were given intravenously 5 min before induction of anesthesia. The episodes of PONV, severity of nausea/vomiting, and side effects were observed during the first 48 h after surgery. Statistical Tests: At the end of study, results were compiled and SPSS^® statistical package version 18.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Two independent samples t-test was used for quantitative data, and Chi-square or Fisher's exact test was used for qualitative data. P < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: The incidence of PONV during 0–2 h in the postoperative period was 15% with palonosetron and 27.5% with granisetron; the incidence during 2–24 h postoperatively was 20% with palonosetron and 30% with granisetron. Both palonosetron and granisetron had comparable effectiveness as antiemetic during the early postoperative periods (0–24 h). During 24–48 h, the incidence was 17.5% and 37.5%, respectively (P = 0.04). Safety profile was similar in both the groups (P = 0.6). Conclusion: There were no significant differences in the overall incidence of PONV and complete responders for palonosetron and granisetron group in the early recovery period. However, due to its prolonged duration of action, palonosetron was more effective than granisetron for long-term prevention of PONV after laparoscopic abdominal surgery.

Background: Caudal block is the most commonly used regional anesthetic technique in pediatric surgeries; different additives have been used for better and safer outcome. Aim: The aim of this study is to compare the combination of dexamethasone and dexmedetomidine as adjuvants to bupivacaine versus using each agent solely with bupivacaine in pediatric caudal block as regards their efficiency in pain relief (the duration of postoperative analgesia, first time to request analgesia, and modified objective pain score [MOPS]). Study Design: This was a prospective, double-blinded, randomized study. Patients and Methods: Patients and Methods: Sixty-three children scheduled for hypospadias surgery wererandomized into three groupsaccording to the adjuvant drug added to caudal bupivacaine : Group I (n = 21): dexamethasone 0.1 mg/kg + 0.5 mg/kg bupivacaine 0.25%, Group II (n = 21): dexmedetomidine0.01 μg/kg + 0.5 mg/kg bupivacaine 0.25% and Group III (n = 21): dexamethasone 0.1 mg/kg + dexmedetomidine 0.01 μg/kg + 0.5 mg/kgbupivacaine 0.25%.Intraoperative and postoperative hemodynamics were recorded. In postoperative anesthesia care unit and then the ward, MOPS and sedation score were recorded at 30 min and 1, 2, 3, 6 and 12 h. Further, the time of first analgesic request and side effects were recorded. Statistical Analysis: Categorical data were presented as frequencies (%) and analyzed using Chi-square test. Continuous data were presented as mean (standard deviation) and median (quartiles). Continuous data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance for single measures and two-way mixed model for repeated measures. Kaplan–Meier analysis was performed for the duration of analgesia. Results: In Group III, MOPS was lower than Groups I and II at the study times. Further, Group III had prolonged time for first request of analgesic. Sedation scores were prolonged in Group III and Group II than in Group I. There was a reduction in heart rates in Group III more than Group I and Group II but with no significant difference. However, there was a significant reduction in mean arterial blood pressure 30 min intraoperatively and postoperatively in Group III as compared to Groups I and II. Conclusion: The addition of combined dexmedetomidine at a dose of 1 μg/kg and dexamethasone 0.1 mg/kg to caudal bupivacaine seemed to be an attractive alternative to each drug if used alone with more prolonged analgesia and almost no adverse effects.

Background: The practice of labor analgesia is an essential part of standard obstetric care. There are many guidelines and programs, which have been setup in labor pain management, in the developed country. In India, the practice of labor analgesia is not very popular. The role of labor analgesia providers lies in educating the parturients about the need of labor analgesia and also to develop comprehensive programs and guidelines in providing it. Aim: The aim of our study was to assess knowledge and practice of labour analgesia among anaesthesiologists across India. Methods: Survey was carried out using SurveyMonkey, an online internet website. Questionnaires were sent by mail to 11,986 anesthesiologists. The questions were based on methods of labor analgesia practice, regional analgesia techniques, commonly used drugs, complications and myths surrounding labor analgesia. Statistical Analysis: Responses were compiled and data was analysed. Results were expressed as percentages. Results: There were 1351 responses to the survey. Labor analgesia was practiced mainly by anesthesiologists across India (71.34%, n = 945). Regional analgesia techniques were the most common techniques followed in providing labor analgesia (69.61%, n = 940) and among regional analgesia techniques, epidural analgesia (43.52%, n = 588) was the most common method. Bupivacaine was considered the drug of choice (64.10% n = 866) and Fentanyl was the standard adjuvant used (83.34% n = 1126). Majority of the respondents did not believe in myths surrounding labor analgesia. Conclusion: Epidural analgesia is the most common technique practiced, bupivacaine the commonly used local anaesthetic , fentanyl common adjuvant used in practice of labour analgesia by anaesthesiologists across India.

Background and Aims: Preoperative anxiety is a major concern in patients undergoing any surgical procedure. Various drugs have been used to alleviate it. This study aims to compare the effects of oral melatonin versus oral alprazolam on preoperative anxiety, sedation, orientation, and cognitive function. Materials and Methods: A total of 90 adult patients were randomly allocated into three groups. Group M (n = 30) received oral melatonin 3 mg (2 tablets); Group A (n = 30) received oral alprazolam 0.25 mg (2 tablets), and Group P (n = 30) received placebo, multivitamin tablet (2 tablets) as premedication. The objectives of our study were to compare anxiety, sedation, orientation, and cognitive function using visual analog scale (VAS) anxiety score, Ramsay Sedation Score (RSS), orientation score, and Digit symbol substitution test (DSST) score before and after 120 min of giving premedication. For statistical analysis, paired t-test, Chi-square test, analysis of variance, and post hoc bonferroni test were used. Results: Mean VAS scores for anxiety (after 120 min) were significantly reduced in Group M (3.9 ± 1.53) and Group A (4.43 ± 1.67) when compared to Group P (4.73 ± 0.82) (P < 0.05). RSS was higher in Group A as compared to Group M and Group P (P < 0.05). No significant difference in orientation score was observed in all the three groups before and after premedication (P > 0.05). DSST score (cognitive function) was better in Group M when compared to both Group A and Group P (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Oral melatonin (6 mg) when used as a premedicant is an effective alternative to alprazolam regarding providing better anxiolysis, lesser sedation along with maintenance of cognitive, and psychomotor function.

Background: Shivering is a common problem in patients undergoing surgery under spinal anesthesia. Aims: The aim of this study was to compare efficacy and safety of clonidine versus tramadol in postspinal anesthesia shivering. Settings and Design: This prospective, randomized, double-blind controlled clinical trial was conducted in a tertiary care setting. Materials and Methods: A total of 60 American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status Class l and II adult patients (age 18–65 years) undergoing surgery under spinal anesthesia and developed shivering received either clonidine 1 μg/kg or tramadol 1 mg/kg intravenously. The time required for cessation of shivering, control and recurrence rate of shivering, effect on hemodynamics and side effects were compared between two groups. Statistical Analysis: Unpaired t-test and Chi-square test were used for comparison of continuous variables and dichotomous data between two groups, respectively. P < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: Time for cessation of shivering was less in clonidine group than tramadol group (02.51 vs. 04.82 min; P < 0.001). Complete control of shivering was achieved in 80% of patients in clonidine group versus 70% in tramadol group. There was no significant difference for control (P = 0.5) and rate of recurrence of shivering between clonidine and tramadol group (06.7% vs. 16.7%; P = 0.42). Pulse rate and systolic blood pressure were significantly lower in clonidine group at 5 and 15 min as compared with tramadol. Significantly more number of patients experienced nausea and dizziness (36.7% vs. 0%; P < 0.001 and 20% vs. 0%; P = 0.01) with tramadol while bradycardia and hypotension were numerically more common in patients receiving clonidine (6.7% vs. 0% and 13.3% vs. 0%). Conclusion: Clonidine provides early relief from shivering than tramadol with fewer side effects in patients undergoing surgery under spinal anesthesia.

Background: Supraclavicular brachial plexus provides complete and reliable anesthesia for upper limb surgeries. Adjuvants are added to local anesthetists to improve various block characteristics. There are limited studies comparing the efficacy of dexmedetomidine and fentanyl as an adjuvant to levobupivacaine. Aims: The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the effect of dexmedetomidine versus fentanyl as an adjuvant with levobupivacaine in ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block. Settings and Design: This study design was a prospective, randomized, double-blind controlled study. Subjects and Methods: A total of 120 patients in the age group of 30–55 years with physical status American Society of Anesthesiologists Classes I and II undergoing elective upper limb surgeries under ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block were randomly divided into three groups of forty each after taking informed consent and approval from Hospital Ethics Committee: Group A received 25 ml of 0.5% levobupivacaine with 5 ml normal saline (NS). Group B received 25 ml of 0.5% levobupivacaine with 1 μg/kg dexmedetomidine diluted to the volume of 5 ml NS. Group C received 25 ml of 0.5% levobupivacaine with 1 μg/kg fentanyl diluted to the volume of 5 ml NS. Onset and duration of sensory and motor block and duration of analgesia were noted and any side effects were observed. Statistical Analysis: The distribution of variables tested with Shapiro–Wilk test. Group comparison of values was made by Kruskal–Wallis test followed by Mann–Whitney test. Results: There was fastest onset time as well as longer duration of sensory and motor block in dexmedetomidine group, intermediate in fentanyl group as compared to levobupivacaine group. Conclusion: This study concludes that addition of dexmedetomidine to levobupivacaine for supraclavicular brachial plexus block shortens the onset time and prolongs the duration of sensory and motor blockade as compared to the addition of fentanyl.

Background: Laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation (LTI) are known to release catecholamines resulting in rise in heart rate (HR) and blood pressure. Various drugs have been studied till date to attenuate the sympathomimetic effects of laryngoscopy and intubation. Aims: The aim is to study the effect and safety of esmolol, diltiazem, and their combination on pressor response of laryngoscopy and intubation. Setting and Design: This prospective, randomized double-blind study was designed to assess the efficacy of the combination of esmolol and diltiazem and compare it with esmolol and diltiazem when used alone, for attenuating the pressor response to laryngoscopy and intubation. Materials and Methods: One hundred twenty-four adult patients of physical status American Society of Anesthesiologists Classes I and II posted for elective surgery under general anesthesia requiring endotracheal intubation were randomly allocated (using computer-generated random numbers) into four groups of 31 each, in a double-blind fashion, to receive the test drug, i.e., saline (control), diltiazem (0.2 mg/kg), esmolol (1.5 mg/kg), or a combination (diltiazem [0.1 mg/kg] and esmolol [0.75 mg/kg]). The test drug was administered intravenously as a bolus after 1 min of injecting the muscle relaxant. LTI was performed after 2 min of the test drug. Hemodynamic data – HR, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and mean arterial pressure (MAP) – were recorded at 1 min intervals after induction, until laryngoscopy and intubation, and at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 10 min thereafter. Statistical Analysis: Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) for comparison among and between the groups. The Bonferroni's correction was applied when a significant difference was found between groups after applying ANOVA. Results were considered statistically significant at P ≤ 0.05. Results: In the control and diltiazem groups, a significant increase in HR (P ≤ 0.05) was observed after laryngoscopy. Esmolol and combination groups were associated with a significant fall in HR after administration of the test drug, and no significant rise was noted after laryngoscopy. HR was significantly less in the combination and esmolol groups as compared to the control till 5 min after LTI. As compared with the control, all the other groups were associated with a fall in SBP after the test dose, and this lasted for 5 min (P < 0.001) after laryngoscopy in the esmolol and combination groups and for 1 min (P < 0.001) in the diltiazem group. All groups were associated with a significant rise in DBP and MAP for 1–2 min after LTI (P < 0.001), except the combination group in which no change was noted. DBP and MAP were significantly less in the combination group as compared to the control, from 1 min after giving the test dose till 5 min (P < 0.001) after LTI. Conclusion: Although esmolol and combination groups were both effective in controlling the increase in HR and SBP, only the combination group was effective in controlling the rise in DBP and MAP after LTI. HR, SBP, DBP, and MAP were significantly less in the combination group as compared to the control till 5 min after LTI. We recommend a combination of esmolol and diltiazem in appropriate doses for effectively attenuating the rise in HR and blood pressure responses during LTI.

Background: Vitamin D is associated with musculoskeletal function in our body, and its deficiency is a common health problem all over the world. Low back pain (LBP) is an important health problem in terms of low quality of life, loss of work power, and cost of diagnosis and treatment approaches. Aims: The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between pain severity and Vitamin D deficiency in patients who applied to pain polyclinic with LBP. Settings and Design: This was a retrospective, observational study. Subjects and Methods: The files of patients aged between 18 and 70 years who applied to our hospital between January and February 2018 were examined retrospectively by a specialist. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) level, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), age, education level, marital status, working status, and body mass index (BMI) values recorded in patient files were included in the study. The limit value of Vitamin D was accepted as 20 ng/mL. Patients were divided into two groups according to their levels of Vitamin D. Patients with serum 25(OH)D levels below 20 ng/mL were considered as the deficiency of Vitamin D (Group 1) and patients with 20 ng/mL and over 20 ng/mL values were considered as normal in terms of Vitamin D (Group 2). Statistical Analysis Used: Descriptive statistical data were presented as mean, standard deviation, numbers, and percentage. There was no difference between the normally distributed group and the non-normally distributed group in terms of vitamin D levels. To compare the frequencies, the Chi-square test was used. To define the linear association between independent variables and Vitamin D level, Spearman's rho correlation coefficients were calculated. Results: The level of Vitamin D was measured in 98 patients aged 18–70 years who applied to our hospital's polyclinic due to LBP during the study period. The deficiency of vitamin was detected in 84 (85.7%) of the patients, while Vitamin D was found in 14 (14.3%) as normal. Groups were similar in terms of age, gender, BMI, educational level, marital status and working status (p> 0.05); however, there was a statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of VAS score and levels of Vitamin D (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively). While there was a negative correlation between D vitamin level and VAS score (r = −0.594, P < 0.001), there was no correlation between age, gender, BMI, education level, marital status, and working status (P > 0.05). Conclusions: The deficiency of Vitamin D is often asymptomatic, and also, it can cause bone and muscle pain. In our study, we determined that the severity of pain increased in patients with LBP as the deficiency of Vitamin D increased. For this reason, we recommend to be evaluated the level of Vitamin D in patients with LBP.

Background: Instillation of local anaesthetics over incision site is a simple technique done as a part of multimodal analgesia targetting incisional pain for post-operative pain relief following lumbar laminectomy. Aim: To determine postoperative analgesic effect of ropivacaine in wound instillation for lumbar laminectomy. Study Design: Prospective, randomised, double blind study. Methodology: Forty patients scheduled for elective lumbar laminectomy under general anaesthesia were enrolled and randomly allocated into two groups namely Group R (n=20 receiving 20ml of 0.25% ropivacaine) and Group N (n=20 receiving 20ml normal saline) as instillation over incision site. If the NRS exceeded '4' at any point of time, rescue analgesia with inj. Diclofenac 75 mg deep intramuscular was administered. Post- operative pain score, duration of analgesia and total rescue analgesic required in 24 h were compared between the groups. Results: The pain score was less in ropivacaine group as compared to normal saline group (p value 0.0001). Duration of analgesia in normal saline group (N) is 4.3± 1.03 and in ropivacaine group(R) is 12.15±1.49. Mean amount of rescue analgesic required in normal saline group was 191.25± 38.28mg and in ropivacaine group was 97.5± 35.26 mg. Conclusion: The patients who received ropivacaine wound instillation had better pain control, longer duration of analgesia and less analgesic requirement as compared to patients who received normal saline wound instillation.

Background: Propofol has emerged as an induction agent of choice over the past two decades due to its quick, smooth induction and rapid recovery. The main concern for an anesthesiologist is the hemodynamic instability caused by the standard induction dose of propofol (2–3 mg/kg). Aim: We aim to study the efficacy of propofol auto-coinduction technique in comparison to the standard propofol induction technique in terms of the total induction dose requirement of propofol, the incidence of hemodynamic side effects and pain on injection, and the incidence of fentanyl-induced cough (FIC) in the absence of a synergistic agent like midazolam. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective, observer-blinded, randomized controlled trial. The study was initiated after obtaining the institutional ethics committee approval and is registered in the Clinical Trials Registry India. Eighty American Society of Anesthesiology Physical Status I and II patients, of either sex, aged between 18 and 55 years, and scheduled for elective surgeries under general anesthesia were randomized into two equal groups. Patients allocated to Group I (auto-coinduction) received 20% of the calculated dose of injection propofol 2 mg/kg (i.e., 0.4 mg/kg) as the priming dose followed by injection fentanyl 1 μg/kg after 1 min and the remaining propofol was administered in titrated doses till loss of verbal response after 2 min. In Group II (control), patients received injection fentanyl 1 μg/kg followed by single bolus dose of injection propofol up to 2 mg/kg till loss of verbal response. Midazolam was not used for premedication or induction. Intubation was carried out only after ensuring achievement of optimum depth of anesthesia using bispectral index scale. The total dose of propofol administrated for induction, occurrence of pain on injection, severity of cough after fentanyl administration, hemodynamic parameters, and apneic episodes were recorded. Statistical Analysis: All data were expressed as mean ± 2 standard deviation. For statistical analysis, SPSS software version 16 (SPSS Inc., 2007, Chicago, IL, USA) was used. Results: The mean dose of injection propofol required for induction was significantly lower in Group I (67.0 ± 17.9 mg) when compared with Group II (111.3 ± 17.6 mg) (P < 0.01). The mean heart rate was significantly higher (P < 0.01) and the mean blood pressure was significantly lower in Group II (P < 0.01) when compared to Group I at 1 min postinduction, immediately after intubation, and 5 min after induction. The incidence of complications such as hypotension, pain on injection, and FIC was higher in Group II (50%) as compared to Group I (18%). Conclusion: In our study, we found that the induction dose requirement of propofol was significantly lower in the auto-coinduction group when compared to the conventional induction group. The auto-coinduction technique offered a stable hemodynamic profile, reduced pain on injection, and less incidence of FIC as compared to the conventional propofol induction technique.

Background: The diagnosis of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a challenge because the clinical signs and symptoms lack both sensitivity and specificity. Further confirmation of the diagnosis of VAP can be done by other diagnostic procedures such as bronchoscopic and blind endotracheal aspiration, but the selection of either diagnostic procedure is debatable. Aims: The aim is to study and compare the role of bronchoscopic protected specimen brush biopsy (PSBB) and blind endotracheal aspiration for diagnosis of VAP. Settings and Design: This prospective comparative study was conducted in multidisciplinary Intensive Care Unit of a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: Thirty patients clinically diagnosed to have VAP were further evaluated by bronchoscopic and blind endotracheal aspiration. The P value of PSBB and blind aspiration techniques was calculated, taking clinical pulmonary infection score of ≥6 as reference standard. Statistical Analysis Used: Statistical analysis was done using Chi-square and t-test. Results and Conclusions: Our study shows that for the diagnosis of VAP, PSBB and blind aspiration had Chi-square value of 0.83 with degree of freedom 1 which showed P = 0.3623 which is not significant. t-test value is 0.402 with degree of freedom 1 and P = 0.7567 which is still not significant. There was a good microbiologic concordance among bronchoscopic and nonbronchoscopic distal airway sampling techniques. Blind endotracheal aspiration is a comparable technique for bacteriological diagnosis of VAP.

Context: With modern lifestyle, there has been a steep increase in the number of low back pain patients in clinical practice. Lumbar microdiscectomy is one of the most common surgeries performed for this problem. Postoperative pain management is extremely important aspect of such advanced surgical technique among which wound infiltration is an efficient method. Aims: The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy of dexmedetomidine added to ropivacaine verses plain ropivacaine following wound infiltration in terms of pain scores, requirement of rescue analgesia, and related adverse effects. Settings and Design: Randomized, prospective, controlled, double-blind study over a period of 1 year in a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: Sixty patients scheduled for lumbar discectomy were randomly allocated into two groups. Group A received wound infiltration with 30 ml 0.2% ropivacaine before wound closure and Group B received wound infiltration with 1ug/kg dexmedetomidine added to 30 ml of 0.2% ropivacaine before wound closure. Data retrieved were demographic data, visual analog scores, postoperative pain scores, rescue analgesia by patient controlled analgesia pump, recovery profile, and adverse effects. Statistical Analysis Used: Data were analyzed using statistical software SPSS version 22. Mann–Whitney test, Kruskal–Wallis test, and Chi-square test were used as applicable. Results: Demographic data were comparable between the groups. Requirement of rescue analgesia was significantly less in Group B where combination of dexmedetomidine and ropivacaine was given. Conclusions: Dexmedetomidine provided effective postoperative analgesia and reduced fentanyl consumption when administered in wound infiltration with ropivacaine.

Aim: Spinal anesthesia is a widely used procedure in modern anesthesia. Although it is a reliable and frequently used anesthetic procedure, it involves complications, including postdural puncture headache caused by arachnoid punctured, which significantly affects postoperative well-being. In this study, we aimed to observe headache frequency with 26-G Quincke spinal needle in either transverse or sagittal planes. Materials and Methods: One hundred patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists status classes I and II who were scheduled for elective cesarean delivery with no contraindications for performing spinal anesthesia were randomly divided into two groups: Group I (transverse n = 50) and Group II (sagittal n = 50). Spinal anesthesia was performed with a 26-G Quincke needle, using 1.5–2.0 ml 0.75% hyperbaric bupivacaine. The anesthesiologists' experience, number of attempts for spinal anesthesia, volume of fluid administered preoperatively and intraoperatively, intervertebral space where spinal anesthesia was administered, and patient movements during the attempts were recorded. Mean arterial pressure and peak heart rates were recorded for 60 min intraoperatively and postoperatively. Headache and back pain complications were observed for 1 week postoperatively. Chi-square tests and statistical comparisons of the rates (statistical significance, P < 0.05) were used for assessments. Results and Conclusions: No significant differences were observed with respect to age, height, weight, headache, or incidence of back pain. No significant differences were observed for the number of spinal attempts, intervertebral space where spinal anesthesia was administered, experience of the anesthesiologists, patient movements during the attempts, volumes of fluid administered preoperatively and intraoperatively, or low back pain incidence. Significant reductions in mean arterial pressure were observed between groups after 10, 15, 30, 40, and 50 min. No significant differences were observed in headache or back pain frequency with 26-G Quincke spinal needle in either transverse or sagittal planes. Hypotension was frequently observed in the transverse group.

Background: Tracheal intubation is usually facilitated by using a muscle relaxant to supplement drugs given for the induction of general anesthesia. Nondepolarizing muscle relaxants are also associated with the few disadvantages. Endotracheal intubation under volatile anesthetics without the use of muscle relaxants is possible, but it has disadvantages. Time available for intubation is much less when compared to the use of muscle relaxants. Considering the disadvantages of muscle relaxants and volatile agents in mind, there is a need for endotracheal intubation without muscle relaxants. Objective: The objective of the study is to assess the efficacy of different doses of propofol for tracheal intubation – a randomized clinical trial. Materials and Methods: A randomized study was conducted on 80 patients, comprising of 40 patients each. Patients of either sex were randomly allocated into Group P1 and Group P2 by computer-generated random numbers where Group P1 received 2 mg/kg propofol +3 μg/kg fentanyl and Group P2 received 4 mg/kg propofol +3 μg/kg fentanyl. SpO₂, heart rate, blood pressure (BP)- systolic BP, diastolic BP, and mean arterial pressure were recorded at 1 and 3 min after administration of study drugs were recorded. Intubating conditions were assessed modified Helbo–Hansen scoring system. Results: The success rate of endotracheal intubation was 62.5% and 95% in propofol 2 mg/kg + fentanyl 3 μg/kg and propofol 4 mg/kg + Fentanyl 3 μg/kg, respectively. The total incidence of hypotension was 40% and 83% in propofol 2 mg/kg + Fentanyl 3 μg/kg and propofol 4 mg/kg + Fentanyl 3 μg/kg, respectively. The incidence of hypersensitivity was noted only in propofol 4 mg/kg + Fentanyl 3 μg/kg group and was 2.5%. Conclusion: We conclude that endotracheal intubation is possible in premedicated adult American Society of Anesthesiologists by Grade I patients with receiving 3 μg/kg Fentanyl + 2 mg/kg or 4 mg/kg propofol for induction without muscle relaxants, and the intubating conditions are acceptable. We found that propofol 4 mg/kg + Fentanyl 3 μg/kg is the optimal dose required for intubation without the use of muscle relaxants.

Background: Intraoperative bleeding impairs surgical field visibility during functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS); several methods have been used to decrease blood loss and improve surgical field, one of them is usage of hypotensive anesthetic agents. Aim: We intended to compare magnesium sulfate with lidocaine, regarding their efficiency in inducing controlled hypotension and providing a better surgical field exposure during FESS and the influence of their usage on extubation time. Settings and Design: This study design was a prospective randomized controlled double-blinded clinical study. Patients and Methods: Eighty adult patients with patients' physical status ASA Classes I and II, aged 20–50 years scheduled for FESS were randomly divided into two study groups; each group contains 40 patients: Group L received lidocaine 2 mg/kg/h with maximum of 200 mg/h starting at induction of anesthesia and continuing until the end of surgery and Group M received an iv bolus of magnesium sulfate 50mg/kg in a total of 100ml saline over 10 min followed by infusion of 15mg/kg/h until the end of surgery; patients were observed for the quality of the surgical field, blood loss, and extubation time. Statistical Analysis Used: Student's t-test or Mann–Whitney's U, Chi-square, or Fisher's exact tests were used. Results: Group L showed a significant decrease in blood loss (P = 0.01), better surgical field clarity (P = 0.002), and shorter extubation time (P = 0.001) than Group M, but there was no statistically significant difference between the two study groups as regards hemodynamics. Conclusion: We concluded that both magnesium sulfate and lidocaine successfully induced controlled hypotension in patients undergoing FEES, but lidocaine provided better surgical field clarity and shorter extubation time.

Background: Stress-induced neuroendocrine and metabolic changes lead to intraoperative hyperglycemia which is related to surgery and the type of intravenous fluids used. Aims: The primary objective was to assess the incidence of hyperglycemia with use of lactate versus acetate-based intravenous fluids in nondiabetics undergoing major surgeries. Incidence of lactatemia and metabolic acidosis were also assessed. Settings and Design: Prospective parallel group observational study conducted in a tertiary care institute. Subjects and Methods: A total of 208 nondiabetic patients undergoing major head and neck free flap or abdominal surgeries were included in the study. Group A received Ringer lactate, and Group B received Ringer acetate as intraoperative maintenance fluid. Intraoperative blood sugar, pH, and lactate levels were monitored. Statistical Tests Used: Chi-square test and independent “t” test were used for analysis. Results: Intraoperative hyperglycemia was more frequent in Group A than B (17.3 vs. 18.4%). Group B patients undergoing gastrointestinal (GI) surgeries showed higher blood glucose at 2, 4, 6, and 8 h when compared to flap surgeries. In Group A, significantly higher blood sugar values were noted at 2 and 8 h in those undergoing GI surgeries. Group B patients undergoing GI surgeries had significantly higher lactate levels at 6 and 8 h. Group B patients had significant acidosis when surgeries lasted >6 h. Conclusion: Nondiabetic patients undergoing major abdominal surgeries who received acetate-based fluids had relatively higher intraoperative blood sugar levels as compared to those receiving lactated solutions, but the incidence of hyperglycemia was comparable. When the duration of surgery exceeded 6 h, acetate-based solutions resulted in significantly higher lactate levels with progressive metabolic acidosis.

Background: One of the most common complications of tonsillectomy is pain, which leading to delayed recovery and later hospital discharge. Aims: We intended to compare the efficacy of magnesium sulfate versus paracetamol on the posttonsillectomy pain and analgesic requirement. Settings and Design: This study design was a prospective randomized controlled double-blinded clinical study. Patients and Methods: A total of 60 children with the American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classes I and II, aged 3–12 years, scheduled for tonsillectomy were randomly divided into two groups each group contains 30 patients: (Group M): received an initial loading dose of magnesium sulfate 30 mg/kg over 15 min started with induction followed by continuous infusion of 10 mg/kg/h for 1 h regardless of the operation time and (Group P): received paracetamol infusion 10 mg/kg started with induction and continued for 1 h. Postoperatively, a blinded postanesthesia care unit (PACU) nurse observed the quality of analgesia using the face, legs, activity, cry, and consolability pain scores, bleeding, and sedation. Statistical Analysis Used: Student's t-test and Chi-square test were used for analysis. Results: Regarding postoperative pain, there was a statistically significant difference between the two groups at the time of admission in PACU (P = 0.025) as children who experienced pain already had taken rescue analgesic to alleviate pain. There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups regarding the need for analgesics (P = 0.038). There was no statistically significant difference regarding bleeding and sedation scores between the two study groups. Conclusions: Magnesium sulfate provided better postoperative analgesia and reduced need for analgesics after tonsillectomy compared to paracetamol, and regarding the incidence of bleeding and the degree of sedation the outcome in both groups was readily comparable.

Background: Management of airway is of great importance in the practice of anesthesia. Supraglottic airway devices, such as laryngeal mask airway (LMA), have greatly revolutionized the management of airway both in terms of ease and degree of invasiveness. Propofol, by its inherent property of decreasing airway reflexes, is used to aid in LMA insertion. In this study, we have evaluated the LMA insertion conditions and hemodynamic stability, comparing butorphanol, fentanyl, and ketamine as co-induction agents with propofol. Materials and Methods: A total of 90 female patients planned to undergo minor gynecological procedures were randomly allocated to one of the three study groups. Patients in Group B received butorphanol 20 μg/kg, patients in Group F received fentanyl 1 μg/kg, and patients in Group K received ketamine 0.5 mg/kg intravenously before injection of propofol 2.5 mg/kg. LMA insertion conditions were graded according to the modified scheme of Lund and Stovner, and hemodynamic parameters were recorded. The results were analyzed statistically. Results: The patients in all the three groups were comparable in their demographic characteristics. The mean total dose of propofol used in Group B was 136.50 mg (standard deviation [SD] 27.70), in Group F was 139.33 mg (SD 28.52), and in Group K was 156.33 mg (SD 38.64). Excellent insertion conditions were observed in 25 (83.3%) patients in Group B, 25 (83.3%) patients in Group F, and 15 (50%) patients in Group K. Group B and Group K showed a more stable hemodynamic profile than Group F. Conclusion: It is concluded that the use of butorphanol as a co-induction agent with propofol provides excellent insertion conditions and stable hemodynamics compared to fentanyl or ketamine.

Context: Airway management is a crucial skill and area of concern for the anesthesiologist. Awake fiber-optic intubation (AFOI) remains the gold standard in managing difficult airway. Anaesthetizing the airway along with psychological assurance is the mainstay for Preparation of AFOI. Different topical and regional techniques have been developed to subdue reflexes and facilitate AFOI. Aim: This randomized controlled study was performed to evaluate the effectiveness of using lignocaine nebulization in addition to specific airway blocks for AFOI. Methodology: This was a comparative study conducted in 60 patients with difficult airway (LEMON score >2) and randomly allocated into two groups of 30 each. Group LB and Group NB received nebulization of 2% lignocaine 4 mL and 0.9% normal saline 4 mL, respectively. Both groups were then given airway blocks as bilateral superior laryngeal (2% lignocaine 1–2 mL each) and transtracheal (2% lignocaine 4 mL) block. Two puffs of 10% lignocaine to nose and postnasal space on each side were given in both groups. Fiber-optic bronchoscopy (FOB)-guided tracheal intubation was Performed. Vital parameters, side effects, bronchoscopy-guided intubation time and other parameters as intubation grading scale, patient comfort score, satisfaction score were recorded. Chi-square test and unpaired t-test were used for statistical analysis. Results: Statistically, no significant differences were found in hemodynamic parameters, demographics, intubation time, and intubation grading scale in both groups. However, overall patient comfort and satisfaction score was better in Group LB. Conclusion: Upper airway blocks provide adequate anesthesia for awake FOB, but when lignocaine nebulization is added to these blocks, it improves the quality of anesthesia and patient satisfaction.

Background: Abdominal hysterectomy is associated with sever postoperative pain. Quadratus lumborum (QL) block is a regional analgesic technique which has an evolving role in postoperative analgesia. Aims: we aimed to compare ultrasound guided bilateral transverse abdominis plane (TAP) block versus bilateral QL block in patients undergoing total abdominal hysterectomy. Settings and Design: This is a prospective randomized controlled double blinded study. Patients and Methods: Sixty adult female patients (ASA I-II), scheduled for total abdominal hysterectomy were randomized into two equal groups (TAP group and QL group). Each patient received general anesthesia plus bilateral TAP block or bilateral QL block. We recorded postoperative total dose of morphine used / 24 hours, Visual Analuge Scales (VAS) for pain (at 30 min, 2, 4, 6, 12, and 24 hours postoperative), duration of postoperative analgesia, total dose of fentanyl use intraoperative, number of patients needed rescue analgesia and any side effects. Statistical Analysis: Independent sample T test and Chi-Square (X2) test were used as appropriate. Results: Patients in QL group consumed significantly less fentanyl and morphine than patients in TAP group, VAS for pain was significant higher in TAP group than in QL group at all times, the duration of postoperative analgesia was shorter in TAP group than in QL group, the number of patients requested analgesia was significantly higher in TAP group than in QL group. Conclusions: Bilateral QL block provided better intraoperative and postoperative analgesia with less opioids consumption compared with bilateral TAP block, in patients undergoing total abdominal hysterectomy.

Background: Surgery is a very stressful experience for patients. Children are the most susceptible to fear, anxiety, and stress due to their limited cognitive capabilities and dependency. In children, pharmacologic agents are frequently used as premedication to relieve the fear of surgery, to make child–parental separation easy, and to carry out a smooth induction of anesthesia. We conducted this study to compare the efficacy of intranasal fentanyl, midazolam, and dexmedetomidine as premedication in pediatric patients. Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted prospectively on 75 patients in the age group of 2–6 years of either sex of the American Society of Anesthesiologists physical Class I or II admitted in Guru Nanak Dev Hospital, attached to Government Medical College Amritsar, scheduled to undergo surgery under general anesthesia. The patients were divided into three groups of 25 each. Group F received intranasal fentanyl 1.5 μg/kg body weight, Group M received intranasal midazolam 0.3 mg/kg body weight, and Group D received intranasal dexmedetomidine 1 μg/kg body weight as nasal drops 50 min before surgery. Results: Children who received intranasal fentanyl and intranasal midazolam had early onset of anxiolysis and sedation as compared to dexmedetomidine. In child-parent separation, quality of induction was better with fentanyl and dexmedetomidine as compared to midazolam. Intravenous cannulation score was best achieved with fentanyl as premedicant. Postoperative sedation was better with dexmedetomidine as compared to fentanyl and midazolam. Conclusion: Onset of action of fentanyl and midazolam is early as compared to that of dexmedetomidine. However, fentanyl provided better conditions for induction and emergence than midazolam. With dexmedetomidine onset of action was delayed and duration of action was prolonged which helped child to remain calm and sedated even after the surgery.

Background: Apneic mass movement of oxygen by applying continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is possible only when the airway is kept patent which helps to reduce the rate of desaturation. Aims: The aim of this study was to check the efficiency of preoxygenation and apneic oxygenation by assessing the drop in partial pressure of arterial oxygen (PaO₂) during apnea with and without keeping an oropharyngeal airway to maintain the patency of airway. Settings and Design: This prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care center. Materials and Methods: Sixty patients undergoing robotic and laparoscopic-assisted surgeries requiring modified rapid sequence intubation were recruited for the study. In Group A, CPAP was not applied during preoxygenation and oropharyngeal airway was not used, but oxygen was administered at 5 L/min during the apnea. In Group B, CPAP of 5 cmH₂O was maintained during preoxygenation and after induction an oropharyngeal airway was inserted. Patients in both the groups were induced and paralyzed following standardized anesthesia protocol. Statistical Analysis Used: Chi-square test, independent t-test, and ANCOVA were used as applicable. Results: Group B showed significantly higher mean PaO₂levels after preoxygenation (525.3 ± 42.5 vs. 500.8 ± 51) and at 90 s of apnea (494.8 ± 42.6 vs. 368.6 ± 98.4) as compared to Group A. The fall in PaO₂was significantly lower in Group B. The rise in partial pressure of arterial carbon dioxide was comparable in both groups. Conclusion: Preoxygenation with CPAP of 5 cmH₂O followed by apneic oxygenation with CPAP keeping the airway patent with an oropharyngeal airway results in significantly higher PaO₂after preoxygenation and slower reduction in PaO₂during apnea.

Corpus callosum agenesis develops when the band which connects the two hemispheres of the brain does not occur in utero. It is associated with prenatal infections, genetic factors, toxic exposures, metabolic disorders, and chromosome errors. Mostly seen clinical features are macrocephaly, microcephaly, seizures, motor retardation, hypotonia, eye anomalies, and facial dysmorphisms. Here, we report a case of corpus callosum agenesis syndrome undergoing upper endoscopy under deep sedation with dexmedetomidine. The main anesthetic concerns are difficulty in airway, respiratory problems, gastric reflux, and interaction of the seizures therapy with general anesthetics.

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the spine which leads to ossification and formation of a classical bamboo spine. This poses a challenge to the anesthetist both in terms of administering general and regional anesthesia due to the limited mobility of the spine. With the advent of ultrasound as an aid in regional anesthesia, it has been relatively easy to perform a central neuraxial blockade in such patients though the skill requires some degree of expertise. Here, we have described the use of ultrasound as a guide for administering regional anesthesia to a patient with AS after initially attempting a blind approach which had failed due to difficult anatomy.

Unilateral pulmonary artery agenesis (UPAA) is a rare condition where the patient may remain asymptomatic for a long period till adulthood. Presentation may be in the form of dyspnea, cough, hemoptysis, decreased exercise tolerance, and recurrent respiratory tract infections. Ventilation–perfusion mismatch and excessive blood flow to the normal lung may eventually lead to unilateral acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). We present a case of a 40-year-old gentleman with nonresolving pneumonia who was diagnosed to have unilateral ARDS due to UPAA. Even though ARDS involves bilateral lung, unilateral ARDS which does not show resolution with lung protective strategies should always raise the suspicion of a rare disease like UPAA among clinicians. To date, there is no specific prescribed treatment for UPAA.