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Journal of Medical Case Reports

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Open Access 01-12-2021 | Abdominal Surgery | Case report

Opioid-free anesthesia—dexmedetomidine as adjuvant in erector spinae plane block: a case series

Authors: Antonio Coviello, Danilo Esposito, Roberta Galletta, Alfredo Maresca, Giuseppe Servillo

Published in: Journal of Medical Case Reports | Issue 1/2021

Abstract

Background

Laparoscopic pain is related to the stretching of the peritoneum and peritoneal irritation caused by insufflation of the parietal peritoneum with carbon dioxide. In 2017, erector spinae plane block (ESPB) was described for management of postoperative pain following open and laparoscopic abdominal surgery. The use of multimodal anesthesia reduces both intraoperative and postoperative opioid use and improves analgesia. The addition of dexmedetomidine to the anesthetic mixture significantly prolongs analgesia, without clinically significant side effects.

Case Presentation

We describe a series of three Caucasian women cases that illustrate the efficacy of bilateral ESPB performed at the level of the T7 transverse process to provide intraoperative and postoperative analgesia for laparoscopic gynecological surgery.

Conclusion

Further investigation is recommended to establish the potential for ESPB with dexmedetomidine as adjuvant as an opioid-free anesthetic modality in laparoscopic gynecological surgery.

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Title: Opioid-free anesthesia—dexmedetomidine as adjuvant in erector spinae plane block: a case series
Authors: Antonio Coviello
Danilo Esposito
Roberta Galletta
Alfredo Maresca
Giuseppe Servillo
Publication date: 01-12-2021
Publisher: BioMed Central
Keywords: Abdominal Surgery
Opioids
Opioids
Published in: Journal of Medical Case Reports / Issue 1/2021
Electronic ISSN: 1752-1947
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13256-021-02868-5

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Opioid-free anesthesia—dexmedetomidine as adjuvant in erector spinae plane block: a case series

Abstract

Background

Case Presentation

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Case Presentation

Conclusion

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