Comparative study of 0.25% bupivacaine versus 0.25% bupivacaine with fentanyl for caudal epidural anaesthesia and analgesia in children undergoing infra umbilical surgeries

Abstract

Background: For the purpose of controlling postoperative pain following abdominal and lower limb procedures, caudal epidurals are typically administered to children. The most popular local intrathecal anaesthetic for children is bupivacaine. To improve the quality of the intrathecal block and lengthen the analgesic effect, several adjuvants are added to the local anaesthetic. In the current study, caudal epidural analgesia and anaesthesia for children having lower abdomen surgery were compared between bupivacaine and bupivacaine combined with fentanyl. Materials and methods: This is an observational study, approved by the institutional ethical committee. An individual informed consent was taken from all patients selected for the study. All patients belonging to ASA grade 1 and 2, between the age group of 1 to 10 years posted for infra umbilical surgeries. Total 60 children undergoing infra umbilical surgeries were included and divided into two groups. Conclusion: When delivered caudally, 1μg/kg fentanyl and 0.25% bupivacaine offer adequate surgical anaesthetic and post-operative analgesia with a longer period of analgesia and no significant postoperative sequelae. It is well known that fentanyl has a quicker onset of analgesia and fewer adverse effects like nausea and vomiting.