Inguinal hernia is one of the most common surgical pathologies in children, and the minimally invasive percutaneous internal ring suturing (PIRS) technique is widely preferred. By providing effective pain control, nerve blocks reduce postoperative opioid requirements, thereby minimising opioid-related adverse effects and lowering the risk of pulmonary and cardiovascular complications. This study aims to compare the postoperative analgesic effects of rectus sheath block and caudal epidural block in pediatric patients undergoing PIRS.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
DOUBLE
Enrollment
65
A total volume of 0.5 mL/kg of 0.25% bupivacaine-distributed equally between both sides-will be injected bilaterally under direct ultrasound guidance.
A 22G caudal epidural needle will be inserted at approximately a 45° angle toward the sacral hiatus, and the characteristic "click" sensation will be felt upon passing the sacrococcygeal ligament. The needle will then be advanced carefully in the cephalad direction, parallel to the longitudinal axis of the spinal canal. After confirming correct placement by negative aspiration, 1 mL/kg of 0.25% bupivacaine will be administered.
Ankara Etlik City Hospital
Altındağ, Ankara, Turkey (Türkiye)
RECRUITINGPain Scores
Pain will be assessed at rest and during coughing using the FLACC (Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability) scale, scored from 0 to 10. Pain assessments will be performed at the 0th, 1st, 2nd, 4th, 12th, and 24th hours after surgery.
Time frame: On the operation day
Postoperative nausea and vomiting
The occurrence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and the number of episodes will be recorded.
Time frame: On the operation day
Time to first mobilization
Time to first mobilization will be recorded in hours after surgery.
Time frame: On the operation day
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