Penile block for paediatric urological surgery: A comparative evaluation with general anaesthesia

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Anesthesiology
• Regional Anesthesia
• Pain Management

Background:

• Peri-operative pain management in children undergoing penile surgery typically involves general anesthesia (GA).
• Regional nerve blocks offer an alternative for pain relief.
• Evaluating the efficacy of penile blocks versus GA is crucial for optimizing pediatric surgical care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of penile block with standard general anesthesia (GA) for short-duration (under 2 hours) penile surgeries in children.
• To assess the quality and duration of post-operative pain relief provided by penile blocks.

Main Methods:

• A randomized study involving 60 children (1-10 years, ASA grades I-II) undergoing penile surgery.
• Group B received a penile block; Group G received standard GA.
• Hemodynamic parameters (HR, NIBP, SpO2) and post-operative outcomes (pain relief duration, time to rescue analgesia, time to first feed) were recorded and analyzed.

Main Results:

• Hemodynamic parameters (heart rate, blood pressure, SpO2) showed statistically significant improvements with penile block compared to GA during intra-operative and post-operative periods.
• Penile block resulted in significantly longer post-operative pain relief and delayed time to rescue analgesia.
• Time to first oral feed was also significantly shorter in the penile block group.

Conclusions:

• Penile block, combined with light sedation, is a highly effective alternative to general anesthesia for short distal penile surgeries in children.
• It ensures more stable peri-operative hemodynamics and provides excellent post-operative pain relief for 6-8 hours.
• The technique is associated with no significant complications or side effects, enhancing patient recovery.