Superficial cervical plexus blockade improves pain control after thyroidectomy: A randomized controlled trial.

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Surgical Pain Management

Background:

• Thyroidectomy often involves significant postoperative pain and side effects from general anesthesia.
• Effective pain management is crucial for patient recovery and satisfaction after thyroidectomy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of bilateral superficial cervical plexus blockade in managing pain after thyroidectomy.
• To assess the impact of this blockade on reducing general anesthesia-related side effects.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 100 patients undergoing total thyroidectomy.
• Patients were divided into two groups: general anesthesia alone (G1) and general anesthesia with bilateral superficial cervical plexus blockade (G2).

Main Results:

• Group G2 showed significantly lower mean arterial blood pressure and heart rate 60 minutes post-surgery.
• Opioid consumption, pain scores, nausea, and vomiting were significantly reduced in G2 patients compared to G1.
• These benefits were observed at multiple time points postoperatively.

Conclusions:

• Bilateral superficial cervical plexus blockade is a feasible and safe adjunct to general anesthesia for thyroidectomy.
• The technique effectively controls postoperative pain and improves overall patient outcomes.