BACKGROUND Severe acute pancreatitis(SAP),a condition with rapid onset,critical condition and unsatisfactory prognosis,poses a certain threat to human health,warranting optimization of relevant treatment plans to impr...BACKGROUND Severe acute pancreatitis(SAP),a condition with rapid onset,critical condition and unsatisfactory prognosis,poses a certain threat to human health,warranting optimization of relevant treatment plans to improve treatment efficacy.AIM To evaluate the efficacy and safety of computerized tomography-guided the-rapeutic percutaneous puncture catheter drainage(CT-TPPCD)combined with somatostatin(SS)in the treatment of SAP.METHODS Forty-two SAP patients admitted to The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University from June 2020 to June 2023 were selected.On the basis of routine treatment,20 patients received SS therapy(control group)and 22 patients were given CT-TPPCD plus SS intervention(research group).The efficacy,safety(pancreatic fistula,intra-abdominal hemorrhage,sepsis,and organ dysfunction syndrome),abdominal bloating and pain relief time,bowel recovery time,hospital stay,inflammatory indicators(C-reactive protein,interleukin-6,and pro-calcitonin),and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation(APACHE)II score of both groups were evaluated for comparison.RESULTS Compared with the control group,the research group had a markedly higher total effective rate,faster abdominal bloating and pain relief and bowel recovery,INTRODUCTION Pancreatitis,an inflammatory disease occurring in the pancreatic tissue,is classified as either acute or chronic and is associated with high morbidity and mortality,imposing a socioeconomic burden[1,2].The pathogenesis of this disease involves early protease activation,activation of nuclear factor kappa-B-related inflammatory reactions,and infiltration of immune cells[3].Severe acute pancreatitis(SAP)is a serious condition involving systemic injury and subsequent possible organ failure,accounting for 20%of all acute pancreatitis cases[4].SAP is also characterized by rapid onset,critical illness and unsatisfactory prognosis and is correlated with serious adverse events such as systemic inflammatory response syn-drome and acute lung injury,threatening the health of patients[5,6].Therefore,timely and effective therapeutic inter-ventions are of great significance for improving patient prognosis and ensuring therapeutic effects.Somatostatin(SS),a peptide hormone that can be secreted by endocrine cells and the central nervous system,is in-volved in the regulatory mechanism of glucagon and insulin synthesis in the pancreas[7].It has complex and pleiotropic effects on the gastrointestinal tract,which can inhibit the release of gastrointestinal hormones and negatively modulate the exocrine function of the stomach,pancreas and bile,while exerting a certain influence on the absorption of the di-gestive system[8,9].SS has shown certain clinical effectiveness when applied to SAP patients and can regulate the severity of SAP and immune inflammatory responses,and this regulation is related to its influence on leukocyte apoptosis and adhesion[10,11].Computerized tomography-guided therapeutic percutaneous puncture catheter drainage(CT-TPPCD)is a surgical procedure to collect lesion fluid and pus samples from necrotic lesions and perform puncture and drainage by means of CT image examination and precise positioning[12].In the research of Liu et al[13],CT-TPPCD applied to pa-tients undergoing pancreatic surgery contributes to not only good curative effects but also a low surgical risk.Baudin et al[14]also reported that CT-TPPCD has a clinical success rate of 64.6%in patients with acute infectious necrotizing pan-creatitis,with nonfatal surgery-related complications found in only two cases,suggesting that this procedure is clinically effective and safe in the treatment of the disease.In light of the limited studies on the efficacy and safety of SS plus CT-TPPCD in SAP treatment,this study performed a relevant analysis to improve clinical outcomes in SAP patients.展开更多
Objective To evaluate the diagnostic value of histopathological examination of ultrasound-guided puncture biopsy samples in extrapulmonary tuberculosis(EPTB).Methods This study was conducted at the Shanghai Public Hea...Objective To evaluate the diagnostic value of histopathological examination of ultrasound-guided puncture biopsy samples in extrapulmonary tuberculosis(EPTB).Methods This study was conducted at the Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center.A total of 115patients underwent ultrasound-guided puncture biopsy,followed by MGIT 960 culture(culture),smear,Gene Xpert MTB/RIF(Xpert),and histopathological examination.These assays were performed to evaluate their effectiveness in diagnosing EPTB in comparison to two different diagnostic criteria:liquid culture and composite reference standard(CRS).Results When CRS was used as the reference standard,the sensitivity and specificity of culture,smear,Xpert,and histopathological examination were(44.83%,89.29%),(51.72%,89.29%),(70.11%,96.43%),and(85.06%,82.14%),respectively.Based on liquid culture tests,the sensitivity and specificity of smear,Xpert,and pathological examination were(66.67%,72.60%),(83.33%,63.01%),and(92.86%,45.21%),respectively.Histopathological examination showed the highest sensitivity but lowest specificity.Further,we found that the combination of Xpert and histopathological examination showed a sensitivity of 90.80%and a specificity of 89.29%.Conclusion Ultrasound-guided puncture sampling is safe and effective for the diagnosis of EPTB.Compared with culture,smear,and Xpert,histopathological examination showed higher sensitivity but lower specificity.The combination of histopathology with Xpert showed the best performance characteristics.展开更多
Objective:To evaluate the feasibility and the safety of medial non-papillary percutaneous nephrolithotomy(npPCNL)for the management of large proximal ureteral stones.Methods:We evaluated prospectively collected data o...Objective:To evaluate the feasibility and the safety of medial non-papillary percutaneous nephrolithotomy(npPCNL)for the management of large proximal ureteral stones.Methods:We evaluated prospectively collected data of 37 patients with large proximal ureteral stones more than 1.5 cm in diameter treated by prone npPCNL.Depending on stone size,in-toto stone removal or lithotripsy using the Lithoclast®Trilogy(EMS Medical,Nyon,Switzerland)was performed.Perioperative parameters including operative time(from start of puncture to the skin suturing),stone extraction time(from the first insertion of the nephroscope to the extraction of all stone fragments),and the stone-free rate were evaluated.Results:Twenty-one males and 16 females underwent npPCNL for the management of large upper ureteral calculi.The median age and stone size of treated patients were 58(interquartile range[IQR]:51-69)years and 19.3(IQR:18.0-22.0)mm,respectively.The median operative time and stone extraction time were 25(IQR:21-29)min and 8(IQR:7-10)min,respectively.One case(2.7%)of postoperative bleeding and two cases(5.4%)of prolonged fever were managed conservatively.The stone-free rate at a 1-month follow-up was 94.6%.Conclusion:The npPCNL provides a straight route to the ureteropelvic junction and proximal ureter.Approaching from a dilated portion of the ureter under low irrigation pressure with larger diameter instruments results in effective and safe stone extraction within a few minutes.展开更多
BACKGROUND Ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy is a reliable diagnostic procedure for prostate cancer diagnosis with minimal procedure-related trauma.However,complications,such as massive rectal bleeding may occur after...BACKGROUND Ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy is a reliable diagnostic procedure for prostate cancer diagnosis with minimal procedure-related trauma.However,complications,such as massive rectal bleeding may occur after the puncture.We hypothesized that using a transrectal resectoscope could help treat massive rectal bleeding after transrectal prostate punctures.AIM To identify a simple and effective treatment for massive rectal bleeding after transrectal prostate punctures.METHODS Patients requiring treatment for massive rectal bleeding after transrectal prostate punctures were included.A SIMAI resectoscope was inserted through the anus.Direct electrocoagulation was performed for superficial bleeding points.Part of the rectal mucosa or surface muscle layer was removed to expose deep bleeding points,followed by electrocoagulation.An electric cutting ring was used to compress and stop the bleeding for jet-like points before electrocoagulation.The fluid color in the drainage tube was monitored postoperatively for continuous bleeding.RESULTS Eight patients were included from 2012 to 2022.None of the patients with massive rectal bleeding after the transrectal prostate punctures improved with conventional conservative and blood transfusion treatments.Two patients had an inferior artery embolism,and digital subtraction angiography was ineffective.All patients received emergency transanal prostate resection,which immediately stopped the bleeding.Four days after the procedure,the patients had recovered and were discharged.CONCLUSION Using a transanal prostate resection instrument is a simple,safe,and effective method for treating massive rectal bleeding after transrectal prostate punctures.展开更多
Introduction: Even though lumbar puncture (LP) represents an important tool in the diagnosis of certain neurological diseases, this procedure is little practiced by our students. We aimed to evaluate the attitudes and...Introduction: Even though lumbar puncture (LP) represents an important tool in the diagnosis of certain neurological diseases, this procedure is little practiced by our students. We aimed to evaluate the attitudes and practices of students, interns, and residents about LP, and to assess their feelings about how this procedure is taught. Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of 160 participants, using an anonymous questionnaire, to evaluate the attitudes and practices of students, interns and residents in the pediatrics department concerning lumbar puncture. Results: Half of the participants had never performed LP, usually because of the risk involved or lack of confidence, while 20% had performed it more than 4 times. None of the participants had learned to perform the procedure through simulation sessions, while (42%) had learned it under the supervision of a senior physician and had not been able to perform it successfully the first time. Most participants inform the patient about the procedure before performing it. Only 44% of participants acknowledged that LP can be performed under local anesthetic. The sitting position (60%) was by far the most commonly used. Most LPs were performed for diagnostic purposes. Most participants stated that the pediatric ward and the pediatric emergency department are among the departments that perform LP most frequently, and that they would be interested in taking part in simulated lumbar puncture sessions in children in the future. Conclusion: The results of our study show that LP is perceived by students as a risky procedure that is difficult to perform. Teachers should reconsider how this technical procedure is taught, by integrating simulation on mannequins into student training.展开更多
Objective: To clarify the role of the “Three Threes” method in clinical teaching of internal jugular vein puncture and explore improvements in teaching methods. Methods: A doctor was assigned to the induction room o...Objective: To clarify the role of the “Three Threes” method in clinical teaching of internal jugular vein puncture and explore improvements in teaching methods. Methods: A doctor was assigned to the induction room of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Shanghai Changzheng Hospital) for two months. The time required for catheterization, the first puncture success rate, and occurrence of puncture-related complications were compared before and after learning the “Three Threes” method. Results: Using the “Three Threes” method reduced the catheterization time by 43%, increased the first puncture success rate by 17%, and led to fewer puncture-related complications. Conclusion: The application of the “Three Threes” method not only improves the success rate of internal jugular vein puncture but also reduces complications, making it easier for students to master the technique.展开更多
Dear Editor,High-flow priapism is a persistent erection,usually caused by blunt perineal trauma,resulting in pathologically increased arterial inflow to the corpora cavernosa[1].The therapeutic strategy of high-flow p...Dear Editor,High-flow priapism is a persistent erection,usually caused by blunt perineal trauma,resulting in pathologically increased arterial inflow to the corpora cavernosa[1].The therapeutic strategy of high-flow priapism,although codified,leaves room for a wide choice of techniques,ranging from conservative management,selective arterial embolization to surgical management[2].The aim of this letter was to report an alternative approach of percutaneous embolization by direct puncture for the treatment of high-flow priapism.展开更多
BACKGROUND The coaxial radiography-guided puncture technique(CR-PT)is a novel technique for endoscopic lumbar discectomy.As the X-ray beam and the puncturing needle are maintained in a parallel and coaxial direction,t...BACKGROUND The coaxial radiography-guided puncture technique(CR-PT)is a novel technique for endoscopic lumbar discectomy.As the X-ray beam and the puncturing needle are maintained in a parallel and coaxial direction,the X-ray beam can be used to guide the trajectory angle,facilitating the choice of the puncture site and providing real-time guidance.This puncture technique offers numerous advantages over the conventional anterior-posterior and lateral radiography-guided puncture technique(AP-PT),especially in cases of herniated lumbar discs with a hypertrophied transverse process or articular process,high iliac crest,and narrowed intervertebral foramen.AIM To confirm whether CR-PT is a superior approach to percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic lumbar discectomy compared to AP-PT.METHODS In this parallel,controlled,randomized clinical trial,herniated lumbar disc patients appointed to receive percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy treatment were recruited from the Pain Management Department of the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University and Nantong Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine.Sixty-five participants were enrolled and divided into either a CR-PT group or an AP-PT group.The CR-PT group underwent CR-PT,and the AP-PT group underwent AP-PT.The number of fluoroscopies during puncturing,puncture duration(min),surgery duration(min),VAS score during puncturing,and puncture success rate were recorded.RESULTS Sixty-five participants were included,with 31 participants in the CR-PT group and 34 in the AP-PT group.One participant in the AP-PT group dropped out due to unsuccessful puncturing.The number of fluoroscopies[median(P25,P75)]was 12(11,14)in the CR-PT group vs 16(12,23)in the AP-PT group,while the puncture duration(mean±SD)was 20.42±5.78 vs 25.06±5.46,respectively.The VAS score was 3(2,4)in the CR-PT group vs 3(3,4)in the AP-PT group.Further subgroup analysis was performed,considering only the participants with L5/S1 segment herniation:9 patients underwent CR-PT,and 9 underwent AP-PT.The number of fluoroscopies was 11.56±0.88 vs 25.22±5.33;the puncture duration was 13.89±1.45 vs 28.89±3.76;the surgery duration was 105(99.5,120)vs 149(125,157.5);and the VAS score was 2.11±0.93 vs 3.89±0.6,respectively.All the above outcomes demonstrated statistical significance(P<0.05),favoring the CR-PT treatment.CONCLUSION CR-PT is a novel and effective technique.As opposed to conventional AP-PT,this technique significantly improves puncture accuracy,shortens puncture time and operation time,and reduces pain intensity during puncturing.展开更多
BACKGROUND Meningitis remains a significant source of mortality and morbidity,with an incidence of 1 per 100000 persons in the United States.Guidelines recommend obtaining blood cultures and cerebrospinal fluid(CSF)st...BACKGROUND Meningitis remains a significant source of mortality and morbidity,with an incidence of 1 per 100000 persons in the United States.Guidelines recommend obtaining blood cultures and cerebrospinal fluid(CSF)studies in patients presenting with acute meningitis syndrome,and beginning treatment with broad spectrum antibiotics based on the age and certain predisposing conditions.In some patients however,the diagnostic lumbar puncture(LP)is not performed due to a multitude of reasons,ranging from increased intracranial pressure to failed attempt.In such situations,appropriate therapy is initiated empirically and often continued without establishment of a definitive diagnosis.AIM To determine whether a diagnostic LP in acute meningitis syndrome was associated with a better outcome and less duration of antibiotic therapy,along with potential causes for deferral of procedure.METHODS A retrospective study was conducted amongst the patients presenting to a 360 bedded community hospital in central Massachusetts with a diagnosis of acute meningitis syndrome between January 2010-September 2022.The electronic health records were accessed to collect necessary demographic and clinical data,including etiology of meningitis,lumbar puncture results,reason for procedure deferral,duration of antibiotic therapy and clinical outcome.The patients were subsequently divided into two groups based on whether they received a LP or not,and data was analyzed.RESULTS A total of 169 patients admitted with acute meningitis syndrome between September 2010-2022 were included in the study.The mean age of the participants was 54.3 years(SD+/-19.2 years).LP was performed for 130(76.9%)participants,out of which,28(21.5%)showed some growth in CSF culture.The most commonly identified organism was streptococcus pneumoniae.Amongst the 39 patients in whom LP was deferred,the major reasons recorded were:Body habitus(n=6,15.4%),and unsuccessful attempt(n=4,10.3%).While 93(71.5%)patients with LP received antibiotic therapy,only 19(48.7%)patients without LP received the antibiotics,with the principal reason being spontaneous improvement in sensorium without any diagnosed source of infection.The mean duration of antibiotic use was 12.3 days(SD+/-5.6)in the LP group and 11.5 days(SD+/-7.0)in the non-LP group(P=0.56;statistically not significant).We observed higher long term sequalae in the non-LP group(n=6,15.4%)compared to the LP group(n=9,6.9%).Similarly,the death rate was higher in the non-LP group(n=7,18.0%)compared to the LP group(n=9,6.9%).CONCLUSION LP remains the cornerstone for diagnosing meningitis,but often CSF results are unavailable,leading to empiric treatment.Our study identified that body habitus and unsuccessful attempts were the most common reasons for LP not being performed,leading to empiric antibiotic coverage.There was no difference between the duration of antibiotics received by the two groups,but a lower proportion of patients without LP received antibiotics,attributed to a spontaneous improvement in sensorium.However,the residual neurological sequelae and death rates were higher in patients without LP,signifying a potential under-treatment.A LP remains crucial to diagnose meningitis,and a lack of CSF analysis predisposes to under-treatment,leading to higher neurological sequelae and increased chances of death.展开更多
BACKGROUND Accidental dural puncture(ADP)and subsequent post-dural puncture headache(PDPH)remain common complications of epidural procedures for obstetric anesthesia and analgesia.No clear consensus exists on the best...BACKGROUND Accidental dural puncture(ADP)and subsequent post-dural puncture headache(PDPH)remain common complications of epidural procedures for obstetric anesthesia and analgesia.No clear consensus exists on the best way to prevent PDPH after ADP.CASE SUMMARY We report our findings in twenty parturients who underwent an incorporated strategy of epidural analgesia followed by epidural hydroxyethyl starch(HES)to prevent PDPH after ADP with a 16-gauge Tuohy needle during epidural procedures.ADP with a 16-gauge Tuohy needle occurred in nine parturients undergoing a cesarean section(CS)and in eleven parturients receiving labor analgesia.An epidural catheter was re-sited at the same or adjacent intervertebral space in all patients.After CS,the epidural catheter was used for postoperative pain relief over a 48-h period.After delivery in eleven cases,epidural infusion was maintained for 24 h.Thereafter,15 mL of 6%HES 130/0.4 was administered via the epidural catheter immediately prior to catheter removal.None of the parturients developed PDPH or neurologic deficits over a follow-up period of at least two months to up to one year postpartum.CONCLUSION An incorporated strategy of epidural analgesia followed by epidural hydroxyethyl starch may have great efficacy in preventing PDPH after ADP.展开更多
Objective: To evaluate the short-term and middle-long-term therapeutic effects of deep puncture of Tianshu (天枢 ST 25) for slow transit constipation (STC). Methods: Sixty cases of STC patients were evenly rando...Objective: To evaluate the short-term and middle-long-term therapeutic effects of deep puncture of Tianshu (天枢 ST 25) for slow transit constipation (STC). Methods: Sixty cases of STC patients were evenly randomized into Methods: group and medication group. In acupuncture group, electroaoupuncture (EA, 20 Hz, continuous waves and tolerable strength) was applied to bilateral Tienshu (ST 25) for 30 min after deep puncture. The treatment was given once daily, 5 sessions every week, two weeks altogether. Patients of control group were ordered to take Lactulose ( 10mL/time, b. i. d), two weeks altogether. Cleveland Constipation Score (CCS) and colonic transit time (COT) were used to evaluate the therapeutic effect. Results: After treatment, both COS and COT showed that the therapeutic effect of acupuncture group was significantly superior to that of medication group (P〈0.05). Six-months' follow up showed that the therapeutic effect of acupuncture still maintained in 13 of the 22 cases visited, while that of control group only maintained in 1 of the 19 cases. Conclusion: The therapeutic effect of deep puncture of Tianshu (ST 25) for STC is definite and has a middle-long-term effect. The patients have no any unfavorable reactions.展开更多
Needle biopsy is an essential part of modern clinical medicine.The puncture accuracy and sampling success rate of puncture surgery can be effectively improved through virtual surgery.There are few three-dimensional pu...Needle biopsy is an essential part of modern clinical medicine.The puncture accuracy and sampling success rate of puncture surgery can be effectively improved through virtual surgery.There are few three-dimensional puncture(3D)models,which have little significance for surgical guidance under complicated conditions and restrict the development of virtual surgery.In this paper,a 3D simulation of the muscle tissue puncture process is studied.Firstly,the mechanical properties of muscle tissue are measured.The Mooney-Rivlin(M-R)model is selected by considering the fitting accuracy and calculation speed.Subsequently,an accurate 3D dynamic puncture model is established.The failure criterion is used to define the breaking characteristics of the muscle,and the bilinear cohesion model defines the breaking process.Experiments with different puncture speeds are carried out through the built in vitro puncture platform.The experimental results are compared with the simulation results.The experimental and simulated reaction force curves are highly consistent,which verifies the accuracy of the model.Finally,the model under different parameters is studied.The simulation results of varying puncture depths and puncture speeds are analyzed.The 3D puncture model can provide more accurate model support for virtual surgery and help improve the success rate of puncture surgery.展开更多
Objectives: After reading this article, readers should be able to recognize Post Dural Puncture Headache, understand its mechanism and diagnostic criteria, evaluate the different treatment options available, and be fa...Objectives: After reading this article, readers should be able to recognize Post Dural Puncture Headache, understand its mechanism and diagnostic criteria, evaluate the different treatment options available, and be familiar with a novel treatment option. Background: Post-dural puncture headache is the most common serious complication resulting from lumbar puncture and epidural or spinal anesthetics. The syndrome is characterized by severe headache that occurs within 48 hours following the puncture, located in the frontal and/or occipital region, worsened in the upright position and refractory to routine analgesia. The syndrome incidence was reported to be approximately 1% with typical obstetric anesthesiology practice which reflects more than 20,000 cases per 2014 in the US. Two possible mechanisms are hypothesized as responsible for this syndrome;cerebrospinal fluid leakage and pneumocephalus. Multiple methods of treatment have been applied with wide-ranging results. Design or Methods: Review article with introduction of a novel treatment option. Results: We postulate that Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy can be used to treat post-dural puncture headache. The rationale for treatment is dual: enhancement of fibroblast proliferation at the site of dural puncture to facilitate faster closure of the tear and compression of air bubbles in case of pneumocephalus according to Boyle’s law. We also claim that hyperbaric oxygen therapy should be considered a prophylactic treatment, if a dural tear is suspected.展开更多
To evaluate the effect of triple puncture on primary trigeminal neuralgia (pTN),64 patients with pTN were randomly assigned to two groups:treatment group and control group.The participants in the treatment group recei...To evaluate the effect of triple puncture on primary trigeminal neuralgia (pTN),64 patients with pTN were randomly assigned to two groups:treatment group and control group.The participants in the treatment group received triple puncture treatment of 6 times per week for 4 weeks,and those in control group were given carbamazepine (300-600 mg per day) for at least 1 month.Before and after treatment,the primary outcomes including the total efficiency rate and the VAS pain scores,and the secondary outcomes including the frequency of pain attack and adverse events were observed.Sixty-two participants finished the study (33 in treatment group and 29 in control group individually).After treatment,the symptoms (mainly pain) of the two groups were alleviated.The total efficiency rate in the treatment group and control group was 90.9% and 75.9% respectively.The VAS pain scores and frequency of pain attack were significantly reduced in the treatment group as compared with the control group (P<0.05).The incidence of adverse events in the treatment group and control group was 9.1% and 24.1% respectively.It can be inferred that triple puncture can effectively improve the quality of life of patients with pTN and has less side effects.展开更多
The present study aimed to compare the complications and clinical outcomes of serial lumbar puncture(LP) and lumbar cerebrospinal fluid(CSF) drainage(LD) of patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage and p...The present study aimed to compare the complications and clinical outcomes of serial lumbar puncture(LP) and lumbar cerebrospinal fluid(CSF) drainage(LD) of patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage and provide more evidence to guide clinical management.In this retrospective study,41 and 39 aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage patients were enrolled in the LP and LD group,respectively.Clinical outcomes,including CSF infection,intracerebral hemorrhage,vasospasm,hydrocephalus,death,length of stay,duration of drainage and the Glasgow Outcome Scale score were compared between the two groups.By comparing with the LP group,the LD group showed a significantly higher rate of CSF infection(P= 0.029) and shorter duration of drainage(P〈 0.001).Both groups displayed similar rates of vasospasm,hydrocephalus,intracerebral hemorrhage,the Glasgow Outcome Scale score one month after endovascular coiling and length of stay(P〉 0.05,respectively).In conclusion,both LD and serial LP are effective methods in the treatment of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage; besides,serial LP can reduce the incidence of CSF infection in draining hemorrhagic CSF in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage after endovascular coiling.展开更多
BACKGROUND Repeat cesarean deliverys involve a longer surgery and more severe visceral traction than primary cesarean deliverys.The dural puncture epidural(DPE)technique provides faster and more effective analgesia fo...BACKGROUND Repeat cesarean deliverys involve a longer surgery and more severe visceral traction than primary cesarean deliverys.The dural puncture epidural(DPE)technique provides faster and more effective analgesia for labor,but there is no sufficient evidence to indicate whether it is suitable for parturients undergoing repeat cesarean delivery.AIM To determine the efficacy and safety of the DPE anesthesia technique in patients undergoing repeat cesarean delivery.METHODS Patients undergoing repeat cesarean delivery were randomly divided into the DPE and epidural anesthesia(EA)groups.A 25-G spinal needle was used for dural puncture via a 19-G epidural needle.The patients in the two groups were injected with 5 mL of 2%lidocaine followed by 15 mL of a mixture of 1%lidocaine+0.5%ropivacaine as the epidural dosage.The primary outcome was the onset time of sensory block to the T6 dermatome level and the sensory and motor block degree.RESULTS A total of 115 women were included(EA:57,DPE:58).The mean time to sensory block to the T6 Level was significantly shorter in the DPE group than in the EA group(14.7 min vs 16.6 min;95%confidence interval,13.9 to 15.4 vs 15.8 to 17.4;P=0.001).The cranial sensory block level was significantly higher at 5,10,and 15 min after the initial dose in the DPE group than in the EA group(P<0.05).The sacral sensory block level was significantly higher and the modified bromage score was significantly lower in the DPE group at each time point(P<0.05).Adverse effects and neonatal outcomes were comparable between the two groups(P>0.05).CONCLUSION The DPE technique provided higher-quality anesthesia than the EA technique,with a rapid onset of surgical anesthesia,better cranial and sacral sensory block spread and a higher motor block degree,without increasing the incidence of maternal or fetal side effects in patients undergoing repeat cesarean delivery.展开更多
基金Supported by 2022 Fujian Medical University Qihang Fund General Project Plan,No.2022QH1120。
文摘BACKGROUND Severe acute pancreatitis(SAP),a condition with rapid onset,critical condition and unsatisfactory prognosis,poses a certain threat to human health,warranting optimization of relevant treatment plans to improve treatment efficacy.AIM To evaluate the efficacy and safety of computerized tomography-guided the-rapeutic percutaneous puncture catheter drainage(CT-TPPCD)combined with somatostatin(SS)in the treatment of SAP.METHODS Forty-two SAP patients admitted to The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University from June 2020 to June 2023 were selected.On the basis of routine treatment,20 patients received SS therapy(control group)and 22 patients were given CT-TPPCD plus SS intervention(research group).The efficacy,safety(pancreatic fistula,intra-abdominal hemorrhage,sepsis,and organ dysfunction syndrome),abdominal bloating and pain relief time,bowel recovery time,hospital stay,inflammatory indicators(C-reactive protein,interleukin-6,and pro-calcitonin),and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation(APACHE)II score of both groups were evaluated for comparison.RESULTS Compared with the control group,the research group had a markedly higher total effective rate,faster abdominal bloating and pain relief and bowel recovery,INTRODUCTION Pancreatitis,an inflammatory disease occurring in the pancreatic tissue,is classified as either acute or chronic and is associated with high morbidity and mortality,imposing a socioeconomic burden[1,2].The pathogenesis of this disease involves early protease activation,activation of nuclear factor kappa-B-related inflammatory reactions,and infiltration of immune cells[3].Severe acute pancreatitis(SAP)is a serious condition involving systemic injury and subsequent possible organ failure,accounting for 20%of all acute pancreatitis cases[4].SAP is also characterized by rapid onset,critical illness and unsatisfactory prognosis and is correlated with serious adverse events such as systemic inflammatory response syn-drome and acute lung injury,threatening the health of patients[5,6].Therefore,timely and effective therapeutic inter-ventions are of great significance for improving patient prognosis and ensuring therapeutic effects.Somatostatin(SS),a peptide hormone that can be secreted by endocrine cells and the central nervous system,is in-volved in the regulatory mechanism of glucagon and insulin synthesis in the pancreas[7].It has complex and pleiotropic effects on the gastrointestinal tract,which can inhibit the release of gastrointestinal hormones and negatively modulate the exocrine function of the stomach,pancreas and bile,while exerting a certain influence on the absorption of the di-gestive system[8,9].SS has shown certain clinical effectiveness when applied to SAP patients and can regulate the severity of SAP and immune inflammatory responses,and this regulation is related to its influence on leukocyte apoptosis and adhesion[10,11].Computerized tomography-guided therapeutic percutaneous puncture catheter drainage(CT-TPPCD)is a surgical procedure to collect lesion fluid and pus samples from necrotic lesions and perform puncture and drainage by means of CT image examination and precise positioning[12].In the research of Liu et al[13],CT-TPPCD applied to pa-tients undergoing pancreatic surgery contributes to not only good curative effects but also a low surgical risk.Baudin et al[14]also reported that CT-TPPCD has a clinical success rate of 64.6%in patients with acute infectious necrotizing pan-creatitis,with nonfatal surgery-related complications found in only two cases,suggesting that this procedure is clinically effective and safe in the treatment of the disease.In light of the limited studies on the efficacy and safety of SS plus CT-TPPCD in SAP treatment,this study performed a relevant analysis to improve clinical outcomes in SAP patients.
基金funded by the grants from the National Key Research and Development Program of China[2021YFC2301503,2022YFC2302900]the National Natural and Science Foundation of China[82171739,82171815,81873884]。
文摘Objective To evaluate the diagnostic value of histopathological examination of ultrasound-guided puncture biopsy samples in extrapulmonary tuberculosis(EPTB).Methods This study was conducted at the Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center.A total of 115patients underwent ultrasound-guided puncture biopsy,followed by MGIT 960 culture(culture),smear,Gene Xpert MTB/RIF(Xpert),and histopathological examination.These assays were performed to evaluate their effectiveness in diagnosing EPTB in comparison to two different diagnostic criteria:liquid culture and composite reference standard(CRS).Results When CRS was used as the reference standard,the sensitivity and specificity of culture,smear,Xpert,and histopathological examination were(44.83%,89.29%),(51.72%,89.29%),(70.11%,96.43%),and(85.06%,82.14%),respectively.Based on liquid culture tests,the sensitivity and specificity of smear,Xpert,and pathological examination were(66.67%,72.60%),(83.33%,63.01%),and(92.86%,45.21%),respectively.Histopathological examination showed the highest sensitivity but lowest specificity.Further,we found that the combination of Xpert and histopathological examination showed a sensitivity of 90.80%and a specificity of 89.29%.Conclusion Ultrasound-guided puncture sampling is safe and effective for the diagnosis of EPTB.Compared with culture,smear,and Xpert,histopathological examination showed higher sensitivity but lower specificity.The combination of histopathology with Xpert showed the best performance characteristics.
文摘Objective:To evaluate the feasibility and the safety of medial non-papillary percutaneous nephrolithotomy(npPCNL)for the management of large proximal ureteral stones.Methods:We evaluated prospectively collected data of 37 patients with large proximal ureteral stones more than 1.5 cm in diameter treated by prone npPCNL.Depending on stone size,in-toto stone removal or lithotripsy using the Lithoclast®Trilogy(EMS Medical,Nyon,Switzerland)was performed.Perioperative parameters including operative time(from start of puncture to the skin suturing),stone extraction time(from the first insertion of the nephroscope to the extraction of all stone fragments),and the stone-free rate were evaluated.Results:Twenty-one males and 16 females underwent npPCNL for the management of large upper ureteral calculi.The median age and stone size of treated patients were 58(interquartile range[IQR]:51-69)years and 19.3(IQR:18.0-22.0)mm,respectively.The median operative time and stone extraction time were 25(IQR:21-29)min and 8(IQR:7-10)min,respectively.One case(2.7%)of postoperative bleeding and two cases(5.4%)of prolonged fever were managed conservatively.The stone-free rate at a 1-month follow-up was 94.6%.Conclusion:The npPCNL provides a straight route to the ureteropelvic junction and proximal ureter.Approaching from a dilated portion of the ureter under low irrigation pressure with larger diameter instruments results in effective and safe stone extraction within a few minutes.
基金Supported by President Fund Innovation Team Project of Hexi University,No.CXTD2022012Gansu Province Education Technology Innovation Project,No.2023B-163.
文摘BACKGROUND Ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy is a reliable diagnostic procedure for prostate cancer diagnosis with minimal procedure-related trauma.However,complications,such as massive rectal bleeding may occur after the puncture.We hypothesized that using a transrectal resectoscope could help treat massive rectal bleeding after transrectal prostate punctures.AIM To identify a simple and effective treatment for massive rectal bleeding after transrectal prostate punctures.METHODS Patients requiring treatment for massive rectal bleeding after transrectal prostate punctures were included.A SIMAI resectoscope was inserted through the anus.Direct electrocoagulation was performed for superficial bleeding points.Part of the rectal mucosa or surface muscle layer was removed to expose deep bleeding points,followed by electrocoagulation.An electric cutting ring was used to compress and stop the bleeding for jet-like points before electrocoagulation.The fluid color in the drainage tube was monitored postoperatively for continuous bleeding.RESULTS Eight patients were included from 2012 to 2022.None of the patients with massive rectal bleeding after the transrectal prostate punctures improved with conventional conservative and blood transfusion treatments.Two patients had an inferior artery embolism,and digital subtraction angiography was ineffective.All patients received emergency transanal prostate resection,which immediately stopped the bleeding.Four days after the procedure,the patients had recovered and were discharged.CONCLUSION Using a transanal prostate resection instrument is a simple,safe,and effective method for treating massive rectal bleeding after transrectal prostate punctures.
文摘Introduction: Even though lumbar puncture (LP) represents an important tool in the diagnosis of certain neurological diseases, this procedure is little practiced by our students. We aimed to evaluate the attitudes and practices of students, interns, and residents about LP, and to assess their feelings about how this procedure is taught. Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of 160 participants, using an anonymous questionnaire, to evaluate the attitudes and practices of students, interns and residents in the pediatrics department concerning lumbar puncture. Results: Half of the participants had never performed LP, usually because of the risk involved or lack of confidence, while 20% had performed it more than 4 times. None of the participants had learned to perform the procedure through simulation sessions, while (42%) had learned it under the supervision of a senior physician and had not been able to perform it successfully the first time. Most participants inform the patient about the procedure before performing it. Only 44% of participants acknowledged that LP can be performed under local anesthetic. The sitting position (60%) was by far the most commonly used. Most LPs were performed for diagnostic purposes. Most participants stated that the pediatric ward and the pediatric emergency department are among the departments that perform LP most frequently, and that they would be interested in taking part in simulated lumbar puncture sessions in children in the future. Conclusion: The results of our study show that LP is perceived by students as a risky procedure that is difficult to perform. Teachers should reconsider how this technical procedure is taught, by integrating simulation on mannequins into student training.
文摘Objective: To clarify the role of the “Three Threes” method in clinical teaching of internal jugular vein puncture and explore improvements in teaching methods. Methods: A doctor was assigned to the induction room of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Shanghai Changzheng Hospital) for two months. The time required for catheterization, the first puncture success rate, and occurrence of puncture-related complications were compared before and after learning the “Three Threes” method. Results: Using the “Three Threes” method reduced the catheterization time by 43%, increased the first puncture success rate by 17%, and led to fewer puncture-related complications. Conclusion: The application of the “Three Threes” method not only improves the success rate of internal jugular vein puncture but also reduces complications, making it easier for students to master the technique.
文摘Dear Editor,High-flow priapism is a persistent erection,usually caused by blunt perineal trauma,resulting in pathologically increased arterial inflow to the corpora cavernosa[1].The therapeutic strategy of high-flow priapism,although codified,leaves room for a wide choice of techniques,ranging from conservative management,selective arterial embolization to surgical management[2].The aim of this letter was to report an alternative approach of percutaneous embolization by direct puncture for the treatment of high-flow priapism.
文摘BACKGROUND The coaxial radiography-guided puncture technique(CR-PT)is a novel technique for endoscopic lumbar discectomy.As the X-ray beam and the puncturing needle are maintained in a parallel and coaxial direction,the X-ray beam can be used to guide the trajectory angle,facilitating the choice of the puncture site and providing real-time guidance.This puncture technique offers numerous advantages over the conventional anterior-posterior and lateral radiography-guided puncture technique(AP-PT),especially in cases of herniated lumbar discs with a hypertrophied transverse process or articular process,high iliac crest,and narrowed intervertebral foramen.AIM To confirm whether CR-PT is a superior approach to percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic lumbar discectomy compared to AP-PT.METHODS In this parallel,controlled,randomized clinical trial,herniated lumbar disc patients appointed to receive percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy treatment were recruited from the Pain Management Department of the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University and Nantong Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine.Sixty-five participants were enrolled and divided into either a CR-PT group or an AP-PT group.The CR-PT group underwent CR-PT,and the AP-PT group underwent AP-PT.The number of fluoroscopies during puncturing,puncture duration(min),surgery duration(min),VAS score during puncturing,and puncture success rate were recorded.RESULTS Sixty-five participants were included,with 31 participants in the CR-PT group and 34 in the AP-PT group.One participant in the AP-PT group dropped out due to unsuccessful puncturing.The number of fluoroscopies[median(P25,P75)]was 12(11,14)in the CR-PT group vs 16(12,23)in the AP-PT group,while the puncture duration(mean±SD)was 20.42±5.78 vs 25.06±5.46,respectively.The VAS score was 3(2,4)in the CR-PT group vs 3(3,4)in the AP-PT group.Further subgroup analysis was performed,considering only the participants with L5/S1 segment herniation:9 patients underwent CR-PT,and 9 underwent AP-PT.The number of fluoroscopies was 11.56±0.88 vs 25.22±5.33;the puncture duration was 13.89±1.45 vs 28.89±3.76;the surgery duration was 105(99.5,120)vs 149(125,157.5);and the VAS score was 2.11±0.93 vs 3.89±0.6,respectively.All the above outcomes demonstrated statistical significance(P<0.05),favoring the CR-PT treatment.CONCLUSION CR-PT is a novel and effective technique.As opposed to conventional AP-PT,this technique significantly improves puncture accuracy,shortens puncture time and operation time,and reduces pain intensity during puncturing.
文摘BACKGROUND Meningitis remains a significant source of mortality and morbidity,with an incidence of 1 per 100000 persons in the United States.Guidelines recommend obtaining blood cultures and cerebrospinal fluid(CSF)studies in patients presenting with acute meningitis syndrome,and beginning treatment with broad spectrum antibiotics based on the age and certain predisposing conditions.In some patients however,the diagnostic lumbar puncture(LP)is not performed due to a multitude of reasons,ranging from increased intracranial pressure to failed attempt.In such situations,appropriate therapy is initiated empirically and often continued without establishment of a definitive diagnosis.AIM To determine whether a diagnostic LP in acute meningitis syndrome was associated with a better outcome and less duration of antibiotic therapy,along with potential causes for deferral of procedure.METHODS A retrospective study was conducted amongst the patients presenting to a 360 bedded community hospital in central Massachusetts with a diagnosis of acute meningitis syndrome between January 2010-September 2022.The electronic health records were accessed to collect necessary demographic and clinical data,including etiology of meningitis,lumbar puncture results,reason for procedure deferral,duration of antibiotic therapy and clinical outcome.The patients were subsequently divided into two groups based on whether they received a LP or not,and data was analyzed.RESULTS A total of 169 patients admitted with acute meningitis syndrome between September 2010-2022 were included in the study.The mean age of the participants was 54.3 years(SD+/-19.2 years).LP was performed for 130(76.9%)participants,out of which,28(21.5%)showed some growth in CSF culture.The most commonly identified organism was streptococcus pneumoniae.Amongst the 39 patients in whom LP was deferred,the major reasons recorded were:Body habitus(n=6,15.4%),and unsuccessful attempt(n=4,10.3%).While 93(71.5%)patients with LP received antibiotic therapy,only 19(48.7%)patients without LP received the antibiotics,with the principal reason being spontaneous improvement in sensorium without any diagnosed source of infection.The mean duration of antibiotic use was 12.3 days(SD+/-5.6)in the LP group and 11.5 days(SD+/-7.0)in the non-LP group(P=0.56;statistically not significant).We observed higher long term sequalae in the non-LP group(n=6,15.4%)compared to the LP group(n=9,6.9%).Similarly,the death rate was higher in the non-LP group(n=7,18.0%)compared to the LP group(n=9,6.9%).CONCLUSION LP remains the cornerstone for diagnosing meningitis,but often CSF results are unavailable,leading to empiric treatment.Our study identified that body habitus and unsuccessful attempts were the most common reasons for LP not being performed,leading to empiric antibiotic coverage.There was no difference between the duration of antibiotics received by the two groups,but a lower proportion of patients without LP received antibiotics,attributed to a spontaneous improvement in sensorium.However,the residual neurological sequelae and death rates were higher in patients without LP,signifying a potential under-treatment.A LP remains crucial to diagnose meningitis,and a lack of CSF analysis predisposes to under-treatment,leading to higher neurological sequelae and increased chances of death.
文摘BACKGROUND Accidental dural puncture(ADP)and subsequent post-dural puncture headache(PDPH)remain common complications of epidural procedures for obstetric anesthesia and analgesia.No clear consensus exists on the best way to prevent PDPH after ADP.CASE SUMMARY We report our findings in twenty parturients who underwent an incorporated strategy of epidural analgesia followed by epidural hydroxyethyl starch(HES)to prevent PDPH after ADP with a 16-gauge Tuohy needle during epidural procedures.ADP with a 16-gauge Tuohy needle occurred in nine parturients undergoing a cesarean section(CS)and in eleven parturients receiving labor analgesia.An epidural catheter was re-sited at the same or adjacent intervertebral space in all patients.After CS,the epidural catheter was used for postoperative pain relief over a 48-h period.After delivery in eleven cases,epidural infusion was maintained for 24 h.Thereafter,15 mL of 6%HES 130/0.4 was administered via the epidural catheter immediately prior to catheter removal.None of the parturients developed PDPH or neurologic deficits over a follow-up period of at least two months to up to one year postpartum.CONCLUSION An incorporated strategy of epidural analgesia followed by epidural hydroxyethyl starch may have great efficacy in preventing PDPH after ADP.
文摘Objective: To evaluate the short-term and middle-long-term therapeutic effects of deep puncture of Tianshu (天枢 ST 25) for slow transit constipation (STC). Methods: Sixty cases of STC patients were evenly randomized into Methods: group and medication group. In acupuncture group, electroaoupuncture (EA, 20 Hz, continuous waves and tolerable strength) was applied to bilateral Tienshu (ST 25) for 30 min after deep puncture. The treatment was given once daily, 5 sessions every week, two weeks altogether. Patients of control group were ordered to take Lactulose ( 10mL/time, b. i. d), two weeks altogether. Cleveland Constipation Score (CCS) and colonic transit time (COT) were used to evaluate the therapeutic effect. Results: After treatment, both COS and COT showed that the therapeutic effect of acupuncture group was significantly superior to that of medication group (P〈0.05). Six-months' follow up showed that the therapeutic effect of acupuncture still maintained in 13 of the 22 cases visited, while that of control group only maintained in 1 of the 19 cases. Conclusion: The therapeutic effect of deep puncture of Tianshu (ST 25) for STC is definite and has a middle-long-term effect. The patients have no any unfavorable reactions.
基金the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province(Grant No.ZR2019JQ19)the interdisciplinary research project of Shandong University(Grant No.2017JC027).
文摘Needle biopsy is an essential part of modern clinical medicine.The puncture accuracy and sampling success rate of puncture surgery can be effectively improved through virtual surgery.There are few three-dimensional puncture(3D)models,which have little significance for surgical guidance under complicated conditions and restrict the development of virtual surgery.In this paper,a 3D simulation of the muscle tissue puncture process is studied.Firstly,the mechanical properties of muscle tissue are measured.The Mooney-Rivlin(M-R)model is selected by considering the fitting accuracy and calculation speed.Subsequently,an accurate 3D dynamic puncture model is established.The failure criterion is used to define the breaking characteristics of the muscle,and the bilinear cohesion model defines the breaking process.Experiments with different puncture speeds are carried out through the built in vitro puncture platform.The experimental results are compared with the simulation results.The experimental and simulated reaction force curves are highly consistent,which verifies the accuracy of the model.Finally,the model under different parameters is studied.The simulation results of varying puncture depths and puncture speeds are analyzed.The 3D puncture model can provide more accurate model support for virtual surgery and help improve the success rate of puncture surgery.
文摘Objectives: After reading this article, readers should be able to recognize Post Dural Puncture Headache, understand its mechanism and diagnostic criteria, evaluate the different treatment options available, and be familiar with a novel treatment option. Background: Post-dural puncture headache is the most common serious complication resulting from lumbar puncture and epidural or spinal anesthetics. The syndrome is characterized by severe headache that occurs within 48 hours following the puncture, located in the frontal and/or occipital region, worsened in the upright position and refractory to routine analgesia. The syndrome incidence was reported to be approximately 1% with typical obstetric anesthesiology practice which reflects more than 20,000 cases per 2014 in the US. Two possible mechanisms are hypothesized as responsible for this syndrome;cerebrospinal fluid leakage and pneumocephalus. Multiple methods of treatment have been applied with wide-ranging results. Design or Methods: Review article with introduction of a novel treatment option. Results: We postulate that Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy can be used to treat post-dural puncture headache. The rationale for treatment is dual: enhancement of fibroblast proliferation at the site of dural puncture to facilitate faster closure of the tear and compression of air bubbles in case of pneumocephalus according to Boyle’s law. We also claim that hyperbaric oxygen therapy should be considered a prophylactic treatment, if a dural tear is suspected.
文摘To evaluate the effect of triple puncture on primary trigeminal neuralgia (pTN),64 patients with pTN were randomly assigned to two groups:treatment group and control group.The participants in the treatment group received triple puncture treatment of 6 times per week for 4 weeks,and those in control group were given carbamazepine (300-600 mg per day) for at least 1 month.Before and after treatment,the primary outcomes including the total efficiency rate and the VAS pain scores,and the secondary outcomes including the frequency of pain attack and adverse events were observed.Sixty-two participants finished the study (33 in treatment group and 29 in control group individually).After treatment,the symptoms (mainly pain) of the two groups were alleviated.The total efficiency rate in the treatment group and control group was 90.9% and 75.9% respectively.The VAS pain scores and frequency of pain attack were significantly reduced in the treatment group as compared with the control group (P<0.05).The incidence of adverse events in the treatment group and control group was 9.1% and 24.1% respectively.It can be inferred that triple puncture can effectively improve the quality of life of patients with pTN and has less side effects.
文摘The present study aimed to compare the complications and clinical outcomes of serial lumbar puncture(LP) and lumbar cerebrospinal fluid(CSF) drainage(LD) of patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage and provide more evidence to guide clinical management.In this retrospective study,41 and 39 aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage patients were enrolled in the LP and LD group,respectively.Clinical outcomes,including CSF infection,intracerebral hemorrhage,vasospasm,hydrocephalus,death,length of stay,duration of drainage and the Glasgow Outcome Scale score were compared between the two groups.By comparing with the LP group,the LD group showed a significantly higher rate of CSF infection(P= 0.029) and shorter duration of drainage(P〈 0.001).Both groups displayed similar rates of vasospasm,hydrocephalus,intracerebral hemorrhage,the Glasgow Outcome Scale score one month after endovascular coiling and length of stay(P〉 0.05,respectively).In conclusion,both LD and serial LP are effective methods in the treatment of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage; besides,serial LP can reduce the incidence of CSF infection in draining hemorrhagic CSF in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage after endovascular coiling.
基金Supported by the Applied Medical Research Project of Hefei Health and Family Planning Commission,No.Hwk2020yb0016.
文摘BACKGROUND Repeat cesarean deliverys involve a longer surgery and more severe visceral traction than primary cesarean deliverys.The dural puncture epidural(DPE)technique provides faster and more effective analgesia for labor,but there is no sufficient evidence to indicate whether it is suitable for parturients undergoing repeat cesarean delivery.AIM To determine the efficacy and safety of the DPE anesthesia technique in patients undergoing repeat cesarean delivery.METHODS Patients undergoing repeat cesarean delivery were randomly divided into the DPE and epidural anesthesia(EA)groups.A 25-G spinal needle was used for dural puncture via a 19-G epidural needle.The patients in the two groups were injected with 5 mL of 2%lidocaine followed by 15 mL of a mixture of 1%lidocaine+0.5%ropivacaine as the epidural dosage.The primary outcome was the onset time of sensory block to the T6 dermatome level and the sensory and motor block degree.RESULTS A total of 115 women were included(EA:57,DPE:58).The mean time to sensory block to the T6 Level was significantly shorter in the DPE group than in the EA group(14.7 min vs 16.6 min;95%confidence interval,13.9 to 15.4 vs 15.8 to 17.4;P=0.001).The cranial sensory block level was significantly higher at 5,10,and 15 min after the initial dose in the DPE group than in the EA group(P<0.05).The sacral sensory block level was significantly higher and the modified bromage score was significantly lower in the DPE group at each time point(P<0.05).Adverse effects and neonatal outcomes were comparable between the two groups(P>0.05).CONCLUSION The DPE technique provided higher-quality anesthesia than the EA technique,with a rapid onset of surgical anesthesia,better cranial and sacral sensory block spread and a higher motor block degree,without increasing the incidence of maternal or fetal side effects in patients undergoing repeat cesarean delivery.