Work

Ultrasound-Guided Multilevel Bilateral Rectus Sheath Blocks with Liposomal Bupivacaine, Bupivacaine, and Dexamethasone PF for Postoperative Pain Management After a Pediatric Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) are exceedingly rare in pediatric patients but carry a significant risk of rupture, necessitating urgent surgical repair. Postoperative pain management following open AAA repair is particularly challenging and ultrasound-guided rectus sheath blocks (RSBs) offer a targeted and lower-risk alternative for midline abdominal incisions. Methods: We present an 8-yeaer old male who underwent open infrarenal AAA repair. Multilevel bilateral ultrasound-guided RSBs were performed at T7, the umbilicus and T12 using a mixture of liposomal bupivacaine, bupivacaine, and dexamethasone. Results: Postoperative pain scores remained consistently low through postoperative day (POD) 6, with minimal opioid requirements. Functional recovery was rapid, with sitting achieved by POD 1 and ambulation by POD 2. Plasma bupivacaine concentrations remained within safe limits throughout hospitalization. Conclusions: Multilevel bilateral RSBs with liposomal bupivacaine and dexamethasone provided prolonged opioid-sparing analgesia, facilitated early mobilization, and supported enhanced recovery in this complex pediatric surgical case.

Source: Children

DOI: 10.3390/children12111450

Authors: Tyler Augi, Mihaela Visoiu

Institutions: University of Pittsburgh, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center

Language: English

Topic: Anesthesia and Pain Management

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896