Hyperbaric spinal ropivacaine in lower limb and hip surgery: A comparison with hyperbaric bupivacaine

Abstract

Background: Bupivacaine has more potential for central nervous system and cardiovascular toxicity when compared to ropivacaine. Ropivacaine provides effective spinal anesthesia for lower limb and hip surgeries. This prospective study was designed to compare the efficacy and safety of intrathecal hyperbaric ropivacaine with hyperbaric bupivacaine for patients undergoing limb and hip surgeries. Materials and Methods: Two hundred patients aged 40-75 years, with American Society of Anesthesiologists I and II of either gender were randomly divided into Group R (Ropivacaine) and Group B (Bupivacaine) to receive an intrathecal injection of 3 ml of hyperbaric ropivacaine 0.5% or 3 ml of hyperbaric bupivacaine 0.5%, respectively. Onset and duration of sensory blockade were determined by peripheral method by a pinprick method by a three-point scale at T-10 dermatome. Onset and duration of motor block were assessed by modified Bromage scale. Duration of postoperative analgesia, hemodynamic changes, central nervous system and cardiovascular system toxicity or any adverse effects were observed. Results: The mean onset of sensory block (6 ± 1.3 min vs. 3 ± 1.1 min; P 0.05). Conclusion: We conclude that hyperbaric bupivacaine used intrathecally has a faster onset of sensory block and prolonged duration of analgesia compared to hyperbaric ropivacaine group. A more rapid postoperative recovery of sensory and motor function was seen in Group R compared with Group B. However, side effects observed were more in Group B.

Keywords

• Bupivacaine
• hyperbaric
• ropivacaine
• spinal anesthesia