Pre-emptive quadratus lumborum block for laparoscopic bariatric surgery: a prospective randomized controlled study

Abstract

Abstract Background Laparoscopic bariatric surgeries in morbidly obese patients have shown a steep rise recently. Quadratus lumborum block (QLB) has been used to decrease pain in various kinds of surgeries. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the ability of pre-emptive QLB to decrease intra- and postoperative pain and opioid consumption. Results Intraoperative HR and MAP were significantly lower in the QLB group starting 20 min after block initiation. Intraoperative additional fentanyl requirements, postoperative NRS scores at rest and with movement, nausea and vomiting and the consumption of rescue analgesia were also significantly lower in the QLB group for 12 h. Early ambulation was recorded in the QLB group. Conclusions Our results suggest that bilateral posterior QLB reduced intra- and postoperative pain during laparoscopic bariatric surgeries and decreased opioid requirements and side effects.

Keywords

• Quadratus lumborum block
• Laparoscopic bariatric surgery
• Morbid obesity