Abstract :
Objective: Comparison between thoracic epidural and general anesthesia for breast surgeries.
Aim: The aim was to compare general anesthesia and thoracic epidural anesthesia in patients undergoing breast cancer surgeries on the basis of intra operative hemodynamic parameters, post-operative analgesic requirement and side effects such as nausea, vomiting, sedation and hemodynamic variability.
Method: A randomized double blind study was conducted on 60 ASA grade I, II and III females who received thoracic epidural anesthesia in group I (N=30) and general anesthesia in group II (N=30). Assessment of the block, vital monitoring and complications were noted.
Results: No significant differences were observed in both the groups. Hypotension and pruritus was more frequent in patients who underwent epidural anesthesia while hyper-tension was more common in patients with general anesthesia. Degree of patient satisfaction was similar in both the groups.
Conclusion: Thoracic epidural anesthesia is safe and reliable alternative to general anesthesia in women undergoing modified radical breast surgeries.
Keyword :
Thoracic epidural; General anesthesia; Breast surgery; Cost effectiveness; Early ambulation