A randomized double blind study to compare 1% 2-chloroprocaine and 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine in spinal anesthesia for infra-umbilical surgeries

Abstract

Background: Spinal anesthesia is a reliable and safe technique for infra-umbilical surgeries. Preservative-free 2-chloroprocaine has re-emerged for use in spinal anesthesia. We compared onset and duration of sensory block with intrathecal use of 1% 2-chloroprocaine (30 mg) or 0.5% Hyperbaric Bupivacaine (15 mg) as primary objective. Secondary objectives being onset and duration of motor block, duration of analgesia, time to return of voiding function, hemodynamic parameters and side effects. Methodology: 90 patients of age group 18-60 years, either sex, belonging to ASA physical status I/II undergoing infra-umbilical surgeries were randomly divided into two groups, 1% 2-chloroprocaine Group A (n=45) and 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine Group B (n=45). Each group received intrathecally either 30 mg of 2-chloroprocaine or 15 mg of hyperbaric bupivacaine 15 mg. For statistical analysis unpaired-t-test and chi-square test were used. Results: Earlier onset and shorter duration of sensory block were observed in Group A as compared to Group B respectively (p < 0.001). Similarly, onset was earlier and duration of motor block, duration of analgesia and time to return of voiding function were shorter in Group A as compared to Group B respectively (p < 0.001). Hemodynamic parameters (HR, MAP) were comparable in both groups. Conclusion: Intrathecal 1% 2-chloroprocaine 30 mg provides spinal anesthesia of adequate duration for infra-umbilical surgeries with the advantage of earlier onset and faster regression of spinal block resulting in earlier voiding with stable hemodynamics as compared to 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine 15 mg.