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Efficacy of Quadratus Lumborum Block on Postoperative Analgesia in Hysterectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trials
Background: Laparoscopic hysterectomy is a common surgical procedure associated with postoperative pain. The Quadratus Lumborum (QL) block has been used as a regional anesthetic during hysterectomy, yet its efficacy remains unexplored. This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized control trials (RCTs) evaluates the efficacy of QL block in reducing opioid consumption and visual analogue scale (VAS) scores. The aim is to understand its potential benefits in the postoperative period.
Methods: Electronic search was conducted through PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane, and Web of Science. Relevant articles published from inception until May 20, 2024 were searched. Primary outcome included total opioid consumption within 24 hours and VAS scores within 2, 6, 12, and 24 hours post-operation. Secondary outcomes included time to first opioid demand, time to first ambulation, and adverse events.
Results: Nine RCTs were included. QL block significantly reduced total opioid consumption within the first 24 hours (MD = -10.1mg, 95% CI: -15.2 to -3.6, p = .008). VAS scores were significantly lower within the first 2 hours (MD = -3.6, 95% CI: -4.0 to -0.9, p = 0.046), 6 hours (MD = -2.3, 95% CI: -2.0 to -0.7, p = 0.031), and 12 hours (MD = -1.5, 95% CI: -1.9 to -0.3, p = 0.024). There was no significant difference in time to first opioid demand (MD = 120min, 95% CI: -10 to 50, p = 0.20), time to first ambulation (MD = 120min, 95% CI: -10 to 65, p = 0.15), or adverse events (OR = .78, p = .85).
Conclusion: QL block is an effective analgesia for reducing total opioid consumption and reducing VAS scores in hysterectomy. It does not have a significant impact on time to first opioid demand, time to first ambulation, or adverse events. QL block should be considered for postoperative pain management in hysterectomy.