U/S-guided Continuous Quadratus Lumborum Block III in Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy

Ultrasound-guided Continuous Quadratus Lumborum Block III for Postoperative Analgesia in Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is considered to be the first choice and a more conservative procedure than open stone surgery. Not only postoperative pain related to dilatation of the renal capsule and parenchymal tract, but also patient's discomfort & nephrostomy tube-related stress are reported to delay recovery time and increase the complication rates. This study is designed to provide postoperative analgesia by using ultrasound-guided continuous Quadratus Lumborum Block (QLB) III in patients undergoing PCNL and to assess pain scores & side effects with less opioids consumption.

Inclusion Criteria:

• ASA I-II.
• Scheduled for percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL).

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patient refusal.
• Coagulation disorders.
• Skin lesions or infection at site of needle insertion.
• Known allergy to local anesthetics or opioids.
• Patients suffering from neurological or mental disease.
• Procedure turned into open stone surgery.
• Failure of identification by U/S.
• Urinary tract malignancies.
• Opioid consumption 48 hours before the operation.