Effect of Anterior Iliac Block on Postoperative Analgesia and Patient Satisfaction in Inguinal Hernia Repair Surgery

Description

Inguinal hernia repair is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures worldwide and presents challenges in anesthesia selection and postoperative pain management. Spinal anesthesia is frequently preferred due to its advantages, such as avoiding neuromuscular blockers and endotracheal intubation. Effective postoperative analgesia is essential for improving patient comfort and reducing opioid consumption. The anterior iliac block, a recently described technique, has emerged as a potential alternative to conventional regional anesthesia methods, offering wider nerve coverage and possibly improved analgesia. However, evidence regarding its efficacy and safety remains limited. This study aims to evaluate the effect of the anterior iliac block on postoperative analgesia duration and patient satisfaction in patients undergoing inguinal hernia surgery.

Interventions

• Anterior Iliac Block (Procedure)
  Patients in this group received an ultrasound-guided anterior iliac block following the completion of surgery under spinal anesthesia. The block was performed under sterile conditions with the patient in the supine position. Using a high-frequency linear ultrasound probe, the anatomical landmarks in the anterior iliac region were identified, and the relevant fascial plane was visualized. A block needle was advanced in-plane under real-time ultrasound guidance, and after negative aspiration, an appropriate volume(20 ml 0.25%) of local anesthetic was injected to ensure adequate spread within the target plane. All procedures were performed by experienced anesthesiologists. Postoperative analgesia was assessed using standardized pain scores, and additional analgesic requirements were recorded. The duration of analgesia and patient satisfaction were evaluated during the postoperative period.
• Control Group (A): (Other)
  Patients in this group did not receive an anterior iliac block. All patients underwent surgery under spinal anesthesia, and no additional postoperative analgesic intervention was administered routinely. Analgesic medication was provided only if required based on patient-reported pain levels. Pain scores, time to first analgesic requirement, total analgesic consumption, and patient satisfaction were assessed during the postoperative period using the same standardized methods as in the intervention group.

Eligibility criteria

Conditions

Locations

• Şanlıurfa Mehmet Akif İnan Training and Research Hospital — Sanliurfa, Turkey (Türkiye)
• Şanlıurfa Mehmet Akif İnan Training and Research Hospital — Sanliurfa, Turkey (Türkiye)