Comparative evaluation of caudal block administration of ropivacaine, levobupivacaine and bupivacaine in pediatric patients undergoing lower- abdominal surgeries

Aim: The purpose of the present research was to assess and compare the efficacy of Ropivacaine, Levobupivacaine and Bupivacaine in paediatric patients as an anaesthetic in caudal block undergoing various lower abdominal surgeries. Methodology: This was a prospective randomized controlled study including 50 consecutive patients in the age group of 1‑10 years, who underwent urogenital surgeries under general anesthesia. Study was performed at Dr. Moopen's Medical College, Wayanad, Kerala. India and duration was from January 2022 to September 2022. Caudal block was given with either bupivacaine (0.25%) 1 ml/kg (Group I) or ropivacaine (0.25%) 1 ml/kg (Group II) or levobupivacaine 0.25% 1 mL /kg (Group III). Heart rate (HR) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) were recorded as a baseline, before the anesthesia induction and then at 30, 60 and 90 min after incision. Pain scores were assessed post‑operatively by a single observer at 30 min and then at 2, 4, 8 and 12 hour with a 5‑point observer pain score (OPS). Patients and observer were blinded to the medication given. The duration of absolute analgesia was defined as the time from caudal injection until the pain score was >2. Motor block was assessed by modified Bromage scale.