European Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine

Background: Ophthalmic surgery is a common procedure in pediatric populations, and anesthesia is used to ensure patient comfort and safety during the surgery. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of topical anesthesia and peribulbar block as an adjuvant to general anesthesia in children undergoing ophthalmic surgery. Objectives: The study aimed to evaluate the differences in hemodynamic changes during surgery, pain relief during and after surgery, and the duration of postoperative pain relief between the two anesthesia techniques. It also aimed to examine the occurrence of ocular-cardiac reflex and changes in intraocular pressure. Methodology: A randomized control study was conducted with two groups, Group GA-PB, consisting of general anesthesia with peribulbar block, and Group GA-TA, consisting of general anesthesia with topical anesthesia. The study population consisted of 50 children aged 2 to 12 years. The primary outcome measures included differences in intraoperative hemodynamic changes, the need for pain relief during and after surgery, and the duration of postoperative pain relief. The secondary outcome measures included the occurrence of ocular-cardiac reflex, incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting, and changes in intraocular pressure. Results: There was no significant difference in age and weight between the two groups. The mean preoperative and intraoperative intraocular pressure did not differ significantly between the two groups. The GA-PB group showed significantly lower heart rate during surgery and required less pain relief during and after surgery. The duration of postoperative pain relief was also longer in the GA-PB group. There were no significant differences in oxygen saturation, blood pressure, incidence of ocular-cardiac reflex, or changes in intraocular pressure between the two groups. Conclusion: The study concluded that peribulbar block as an adjuvant to general anesthesia was more effective in reducing pain during and after ophthalmic surgery in children. It also showed that peribulbar block did not have any adverse effects on hemodynamic changes, oxygen saturation, or intraocular pressure. Therefore, peribulbar block can be considered as a safe and effective option for anesthesia in pediatric ophthalmic surgeries