Effect of Right Stellate Ganglion Block on Preventing Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting in Gynecological Laparoscopic Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

INTRODUCTION

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is one of the most common postoperative complications, with particularly high rates in patients undergoing high-risk surgeries such as gynecologic laparoscopy. Although there are many pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods that can prevent PONV, the incidence remains high. This study assessed the effectiveness of a right stellate ganglion block (SGB) in preventing PONV in gynecological laparoscopy patients, while also exploring the potential mechanisms involved.

METHODS

Two hundred patients were randomly assigned to either a right SGB under ultrasound guidance 30 min before anesthesia (SGB group) or no treatment (control group). The primary outcome was PONV incidence within 24 h post surgery. Secondary outcomes included nausea and vomiting severity, pain scores, postoperative flatus time, sleep quality, and satisfaction scores.

RESULTS

The incidence of PONV in the SGB group was 38%, significantly lower than the 60% in the control group (P = 0.002). Severity of PONV was also notably reduced in the SGB group (P = 0.004). Resting pain scores in the SGB group at 6 h (0.0 [0.0, 1.0] vs. 0.0 [0.0, 2.0], P = 0.013), 12 h (0.0 [0.0, 1.0] vs. 0.0 [0.0, 2.0], P = 0.027), and 24 h (0.0 [0.0, 1.0] vs. 0.0 [0.0, 2.0], P = 0.011) were lower than in the control group. Post-activity pain scores at 6 h (2.0 [1.0, 3.0] vs. 3.0 [1.25, 4.0], P = 0.000), 12 h (2.0 [1.0, 3.0] vs. 3.0 [1.25, 4.0], P = 0.002), and 24 h (2.0 [1.0, 3.0] vs. 3.0 [2.0, 4.0], P = 0.001) were also lower. The time to first postoperative flatus was shorter in the SGB group (P = 0.033). Overall postoperative satisfaction (P = 0.002) and analgesia satisfaction (P = 0.002) were higher, and sleep quality was improved (P = 0.046).

CONCLUSION

A right stellate ganglion block reduces PONV, pain, and postoperative flatus time, and improves sleep quality and satisfaction in gynecological laparoscopy patients, proving it to be a safe and effective method.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT06426186.