Our Summary

This study looked at how using a combination of two drugs, sufentanil and propofol, for total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) could benefit patients undergoing a type of breast cancer surgery called radical mastectomy. The research was carried out on 120 patients, divided into two groups. The experimental group (EXG) received the combination of sufentanil and propofol, while the control group (COG) received a different drug called fentanyl, combined with propofol.

The results showed that the EXG had lower heart rates and blood pressure levels during and after surgery, less stress, and less post-surgery pain than the COG. They also experienced fewer side effects like dizziness, headache, itching, and agitation.

In simple terms, the study found that using sufentanil with propofol for anesthesia during this type of surgery can help patients to have a more stable operation, feel less stress, and have less pain afterwards. It also showed fewer side effects, making this combination of drugs a safer choice. The researchers suggest that this method should be used more widely in clinics.

FAQs

  1. What is the benefit of using sufentanil and propofol for anesthesia during a radical mastectomy?
  2. How did the heart rates and blood pressure levels of the patients who received sufentanil and propofol compare to those who received fentanyl and propofol?
  3. What side effects were reduced by using the combination of sufentanil and propofol during this type of surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient undergoing a radical mastectomy is that using a combination of sufentanil and propofol for anesthesia can provide better pain control, lower stress levels, and fewer side effects compared to other options. Patients may want to discuss this option with their healthcare provider to see if it is appropriate for their surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who undergo radical mastectomy, which is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the entire breast, underlying chest muscles, and lymph nodes in the armpit, are typically recommended this type of anesthesia. This procedure is often performed on patients with aggressive forms of breast cancer, especially those with large tumors or tumors that have spread to the lymph nodes. Patients who are at a higher risk of complications during surgery, such as older patients or those with pre-existing medical conditions, may also benefit from this type of anesthesia to help reduce stress and pain during and after the procedure.

Timeline

Before radical mastectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes initial consultation with the surgeon to discuss the need for mastectomy.
  2. Pre-operative tests such as blood work and imaging studies are conducted.
  3. Patient receives counseling and support to prepare mentally and emotionally for the surgery.
  4. Patient undergoes pre-operative preparations such as fasting and medication adjustments.
  5. Patient is taken into the operating room for the radical mastectomy procedure.

After radical mastectomy:

  1. Patient wakes up in the recovery room and is monitored closely for any complications.
  2. Patient may experience pain and discomfort at the surgical site.
  3. Patient is given pain medication and other supportive care to manage post-operative symptoms.
  4. Patient is discharged from the hospital once stable and instructed on post-operative care at home.
  5. Patient undergoes follow-up appointments with the surgeon and oncologist to monitor recovery and discuss further treatment options if needed.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about radical mastectomy and anesthesia options include:

  1. What type of anesthesia will be used for my radical mastectomy surgery?
  2. What are the potential side effects of the anesthesia drugs used for this surgery?
  3. How will the anesthesia affect my heart rate, blood pressure, and stress levels during and after surgery?
  4. Are there any alternative anesthesia options available for this surgery?
  5. How can I best manage post-surgery pain and discomfort?
  6. What is the recovery process like after a radical mastectomy surgery?
  7. Are there any specific risks or complications associated with the anesthesia used for this surgery?
  8. How will the anesthesia choice impact my overall experience and outcome of the surgery?
  9. Can you explain the potential benefits of using a combination of drugs like sufentanil and propofol for total intravenous anesthesia during this surgery?
  10. Are there any specific precautions I should take before or after the surgery in relation to the anesthesia used?

Reference

Authors: Qu L, Wu X. Journal: Dis Markers. 2022 Aug 5;2022:7294358. doi: 10.1155/2022/7294358. eCollection 2022. PMID: 35968501