Efficacy of pectoralis nerve blocks I & II with liposomal bupivacaine in patients undergoing elective breast reduction procedures: A retrospective study.

Background: The pectoral nerve (PECs) block I and II nerve blocks with liposomal bupivacaine (LB, Exparel) are used for postoperative analgesia in breast surgery, but evidence on efficacy for breast reduction is limited. We examined the effect of the PECS I and II blocks with LB on perioperative opioid use and pain scores compared to no block and blocks with plain local anesthetic (LA). We hypothesized that patients receiving a block with LB would require lower opioid amounts.

Preliminary investigation of a polyethylene glycol hydrogel "nerve glue".

Background: Polyethylene glycol (PEG) hydrogel is a biocompatible semi-adherent gel like substance that can potentially augment nerve repair much like a fibrin sealant. Potential advantages of this substance include fast preparation and set up time, as well as adhesion inhibiting properties. The purpose of this study was to perform an initial evaluation of PEG hydrogel in this application.