Alkalinization of mepivacaine does not alter onset of caudal anesthesia.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the effect of alkalinization of mepivacaine on onset of caudal anesthesia.


METHODS
Randomized, blind study.


METHODS
Colon-Rectal Surgery Service of the Tertiary Center at Cleveland Clinic Foundation.


METHODS
Young, healthy adults undergoing anal surgery.


METHODS
Addition of bicarbonate (study group) or saline (control group) to mepivacaine.


RESULTS
At the onset of sacral anesthesia, demographics were measured. A slightly faster onset was found in the study group (4.28 vs. 6.08 minutes), but this was not statistically significant.


CONCLUSIONS
Alkalinization of mepivacaine does not significantly accelerate the onset of caudal anesthesia.
Tetzlaff
J E
JE
Department of General Anesthesia, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, OH 44195.
Rothstein
L
L
D000328:Adult; D000468:Alkalies; D000763:Anesthesia, Caudal / Q000379:methods; D001639:Bicarbonates / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000737:chemistry*; D006801:Humans; D006863:Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; D008619:Mepivacaine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000737:chemistry*; D009407:Nerve Block; D012447:Sacrum; D013997:Time Factors
D000468:Alkalies; D001639:Bicarbonates; D008619:Mepivacaine