Research Article
Comparative Analgesic Effect of Dexamethasone and Ketamine as Adjuncts to Plain Bupivacaine Using TAP Block For Elective Post-Caesarean Pain Relief
Iheanyi Ihunanya Anokwute*
,
Alex Maduakolam Oham,
Paschal Nnamezie Anozie,
Olumide Samuel Agunbiade,
Ebe Kalu,
Chukwuma Grant Madubuko
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 5, October 2026
Pages:
101-107
Received:
25 July 2026
Accepted:
6 August 2026
Published:
2 September 2026
Abstract: Background: Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block has been demonstrated to be an effective post-operative analgesic modality for caesarean section. However, various adjuncts have been used to prolong the analgesic effect of TAP block. The study aimed to evaluate the analgesic effect of dexamethasone and ketamine as adjuncts to plain bupivacaine for TAP following caesarean section. Subjects and Methods: Forty six eligible patients were randomized into two groups D and k (21 each) to receive TAP block. Group D received 40ml of 0.25% bupivacaine + 6mg dexamethasone and group K received 40ml of 0.25% bupivacaine +0.5mg/kg ketamine respectively. The duration of analgesia, pain scores, hemodynamic variables, and patient satisfaction using Likert- 5 scale were assessed and recorded. Data was collected and assessed using SPSS 21 for Windows. Numerical data was analyzed using unpaired Student t-test, while categorical data was analyzed using chi-square test. A p-value < 0.05 was considered significant. Result: The duration of analgesia was significantly (p<0.000) longer in dexamethasone group (1140.0±227.68) compared to ketamine group (846.0±211.37). The mean VAS score became significantly (p<0.000) lower in dexamethasone group (2.25±1.12) at 12hrs of the block compared to ketamine group (4.37±2.01). 95% of the patients (20) in group dexamethasone were satisfied with the procedure compared to 60% of patients (12) in ketamine group. This difference was statistically significant. Conclusion: The study concluded that 6mg dexamethasone when used as an adjuvant to plain bupivacaine via TAP block provided better analgesic profile after caesarean section compared to ketamine as an adjuvant.
Abstract: Background: Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block has been demonstrated to be an effective post-operative analgesic modality for caesarean section. However, various adjuncts have been used to prolong the analgesic effect of TAP block. The study aimed to evaluate the analgesic effect of dexamethasone and ketamine as adjuncts to plain bupivacaine f...
Show More
Research Article
The Prevalence of HIV Infection Among Women Attending Antenatal Clinics in the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital: A Five-year Review
Effiong Maria Bassey,
Udoudom Esther Charles,
Eyibio Mary Richard,
Elujekwute Michael Chinedu,
Matthias Gabriel Abah*
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 5, October 2026
Pages:
108-113
Received:
23 September 2026
Accepted:
8 October 2026
Published:
28 October 2026
Abstract: Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) attacks the body’s immune system and, when undiagnosed and untreated, may lead to adverse consequences. In pregnancy, HIV may lead to many adverse consequences, including mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT). Objective: To determine the prevalence and sociodemographic factors associated with HIV infection among pregnant women receiving antenatal care in the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital. Methodology: We reviewed the antenatal clinic, voluntary counselling and testing register, and partner notification registers for all booked patients who accessed antenatal care at the facility over five years; extracted, coded, and analysed the data. Results: A total of 9062 new patients registered for antenatal care during the period; 476 were HIV-positive, giving a prevalence rate of 5.3%. Three hundred and sixty-seven (77.1%) of the HIV infected women were already aware of their HIV status and on treatment, while 22.9% were newly diagnosed. Of these, 343 (72.1%) had started antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) before booking for antenatal care, 26.2% started them after diagnosis at booking, and 1.7% declined ARVs; partner notification was 81.3%. Most (70.2%) of the patients were 25-34years, multiparous (45.8%) and married (93.9%). While 11.7% had no formal education, 72.5% had at least a secondary level of education, were civil servants (55.2%), and lived in urban areas (59.8%). Conclusion: The prevalence of HIV infection was high. There is a need for emphasis on primary prevention strategies tailored toward women in the older group aged 25-34 years, partner notification, and ARV acceptance for treatment and Prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT).
Abstract: Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) attacks the body’s immune system and, when undiagnosed and untreated, may lead to adverse consequences. In pregnancy, HIV may lead to many adverse consequences, including mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT). Objective: To determine the prevalence and sociodemographic factors associated with HIV infect...
Show More
