Effect of Fentanyl Addition to Local Anesthetic on Peribulbar Block in Keratoplasty Sugery

Background: Peribulbar block is becoming increasingly popular in ophthalmic practice because it is simple and safer. In this study , the addition of fentanyl to peribulbar anesthesia as regard the duration and intensity of ophthalmic block is evaluated and thus the possibility of performing lengthy surgeries without the need for top-up doses. Methods: 200 patients undergoing penetrating keratoplasty were randomly classified into Group F which received 12cc peribulbar block containing 30ug Fentanyl and 0.5% bupivacaine and 75 units Hyalase and group C which received 12cc peribulbar block containing 0.5% bupivacaine and 75 units Hyalase. Results: Duration of block and surgeon satisfaction were significantly higher in group F compared to group C. There was no difference between the two groups regarding onset of anesthesia or lid akinesia. Conclusions: Addition of fentanyl to peribulbar block potentiates the intensity of the block and increases its duration.