Thoracic Epidural for Postoperative Ileus

In a sitting position, an 18-gauge Tuohy needle is introduced at T6-7 or T7-8 intervertebral space using a paramedian approach. An epidural catheter is advanced 5 cm beyond the tip of the needle and secured with a sterile dressing. For TEA regimen, hydromorphone (8 mcg/ml) was added to 0.15% ropivacaine. TEA setting was bolus/lock out time/basal, 3 ml/15 min/5 ml.

iv-PCA setting was fentanyl 20 mcg/ml, bolus/lock out time/basal, 0.5 ml/15 min/0.5 ml.