Experience of External ultrasound assisted liposuction (EUAL) with large amount of volume under continuous epidural anesthesia

Objective To evaluate the effect and safety of external ultrasound assisted liposuction (EUAL) with large amount of volume under continuous epidural anesthesia and to summarize the experiences. Methods 15 patients (abdomen-waist 6cases, thigh 9 cases).were performed EUAL under continuous epidural anesthesia. We recorded tumescent liquid volumes and pure fat volumes as well as patients' life symptoms, blood component variations; also we observed the postoperative complications. Results Volume of sucked pure fat was 3300-4800ml, average 4100ml; there were clinical manifestations of blood insufficiency in 11 patients, including lower blood pressure, rapid pulse, pale skin and general fatigue. We also found the decrease of erythrocyte and hemoglobin. Recovery time was longer than with tumescent anesthesia. (It spent 5 days for patients to walk by themselves).There was severe bruise without other complications, such as infection, skin necrosis, unevenness and relaxation. Conclusion It should be cautious when performing EUAL with large amount of volume undercontinuous epidural anesthesia. Preoperative preparation and postoperative treatment should be done in earnest and carefully.