The PIEB Study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The effects of different volumes and time intervals of a programmed intermittent epidural bolus (PIEB) regimen on patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) usage: a randomised double blind trial
IRAS ID
173749
Contact name
ROSHAN FERNANDO
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
UCL Sponsor Rep
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
R&D reference number, 15/0043
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 6 months, 2 days
Research summary
Epidurals remain the most effective form of pain relief for labour. An epidural is a small plastic tube which is inserted into a space in the back through which local anaesthetic is delivered. The local anaesthetic will numb the nerves to the abdomen and pelvis, thereby relieving pain associated with labour. There are many ways of delivering epidural local anaesthetic for labour pain relief. The newest method involves use of a specialised epidural pump (CADD®- Solis, Smith Medical) which ensures that a dose of local anaesthetic is delivered within a speicific time frame (e.g. every hour). This is called a programmed intermittent epidural bolus (PIEB). Furthermore, these pumps will also allow the patient to administer supplemental doses to themselves by pressing a button. This is called patient controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA). Early research into labour pain relief using the combination of PIEB and PCEA has shown that this specialised method of epidural delivery is superior to traditional methods of epidural drug delivery. It has been shown to reduce the total amount of local anaesthetic needed, reduce leg weakness, and improve patient satisfaction. The aim of this study is to evaluate which combined PIEB and PCEA regimen is best for labouring women.
Once a labour epidural is inserted, we will start one of eight different PIEB/PCEA regimens which will be allocated randomly. The patient nor the anaesthetist looking after the woman would be aware of the regimen they have been allocated. We will continue to monitor the patients closely throughout their labour and after delivery and collect all necessary information.REC name
London - Harrow Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/LO/1265
Date of REC Opinion
27 Oct 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion