Free gingival groove as a landmark for anatomical crown length in altered passive eruption.

Spinal anesthesia, involving intrathecal injection of local anesthetics like bupivacaine, is preferred for lower body surgeries due to its safety profile, rapid sensory blockade, and lower risk of respiratory depression compared to general anesthesia.[] Despite these benefits, patients often face postoperative sequelae such as acute pain, delayed wound healing, postoperative nausea/vomiting (PONV)-induced gastric dysmotility, perioperative anxiety, and fragmented sleep, which can prolong hospital stays and increase healthcare costs.[] Standard pharmacological management mitigates these issues: bupivacaine for intraoperative blockade, paracetamol and tramadol for analgesia, ondansetron for PONV prophylaxis, and pantoprazole for gastric protection.[] Evidence-based guidelines emphasize multimodal approaches, yet pharmacological interventions alone may not address holistic needs like psychological support or mobility.[] Nursing care pathways—structured, multidisciplinary protocols—integrate evidence-based practices such as patient education, standardized assessments, and early interventions to streamline care and enhance outcomes. Cochrane reviews indicate that clinical pathways reduce in-hospital complications, improve documentation, and shorten length of stay without increasing costs. In spinal anesthesia contexts, pathways focusing on enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) have shown promise in reducing pain and anxiety, while promoting gastrointestinal function.[]