Intraperitoneal Analgesia for Postoperative Pain Relief after Laparoscopic Surgeries

Background: Though laparoscopic surgeries is less invasive and produces less post-operative pain,post-laparoscopy pain is still a concern. Intraperitoneal (IP) instillation of local anaesthetics has been shown to minimize the postoperative pain after laparoscopic surgeries. This study was conducted to compare the efficacy of intraperitoneal instillation of dexmedetomidine with bupivcaine and bupivacaine alone in reducing postoperative pain. Methods: 60 patients, enrolled for laparoscopic surgeries were divided randomly into two groups of 30 each. Group B: Bupivacaine (30ml,0.25%) with 2 ml normal saline was instilled prior to removal of trocars, and Group BD: Bupivacaine(30ml,0.25%) with dexmedetomidine(1mcg/kg,diluted to 2 ml) was instilled under prior to removal of trocars . In postoperative period, Visual Analogue Score (VAS) was recorded up to 24 hours. Postoperative analgesic requirements, and side effects were recorded. Results: The Visual Analogue Score (VAS) during the first postoperative 24 hours was significantly lower in group BD compared to group B. Time to first of analgesia required was delayed and total analgesic consumption was lower in group BD compared to group B which was statistically significant. Conclusion: Intraperitoneal instillation of dexmedetomidine with bupivcaine is an effective and safe method for reducing pain after laparoscopic surgeries.