Port-site infiltration of bupivacaine in reduction of postoperative pain after laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Abstract

Background: Port site pain remains prevalent complaint of early postoperative period after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Objectives: to see the analgesic efficacy of port-site infiltration of bupivacaine in laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Methodology: This randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted in the Department of Surgery, Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital, Sylhet from September 2017 to March 2018. Sixty patients underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomized into experimental group and control group by odd and even number respectively. Infiltration of 0.5% bupivacaine was at port sites subcutaneously in experimental group and none in control group. Postoperative pain intensity was measured using Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) at 6, 12, 24 and 48 hours. Results: Pain score was lesser in experimental group compared to control group at 6, 12, 24 and 48 hours (p< 0.001). The amount of opioid analgesic needed (p=0.006) and hospital stay (p=0.048) were significantly lesser in experimental group. Less frequent nausea/vomiting (p=0.034) and bladder dysfunction (p=0.012) were in experimental group. Conclusion: Port-site infiltration of bupivacaine is effective in reduction of postoperative pain in laparoscopic cholecystectomy.