[Local instillation of 0.75% ropivacaine compared with intravenous fentanyl and flurbiprofen for postoperative analgesia following inguinal hernia repair in adults].

BACKGROUND

We compared postoperative analgesia provided by local instillation of 0.75% ropivacaine with that by intravenous fentanyl and flurbiprofen.

METHODS

Twenty-nine adult patients undergoing an inguinal hernia repair procedure under general anesthesia were randomly divided into Groups F and R according to the method of postoperative analgesia. Those in Group F were administered fentanyl and flurbiprofen, while Group R was given a local instillation of 0.75% ropivacaine (20 ml) into the wound. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, oral loxoprofen 60 mg or rectum delivery of diclofenac at 25 mg) were administered according to patient request after the operation. The Prince Henry pain scale, and the use of NSAIDs and complications were also examined.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between the groups for demographic data. In Group R, the pain score was significantly lower from arrival at the ward to bedtime and the frequency of NSAID use was also significantly lower. No complications were seen in either group.

CONCLUSIONS

Local instillation of 0.75% ropivacaine is safe and effective, and provides adequate analgesia for a long period in adult patients following an inguinal hernia repair procedure.