The effects of epidural versus parenteral opioid analgesia on postoperative pain and pulmonary function in adults who have undergone thoracic and abdominal surgery: a critique of research.

Abstract

Studies comparing epidural and parenteral opioid analgesia for patients experiencing thoracic or abdominal surgery are analyzed with respect to differences in postoperative pain and pulmonary function. Although most studies suggest that epidural analgesia is superior for postoperative pain relief, few clearly demonstrate an improvement in pulmonary function attributable to epidural analgesia. Recommendations for future research are proposed to improve the design, measurement, analysis, and reporting of studies. Research relevant to the nursing care of patients receiving epidural analgesia is suggested.

• Authors: T Simpson, G Wahl, M DeTraglia, E Speck, D Taylor
• Journal: Heart & lung : the journal of critical care (Heart Lung) Vol. 21 Issue 2 Pg. 125-38 (Mar 1992) ISSN: 0147-9563 [Print] United States
• PMID: 1544806 (Publication Type: Comparative Study, Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review)

Chemical References

• Narcotics

Topics

• Abdomen (surgery)
• Adult
• Humans
• Infusions, Parenteral
• Injections, Epidural
• Lung (drug effects)
• Narcotics (administration & dosage)
• Pain, Postoperative (drug therapy, nursing)
• Thoracic Surgery