Analgesia for day surgery.

Med J Aust · 1992

review · Level V

Where this comes from

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To review current and potential analgesic techniques in day surgery, with particular regard to their pharmacology. DATA SOURCES: Recent articles on analgesia for surgery and day surgery were retrieved from Index Medicus for 1988-1990. Pharmacokinetic data were collated from recent textbooks and articles. DATA SYNTHESIS: The reviewed information is integrated with a pharmacological approach and personal experience with the use of postoperative analgesia. CONCLUSIONS: Combination analgesia therapy is the best approach for postoperative analgesia for day surgery. The usefulness of preoperative blockade of the pain sensation which limits activation of the central pain pathway and decreases analgesic requirements, is also emphasised. Examples of measures for relief of mild, moderate and severe pain are given.