Effects of gabapentin on preoperative anxiety and postoperative analgesia with morphine in rectocolic surgery

M. Sava¹, N. Rusu²

1 Disciplina ATI, Facultatea de Medicină „Victor Papilian” Sibiu
2 Disciplina Fiziopatologie, Facultatea de Medicină „Victor Papilian” Sibiu

Abstract

Aim. To evaluate the effects of gabapentin, a voltage gated calcium channels (VGCC) blocker, on preoperative anxiety and postoperative pain.

Methods. In a prospective randomised double-blind study 50 ASA I, II and III patients submitted to colorectal surgery were divided in equal groups: one group received preoperatively 800 mg gabapentin p.o. (group G), and the other group received placebo (group P). For postoperative analgesia morphine was used in continuous i.v. infusion with top-ups at demand. Using visual analogue scale (VAS) anxiety before surgery and postoperative pain at rest and during movement (coughing) were evaluated. Also morphine con­sump­tion and the incidents of side effects were determined.

Results. The incidence of preoperative anxiety was lower in the gabapentin group vs placebo (30 ± 14 vs 62 ± 12; p < 0,001). Gabapentin group had a significantly lower pain score at rest up to 24 hours postoperatively, and at movements up to 16 hours post­operatively. Morphine consumption was significantly lower 24 h postoperatively (35.6 ± 14.14 vs 54.7 ± 13.02 mg) and also 48 h postoperatively (54 ± 18.6 vs 79 ± 20.5 mg). The incidence of side effects was simi-lar in the two groups, except nausea witch occurred less in the gabapentin group (7 vs 11, p < 0.05).

Conclusions. Administration of gabapentin reduced preoperative anxiety, postoperative pain, and postoperative morphine consumption.