An evaluation of the effects of a service change from epidurals to rectus sheath catheters on postoperative pain. (July 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Finch, L.; Phillips, A.; Acheson, N.; Dix, P.; Berry, C.
• Is Part Of: Journal of obstetrics and gynaecology. Volume 33:Number 5(2013)
• Page Start: 502
• Page End: 504
• Publication Date: 2013-07
• Subjects: Obstetrics -- Periodicals; Gynecology -- Periodicals; 618.05
• DOI: 10.3109/01443615.2013.790884
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0144-3615

Abstract

<abstract> <title> <x xml:space="preserve">Abstract</x> </title> <p>Epidurals are frequently used as part of multi-modal perioperative analgesia. They are widely accepted as providing excellent pain relief but are associated with side-effects, have a significant failure rate and can limit a patient's mobility. We report on our use of rectus sheath catheters (RSCs), in conjunction with intravenous opiate via patient controlled analgesia (PCA), as a means of providing analgesia post-laparotomy for gynaecological oncological patients. Our experience is that this offers an alternative method of providing equivalent analgesia, avoiding the risks associated with epidural use and possibly has a role in reducing length of patient stay, although this requires further investigation.</p> </abstract>