The efficacy of intravenous patient-controlled analgesia using tramadol following supratentorial tumor resection with craniotomy

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the analgesic efficacy of intravenous PCA using tramadol in patients, undergoing supratentorial tumor resection with craniotomy. Material and Method: One hundred and fifty patients with ASA I-II between 18 and 70 years of age scheduled for an elective supratentorial craniotomy for tumor resection, were assigned to receive standardized general anesthesia. Postoperative pain was assessed at standard time intervals using a visual analogue scale (VAS) score. When the VAS score was >3, 1 to 1.5 mg/kg of tramadol was administered intravenously and PCA using tramadol was started. For 48 h postoperatively, the VAS, Glasgow coma, sedation, comfort, and nausea and vomiting scores were assessed. Results: During the first 48 hours, 46% of the patients needed analgesic therapy and PCA with tramadol was adequate for these patients. Most patients needed analgesic drugs at 2 hours and their mean analgesic usage was higher at that point than at other periods in the first 2 h (p<0.05). Conclusion: PCA with tramadol can be used effectively for postoperative pain management after craniotomy.