Abstract

Objective: To evaluate efficacy and safety of preoperative paracetamol for
postoperative pain relief.
Methods: The study population consisted of 40 adult female patients scheduled for
tubectomy as an elective surgery who were in ASA class I. Patients were allocated
randomly to receive 325mg of acetaminophen orally half an hour before surgery. Pain
was assessed by verbal rating scale in three situations (resting, moving and coughing).
Data was collection done using the questionnaire and data analysis done using
descriptive statistical methods.
Results: The patients who received oral paracetamol experienced moderate and mild
pain in 50% of the cases when they were in resting position. Feeling mild and moderate
pain with movement was in 40% and 60% respectively. While coughing, 100% of the
cases felt only moderate pain and none experienced severe pain.
Conclusion: Administration of a single dose of acetaminophen in preoperative period is
effective for acute postoperative pain relief. (Rawal Med J 2007;32:22-24)

Key words: Pre-emptive analgesia, paracetamol, postoperative pain