Aesthetic surgery journal
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Aesthetic surgery journal · Nov 2004
Pain management in augmentation mammaplasty: a randomized, comparative study of the use of a continuous infusion versus self-administration intermittent bolus of a local anesthetic.
Indwelling catheters for pain control after augmentation mammaplasty appear to be safe and effective. However, little is known regarding the comparison of continuous flow to intermittent bolus anesthetics. ⋯ After augmentation mammaplasty, both indwelling catheters using continuous flow and intermittent bolus anesthesia as needed are effective in controlling postoperative pain. Continuous flow maintains a steady state of pain control without patient intervention. Self-administration allows patients to have a more active role if they have pain and is an effective low-cost alternative to a commercial pain pump. These conclusions are supported by a review of the literature and by our own experience with more than 380 consecutive patients.