AANA journal
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Comparative Study
Extended-release epidural morphine vs continuous peripheral nerve block for management of postoperative pain after orthopedic knee surgery: a retrospective study.
The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of extended-release epidural morphine (EREM) and perineural infusion (PNI) to control pain after total knee arthroplasty. A convenience sample of 200 patients was obtained using a retrospective chart review of patients who underwent a total knee arthroplasty. Institutional review board approval was obtained, and 100 charts of patients who received EREM and 100 patient charts for PNI were reviewed. ⋯ The results of the study showed no significant differences between the 2 groups for the levels of pain preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and at 48 hours postoperatively. However, at both 12 hours and 24 hours postoperatively, the PNI group had a significantly higher pain score than the EREM group. The EREM group had better pain scores; however, one must look at a number of different variables when deciding if EREM is the correct choice for postoperative pain management.