Hepato Gastroenterol
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Hepato Gastroenterol · Jul 2014
Review Meta AnalysisThoracic epidural analgesia (TEA) vs. patient controlled analgesia (PCA) in laparoscopic colectomy: a meta-analysis.
Use of thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA) in laparoscopic colorectal surgery is still controversial. Previous clinical trials have conflicting findings in terms of bowel function return, length of hospital stay and postoperative complications. This meta-analysis aims to assess the effect of TEA on clinical outcomes of laparoscopic colorectal surgery compared with patient controlled analgesia (PCA). ⋯ Use of epidural analgesia in laparoscopic colorectal surgery helps to provide better pain alleviation during the initial period after operation. This benefit is not at the expense of increased risks of any major complications, or significantly longer hospital stay. No significant benefits in return of bowel function were observed.