Optimizing Postoperative Pain Management in Pelvic Floor Surgery

AbstractPurpose of ReviewSurgical treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction is very common, and women who undergo surgery experience varying degrees of postoperative pain. Opioid pain medications have been the mainstay of postoperative pain control, but with the growing opioid epidemic, alternative pain management strategies are needed. This review examines the current literature on opioid use in pelvic floor surgery, non-opioid pain control strategies, and surgical approach as it pertains to postoperative pain.Recent FindingsOver prescription of opioids is common in pelvic floor surgery and it poses a risk of developing long-term opioid dependence. Alternative pain control strategies include non-opioid medications, multimodal medication regimens, and local anesthetic. The type of surgical approach can have a bearing on the degree of postoperative pain.SummaryOptimal pain control after pelvic floor surgery involves multiple components that should be individualized to each patient. The components should include minimizing opioid pain medications, shared decision-making in surgical approach, and a perioperative pathway that maximizes the recovery process. Future studies should continue to explore ways to improve patient comfort and satisfaction after pelvic floor surgery.

Source: Current Bladder Dysfunction Reports - October 4, 2018 Category: Urology & Nephrology Source Type: research