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Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2009; 22(1): 041-046
DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1202885
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Operative Anesthesia and Pain Control

Jeffrey N. Winacoo1 , Justin A. Maykel2
  • 1Department of Anesthesiology, University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts
  • 2Department of Surgery, Section of Colon and Rectal Surgery, University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts
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Publication History

Publication Date:
09 March 2009 (online)

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ABSTRACT

A comprehensive understanding of operative anesthesia and postoperative pain control is essential to the practicing colon and rectal surgeon. Most of the operations performed—particularly in the perineum—cause significant patient discomfort and often result in a lengthy recovery period. A variety of factors, including patient positioning in the operating room and patient expectations, influence the choice of operative anesthesia. Postoperatively numerous modalities and agents exist for pain control. With this variety of options at hand, surgeons should be educated and decisions should be individualized, with the ultimate goals of improving the patient experience and facilitating recovery.

KEYWORDS

Patient controlled analgesia (PCA) - epidural - opioids

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Justin A MaykelM.D. 

Department of Surgery, Section of Colon and Rectal Surgery, University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center

67 Belmont St., Worcester, MA 01605

Email: maykelj@ummhc.org

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