Intrathecal morphine for off-pump coronary artery bypass patients

Due to the fact that patients have increased mental alertness following off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB), pain management in the immediate postoperative period is a major concern. Thirty-two patients underwent OPCAB grafting, 20 received 5 mcg/kg morphine sulfate intrathecally. This group was compared with 12 patients who did not receive intrathecal morphine. All patients were verbally evaluated for pain using the Wong-Baker Visual Analog Scale at eight, 12 and 24 hours. All the scores were highly statistically significant in favor of the intrathecal group. No significant complications were seen in this group of patients. It is concluded that intrathecal morphine at 5 mcg/kg is effective and safe in maintaining comfort for OPCAB patients in the immediate postoperative period.