[Patient-controlled i.v. morphine for acute postoperative pain]

The use of patient-controlled i.v. analgesia for postoperative pain relief in 60 cases is described. 0.1% morphine was given by Bard or Graseby microprocessor. After a loading dose of 2-6 mg, the pump delivered a bolus of 0.8-1.5 mg of morphine every 8-12 min. The dosages necessary to provide good analgesia varied from 30-85 mg (mean 48). Good pain scores of 0-2 (on a scale of 5) were obtained in 92%. The method was also found satisfactory by the families and health care providers, and is highly recommended for control of postoperative pain.