Postoperative vomiting reduction after laparoscopic cholecystectomy with single dose of dexamethasone

The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is high after laparoscopic surgery. A number of drugs have been used for prevention; in some studies a single dexamethasone dose before induction of anaesthesia has been effective.

To test the effectiveness of this therapy, we recruited 80 patients in a double-blind placebo-controlled study (dexamethasone 8 mg or placebo) scheduled for laparoscopic cholecystectomy. We measured nausea, vomiting, postoperative pain and length of stay.

Patients who received preoperative dexamethasone had a reduction of PONV, but experienced the same degree of postoperative pain and remained in the hospital for the same duration. No apparent side effects were observed.

Although only a small number of patients were tested, we confirm the efficacy of dexamethasone therapy for reduction of PONV. We suggest routine use of a single dose of dexamethasone for the prevention of PONV in laparoscopic cholecystectomy.