Magnesium Can Decrease Postoperative Physiological Ileus and Postoperative Pain in Major non Laparoscopic...

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Pharmacology
• Surgical Recovery

Background:

• Magnesium acts as an antagonist to the N-methyl D-Aspartate (NMDA) receptor, influencing pain perception.
• Understanding magnesium's role in pain management is crucial for optimizing surgical recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effects of intravenous magnesium on hemodynamic stability.
• To evaluate the impact of magnesium on postoperative pain and analgesic consumption.
• To determine magnesium's influence on the incidence and duration of postoperative ileus.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 32 patients undergoing major gastrointestinal surgery.
• Patients received either magnesium sulfate (bolus and infusion) or a placebo.
• Pain was assessed using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), and analgesic requirements (Morphine PCA) were recorded.

Main Results:

• The magnesium group experienced a significant reduction in severe postoperative pain (NRS) and cumulative morphine consumption.
• Duration of postoperative ileus was significantly shorter in the magnesium group (2.3 days vs. 4.2 days).
• Hemodynamic parameters showed decreased Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) and Systemic Vascular Resistance (SVR) in the magnesium group during surgery.

Conclusions:

• Intravenous magnesium is effective in reducing postoperative ileus and severe pain following major GI surgery.
• Magnesium administration lowers intraoperative and postoperative analgesic requirements.
• Magnesium appears safe and beneficial as an adjunct to general anesthesia for major GI surgeries.