Corticosteroids or Not for Postoperative Nausea: A Double-Blinded Randomized Study

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is common after general anaesthesia, and corticosteroids are used in many protocols for enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS). However, surgical techniques are developing, and ERAS protocols need to be reevaluated from time to time.

In this study, we compared the effects of oral vs. parenteral corticosteroid administration on postoperative nausea. Elective Roux-y-gastric bypass (RYGB) patients were randomly assigned to either 8 mg betamethasone orally (n = 50) or parentally (n = 25) or as controls (n = 25), in a double-blind design. PONV risk factors were noted. All patients had the same anaesthetic technique. Data were collected at baseline, on arrival to the recovery room (RR) and at five more time points during the first 24 h. Nausea and tiredness were patient assessed using visual analogue scales; rescue drug consumption was recorded.

Operation time was 30-40 min. Neither demographics nor risk factors for nausea differed between groups. Neither peak values for nor total amount of nausea differed between groups. The number of supplemental injections was the same for all groups.

In a setting of modern laparoscopic RYGB, the value of betamethasone in preventing PONV seems to be limited. ERAS protocols may need re-evaluation.