Intradermal methylene blue analgesic application in posthemorrhoidectomy pain management: a randomized controlled...

Area of Science:

• Surgical Innovation
• Pain Management
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Post-hemorrhoidectomy pain presents a significant challenge, impacting patient recovery and procedure acceptance.
• Methylene blue is known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, potentially by inhibiting nitric oxide production and nerve action potentials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of postoperative regional methylene blue administration for extended post-hemorrhoidectomy pain relief.
• To evaluate the potential benefits of intradermal methylene blue injections in managing surgical pain.

Main Methods:

• A double-blind, randomized controlled trial involving 97 patients (stage III/IV hemorrhoids) was conducted.
• Patients received either 1% methylene blue or 0.5% Marcaine (control) via intradermal injection post-surgery.
• Pain scores were assessed over a two-week follow-up period.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in demographics, surgical parameters, or complications were observed between groups.
• The methylene blue group reported significantly lower pain scores from day 1 to day 7 post-surgery.
• Pain scores in the methylene blue group remained lower until day 12, though not significantly different after day 7.

Conclusions:

• Intradermal injection of 1% methylene blue shows potential as an effective analgesic for post-hemorrhoidectomy pain.
• The treatment demonstrated comparable efficacy to the control with negligible side effects and complications.