[Continuous epidural droperidol for postoperative pain]

We investigated the proper dosage of droperidol continuously infused into the epidural space. Sixty patients who received continuous epidural infusion of buprenorphine for 24 hours were divided into four groups (Group I: only buprenorphine, Group II: 1.25 mg of droperidol added to buprenorphine, Group III: 2.5 mg of droperidol added to buprenorphine, Group IV: 5 mg of droperidol added to buprenorphine). No significant difference was observed in prevention of nausea and vomiting among 4 groups. But in group II, III and IV, there was a tendency of increased analgesic effects of buprenorphine. Especially in group III, the pain level was significantly lower and number of doses of bupivacaine was significantly fewer than in group I. In conclusion, droperidol 2.5 mg continuously infused into epidural space increases analgesic effects of buprenorphine.