Epidural analgesia shortens postoperative ileus after ileal pouch-anal canal anastomosis

A retrospective study was conducted to determine whether epidural analgesia would speed recovery from postoperative ileus in patients undergoing ileal pouch-anal canal anastomosis.

Among 85 patients who underwent proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal canal anastomosis at the Mayo Medical Center between January 1, 1991 and October 31, 1992, 44 were treated for postoperative pain with continuous infusion of epidural fentanyl citrate supplemented by intravenous morphine on request, while 41 controls were given only systemic morphine sulfate as needed.

The patients in the two groups were matched and similar with regard to preoperative and operative risk factors and postoperative morbidity. No operative mortality occurred. Epidural fentanyl analgesia resulted in less need for nasogastric suction and intravenous fluids, more rapid discharge of fecal content, more rapid return to oral intake, and shorter hospitalization.

Epidural analgesia with fentanyl citrate shortened postoperative ileus after proctocolectomy and ileal pouch-anal canal anastomosis.