Effects of ondansetron on postoperative emesis in Chinese children

Acta Anaesthesiologica Sinica
|November 17, 1998
PubMed

Insights

Ondansetron significantly reduced postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in pediatric patients undergoing surgery. This study confirms ondansetron

Area of Science:

  • Anesthesiology
  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a frequent complication following general anesthesia.
  • Ondansetron, a selective serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonist, is recognized for its efficacy in managing PONV.
  • Limited clinical data exists on ondansetron's use for PONV prevention in Taiwan.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the effectiveness and safety of ondansetron in preventing PONV in pediatric patients in Taiwan.
  • To evaluate ondansetron's role in managing PONV in children undergoing specific surgical procedures.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled trial involving 80 pediatric patients (2-12 years) undergoing herinorrhaphy.
  • Patients received either ondansetron (0.1 mg/kg) or a saline placebo intravenously.
  • Data on emesis episodes and complications were collected via parental questionnaires over a 24-hour postoperative period.

Main Results:

  • The incidence of postoperative emesis was substantially lower in the ondansetron group (10%) compared to the placebo group (55%).
  • Emetic symptom severity was also milder in children who received ondansetron.
  • No significant differences in other postoperative complications were observed between the groups.

Conclusions:

  • Intravenous ondansetron at 0.1 mg/kg is a safe and effective prophylactic agent against postoperative emesis in pediatric patients undergoing herinorrhaphy.
  • Findings support the use of ondansetron for PONV prevention in this specific pediatric population in Taiwan.
Abstract

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