An Effective and Practical Non-Narcotic Technique for Controlling Post-Operative Pain After Cesarean Delivery [35C

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: We present a case series evaluating a non-narcotic technique for controlling Post-Operative Pain after C-section to minimize narcotic usage. Traditional treatments include administration of opiates and high-dose non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. The use opioids have unintended consequences. According to the CDC, 47,935 opioid overdose deaths among women occurred between 1999 and 2010. In this study, we use a low level laser therapy (LLLT) device along with traditional oral pain medications to improve patient outcome after surgery. METHODS: Twenty patients were offered to wear an LLLT device which was placed in the operating room. This device requires no additional operative time or follow-up visits. Patients received treatment twice daily for 12 post-op days. Patients record pain on a VAS (Visual-Analog-Scale), and narcotics administration is tracked. RESULTS: Preliminary findings include: All patients are using less narcotics than prescribed. Overall pain decreased. All treated patients with previous C-sections report less postoperative pain than previous deliveries. Some patients have requested early discharge on postoperative day number 2. All patients are compliant and report easy application. Patients with a previous keloid scar report significantly better cosmetic result despite similar surgical technique. CONCLUSION: We believe this method has the potential to improve patient outcomes by reducing pain and decrease the need for narcotics, a national priority. In addition, this method meets key criteria for clinical adoption as it requires minimum training and physician time. A randomized, blinded, placebo-controlled trial is underway.