Ketamine Infusion for Reducing Post-Operative Pain and Opioid Use in Gynecological Surgery

Abstract

This analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy of ketamine infusion for reducing post-operative pain and opioid use in gynecological surgeries. A comprehensive review of recent studies revealed that ketamine consistently demonstrates significant pain-reducing and opioid-sparing effects across various surgical contexts, including gynecological procedures. Sub-anesthetic doses of ketamine were found to be effective and well-tolerated. However, optimal dosing regimens and timing of administration specific to gynecological surgeries require further investigation. The analysis recommends conducting large-scale, procedure-specific trials to establish tailored protocols for different gynecological surgeries. Additionally, long-term follow-up studies are needed to assess the impact on chronic pain development and persistent opioid use. This analysis is significant for refining pain management strategies in gynecological surgeries, potentially improving patient outcomes and addressing opioid-related concerns. It underscores the need for more flexible regulations to facilitate ketamine's clinical use in this context.