Comparison of Ketorolac and Lidocaine for Post-Digestive Surgery Pain Management

Abstract

Background: Postoperative pain is a significant issue in digestive surgery patients, impacting recovery and satisfaction. Effective pain management through a multimodal approach that includes various analgesics is essential to reduce discomfort and prevent complications. Ketorolac, a potent NSAID, and lidocaine, a local anesthetic, have proven effective in alleviating postoperative pain. However, challenges such as variability in pain perception and concerns about opioid dependence persist. Accurate pain assessment using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) is crucial for tailoring treatment. No studies have compared these two drugs in multimodal analgesia for postoperative digestive surgery patients, necessitating further research. Objective: Comparing NRS in post-digestive surgery patients between ketorolac and lidocaine groups. Research Method: This study was a randomized clinical trial at Dr. Soetomo General Hospital, involving 30 patients. Data were analyzed using SPSS with the Friedman test and the Mann–Whitney test. Results: Initial NRS median scores showed ketorolac at 6 (1-10) and lidocaine at 5 (2-10), decreasing to medians of 2 (1-6) and 3 (1-6), respectively. The Friedman test indicated a significant decrease (p < 0.001), while the Mann-Whitney test revealed no significant difference (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Both ketorolac and lidocaine provide rapid and stable analgesic effects without significant differences, demonstrating their effectiveness in managing postoperative pain.