Effect of Ondansetron Versus Intraperitoneal or Intravenous Dexamethasone on Postoperative Nausea, Vomiting and Pain in Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Abstract

Background: Even with all of the advantages that come with having a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, like quicker recovery times and shorter hospital stays, there is still a significant rate of postoperative nausea, vomiting, and pain, which lowers patient satisfaction. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the effectiveness of ondansetron versus intravenous or intraperitoneal dexamethasone in preventing pain, nausea, and vomiting following laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Methods: This comparative prospective randomized double-blinded clinical trial was conducted at the Anesthesia, Intensive Care, and Pain Management Department of Zagazig University Hospitals. The study included 120 Patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy randomly allocated into four groups: Group A (control group, n=30) received no ondansetron or dexamethasone; Group B (intravenous Ondansetron group, n=30); Group C (intraperitoneal dexamethasone, n=30); and Group D (intravenous dexamethasone, n=30). Results: Both ondansetron and dexamethasone, either intraperitoneal or intravenous effectively showed comparable effect to reduce postoperative nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. But regarding postoperative pain, both intraperitoneal and intravenous dexamethasone, offers superior postoperative pain management compared to ondansetron and saline controls. Conclusion: Intraperitoneal dexamethasone may be a promising alternative for preventing postoperative complications and improving patient outcomes following laparoscopic cholecystectomy.