ABSTRACT

Introduction: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the standard treatment of cholecystitis.   In comparison to open surgery, it has advantages such as a shorter recovery period and a shorter hospital stay. One of the side effects of this treatment is abdominal and shoulder pain after surgery. The purpose of this study was to see how intraperitoneal dexamethasone affects abdominal and shoulder pain following laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Methods and materials: This study included 70 patients aged 18-70 years who were candidate for laparoscopic elective cholecystectomy. Using a random number table, patients were separated into two equal groups. In the first group, after laparoscopy and before trocar removal, 20 cc of ringer serum containing 8 mg dexamethasone was sprayed in the diaphragm and peritoneal cavity, and in the second group, 20 cc ringer was sprayed. Visual analog scale (VAS) pain score was used to assess post operation pain.

Results: From 6 o'clock on, there was a substantial difference in abdominal pain between the two groups, with the control group experiencing higher pain. From 12 o'clock onwards, there was a strong association between shoulder discomfort in the two groups, and patients in the control group experienced more pain. Furthermore, the control group received more opioids. Patients in the control group experienced higher nausea and vomiting starting 12 hours after surgery.

Conclusion: After laparoscopic surgery, dexamethasone can relieve abdominal and shoulder discomfort, as well as nausea and vomiting, and it can also reduce the need for opioids. Dexamethasone appears to be effective in minimizing postoperative complications.