Epidural Fentanyl and Fentanyl Plus Magnesium for Postoperative Analgesia: A Comparative Study

Aim: Introduction: To compare and study duration of analgesia, haemodynamic stability and side effects, if any. CSE block combines the rapidity, density, and reliability of the subarachnoid block with the exibility of continuous epidural block to extend duration of analgesia. Epidural opioids are proven to be very effective for postoperative analgesia. Materials And Methods: A prospective, study was undertaken in patients posted for elective lower limb surgeries. 50 patients age 35-45 years with ASA class I and II were randomly grouped into two groups. Group I – were given epidural fentanyl. Group II– were given epidural fentanyl with magnesium. Results: Group II patients had prolonged duration of fentanyl analgesia without any signicant side effects. Discussion: The addition of magnesium 50mg to epidural fentanyl 50µg prolongs the duration thus provides better analgesia and reduces the requirements of rescue analgesics. Conclusion: Addition of magnesium sulfate (50 mg) to epidural fentanyl (50 µg) for elective lower limb orthopedic surgeries has prolonged the duration of fentanyl analgesia without any signicant side effects.