Comparison between intravenous paracetamol and fentanyl for intraoperative and postoperative pain relief in dilatation and evacuation: Prospective, randomized interventional trial

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Dilatation and Evacuation procedure involves pain, for which pain control measures need to be undertaken. The purpose of this study was to compare paracetamol with fentanyl for pain relief in dilatation and curettage procedures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty female patients were randomly included during the period from March 1, 2012 to February 28, 2013. All patients had received oral midazolam 7.5 mg as a premedication 30 min before procedure in the ward. Group P had received intravenous (IV) paracetamol 15 mg/kg in the waiting area of the operating room 15 min before starting the procedure. Group F had received IV fentanyl 2 ug/kg/min at induction of anesthesia. Pain scores on a numerical rating scale at 5, 15, and 30 min intervals after surgery were recorded. RESULTS: Mild pain was commonly observed in both groups, an insignificant difference between groups. CONCLUSION: The study demonstrates the usefulness of IV paracetamol which may be as effective as fentanyl in dilation and curettage procedures.