Management of postoperative emesis after gynecological diagnostic laparoscopy: comparison between metoclopramide and droperidol

ABSTRACT

54 female patients undergoing diagnostic gynecological laparoscopy were divided into three equal groups in order to evaluate the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting which commonly accompany this procedure and the efficacy of metoclopramide and droperidol in lowering this incidence. Group 1 did not receive any antiemetic drug postoperatively, group 2 received 10 mg of metoclopramide 10 min. before the end of the procedure, while group 3 received 15-20 ug/kg droperidol at the same timing, additional doses of the same particular antiemetic drug were given when needed. Patients were observed at thirteen observation periods regarding postoperative nausea and vomiting along seven postoperative hours. Results were tabulated and statistically analyzed. Patients in control group showed significant higher incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting, patients in the group who received metoclopramide responded better than those who received droperidol. Metoclopramide had a faster onset of action than droperidol which lasted for longer duration but patients whom received it were more sleepy postoperatively. It was concluded that metoclopramide is superior to droperidol in the prophylaxis and treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting which usually occur after gynecological laparoscopy