Comparison of Dexamethasone with Ondansetron for the Prevention of Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting after Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) are very common side effects of laparoscopic procedures. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of dexamethasone with that of ondansetron in prevention of PONV after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. METHODS: Seventy-five ASA class 1, 2 patients planned for laparoscopic cholecystectomy were assigned to receive intravenously either dexamethasone 5 mg (dexamethasone group, n = 25), ondansetron 4 mg (ondansetron group, n = 25), or normal saline 2 ml (control group, n = 25) just after induction of general anesthesia. During the maintenance, end-tidal carbon dioxide tension was controlled to maintain 35-40 mmHg and intraabdominal pressure was controlled to maintain 12 mmHg. Patient's nausea and vomiting were observed in the recovery room just after operation and 6 h, 12 h and 24 h after operation. RESULTS: Incidences of PONV were significantly lower in dexamethasone group and ondansetron group than control group. However there was no significant difference between the two antiemetic groups. CONCLUSIONS: Both of dexamethasone and ondansetron were effective for the prevention of PONV after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.