The objective of this study is to evaluate two standard post-operative pain regimens routinely used after laparoscopic appendectomy for perforated appendicitis. The investigators hypothesize that the use of intravenous (IV) acetaminophen in addition to IV ketorolac with narcotic pain pump will decrease time to transition off patient/nurse controlled analgesia (PCA) to oral pain medications.
To assess pain control, patient and family perception of pain control, time to return of bowel function defined as passage of first flatus (in days), doses of anti-emetic medications, doses of narcotic pain medications, time to toleration of regular diet (in days), narcotic associated adverse effects (nausea, emesis, respiratory depression, constipation), length of stay, and overall hospital cost in admission. Post-hospitalization the investigators will assess complications including number and reasons for emergency visits and abscess formation, length of post-hospitalization analgesic use, length of post-hospitalization narcotic use, and time to return to school.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
SUPPORTIVE_CARE
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
90
IV tylenol given scheduled in addition to standard PCA
No additional IV Tylenol given
both groups receive as part of our standard postop pain protocol after all operations
Children's Mercy Hospital
Kansas City, Missouri, United States
Time Until PCA Discontinued After the Operation
The investigators hypothesize that the use of intravenous (IV) acetaminophen in addition to IV ketorolac with narcotic pain pump will decrease time to transition off PCA/NCA to oral pain medications.
Time frame: 4 days
Postoperative Duration of Hospital Stay
The investigators will measure postoperative time to discharge
Time frame: 1 week
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.