Minimizing postoperative pain is vital to a successful surgical recovery. Inadequate pain control may result in nausea, vomiting, an extended hospital stay, and reduced patient satisfaction. Oral and parenteral narcotics are commonly used for pain relief and their use may exacerbate the incidence of sedation, nausea, and vomiting; ultimately delaying convalescence. Previous studies have demonstrated that rectal analgesia following surgery results in lower pain scores and less intravenous morphine consumption. Belladonna and opium suppositories are routinely prescribed at our institution and their efficacy has not been confirmed.
A prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial will be undertaken using belladonna and opium rectal suppositories following vaginal surgery. Treatment will begin immediately following surgery and continue every 8 hours for a total of 3 doses.
