Effect of continuous epidural 0.2% ropivacaine vs 0.2% bupivacaine on postoperative pain, motor block and gastrointestinal function after abdominal hysterectomy

We have investigated the effect of 24-h postoperative continuous epidural i nfusion of 0.2% ropivacaine or 0.2% bupivacaine 8 ml h(-1) on pain, request for supplementary analgesics, motor block and gastrointestinal function, i n a double-blind, randomized study in 60 patients undergoing open hysterect omy. There were no significant differences between groups in pain, number o f patients requesting supplementary analgesics, motor block, ability to wal k or time to first flatus or stool. In the subgroup of patients who receive d supplementary analgesics, patients in the ropivacaine group received sign ificantly more ketorolac than patients in the bupivacaine group. Time to di scharge from hospital was similar with ropivacaine and bupivacaine.