Comparing Methadone IV and Intrathecal Hydromorphone for Pain Relief After Surgery for Gynecologic Cancer

What this Trial Is About

This research evaluates postoperative pain relief options for patients with gynecologic cancer undergoing surgery. It compares intravenous methadone, a long-acting opioid that binds to opioid receptors in the central nervous system, with intrathecal hydromorphone, which works similarly to an epidural by affecting the brain and nervous systems response to pain. The study aims to determine if methadone provides pain relief comparable to intrathecal hydromorphone in this patient population. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group receives methadone intravenously during the induction of general anesthesia for their standard surgery, while the other group receives hydromorphone injected into the fluid-filled space around the spinal cord before anesthesia induction. After the surgical procedure and study intervention, patients are monitored and followed up for one month. During the study, researchers measure pain scores at baseline, when leaving the post-anesthesia care unit, and at 4, 8, 12, and up to 24 hours after surgery. They also track the amount of opioids used, as well as side effects like itching and respiratory depression within 24 hours postoperatively. The follow-up visit at one month helps evaluate longer-term outcomes related to pain management and recovery.

Methadone Versus Intrathecal Hydromorphone for Postoperative Pain Relief in Gynecologic Cancer Undergoing Surgery