Prospective, randomized controlled trial on use of ropivacaine after robotic thyroid surgery: Effects on postoperative pain

Background We evaluated the effects of ropivacaine for pain relief after robotic thyroid surgery. Methods One hundred eight patients scheduled for robotic thyroid surgery were randomized into ropivacaine (n = 54) or control (n = 54) groups. After surgery, 40 mL of 0.25% ropivacaine or 0.9% saline (control) was instilled into the skin flap. Postoperative pain intensity (visual analog scale [VAS]), analgesic requirements (fentanyl), and adverse events were assessed at 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, and 24 hours postoperatively. Results One hundred three patients completed the study protocol. VAS scores were lower in the ropivacaine group than the control group (p =.010); however, VAS scores were not significantly different after 8 hours postoperatively. Total analgesic consumption was higher in controls than ropivacaine-treated patients (p =.01). Adverse events did not differ between the 2 groups. Conclusion Ropivacaine instillation after robotic thyroid surgery reduces acute postoperative pain and analgesic requirements without adverse events.