Preemptive analgesia

Preemptive Analgesia is a medical approach that aims to prevent the establishment of central sensitization caused by incisional and inflammatory injuries. This is achieved by administering analgesic treatments before the surgical procedure begins. The concept of preemptive analgesia was first introduced by Patrick Wall and Ronald Melzack in the 1980s.

Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of action of preemptive analgesia involves the prevention of peripheral and central sensitization. This is achieved by blocking the transmission of nociceptive input to the spinal cord and brain before the surgical incision is made. This prevents the amplification of postoperative pain signals, reducing the overall pain experienced by the patient.

Techniques

Various techniques can be used in preemptive analgesia, including the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), local anesthetics, opioids, and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists. The choice of technique depends on the type of surgery, the patient's medical history, and the anesthesiologist's preference.

Efficacy

The efficacy of preemptive analgesia is a topic of ongoing research. Some studies have found that it can significantly reduce postoperative pain and the need for additional analgesics, while others have found no significant difference compared to traditional postoperative analgesia.

Risks and Complications

As with any medical intervention, preemptive analgesia carries some risks and potential complications. These can include allergic reactions to the analgesic drugs, side effects from the drugs (such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness), and potential interactions with other medications the patient is taking.

See Also

• Analgesia
• Pain Management
• Anesthesia
• Postoperative Pain