Programmed Intermittent Bolus Versus Continuous Infusion for Epidural Analgesia in Abdominal Surgery

Programmed intermittent epidural boluses of bupivacaine 0,1% are administered every hour. Protocolized adjustments of the dose are performed in order to obtain adequate analgesia. Standardized patient-controlled epidural boluses are available as top-ups.

A continuous epidural infusion of bupivacaine 0,1% is administered at a prescribed rate. Protocolized adjustments of the dose are performed in order to obtain adequate analgesia. Standardized patient-controlled epidural boluses are available as top-ups.

A morphine infusion (0,1mg/ml) is administered in both groups at a prescribed rate. Protocolized adjustments of the dose are performed in order to obtain adequate analgesia.