"Low-Dose Ketamine For Postoperative Analgesia In Maxillofacial Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial"

Abstract

Background: Effective postoperative pain control is essential for recovery, yet reliance on opioids poses public health concerns due to dependence and adverse effects. This study investigates the efficacy of low-dose intravenous ketamine as an adjunct for postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing maxillofacial surgery.

Methods: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted among 60 patients (ASA I and II) scheduled for elective maxillofacial surgery. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either low-dose ketamine (0.5 mg/kg bolus, followed by 5 mcg/kg/min infusion) or normal saline as placebo. Pain scores were assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) at multiple postoperative intervals, along with total opioid consumption.

Results: Patients in the ketamine group experienced significantly lower VAS scores at 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, and 6 hours postoperatively (p < 0.05). Total opioid consumption in the first 24 hours was also significantly reduced (p < 0.01). No severe adverse effects were observed.

Conclusion: Low-dose ketamine effectively reduces postoperative pain and opioid requirement following maxillofacial surgery. Its incorporation into perioperative protocols may enhance patient outcomes and reduce opioid burden, which has wider public health benefits in Southeastern Europe.