Comparative study of epidural ropivacaine and bupivacaine with fentanyl in abdominal surgery

The efficacy of equal doses of ropivacaine and bupivacaine with fentanyl as continuous epidural infusions for postoperative analgesia in abdominal surgeries is of interest. Sixty patients were randomized into two groups receiving either ropivacaine or bupivacaine with fentanyl intra-operatively and postoperatively. Sensory and motor blocks, hemodynamic parameters, and pain scores were monitored for 24 hours after surgery. Both groups showed similar sensory and motor block characteristics and recovery profiles with comparable drug dosages. We conclude that ropivacaine and bupivacaine can be used interchangeably as epidural infusions for effective postoperative analgesia with stable hemodynamic and no major complications.