Effect of Topic Epinephrine on Opioid Consumption in Ear Surgery

Background and Objectives: Topically applied epinephrine is used routinely in ear surgery to stop bleeding in the operating field. The data on its effect on postoperative pain perception has been missing so far. Materials and Methods: We carried out a single center retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing ear surgery over a period of 12 months. Epinephrine given intraoperatively was compared to piritramide dose given postoperatively. Patients receiving no piritramide intraoperatively were additionally compared to postoperative VAS score. Results: There was no difference in piritramid dose required for pain therapy as well as in VAS score in 230 patients included in the analysis. Conclusions: Epinephrine used in ear surgery has no effect on pain perception and thus may not be taken in consideration in postoperative pain management.