Comparison of the analgesic effect of betamethasone and diclofenac potassium in the management of postoperative haemorrhoidectomy pain.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Outpatient postoperative haemorrhoidectomy pain remains a difficult problem. The purpose of this study is to compare the results of the use of betamethasone with diclofenac potassium in postoperative pain following haemorrhoidectomy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Closed haemorrhoidectomy was performed on 40 patients who were diagnosed grade III, grade IV haemorrhoid on physical examination. Patients were divided equally randomized into two groups, prospectively (betamethasone was used for 20 patients and diclofenac potassium was given for 20 patients). A verbal categorical scale was used to evaluate postoperative pain (for pain intensity, none=0, mild=1, moderate=2 and severe=3). RESULTS: The amount of narcotics required on postoperative first, second and third day were significantly less in the betamethasone group than in the diclofenac potassium group (P < 0.001) (Pearson Chi-Square test). CONCLUSION: Results indicate that use of betamethasone provides more effective analgesia than diclofenac potassium for postoperative pain management in the haemorrhoidectomy patient.