IV-PCA

Abstract

  Epidural anesthesia and analgesia has become popular because there is a lot of evidence that proves the benefits of epidural anesthesia. However, the recent spread of antiplatelet drugs and anticoagulation therapy is starting to influence the choice of anesthesia or postoperative analgesia method. These circumstances lead to an increased number of cases receiving postoperative intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (IV-PCA). Although indications of fentanyl IV-PCA are increasing, morphine IV-PCA is still the gold standard. This article reviews the methods and side effects of IV-PCA.