Effects of General Anesthesia and Spinal-Morphine Anesthesia on Recovery and Comfort After Benign Abdominal Hysterectomy

General Anesthesia Versus Spinal Anesthesia Combined With Intrathecal Morphine in Abdominal Hysterectomy for Benign Gynecological Diseases. A Randomized Open Controlled Study.

The purpose of this study is to determine whether spinal anesthesia combined with intrathecal morphine in abdominal hysterectomy on benign gynecological indications gives better outcome concerning duration of hospital stay and postoperative patient comfort than general anesthesia.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Female between 18 and 60 years of age.
• Scheduled for abdominal hysterectomy - total or subtotal -on benign gynecological indication.
• At least one ovary planned to be preserved at the hysterectomy.
• Can understand and communicate in Swedish
• Accept participation after written and verbal information and after signed informed consent.
• Has supervision at home after discharge from hospital during the first couple of days and has access to a telephone.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Contra-indications against spinal or general anesthesia or the standard dosage of the study drugs
• ASA classification ≥ Class 3
• Postmenopausal women without HRT (hormone replacement therapy).
• Suspected gynecological malignancy
• Previously undergone bilateral oophorectomy
• Substantial physically disabled so that a normal recovery with early physical mobilization can not be anticipated.
• Mentally or severly psychic disabled