The Effect of a Preoperative Single-dose Methylprednisolone on the Postoperative Rehabilitation After Abdominal Hysterectomy

The Effect of a Preoperative Single-dose Methylprednisolone on the Postoperative Rehabilitation After Abdominal Hysterectomy: A Prospective, Double Blinded, Placebo Controlled Study

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of 125 mg methylprednisolone, given intravenously 60-90 minutes before abdominal surgery,on the postoperative rehabilitation after abdominal hysterectomy.Sodium Chloride is the placebo. The following parameters are registered:

1. Pain 3, 6 and 24 hours postoperatively and 2-7 days after surgery.
2. The postoperative use of additional analgesics.
3. Inflammatory parameters before and after surgery.
4. Time until mobilization.
5. Time until discharge.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients having an abdominal hysterectomy on a benign indication.
• Patients who speak and understand Danish.
• Patients who can give informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Diabetics
• Regular use of glucocorticoids, opioids or tranquilizers
• Regular treatment with immunosuppressives
• Alcohol or drug abuse
• Morphine intolerance
• Age under 18
• Chronic pain disease eg fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis
• Malign indication for hysterectomy
• BMI over 35
• Decreased kidney function
• ASA III or IV