The Effects of Local Infiltration Versus Epidural Following Liver Resection 2

A Randomised Trial of Peri-operative Nerve Block and Continuous Infusion of Local Anaesthetic Via Wound Catheter Versus Epidural in Patients Undergoing Open Liver Resection.

The investigators plan to compare epidurals versus wound catheters for effects on pain relief and recovery following open liver surgery.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients undergoing open hepatic resection for benign or malignant conditions.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with contraindication to either epidural or wound catheter techniques.
• Inability to give written, informed consent.
• Jaundice (Bilirubin > 100 μmol/L)
• Liver resection combined with secondary surgical procedure.
• Age < 18 years
• Pregnant women
• patients on long term opiates for chronic pain