Postoperative Consequences of Intraoperative NOL Titration

Postoperative Consequences of Intraoperative NOL Titration

To demonstrate that intraoperative NOL-guided titration of fentanyl improves initial recovery characteristics.

Previous work has shown that NOL (Nociception Level) accurately quantifies nociception during general anesthesia.6 Presumably, titrating opioids to NOL will therefore provide individual guidance so that patients will be given about the right amount. Patient given the right amount will presumably awaken quickly when anesthesia is done, and have good initial pain control in the PACU (Post-Anesthesia Care Unit). To the extent that NOL titration facilitates optimal opioid dosing, patients are likely to have better PACU experiences - which would be an important outcome that clinicians and regulators are likely to take seriously.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults having major non-cardiac surgery expected to last ≥2 hours
• American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status 1-3
• Age 21-85 years old
• Planned endotracheal intubation

Exclusion Criteria:

• Planned neuraxial or regional block
• Clinician preference for an opioid other than, or in addition to, fentanyl
• Non-sinus heart
• Neurologic condition that, in the opinion of the investigators, may preclude accurate assessment of postoperative pain and nausea
• Lack of English language fluency
• Routine user of psychoactive drugs other than opioids
• Contraindication to sevoflurane, fentanyl, morphine, or ondansetron.
• Intracranial surgery.
• BMI > 40