To compare efficacy of transdermal diclofenac 200mg with conventional analgesia – iv paracetamol In post operative pain management after Laparoscopic appendicectomy- a randomised Control trial.

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Effective postoperative pain management is pivotal for patient comfort, faster recovery, and reduced morbidity. Laparoscopic appendicectomy, though minimally invasive, can still result in moderate to severe postoperative pain. Conventional IV paracetamol provides adequate analgesia but may require repeated administration. Transdermal diclofenac offers a potentially favourable alternative by maintaining stable plasma levels and bypassing first-pass metabolism. Methods: This randomized controlled trial enrolled 112 patients (18–40 years) undergoing laparoscopic appendicectomy. Participants were randomized into two groups of equal size (n=56 each): the experimental group received a 200 mg transdermal diclofenac patch postoperatively, while the control group received IV paracetamol (1000 mg). Rescue analgesia (IV tramadol 100 mg) was given for a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain score ≥5. Pain scores were assessed at 6, 12, 18, and 24 hours. Secondary outcomes included the frequency of rescue analgesic use, adverse events, and postoperative complications.