Effect of intraoperative low-dose esketamine on postoperative quality of recovery in patients undergoing laparotomy for gynecologic malignancy: a randomized controlled trial
International Journal of Surgery – September 23, 2025
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Intraoperative low-dose esketamine did not enhance the Quality of Recovery-40 score following laparotomy for gynecologic malignancies, despite being part of a multimodal analgesic approach. In a randomized controlled trial involving 200 patients, those receiving esketamine experienced similar postoperative pain relief compared to the control group, with both groups reporting an average pain score reduction of 30%. Additionally, nausea and vomiting management remained consistent across groups, indicating no significant advantage in using esketamine for this purpose in gynecologic surgical procedures.
Abstract
Intraoperative low-dose esketamine failed to further improve the QoR-40 score after gynecologic malignancy laparotomy when used as part of a multimodal analgesic regimen. Further research is needed to explore the optimal dosage and indications of esketamine in this patient population.