Effect of Low-Dose Ketamine Infusion in the Intensive Care Unit on Postoperative Opioid Consumption and Traumatic Memories After Hospital Discharge: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Anesthesia and analgesia February 5, 2025 Nuanprae Kitisin, Nattaya Raykateeraroj, Nattachai Hemtanon et al. 11 citations
A low-dose ketamine infusion in the intensive care unit (ICU) after surgery reduced fentanyl consumption by 15% (68 µg over 24 hours) compared with placebo, a small but statistically significant opioid-sparing effect. The effect appeared stronger in patients who had intraabdominal surgery. Pain and sedation scores did not differ between groups, and no acute adverse effects were observed. However, a secondary follow-up (average 43 months later) of 45 patients found that those who received ketamine reported a higher incidence of frightening and delusional memories of their ICU stay (65% vs 41%). Low-dose ketamine modestly reduces opioid use but may increase the risk of traumatic memories after critical illness.