My father had a total shoulder replacement five years ago and suffered from severe nausea afterwards. Now he needs a total hip replacement. He's putting it off because of the experience he had last time. Is there anything new that can help him with this?
Actually two developments have occurred in the last few years that have improved post-operative symptoms for many patients. Nausea is much improved thanks to increased amounts of oxygen during the operation and better pain control after.
Better pain control is obtained through two means. The first is a single injection nerve block. The block is given to the major nerve(s) in the anatomic area where surgery is going to be done. The second is patient-controlled local anesthetic.
Patients can give themselves a small dose of pain meds on an as-needed basis. A portable pump is used to dispense the drug. The patient pushes a button to release the pain reliever. The unit is programmed to allow the patient to decide when better pain control is needed. Most patients report fewer problems after the operation including nausea.
Encourage your father to ask his doctor about ways to control the nausea. Find out what's available in your area. « Back
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