Riassunto dello studio

Thirteen randomized controlled trials including 997 patients undergoing lumbar surgery were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis comparing the use of ketorolac vs. no ketorolac. Pooled outcomes of interest included total postoperative morphine utilization, 24-hour postoperative morphine utilization, postoperative pain scores at 24 hours and final follow-up, length of hospital stay (LOS), and incidence of complications. The pooled results showed no significant differences in total postoperative morphine utilization, 24-hour postoperative morphine utilization, postoperative pain scores, or LOS between the ketorolac and non-ketorolac groups. The study found a significantly lower rate of nausea and/or vomiting in the ketorolac group (21.6% vs. 37.1%, P = 0.018). These findings suggest that while ketorolac does not significantly impact morphine consumption, pain scores, or LOS, it may reduce postoperative nausea and vomiting in lumbar surgery patients.