Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) refers to a common medical condition characterized by the presence of nausea and vomiting experienced after a surgical procedure. PONV can occur in the immediate aftermath of surgery or within the first few hours following the procedure. It is considered a significant source of discomfort for patients and can prolong the postoperative recovery period.
PONV is believed to result from various factors, including the administration of anesthesia, the surgical procedure itself, and individual patient characteristics. It can also be influenced by factors such as age, gender, and a history of motion sickness or previous episodes of PONV. The exact mechanisms underlying PONV are not fully understood, but it is believed to involve the central nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, and hormonal imbalances.
The symptoms of PONV can range from mild nausea to severe vomiting, causing distress and discomfort to patients. It can negatively impact the patient's overall well-being, delay hospital discharge, increase healthcare costs, and potentially result in complications such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, wound dehiscence, and aspiration pneumonia.
Prevention and management of PONV involve a multimodal approach, including the administration of prophylactic antiemetics, choosing appropriate anesthesia techniques, avoiding volatile anesthetics, maintaining patient hydration, and managing pain effectively. Various medications, such as serotonin receptor antagonists, neurokinin-1 receptor antagonists, and corticosteroids, have proven effective in preventing and managing PONV.
In summary, PONV is a common condition characterized by nausea and vomiting following surgery. It requires proactive management to minimize patient discomfort and optimize postoperative recovery.
