The Effects of Infiltration of Liposomal Bupivacaine for Pain Control After Cesarean Delivery: A Randomized Trial [19T]

INTRODUCTION: In response to the growing opioid epidemic, we determine whether the addition of liposomal bupivacaine infiltration administered above and below the fascial layer and within the subcutaneous tissue at the time of closure post cesarean delivery would reduce pain scores compared to the use of intra-thecal morphine alone. METHODS: Randomized, placebo-controlled, single-blinded study. Eligible women over 17 years of age and at least 34 weeks gestation, non-emergent cesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia. Random assignment to receive either intrathecal Astramorph® and saline wound infiltration or intrathecal Astramorph® and wound infiltration with liposomal bupivacaine (Exparel®). Primary outcome was post-operative pain scores measured via visual analog scale until discharge. Secondary outcomes included side effects and patient satisfaction. A t-test was used to assess differences between groups for continuous variables, and a chi-square test was used to assess differences for categorical variables. Informed consent and IRB approval obtained. RESULTS: Of the 22 eligible subjects identified during the study interval, 18 were randomized and completed the study. The groups were similar in regards to demographic parameters. As compared to the placebo group, the mean daily pain scores were significantly lower in the Exparel® group on post-operative days 1 and 2 (P < 0.05) and required less opioids. No significant differences between groups in satisfaction scores or the presence of side effects. No patients required additional opioid analgesia after discharge. CONCLUSION: Wound infiltration with liposomal bupivacaine during cesarean delivery reduced post-operative pain scores without increasing side effects. Supports the effectiveness of this multimodal approach to post cesarean delivery analgesia.