Comparison of Postoperative Pain in Two Groups of Children with Bone Fractures Receiving Pethidine and Paracetamol in Kerman Bahonar Hospital: A Clinical Trial Study

Background Paracetamol and Pethidine are two prevailing analgesics prescribed for postoperative orthopedic patients, each having different side effects and impacts on fracture healing. The present study was conducted to compare the impacts of Paracetamol and Pethidine on postoperative pain relief of children with bone fractures. Materials and Methods: Fifty children with orthopedic bone fracture surgery candidates were selected in a double-blinded clinical trial study. A random number table was utilized to classify children into two groups of Paracetamol or pethidine treatment. First, the pain intensity of each group was checked using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Six hours after the surgery, the first group received Pethidine (1mg/kg of body weight), and the second group received Paracetamol (1gr). Moreover, the VAS scales were checked for both groups 6, 12, and 24 hours later. Afterward, the pain intensity of both groups was assessed according to the VAS scale. Results: Independent t-test results revealed a significant difference between the pain intensity of paracetamol (44.24 ± 6.44), and Pethidine (52.68 ± 10.47) groups 6 hours after the surgery (p=0.03). Moreover, there was also a significant statistical difference between the pain intensity of two groups 12 and 24 hours after the surgery.  Conclusion Given the effectiveness of Paracetamol and Pethidine on postoperative pain, both medications can be used for children with bone fractures.