Effect of intrathecal diamorphine on the adrenocortical, hyperglycaemic and cardiovascular responses to major colonic surgery

Abstract

The effect of the intrathecal administration of diamorphine on the hyperglycaemic, adrenocortical and cardiovascular responses to major colonic surgery were investigated, and the results compared with those obtained in a similar group of patients receiving low doses of fentanyl. In the group receiving intrathecal diamorphine, the hyperglycaemic response was delayed, and the adrenocortical response decreased significantly both during and following surgery; there were no significant cardiovascular responses to incision, and analgesia was prolonged after operation. © 1985 British Journal of Anaesthesia.