Effects of intra‐operative maintenance of general anaesthesia with propofol on postoperative pain outcomes – a systematic review and meta‐analysis

Propofol is used both for induction and maintenance of anaesthesia. Recent evidence shows that propofol has analgesic properties. This meta‐analysis evaluated differences in postoperative analgesia between general anaesthetic maintenance with intravenous propofol and inhalational anaesthetics. Fourteen trials met inclusion criteria and were included. Our outcomes were pain scores 2 and 24 h after surgery. No significant difference in pain scores was found at 2 h after surgery (Hedge's g (95% CI) ?0.120 (?0.415–0.175) (p = 0.425). Propofol was associated with a statistically significant, albeit marginal, reduction in pain scores 24 h after surgery (Hedge's g (95% CI) ?0.134 (?0.248 to ?0.021) (p = 0.021). Data were insufficient to allow a meaningful analysis regarding 24‐h morphine‐equivalent consumption. Propofol was associated with reduced postoperative nausea and vomiting (relative risk (95%CI) 0.446 (0.304–0.656) (p < 0.0001). In conclusion, this meta‐analysis suggests that propofol improves postoperative analgesia compared with inhalational anaesthesia 24 h after surgery, with a lower incidence of nausea and vomiting.