Methylnaltrexone has proved by FDA as peripheral antagonist of μ receptors in the body, which can significantly decrease narcotic side effects in peripheral organs (constipation,...). It can not decline analgesic effect of narcotics. Intrathecal morphine uses routinely in orthopedic surgeries ( lower extremities ); so it is expected that using subcutaneous injection of methyl Naltrexone can largely prevent peripheral side-effects of opioids such as urinary retention , constipation, nausea and vomiting, and impaired gastric emptying.
This study will be perform on 70 (regarding to similar articles) 18-50 years old patients, schedule for elective lower limb orthopedic surgeries who have traditional scientific indications for spinal anesthesia .
Over 50 years of age is a predisposing factor for postoperative urinary retention ;So patients over age 50 will not be enrolled.
In this study we will evaluate reduction of these side effects (especially urinary retention) by use methyl Naltrexone in 35 patients (18-50 years old, without history of addiction or psychological problems) undergoing spinal anesthesia with intrathecal administration of bupivacaine and morphine and compare with the second group (35 patients, 18-50 years old, undergoing the same spinal anesthesia without methyl Naltrexone). Then, all patients will be followed for 24 hours postoperatively (every 1 hour), and morphine side-effects (central and peripheral) will be evaluate and compare between two groups.
Obviously, if achieve positive results , this drug can reduce complications after surgery with spinal anesthesia.