Impact of Preoperative Anxiolysis on Postoperative Pain and Recovery: A Study on the Use of Lorazepam in Elective Surgery Patients

Abstract

Preoperative anxiety is a common concern among patients undergoing elective surgery and may affect postoperative outcomes such as pain perception, opioid consumption, and recovery time. This randomized controlled trial investigates the use of lorazepam, a benzodiazepine, as a preoperative anxiolytic in reducing preoperative anxiety and its effects on postoperative pain management and recovery. We enrolled patients undergoing elective surgeries and randomized them into two groups: one receiving lorazepam preoperatively and the other receiving a placebo. Postoperative pain scores, opioid requirements, time to ambulation, and patient satisfaction were assessed. The results show that patients who received lorazepam experienced significantly lower preoperative anxiety levels and reported reduced postoperative pain, as well as lower opioid consumption compared to the placebo group. Furthermore, these patients had an earlier return to normal activities and greater overall satisfaction with their recovery. These findings suggest that preoperative anxiolysis with lorazepam can be an effective strategy to improve postoperative outcomes and enhance recovery.