Bowel recovery after colorectal surgery: A comparison of patient contolled analgesia with tramadol versus morphine

This study compares two pain medications — tramadol and morphine — given through a patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pump after bowel surgery. A PCA pump allows patients to give themselves small doses of pain medication by pressing a button. Researchers want to know whether tramadol leads to a quicker return of normal bowel function compared to morphine, since morphine is known to slow the digestive system. You may be eligible if: - You are having planned (elective) colorectal (bowel) surgery - You have a good to moderate health status (ASA classification 1–3) You may NOT be eligible if: - You have a known gastrointestinal disorder - You have had previous radiation therapy to your abdomen - You have clinically significant liver or kidney problems - You have been taking opioid pain medications long-term before your surgery - You are not suitable for patient-controlled analgesia - You are planned to have an epidural for pain management Talk to your doctor about whether this trial might be right for you.