This clinical trial is focused on patients undergoing orthopedic surgery, specifically those having hip or knee replacement procedures. The study is investigating the use of methadone, a medication commonly used for pain relief, to see how it affects pain management after surgery. The trial compares methadone to another pain medication called sufentanil, which is typically used during surgery to manage pain.
The purpose of the study is to determine how methadone affects the need for additional pain medication and the level of pain experienced in the first 24 hours after surgery. Participants will receive either methadone or sufentanil during their surgery, and their pain levels will be monitored closely. Nurses will assess pain using a standard scale and will also note the amount of additional pain medication, like morphine, that is needed. The study will also track any side effects, such as nausea or sedation, that may occur.
After surgery, pain will continue to be evaluated over the next three days. Participants will be asked about their overall satisfaction with pain management during their hospital stay. This information will help researchers understand the effectiveness of methadone in managing postoperative pain compared to the standard treatment with sufentanil.
Belgium 
