What is papaverine used for in surgical practice?

Papaverine is primarily used in surgical practice to control vasospasms, which are involuntary contractions of blood vessels that can lead to reduced blood flow and ischemia. As a smooth muscle relaxant, papaverine effectively dilates blood vessels, thereby alleviating vascular spasms and improving circulation, which is particularly important during surgeries involving blood vessels.

In the context of surgeries, vasospasm can occur in various situations, such as during the manipulation of vessels or in response to trauma. By using papaverine, surgeons can ensure more stable hemodynamics and reduce the risk of complications that arise from insufficient blood flow. Thus, its role in managing vasospasms is critical for maintaining optimal conditions during procedures.