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Related Experiment Videos

Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy in the Upper Extremity.

Gellman1, Nichols

  • 1Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery Services, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock.

The Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
|May 5, 2000
PubMed
Summary
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Reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) is a challenging pain syndrome for orthopaedic surgeons. Early diagnosis and treatment, including sympathetic blockade and various therapies, offer the best prognosis for this complex condition.

Area of Science:

  • Orthopaedics
  • Pain Management
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) presents significant diagnostic and management challenges in orthopaedics.
  • Cardinal signs include pain, swelling, and autonomic dysfunction, with unclear pathogenesis.
  • RSD is understood to be sympathetically mediated.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To outline the diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for reflex sympathetic dystrophy.
  • To emphasize the importance of early intervention in managing this pain syndrome.

Main Methods:

  • Diagnosis confirmed by pain response to sympathetic blockade.
  • Treatment modalities encompass exercise, alpha-adrenergic blockers, mood elevators, calcium channel blockers, and regional blocks.
  • Emerging treatments include electroacupuncture, TENS, and biofeedback.

Related Experiment Videos

Main Results:

  • Sympathetic blockade is a key diagnostic tool.
  • A multimodal treatment approach is typically employed.
  • Early diagnosis (within 2-3 weeks) and Stage 1 treatment yield the best outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • Reflex sympathetic dystrophy is a difficult pain syndrome requiring prompt diagnosis and intervention.
  • Prognosis is guarded, but early and appropriate treatment improves patient response.
  • Multidisciplinary management is crucial for optimizing outcomes in RSD.