Therapeutic Suggestion in Postoperative Pain Control: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Surgical Innovation
• Pain Management

Background:

• Conflicting research exists on the efficacy of therapeutic suggestion during the perioperative period.
• Minimally invasive pelvic reconstructive surgery involves complex procedures with potential for postoperative discomfort and functional changes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically compare the effects of perioperative therapeutic suggestion versus routine care on postoperative outcomes.
• To evaluate subjective and objective measures including pain, nausea, functional recovery, and overall improvement.

Main Methods:

• A single-blinded, randomized controlled trial was conducted.
• Participants undergoing vaginal hysterectomy with minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy and prolapse repair were randomized to receive therapeutic suggestion or routine care.
• Outcomes assessed included pain scores, analgesic use, nausea and vomiting, bowel and bladder function, and patient-reported improvement.

Main Results:

• No significant differences were observed in postoperative pain or analgesic use between the therapeutic suggestion and control groups.
• Secondary outcomes, including urinary and bowel function return and subjective improvement of prolapse symptoms, also showed no statistically significant differences.

Conclusions:

• Perioperative therapeutic suggestion did not demonstrate a significant benefit over routine care for pain management, functional recovery, or symptom improvement in patients undergoing minimally invasive pelvic reconstructive surgery.
• Further research may be needed to explore potential roles or specific patient populations for therapeutic suggestion in surgical settings.