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Postoperative pain relief by transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
The American Journal of Chinese Medicine
|January 1, 1980
Summary
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) significantly reduced narcotic use for postoperative pain relief compared to standard medication. Patient and staff acceptance was favorable, warranting further clinical evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Pain Management
- Neurosurgery
- Postoperative Care
Background:
- Postoperative pain is frequently managed with narcotic medications.
- Narcotic medications carry risks of side effects and dependence.
- Alternative pain management strategies are needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) with narcotic medications for postoperative pain relief.
- To evaluate patient and healthcare provider acceptance of TENS.
- To assess the impact of TENS on postoperative ileus and hospital stay.
Main Methods:
- Prospective randomized controlled trial with two groups (15 patients each).
- One group received standard narcotic pain medication.
- The other group received transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for two days post-surgery.
Main Results:
- Patients receiving TENS showed a significant decrease in administered narcotics.
- Ileus and hospital stay were similar between the TENS and narcotic groups.
- Favorable acceptance of TENS by nursing staff, physicians, and patients was observed.
Conclusions:
- TENS is an effective adjunct for reducing narcotic requirements in postoperative pain management.
- TENS is well-accepted by patients and healthcare providers.
- Further clinical studies are recommended to confirm these findings.