Abstract
This evidence-based project seeks to answer the question, in patients who have undergone abdominal surgery, what is the effect of abdominal binders on postoperative pain? A literature review was conducted and ultimately, five peer-reviewed articles, comprised of three randomized controlled trials and two systematic reviews, were selected to answer this question. Each article studied the effect of abdominal binders using a “binder” and a “non-binder” group in patients who had undergone various types of open abdominal surgeries, including gynecological cancer excisions, cesarean deliveries, midline laparotomies, hernia repairs, and more. Each study used the visual analogue scale to assess patient pain throughout the postoperative period. The ultimate conclusion was that abdominal binders are effective in reducing postoperative pain in some capacity. This review guided the intervention that this evidence-based project seeks to propose: the universal use of abdominal binders in patients undergoing open abdominal surgery, barring contraindications. This recommended change in practice comes in the midst of a healthcare climate where the current use of this intervention is often patient- or facility-dependent despite the evidence detailed herein suggesting its safe and effective use. The planning, intervention, and evaluation phases of this change in practice are outlined within this paper to give insight to how practice can shift in accordance with current research.
Recommended Citation
Edinger-VanAtta, Mattison.
"In a Bind: Effect of Abdominal Binding on Postoperative Pain in Abdominal Surgery Patients."
The Downtown Review.
Vol. 8.
Iss.
2
(2022)
.
Available at:
https://engagedscholarship.csuohio.edu/tdr/vol8/iss2/1
