Back pain following general anaesthesia and surgery: evaluation of risk factors and the effect of an inflatable lumbar support.

Abstract

Factors that contribute to postoperative lumbar back pain and the effect of an inflatable lumbar support on the incidence of postoperative backache were examined. The study consisted of two parts, a pilot study in which mathematical models for appropriate support pressures were produced and the main study to assess the role of an inflatable lumbar support. The use of a support reduced the incidence of back pain on the first postoperative day from 46 to 21 per cent (P = 0.007). The patient's sex, height, weight, and the presence or absence of obesity were not found to be significant factors in the incidence of postoperative back pain. Previous back pain or arthritis in any joint tended to be associated with an increase in the severity and incidence of postoperative back pain. Postoperative back pain was more severe after procedures lasting more than 40 min. Early mobilization reduced the amount of back pain. In conclusion, patients benefit from the use of an inflatable lumbar support if they have previously suffered from backache or if they are to be anaesthetized for more than 40 min.