Pain management in the postoperative period of amputation surgeries: A scoping review

Background: Pain in the postoperative period of amputation surgeries, when not managed correctly, can have consequences for the patient.

Purposes and objectives: The aim of this study was to map the scientific evidence on pain management in patients in the postoperative period of amputation surgeries.

Design: Scoping review with elaboration based on the recommendations of the Joanna Briggs Institute, supported by The PAGER framework and guided by the PRISMA-ScR Checklist.

Methods: The survey was conducted in August 2022 in 10 data sources. The 3300 publications found were analysed by two independent reviewers, after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 16 studies were selected.

Results: Publications occurred between the years 1997 and 2022 and mainly dealt with the management of residual pain and phantom limb through pharmacological measures with pain assessment made by numerical scales.

Conclusions: The literature pointed out strategic uses of analgesics and highlighted technologies for neurostimulation through catheters. The need for new studies with non-pharmacological measures and with designs that can prove their effectiveness is reinforced.

Relevance to clinical practice: The knowledge of these strategies by health professionals allows adequate pain management and patient follow-up for a less traumatic recovery.

Patient or public contribution: To patient or public involvement in this scoping review.