Prevention of complex regional painful syndrome associated with surgery. A review of the literature

Abstract

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a clinical entity of uncertain pathophysiology and complex therapeutic approach. Its varied etiology is often associated with prolonged immobilization after surgery or trauma and is characterized by a variable clinical presence of pain, hyperalgesia, allodynia and vasomotor and bone trophic changes. There are no specifi c laboratory tests for early diagnosis and prevention are essential to prevent damage. Recent studies have demonstrated the effi cacy of vitamin C in the prevention of CRPS. Given the safe use and the available evidence regarding the benefi ts of employment, an indication of vitamin C in podiatric surgery should be considered routinely. Key words: Complex regional pain syndrome, prevention, ascorbic