The effect of using a tourniquet on the intensity of postoperative pain inforearm fractures - A randomized study in 32 surgically treated patients

We have analysed the relationship be tween the intensity of postoperative p ain and the use of a pneumatic tourniquet in procedures for operative fixat ion of fractures of the forearm. Thirty-two patients were divided randomly into two groups as a control (NT) and tourniquet (T). The pain scores in th e NT group were significantly lower. Patients over the age of 30 had notabl y more pain than those younger after the use of a tourniquet. Avoidance of the tourniquet gave better postoperative analgesia in male patients and in those with comminuted fractures, When a tourniquet was used the best result s were obtained if it was kept inflated for less than one hour.