Preventing recurrence of reflex sympathetic dystrophy in patients requiring an operative intervention at the site of dystrophy after surgery

The development of reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) is a common complicat ion after surgery. Exacerbation or recurrence of RSD is a major concern aft er a second intervention at the site of previous surgery and consecutive RS D. It is unclear whether the risk of recurrent RSD can be reduced by using appropriate precautions. The objective of our study was to examine, in a ca se series of consecutive patients, whether recurrences in patients with a h istory of RSD after surgery, who were reoperated at the same location, can be avoided by using a standardised intervention protocol containing periope rative calcitonin prophylaxis. None of the patients experienced a recurrenc e of RSD. We concluded that the recurrence of RSD in patients requiring ope rative intervention at the site of former dystrophy after surgery appears t o be unlikely with careful perioperative management.