Rebound pain is a phenomenon in which severe pain emerges after the resolution of a peripheral nerve block (PNB), typically within 12–24 hours postoperatively. It is characterized by a transition from well-controlled pain (Numerical Rating Scale ≤3) to severe pain (≥7) and often does not respond adequately to opioids. The incidence of rebound pain varies, reaching up to 40% in ambulatory surgery patients. The pathophysiology is linked to abnormal spontaneous C-fiber hyperactivity and nociceptor hypersensitivity. Risk factors include younger age, bone surgery, absence of intraoperative dexamethasone, and single-injection PNBs. Consequences include increased opioid use, impaired recovery, chronic pain development, and reduced patient satisfaction. Management strategies focus on multimodal analgesia, preemptive education, and early analgesic administration. Techniques such as perineural or intravenous dexamethasone, continuous catheter PNBs, and combined nerve blocks may help reduce incidence. Liposomal bupivacaine shows promise but lacks strong supporting evidence. Educating patients on taking rescue analgesia before block resolution is crucial. Effective pain management strategies are essential to mitigate rebound pain, improve postoperative recovery, and enhance patient outcomes.

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Rebound Pain After Peripheral Nerve Blocks

  • Roche John Alexis Martin,
  • Nishkarsh Gupta,
  • Kiran Koneti

摘要

Rebound pain is a phenomenon in which severe pain emerges after the resolution of a peripheral nerve block (PNB), typically within 12–24 hours postoperatively. It is characterized by a transition from well-controlled pain (Numerical Rating Scale ≤3) to severe pain (≥7) and often does not respond adequately to opioids. The incidence of rebound pain varies, reaching up to 40% in ambulatory surgery patients. The pathophysiology is linked to abnormal spontaneous C-fiber hyperactivity and nociceptor hypersensitivity. Risk factors include younger age, bone surgery, absence of intraoperative dexamethasone, and single-injection PNBs. Consequences include increased opioid use, impaired recovery, chronic pain development, and reduced patient satisfaction. Management strategies focus on multimodal analgesia, preemptive education, and early analgesic administration. Techniques such as perineural or intravenous dexamethasone, continuous catheter PNBs, and combined nerve blocks may help reduce incidence. Liposomal bupivacaine shows promise but lacks strong supporting evidence. Educating patients on taking rescue analgesia before block resolution is crucial. Effective pain management strategies are essential to mitigate rebound pain, improve postoperative recovery, and enhance patient outcomes.