The impact of warming on pain and wound healing after hernia surgery: a preliminary study

Abstract

Objective: To determine whether the application of warmth after hernia surgery reduces pain and aids wound healing.

Method: Forty-five patients were recruited and randomised to receive either no warming;two hours of warming immediately after surgery; or seven days of warming.

Results: Postoperative pain scores were significantly lower after two hours of warming immediately after surgery compared with the non-warmed patients (p<0.05). Pain scores were lower on each of the first seven postoperative days in the warmed groups compared with the non-warmed subjects. Patients in the warmed groups also had lower ASEPSIS wound scores.

Conclusion: Warming may allow wounds to heal with fewer complications. In addition, warming for only two hours immediately after surgery may provide similar benefits to seven days of warming.