The Effects of Add-on Self-Care Therapy on Epidural Catheter Analgesia and Quality of Life in Patients after Surgical Stabilization of Multiple Rib Fractures

Abstract

Background: Epidural (EPI) catheter analgesia is frequently prescribed as a regional analgesic technique to patients with multiple rib fractures (MRF) following surgical stabilization of rib fractures (SSRF). We aimed to study the effect of add-on self-care therapy on recovery and quality of life (QoL) in patients on EPI analgesia after SSRF. Methods: A total of 267 patients with MRF and on EPI catheter analgesia post SSRF were recruited, and assigned to one of two groups in a random fashion: intervention group received education on self-care therapy, while the control group did not. Incentive spirometry (IS) volumes, Pain scores, oxygen saturation (SpO2), respiratory rate, hospital length of stay (LoS) and QoL were evaluated. Results: Compared to control group, the intervention group showed significantly improved pain scores, IS volume, respiratory rate and SpO2. Hospital LoS was shorter for the intervention group than control. Overall QoL assessments in the intervention group were also significantly better than control patients. Conclusion: Education on self-care therapy significantly benefits pain management, recovery and QoL for MRF patients on EPI catheter analgesia after SSRF operation.