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 complication after surgery. Exacerbation or recurrence of RSD is a major concern after a second intervention at the site of previous surgery and consecutive RSD. 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 case series of consecutive patients, whether recurrences in patients with a history of RSD after surgery, who were reoperated at the same location, can be avoided by using a standardised intervention protocol containing perioperative calcitonin prophylaxis. None of the patients experienced a recurrence of RSD. We concluded that the recurrence of RSD in patients requiring operative intervention at the site of former dystrophy after surgery appears to be unlikely with careful perioperative management.