Surgical Procedures, Operative

Clinical evidence for the effectiveness of hypnosis in the treatment of acute procedural pain was critically evaluated based on reports from randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs). Results from the 29 RCTs meeting inclusion criteria suggest that hypnosis decreases pain compared to standard care and attention control groups and that it is at least as effective as comparable adjunct psychological or behavioral therapies. In addition, applying hypnosis in multiple sessions prior to the day of the procedure produced the highest percentage of significant results.

AIM: Several systematic reviews (SRs) of acupuncture for surgical conditions have recently been published with sometimes contradicting results. The aim of this overview was to summarise recent SRs of acupuncture for surgical conditions. METHOD: Thirteen electronic databases were searched for relevant reviews published since 2000. Data were extracted by two independent reviewers according to predefined criteria. RESULTS: Twelve SRs met our inclusion criteria. They related to the prevention or treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting as well as to surgical or postoperative pain.

Surgery for the aged presents a special challenge for all members of the hospital team. The tone of a geriatric hospital is unique. It has usually been adapted specifically for the needs of the elderly. Quiet kindness replaces excessive urgency; a slower time scale allows unrushed opportunities for patient care and contact; and a friendly family spirit helps replace what is missing in the lives of many elderly patients.

Surgery for the aged presents a special challenge for all members of the hospital team. The tone of a geriatric hospital is unique. It has usually been adapted specifically for the needs of the elderly. Quiet kindness replaces excessive urgency; a slower time scale allows unrushed opportunities for patient care and contact; and a friendly family spirit helps replace what is missing in the lives of many elderly patients.