Clinical studies show: A postoperative binder contributes to pain relief
Recovering from abdominal surgery often involves both physical and psychological challenges. Whether it's related to a caesarean section, hernia, or stoma, pain, reduced mobility, wounds, or incisional hernias are common after the operation.
We have compiled a number of clinical studies showing that an abdominal binder can reduce pain, increase mobility, and decrease the risk of postoperative complications. Both immediately after surgery and during the rehabilitation phase. The use of binders after surgery has been evaluated in several systematic meta-analyses, which are based on randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
Abdominal binders after different types of abdominal surgery
Using a binder after abdominal surgery can provide both physical and psychological support during recovery. Studies show that a binder can reduce pain, provide increased security, and promote mobilization, which in turn could lead to shorter hospital stays, lower healthcare costs, and a better quality of life. Studies show that patients undergoing laparotomy and using an individually fitted, prefabricated binder postoperatively have significantly reduced pain compared to patients without a binder. In one of the studies, NordiCare's binder "LyftPlus" was used.
Benefits according to meta-analyses1,2:
• Reduces postoperative pain, especially 1-4 days after surgery.
• Facilitates mobility and mobilization, especially on day 3.
• Reduces the risk of complications.
• Lower morphine dosage is needed (in laparotomy).
• Provides an increased sense of security and stability.
1. The efficacy of abdominal binder in women undergoing cesarean delivery: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. 2. Evidence on postoperative abdominal binding: A systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. 3. The Clinical Effects of Abdominal Binder on Abdominal Surgery: A Meta-analysis.
Binder after hernia surgery
During surgery for, for example, a ventral hernia, a binder is used to reduce pain and facilitate healing. The binder can also reduce the feeling of discomfort and the risk of recurrence by preventing overexertion.
Benefits according to a 2024 meta-analysis1,2:
• Reduced pain 2 weeks after surgery.
• Improved mobilization and walking ability (6MWT).
• Reduces the feeling of heaviness or discomfort.
• Lower incidence of surgical site infection (SSI).
Binder for stoma and parastomal hernia
For people with a stoma, a binder can provide support and prevent herniation. For the binder's function in preventing parastomal hernias, there are 3 evidence-based guidelines. The results highlight the importance of the stoma nurse's work to achieve good outcomes. Fitting, need, information, and assessment are important pieces.
Benefits according to 3 evidence-based guidelines1-5:
• Can prevent the development of a parastomal hernia
• Provides pain relief for an existing hernia
• Increases security during movement and physical activity
• Improves body image and self-confidence
1. Parastomal Hernia Prevention, Assessment, and Management: Canadian Best Practice Recommendations. 2. Supporting Adults Who Anticipate or Live with an Ostomy 3. Prevention and treatment of parastomal hernia: a position statement on behalf of the Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland.
Binder after caesarean section
In recent years, several studies have been conducted evaluating the use of binders specifically after caesarean sections. They show a clear effect on reduced postoperative pain, which also positively impacts breastfeeding. Furthermore, increased postoperative mobilization is seen, which in itself can reduce the risk of complications. Research shows that many women experience improved function, relief, and quality of life when using a binder in the first few days after a caesarean section.
Benefits according to meta-analyses (2021-2024)1,2:
• Effective pain relief for up to 48 hours postoperatively.
• Increased mobilization within 24 hours.
• Positive effect on breastfeeding.
• Reduced postoperative stress.
• Increased quality of life and sense of control.
1. The efficacy of abdominal binder in women undergoing cesarean delivery: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. 2. The efficacy of abdominal binders in reducing postoperative pain and distress after cesarean delivery: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. 3. The effectiveness of the abdominal binder in relieving pain after cesarean delivery: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
Pain level reduced in patients using a binder
The chart below shows the pain level in patients before and after surgery. The grey bars show the pain level in patients without a binder and the orange bars show the pain level where patients used a binder. After surgery, the bars show that the pain level is higher in patients without a binder.
Source: The effect of abdominal support on functional outcomes in patients following major abdominal surgery: a randomized controlled trial.
Reference List
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