Effects of Mecobalamin on the Prevention of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Type 1 Following Foot Ankle Surgery: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

Study Summary

440 patients undergoing foot and/or ankle surgery were randomized to receive mecobalamin or placebo. The primary outcome was the occurrence of complex regional pain syndrome type 1 (CRPS-1) diagnosed using the Budapest Criteria. Secondary outcomes included visual analogue scale (VAS) pain, Foot and Ankle Ability Measure activities of daily living and sport scores, and Short Form-36 (SF-36) physical and mental component scores. Outcomes were assessed at 1, 2, and 6 weeks and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. Overall, the results revealed that mecobalamin substantially reduced the occurrence of CRPS-1 and produced greater improvements in pain and several functional outcomes than placebo. These findings suggest that postoperative mecobalamin may be an effective prophylactic strategy following foot and ankle surgery.