Data collection
Pain, pain
SECONDARY
Medical data were collected and stored electronically. Pseudonymization was strictly ensured. Primary outcome parameters were defined as the circumference of the affected limb in cm after surgery, secondary outcome parameters were defined as follows: Subjective perception of pain (measured via visual analogue scale, VAS) and length of inpatient stay. All parameters were examined once preoperatively and on each postoperative day after intervention up to discharge. Measurement of arm circumference was performed at the following five anatomical landmarks:15 cm above the elbow joint gapElbow joint gapTen cm below the elbow joint gapWristMetacarpalDuration of hospitalization included inpatient preparatory work on a preoperative day and the maximum number of days until discharge to the outpatient setting was medically feasible. Pain was evaluated each day using the VAS-Scale.Patients of both groups received analgesic medication according to the modified WHO scheme which included a basic medication of Metamizole (2000 mg per day) and Ibuprofen (1800 mg per day) with sustained-release morphine (maximum 60 mg per day) as on-demand medication.