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Efficacy of non-pharmacological interventions to reduce pain in children with sickle cell disease: a systematic review
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  • Caroline Vuong,
  • Sarah van Veelen,
  • Jorn J. Gerritsma,
  • Corien L. Eckhardt,
  • E.M. Verbeek Sophie,
  • Marjolein Peters,
  • Karin Fijnvandraat
Caroline Vuong
Amsterdam Universitair Medische Centra
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Sarah van Veelen
Amsterdam Universitair Medische Centra
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Jorn J. Gerritsma
Amsterdam Universitair Medische Centra
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Corien L. Eckhardt
Amsterdam Universitair Medische Centra
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E.M. Verbeek Sophie
Amsterdam Universitair Medische Centra
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Marjolein Peters
Amsterdam Universitair Medische Centra
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Karin Fijnvandraat
Amsterdam Universitair Medische Centra

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Abstract

Background: Pain is the clinical hallmark of sickle cell disease (SCD) leading to hospitalization, psychological sequelae and a decreased health-related quality of life. The aim of this systematic literature review is to evaluate the efficacy of non-pharmacological interventions in reducing sickle cell-related pain in children with SCD. Methods: A comprehensive literature search up until October 2022 was performed to identify studies that investigated the efficacy of non-pharmacological interventions on (1) pain frequency and/or intensity, and (2) analgesic and health service use in children with SCD. Randomized controlled (RCTs) trials and quasi-experimental designed (QED) studies that investigated non-pharmacological interventions for pediatric patients with SCD until the age of 21 years were considered for inclusion. Results: Ten articles (5 RCTs and 5 QED studies) with 422 participants were included. They investigated cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) (n =5), biofeedback (n=2), massage (n=1), virtual reality (n=1) and yoga (n=1). CBT, biofeedback, massage, virtual reality and yoga significantly reduced frequency and/or intensity of SCD-related pain. Biofeedback also significantly reduced analgesic use. Conclusion: Non-pharmacological interventions may be effective in reducing pain in pediatric SCD patients. However, due to the heterogeneity of the included studies a quantitative analysis could not be performed. Awaiting further supporting evidence, healthcare providers should consider implementing these interventions as valuable part of a comprehensive pain management strategy plan to improve the outcome of sickle cell-related pain.
04 Jan 2023Submission Checks Completed
04 Jan 2023Assigned to Editor
04 Jan 2023Submitted to Pediatric Blood & Cancer
04 Jan 2023Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
04 Jan 2023Reviewer(s) Assigned
03 Feb 2023Editorial Decision: Revise Minor
02 Mar 2023Submission Checks Completed
02 Mar 2023Assigned to Editor
02 Mar 20231st Revision Received
03 Mar 2023Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
03 Mar 2023Reviewer(s) Assigned
04 Mar 2023Editorial Decision: Accept