The Effects of Magnesium Sulfate on Postoperative Pain in Patients Undergoing Lumbar Spinal Surgery: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Abstract

Magnesium sulfate is commonly used intraoperatively to reduce postoperative pain in spinal surgery patients, but its effects when administered postoperatively are not well established. This study specifically aimed to assess the effect of magnesium sulfate on a postoperative basis on the incidence of postoperative pain in lumbar spinal surgery patients. This systematic review focuses on assessing the practicality of postoperative magnesium sulfate in the mitigation of pain after lumbar surgery. A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases, focusing on studies published between January 2000 and December 2023. The findings emphasize the significant role of magnesium in postoperative analgesia for adult patients undergoing lumbar spinal surgeries, with various administration routes explored, such as infusion, intravenous, or intramuscular. All in all, magnesium sulfate shows potential as an analgesic additive in lumbar surgery, aiding in postoperative pain reduction and decreased opioid use. However, its efficacy assessment is hindered by external variables. Standardized research is crucial to establish its optimal clinical applications and address knowledge gaps.