The Effect of Perioperative Video Interventions on Postoperative Pain Control: A Systematic Review.

Abstract

Postoperative pain is a major cause of suffering and is linked to serious complications, including delayed wound healing, increased cardiovascular risk, delayed rehabilitation, and chronic postsurgical pain. Modifiable psychological factors influence pain outcomes, and preliminary evidence suggests video interventions can reduce preoperative anxiety and improve patient satisfaction. We hypothesized that video interventions could improve postoperative pain control. Therefore, the aim of the current systematic review was to summarize all previous research and investigate the effects of perioperative video interventions on pain levels and/or analgesic consumption. The review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024596389) and followed the PRISMA Guidelines. We searched PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Academic Search, and the Cochrane Central register of controlled trials from inception to October 2025 for randomized controlled trials in adult surgical patients. Trials assessing any perioperative video interventions reporting on postoperative pain intensity and/or analgesic consumption were included. Data was extracted independently by two authors, and data synthesis was qualitative due to significant heterogeneity. Risk of bias was assessed using the Revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2). Forty-four trials were included. Of the 42 trials assessing pain, 11 (26%) reported significantly lower pain in the intervention group. Of the 19 trials measuring analgesic consumption, eight (42%) reported significantly lower consumption in the intervention group. Only two trials demonstrated a benefit for both co-primary outcomes. Significant improvements in secondary outcomes, including anxiety, physical function, and satisfaction, were reported in 26 trials. Most trials were judged as having a high risk of bias. The current systematic review suggests that perioperative video interventions may improve acute postoperative pain control, although effects are inconsistent across trials. Future research should focus on identifying patient and intervention characteristics that predict efficacy to guide clinical implementation. This trustworthy systematic review presents an overview of current research findings for application of perioperative video-based treatments as part of managing postoperative pain. While this approach shows promise, more definitive evidence may be needed to justify more widespread implementation.