Randomised controlled trial of tourniquet associated pain generated in lower limb after exsanguination by Esmarch bandage versus limb elevation.

Background: Tourniquets are common adjuncts in the operating theatre but can be associated with post-operative pain. This study was designed to compare what effect pre-tourniquet Esmarch bandage exsanguination has on pain, compared to pre-tourniquet exsanguination by elevation alone.

Methods: 52 volunteers (104 lower limbs) were included in this study with each volunteer acting as their own matched control.