Postsurgical pain - Epidemiology

摘要

Chronic postsurgical pain is now known to be common after any type of surgical procedure. As with any type of chronic pain, it is likely to last for many years, and to be associated with poor general health and quality of life. It therefore represents an important burden to individuals and society. Known risk factors include younger age, female gender and, possibly, genetic susceptibility. Although these risk factors are not modifiable, they will inform the understanding of risk, and therefore pre-operative discussions and decision-making. Potentially modifiable risk factors include pre- and post-operative pain, certain surgical techniques, and various psychological factors. Evidence for the effectiveness of addressing these risk factors is, however, inconsistent. Further research is required, both to identify and characterise complex aetiological factors, and to test interventions based on these, in randomised controlled trials.