Progress of Post-thoracotomy Pain-relief Strategies

Abstract

This article provides a concise review of post-thoracotomy pain-relief strategies, focuses on surgical factors that have been investigated to reduce post-thoracotomy pain, and explores the effectiveness of various treatments for this condition. Although some interventions (both procedural and pharmacologic) have been investigated in both preventing and treating post-thoracotomy pain syndrome, definitive studies are lacking and firm conclusions cannot be drawn. This review elucidates mechanisms and some surgical techniques which can relieve post-thoracotomy pain.

Keywords

• Post-thoracotomy pain
• Chest closure technique
• Intercostal nerve