Chronic postoperative pain: pathophysiology, risk factors and prevention

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Chronic postoperative pain (CPOP) prevalence is high, and is manifested both after minor and major surgeries. This subject has been increasingly studied. This study aimed at describing major aspects of this syndrome. CONTENTS: CPOP mechanisms, risk factors for its development, prevention and pain treatments are described. CONCLUSION: CPOP impacts patients' quality of life, is difficult to treat and the best approach is to prevent it. With a better understanding of pathophysiological bases for perpetuation of pain after a surgical procedure and of risk factors, new treatment options are appearing. The real benefits of preventive drugs are being increasingly studied. To prevent pain, surgical teams and patients have to be aware of the risks of each procedure, not only in the immediate postoperative period but also in the long run.