Acute pain management for patients undergoing thoracotomy

Ann Thorac Surg. 2003 Apr;75(4):1349-57. doi: 10.1016/s0003-4975(02)04647-7.

Abstract

Management of thoracotomy pain can be difficult, but the benefits of effective pain control are significant. A variety of modalities for treating postoperative pain after thoracotomy are available, including systemic opiates, regional analgesics, and new oral and parenteral agents. This work provides a review of the literature and recommendations for the clinician.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Analgesia, Epidural
  • Humans
  • Nerve Block
  • Pain, Postoperative / therapy*
  • Thoracotomy*