Predictors of Acute and Persistent Postoperative Pain in Lung Cancer Surgery

Predictors of Acute and Persistent Postoperative Pain in Lung Cancer Surgery

The aim of this observational study is to investigate if preoperative quantitative sensory testing, anxiety and depression symptoms, and biological markers are associated with the risk of developing acute and chronic postoperative pain after video-assisted Thoracoscopic surgery (VATS).

This observational study examine acute and chronic postoperative pain in patients undergoing VATS. In the study preoperative biomarkers, quantitative sensory testing and questionnaires are used to create prediction models for acute and chronic postoperative pain. The study will serve as background information on the risk factors and predictive factors as well as an exploration of the impact of surgical stress from VATS on circulation microRNA and inflammatory mediators.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults independent of sex with an age of ≥ 18 years
• Patients scheduled for VATS as a part of either examination or radical treatment of lung cancer

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients who are unable to understand oral and written information.
• Patients with known chronic pain in the thorax which have been persisting for at least six months before the day of surgery.
• Pregnant and nursing women.
• Patients receiving a planned preoperative epidural blockade during their stay.
• Patients converted to open surgery.