Introduction:Aim of this study is to evaluate the prevalence and intensity of postoperative pain and to find pain-related factors in women undergoing gynecologic surgery, using a dedicated form. Methods: The sample is divided into three groups, according to the type of surgical access (transversal laparotomy TL, longitudinal laparotomy LL, vaginal VAG). Each patient received postoperative painkillers according to hospital therapy protocols. Postoperative pain episodes that have been recorded during the first three days after surgery (days 0,1,2)) were studied. Pain intensity was measured using Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). Results:The 64% of operated women complained at least one episode of pain during the three days after surgery. Among women complaining pain, its intensity was moderate for the 89% (NRS 4-7) and it was severe only in few cases (11%), mainly in the VAG group. The due-hour painkillers administration was associated to a lower percentage of pain episodes if compared to the "rescue doses". Conclusions: Pain control is important to promote safe surgery. A dedicated form is useful to assess this vital sign. The results present a detailed pictureof this extremely subjective symptom and they suggest how to improve the analgesic therapies when necessary.
Evaluation of postoperative pain after gynecologic surgery: a dedicated form
BORGHI, Chiara;MARTINELLO, Ruby;PATELLA, Alfredo
2012
Abstract
Introduction:Aim of this study is to evaluate the prevalence and intensity of postoperative pain and to find pain-related factors in women undergoing gynecologic surgery, using a dedicated form. Methods: The sample is divided into three groups, according to the type of surgical access (transversal laparotomy TL, longitudinal laparotomy LL, vaginal VAG). Each patient received postoperative painkillers according to hospital therapy protocols. Postoperative pain episodes that have been recorded during the first three days after surgery (days 0,1,2)) were studied. Pain intensity was measured using Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). Results:The 64% of operated women complained at least one episode of pain during the three days after surgery. Among women complaining pain, its intensity was moderate for the 89% (NRS 4-7) and it was severe only in few cases (11%), mainly in the VAG group. The due-hour painkillers administration was associated to a lower percentage of pain episodes if compared to the "rescue doses". Conclusions: Pain control is important to promote safe surgery. A dedicated form is useful to assess this vital sign. The results present a detailed pictureof this extremely subjective symptom and they suggest how to improve the analgesic therapies when necessary.I documenti in SFERA sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
