Frequency, intensity, development and repercussions of postoperative pain as a function of the type of surgery

Type of surgery is the most important factor conditioning intensity and duration of postoperative pain. Thoracic and spinal surgery are the most painful procedures. Abdominal, urologic and orthopedic surgery lead to severe postoperative pain. Duration of severe pain rarely exceeds 72 hours. Mobilization increases pain intensity after abdominal, thoracic and orthopaedic surgery. Pain could occur after daycase minor surgical procedures and is often underestimated. Postoperative complications related to pain are difficult to disclose because of the interposition of the direct effects of analgesic treatments. Respiratory and cardiovascular postoperative complications are unrelated to postoperative pain in healthy subjects. This could be different in high risk patients. The surgical procedure is the major determinant of metabolic and psychologic postoperative deterioration. Adequate pain relief allows postoperative rehabilitation and physiotherapy programmes after abdominal and orthopaedic surgery. This could be expected to reduce hospital stay and improve convalescence.