CURRENT PERSPECTIVES OF POSTOPERATIVE PAIN AND ITS REMEDIES: LITERATURE REVIEW
Keywords:
Postoperative Pain, Analgesics, Opioid-saving Effect, PregabalinAbstract
This study examines the current perspectives of postoperative pain and its remedies. The paper highlights the pathophysiological mechanisms of primary and secondary sensitization, as well as the possibilities of pharmacological management are considered. Multimodal analgesia - a combination of different analgesic medications - is the most justifiable approach of adequate postoperative pain relief. The advantages and disadvantages of possible combinations of analgesic medications depending on the type of surgical intervention are highlighted. The review underscores the significant protective potential in response to damaging factors. The occurrence of pain syndrome of varying intensity is an integral part and the result of the vast majority of operative interventions. Statistically more than 80% of patients experience acute pain in the postoperative period, 75% of which rate its intensity from moderate to severe and becomes unbearable. Drawing on contemporary literature, the study also explores the main reasons that hinder the early activation of patients, faster and more complete functional recovery after surgical intervention is insufficient postoperative analgesia. The paper argues that a high proportion of patients experience moderate to severe pain, which can delay recovery and increase the risk of chronic pain. Multimodal analgesia is identified as the most effective approach, combining different classes of analgesics such as opioids, NSAIDs, acetaminophen, local anesthetics, and adjuvant agents. Particular emphasis is placed on gabapentinoids, which provide significant opioid-sparing effects and improved pain control. Non-pharmacological methods also play a supportive role. In conclusion, effective postoperative pain management requires a comprehensive, patient-centered approach based on sound knowledge of pain mechanisms, careful drug selection, and continuous assessment. One of the reccomndation made was that healthcare providers should routinely implement multimodal analgesia strategies combining opioids, NSAIDs, acetaminophen, local anesthetics, and adjuvant drugs to achieve effective and balanced pain control.
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