Postoperative Pain Management in Dermatologic Surgery: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Pain Management
• Surgery

Background:

• Dermatologic surgeons face challenges balancing effective postoperative pain relief with the US opioid crisis.
• Outpatient dermatologic surgery typically involves minor pain of short duration.
• Patient anxiety may influence postoperative pain perception.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review postoperative pain management strategies in outpatient dermatologic surgery.
• To provide evidence-based recommendations for analgesia in this setting.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of existing literature on pain management in dermatologic surgery.
• Analysis of factors influencing pain, such as anatomic location and repair type.

Main Results:

• Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are supported as first-line treatments for postoperative pain.
• Evidence suggests variability in pain associated with different surgical sites and repair techniques.
• Opioid analgesics should be used judiciously and in minimal amounts.

Conclusions:

• Non-opioid analgesics like acetaminophen and ibuprofen are effective for managing pain after dermatologic surgery.
• Minimizing opioid prescriptions is crucial in light of the current public health crisis.
• Further research may clarify pain differences based on surgical specifics.