Development and validation of a predictive scoring system for post-transarterial chemoembolization pain management in liver cancer patients

Ke You ¹, Jiaguo Wang ¹, Jie Xu ¹

⁰Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.

Journal of Gastrointestinal Oncology +

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March 14, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This study developed a scoring system to predict severe pain after transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). The system identifies high-risk patients, aiding in better pain management and treatment adherence.

Area Of Science

Oncology
Pain Management
Medical Informatics

Background

Severe postoperative pain impacts patient adherence to treatment.
Effective pain prediction and management are crucial after procedures like transarterial chemoembolization (TACE).
This study addresses the need for better TACE pain assessment.

Purpose Of The Study

To identify key risk factors for post-TACE pain.
To develop and validate a predictive scoring system for moderate to severe pain after TACE.
To improve postoperative pain management strategies.

Main Methods

Retrospective analysis of 255 liver cancer patients undergoing their first TACE.
Pain assessment using the 11-point numerical rating scale (NRS-11).
Logistic regression and nomogram development for risk prediction, validated in separate cohorts.

Main Results

Tumor number, size, microsphere volume, and operation time were significant predictors of pain.
The predictive model achieved an AUC of 0.71 (training) and 0.74 (validation) for moderate to severe pain.
A nomogram identified patients with scores >72.90 as high risk.

Conclusions

A novel scoring system effectively predicts moderate to severe pain post-TACE.
The system requires further validation in larger, diverse populations to enhance clinical utility.
Predictive tools are vital for optimizing pain management and patient outcomes.

Keywords:

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) pain predict risk factors scoring system