Postoperative Pain After Breast Cancer Surgery: Prevalence and Predictors

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pain Management
• Surgical Outcomes

Background:

• Postoperative pain is a significant issue following breast cancer surgery.
• Effective pain management is crucial for patient recovery and quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and predictors of postoperative pain severity in Jordanian women undergoing breast cancer surgery.
• To identify factors influencing pain at rest and during movement within 24 hours post-surgery.

Main Methods:

• A survey was conducted with 212 women who underwent mastectomy or partial mastectomy for breast cancer in Jordan.
• Demographic and clinical data were collected, and postoperative pain was assessed within 24 hours.
• Multiple regression analysis was used to identify predictors of pain severity.

Main Results:

• Over 31% reported moderate to severe pain at rest, and 60.4% experienced moderate to severe pain with movement.
• Significant predictors of pain at rest included younger age, chronic opioid use, and lack of preemptive medication.
• Pain with movement was predicted by younger age, chronic opioid use, lack of preemptive medication, and non-use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Conclusions:

• Postoperative pain is a substantial concern for breast cancer patients in Jordan.
• Younger age, history of chronic opioid use, and absence of preemptive analgesia are associated with increased postoperative pain.
• Targeted pain management strategies are needed for high-risk patient groups.