Optimizing Outcomes: Perioperative Strategies for Patients With Chronic Pelvic Pain

Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) severely impacts quality of life, presenting distinct perioperative management challenges. Patients face heightened anxiety, severe postoperative pain, prolonged recovery from fear of movement, and persistent pain amplified by concurrent chronic overlapping pain conditions (COPCs). While data on preoperative pain's precise impact remains limited, surgery often triggers severe flares. Consequently, comprehensive preoperative screening is crucial. Evaluating risk factors-including central sensitization, substance use, smoking, COPCs, specific pain generators, and psychological comorbidities-allows clinicians to manage expectations effectively. Ultimately, this targeted risk assessment equips patients with the necessary strategies and tools to optimize their surgical recovery.