Post-operative Thoracic Epidural Analgesia and Incidence of Major Complications: a Large Retrospective Dual Center Experi-ence

Chronic Pain Clinical Trial

Official title: Post-operative Thoracic Epidural Analgesia and Incidence of Major Complications: a Large Retrospective Dual Center Experi-ence

Status Completed

Clinical Trial Summary

A retrospective observational dual center study investigating side effects and major complications after thoracic epidural insertion according to local safety protocols.

Clinical Trial Description

Abstract: (1) Background: Thoracic epidural analgesia is considered the gold standard in post-operative pain management following thoracic surgery. This study was designed to explore the safety of thoracic epidural analgesia and to quantify the incidence of its post-operative side-effects in patients undergoing thoracotomy for major surgery, such as resection of lung malignancies and lung transplantation. (2) Methods: This is a retrospective, dual-center observa-tional study implementing patients that underwent major thoracic surgery including lung trans-plantation and received concurrent placement of thoracic epidural catheters for postoperative an-algesia. An electronic system of referral and documentation of complications was used, and information was retrieved from our electronic critical care charting system. Side effects such as nausea and vomiting , itching, catheter related issues and also major complications such as epidural haematoma, abscess, or permanent nerve damage were investigated. The study aims to highlight the importance of a solid documentation and recording system alongside with the implementation of safety protocols. ;

Related Conditions & MeSH terms

• Chronic Pain
• Neuralgia
• Neuropathic Pain
• Thoracic Cancer

• NCT number: NCT05909007
• Study type: Observational
• Source: AHEPA University Hospital
• Status: Completed
• Start date: April 2012
• Completion date: November 2014