Research reveals that the utilization of potent synthetic opioids during surgical procedures may lead to a less favorable postoperative pain experience. This encompasses emotional, cognitive, and physical dimensions of pain. Scientists suggest that reevaluating intraoperative pain management methods could enhance patient recovery and overall care quality.

The majority of patients encounter significant discomfort following surgery, which can impede recovery and elevate the risk of complications. Modern studies indicate that the perception of pain extends beyond mere intensity, incorporating emotional and cognitive elements as well. Researchers conducted a secondary analysis of a clinical trial involving 1062 adults under 70 years old across five French hospitals. Participants were randomly assigned preoperative sedatives or placebos to evaluate their impact on the entire surgical experience. Preoperative anxiety, pain levels, sleep quality, and wellbeing were assessed using validated scales. Patient satisfaction was gauged the day after surgery through a comprehensive questionnaire covering various aspects of their experience.

Analysis of 971 patients showed that nearly 28% reported a poor pain experience within the first day post-surgery. Key factors influencing this outcome included age, preoperative anxiety levels, tobacco use, long-term opioid usage, and type of surgery. Notably, the administration of strong opioids like remifentanil or sufentanil during general anesthesia was strongly associated with a negative pain experience. Patients receiving these potent agents were almost 27 times more likely to report dissatisfaction. Other contributing factors included the use of postoperative anti-anxiety medication, amnesia, higher acute pain scores, and lower wellbeing scores on the first day after surgery. Older patients and those undergoing orthopedic surgery had a reduced likelihood of experiencing poor pain outcomes.

Understanding the broader aspects of pain beyond its intensity is crucial for predicting and managing persistent postsurgical pain. The findings highlight the need to explore new strategies in perioperative care, focusing not just on pain intensity but also on emotional and cognitive dimensions. By refining anesthesia practices and addressing these multifaceted pain experiences, healthcare providers can significantly improve patient outcomes and enhance the quality of care.