Risk factors for chronic thoracic pain after cardiac surgery via sternotomy

Abstract

We have identified a number of factors correlated with persistent thoracic pain following cardiac surgery with sternotomy. Awareness of these predictors may be useful for further research concerning both the prevention and treatment of chronic thoracic pain, thereby potentially ameliorating the postoperative quality of life of a significant proportion of patients. Meanwhile, chronic thoracic pain should be discussed preoperatively with patients at risk so that they are truly informed about possible consequences of the surgery.