Incidence, Risk Factors, and Management of Postoperative Pain in Patients Recovering from Knee Surgery: Protocol for a Prospective Cohort Study

Abstract

Background: Many individuals who undergo knee surgery recover without complications; however, some may experience postoperative pain and be unable to resume their normal daily activities. Prospective observational studies on knee postoperative pain can be useful for identifying patients at risk, recognising predictive factors, and determining the most effective management strategies. Objectives: The main purpose of this study is to determine the incidence and risk factors of postoperative pain in patients recovering from knee surgery. In addition, we intend to examine offered pain management strategies and the effect of rehabilitation exposure on the incidence of postoperative pain. Methods: This is a study protocol for a single-centre, prospective cohort study. During their first postoperative consultation, adults of both sexes that are scheduled to undergo knee surgery and meet the eligibility criteria will be enrolled. Throughout the first 15 days immediately after surgery, all participants will be invited to report daily on their pain intensity, and pain management strategies. Starting at the first postoperative consultation, irrespective of adopted recovery protocols, each participant will have six moments of evaluation that correspond to scheduled consultations with the orthopaedic surgeon. An additional evaluation is conducted 36 weeks after discharge from the hospital. Expected Results: The expected outcome of this study is an understanding of how pain evolves after knee surgery and which factors may predict the persistence of this symptom throughout the recovery period. In addition, we anticipate gaining insight into the impacts of pain management strategies and exposure to rehabilitation on postoperative pain.