Study of a Multimodality Pain Management Protocol on Postoperative Neurosurgical Pain

Despite the long-standing recognition of postoperative pain as both prevalent and
undertreated, 20% to 30% of all surgical patients continue to experience moderate to severe
postoperative pain. High levels of postoperative pain are associated with an increased risk
of pulmonary and cardiovascular complications, are the most common reason for delayed
discharge or for unexpected hospital admission after ambulatory surgery, and are responsible
for prolonged convalescence after inpatient surgery. Furthermore both neuropathic pain and
post surgical pain inhibit weight gain and may have an impact on the patient's nutrition
post operatively. Finally, high levels of postoperative pain have also been associated with
an increased risk of chronic pain. Therefore, the aggressive treatment of postoperative
pain may be particularly important in influencing patient outcomes, inadvertent
readmissions, and propensity for developing chronic pain.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Postoperative neurosurgical patient treated at the University of Florida

- Primary language is English

Exclusion Criteria:

- Younger than 18 or older than 100 years of age

- Patients who are pregnant, wards of the state, prisoners, and patients who lack the
ability to communicate their pain level