Pain Management App for Postoperative Pain
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to help teenagers manage post-surgery pain using a smartphone app called "iCanCope with Post-Operative Pain" (iCanCope PostOp). The app tracks pain, provides surgery details, and offers real-time advice for managing discomfort at home. Participants will be divided into two groups: one will use the app alongside their usual care, while the other will receive only the usual care. The trial seeks teenagers aged 12 to 18 who have a smartphone and are scheduled for scoliosis or certain chest surgeries. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative pain management solutions for teenagers.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with your healthcare provider.
What prior data suggests that the iCanCope Post-Op App is safe for managing postoperative pain in teenagers?
Research shows that the iCanCope Post-Op app is specifically designed for children and teenagers, incorporating their input to ensure safety and ease of use.
The app allows users to track their pain and provides advice on managing it after surgery. As a digital tool, it avoids the physical side effects associated with medication. Studies suggest that apps like this can safely assist in pain management, and since it involves no physical procedures, reports of negative effects are absent.
Overall, early feedback indicates that the app could be a helpful and safe way to manage pain at home after surgery.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Unlike traditional pain management options for postoperative pain that often rely on medications like opioids or NSAIDs, the iCanCope Post-Op app offers a digital, non-pharmacological approach. This app empowers adolescents with tools to manage their pain through personalized strategies and self-monitoring, potentially reducing the need for medication. Researchers are excited about this treatment because it could offer a safer, side-effect-free alternative that also promotes self-efficacy and engagement in the recovery process.
What evidence suggests that the iCanCope Post-Op app is effective for managing postoperative pain in teenagers?
Research shows that the iCanCope PostOp app, which participants in this trial may receive, helps manage pain after surgery. Designed with feedback from real users, it is practical and easy to use. Studies indicate that the app can reduce anxiety before surgery and lessen pain afterward. By offering real-time advice and tracking pain levels, it leads to better pain management and recovery. The app aims to improve outcomes by reducing the need for opioids and preventing long-term pain problems.12367
Who Is on the Research Team?
Jennifer Stinson, RN, PhD
Principal Investigator
The Hospital for Sick Children
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for teens aged 12-18 who speak English, own a smartphone, and are scheduled for scoliosis or minimally invasive pectus repair surgery. It's not for those with cognitive impairments that prevent app use, involvement in prior iCanCope studies, or chronic pain unrelated to surgery.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Pre-operative
Participants complete measures at pre-operative appointments following consent and randomization
Post-operative
Participants use the iCanCope PostOp app and receive usual care, with measures taken at 2-week and 4-week post-op
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, with measures taken at 12-week post-op
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- iCanCope Post Op Application
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
The Hospital for Sick Children
Lead Sponsor
Boston Children's Hospital
Collaborator