Cryotherapy for Postoperative Pain
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are on chronic narcotics for other reasons, you would not be eligible to participate.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Intercostal Nerve Cryotherapy for postoperative pain?
Research shows that intercostal nerve cryotherapy can significantly reduce postoperative pain, as seen in patients undergoing thoracotomy (chest surgery) and aortic aneurysm repairs. Patients treated with this method experienced less pain and required fewer pain medications compared to those who received other treatments or no nerve block.12345
Is cryotherapy for postoperative pain generally safe for humans?
Cryotherapy for postoperative pain, specifically intercostal nerve cryotherapy, is generally considered safe. Some patients may experience numbness in the skin near the treatment area, but serious side effects are rare. There have been no reports of nerve inflammation or abnormal tissue growth, and only a few cases of minor lung issues.36789
How does cryotherapy differ from other treatments for postoperative pain?
Cryotherapy is unique because it involves freezing techniques to temporarily interrupt nerve function, providing pain relief without the use of drugs. It has been shown to reduce postoperative pain more effectively than local anesthetics and can decrease the need for opioids, ventilation days, and intensive care days in patients with rib fractures.234710
What is the purpose of this trial?
This is a research study designed to test whether a treatment called Intercostal Nerve Cryotherapy is an effective way to help control post-surgical pain for patients undergoing minimally invasive pulmonary resection.There are two treatment groups in this study, a cryotherapy group and control group. Cryotherapy is a method of controlling pain by freezing nerves between the ribs that would transmit pain impulses to the brain.
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adults over 18 who are having minimally invasive lung surgery (like VATS or robotic) and can communicate in English. They should be relatively active (performance status of 1 or 2), not have had previous chest surgery on the same side, no severe heart issues (ejection fraction above 40%), normal kidney function, not have advanced liver disease, not be on long-term narcotics, and able to consent.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo minimally invasive pulmonary resection with either cryoanalgesia and standard pain control or standard pain control alone
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness, including pain control and pulmonary complications
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Intercostal Nerve Cryotherapy
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Allegheny Singer Research Institute (also known as Allegheny Health Network Research Institute)
Lead Sponsor
AtriCure, Inc.
Industry Sponsor