Pain AND Opioids After Surgery
This study, called PANDOS, is looking into how certain painkillers, called opioids, are used by patients before, during, and after surgery across the UK and other European countries. Researchers want to understand if there's a link between how these painkillers are used and things like pain that lasts a long time, the risk of problems after surgery, and a person's overall quality of life. By collecting information from many adult patients having surgery, the study hopes to find ways to improve pain management and care for people undergoing operations. Participants will be followed for a year to see how they recover and manage their pain.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine you're having an operation. To help with the pain, you might be given strong painkillers called opioids. This study, called PANDOS, wants to understand more about how these types of painkillers are used by people having surgery in the UK and Europe. The main goal is to see if there's a connection between using opioids and how people recover, how much pain they have afterwards, and their general quality of life.
Researchers will collect information from many adult patients who have surgery during a specific week. They'll look at things like if you used opioids before your surgery, how many you use during and after the operation, and if you still need them three months later. They will also keep an eye on your pain levels, any problems you might have after surgery, and how you feel generally over the year following your operation.
By gathering all this information, the study hopes to find better ways to manage pain for people having surgery. This could lead to better care and help doctors decide the best way to use painkillers like opioids, ensuring patients have a smoother recovery and better quality of life after their operations.
Key takeaways
- This study looks at how opioid painkillers are used around surgery.
- It aims to understand lasting pain and recovery after operations.
- Participation involves answering questions over a year.
- Your medical care will not change if you take part.
- Your information helps improve pain management for future patients.
- You can choose to leave the study at any time.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults aged 18 or over who are staying in hospital to have any type of surgery. This includes planned operations or emergency ones, as long as an anaesthetist (the doctor who gives you medicine to numb pain or put you to sleep) is involved in your care.
You also need to be able to understand what the study is about and be willing to give your written permission to take part. This permission is called 'informed consent'.
Unfortunately, you wouldn't be able to join if you are too unwell with a very serious condition (classified as ASA grade V or VI), if you don't want to participate, or if you can't understand or fill out the questionnaires that are used in the study.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Are you having surgery in hospital where an anaesthetist is involved?
- Can you understand what the study is about and give written permission?
- Are you able to answer questionnaires clearly?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, the research team will collect some information about your health and your pain management before and during your surgery. After your operation, they will follow up with you a few times over the course of a year. These follow-ups will involve answering questions about your pain, how you're feeling, and any opioid painkillers you might be taking. These check-ins will happen about one week after your surgery, then again at three months, and finally at twelve months after your operation. You won't need to take any specific medication as part of the study; it's about observing your standard hospital care. The total duration of your participation would be for 12 months.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (4)
- Department of Anaesthesiology Sestre Milosrdnice, University Hospital CenterVerified postcodeZagreb, Croatia· Not yet recruiting
- NHS GrampianVerified postcodeAberdeen, United Kingdom· Recruiting
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustVerified postcodeLondon, United Kingdom· Active not recruiting
- Kings Mill Hospital, Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustVerified postcodeNottingham, United Kingdom· Active not recruiting
Common questions
What kind of pain medication are you interested in?
This study is focusing on painkillers called opioids, which are strong medications often used for severe pain after surgery.
Will my care be different if I join the study?
No, joining the study will not change how your doctors manage your pain or surgery. The study simply observes your usual care.
How often will I need to be in contact for the study?
You'll be asked questions at the start, then follow-up questions about a week, three months, and twelve months after your surgery.
Do I have to take part?
No, taking part is completely your choice. Your decision won't affect the medical care you receive.
What happens to my information?
All your personal information will be kept private and confidential. Your name won't be linked to the study findings.
How to find out more
Patrice Forget
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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