The Annals of thoracic surgery
-
Although it is frequently stated in the literature that thoracotomy is one of the most painful operative incisions, few data supporting this view are available. ⋯ The common belief that posterolateral thoracotomy is a very painful operative access is not true. Therefore it is not necessary to use special techniques for postthoracotomy pain relief in these patients. Patient-controlled analgesia is sufficient for pain relief after major thoracic or abdominal incisions.