Postoperative Pain in Pediatrics

*Alejandro Escalona-Espinosa, Kelly Maldonado-Sánchez, Enrique Pazos-Alvarado, Pedro Castañeda, Rosina Alcaraz-Ramos, David Aguilar-Romero and Keisuke Lira-Hernandez*

#### **Abstract**

Postoperative pain in pediatrics is a common concern for both parents and healthcare professionals. Children who experience pain after surgery can present with several complications, including nausea, vomiting, breathing difficulties, sleep disturbances, and decreased physical activity. In addition, untreated pain can have long-term effects on children's emotional and psychological well-being. It is important to recognize that children may experience pain differently than adults and, therefore, need a personalized treatment approach. Evaluation and management of postoperative pain in pediatrics should be based on the child's age, the type of surgery, and the severity of pain. Several treatment options are available, including oral, intravenous, and epidural analgesics, as well as non-pharmacological techniques such as relaxation and distraction. Prevention of postoperative pain is also important and can be achieved through the administration of analgesics prior to surgery and early postoperative care.

**Keywords:** postoperative pain, pediatrics, analgesia, pain management, pain treatment

#### **1. Introduction**

Surgery is a common medical procedure performed to treat various conditions. In pediatrics, surgery is often necessary to treat congenital diseases, developmental disorders, or traumatic injuries. Although surgery can be beneficial, postoperative pain is a common consequence that can negatively affect a patient's recovery. Treatment may include pain relievers, regional anesthesia, and nondrug therapies such as physical therapy and occupational therapy. Within the strategies to prevent postoperative pain, such as the use of less invasive surgical techniques and the administration of analgesics before surgery. A multidisciplinary approach to postoperative pain management in pediatric patients, involving physicians, nurses, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists helps improve the conditions of pediatric patients after surgery. The importance of education and preparation to the patients and their parents before surgery helps to reduce anxiety and stress. It is also useful to implement relaxation and distraction techniques to improve the patient experience as well as the importance of using multimodal analgesia in pain management. In summary, in this chapter, we will highlight the importance of proper postoperative pain management

#### *Topics in Postoperative Pain*

in pediatric patients to minimize discomfort and promote a faster and more complete recovery.

In summary, in this chapter, we will highlight the importance of proper postoperative pain management in pediatric patients to minimize discomfort and promote a faster and more complete recovery.
