Study of High-dose Nicotine Patch Effects on Pain After Thoracic Surgery in Male Tobacco Smokers Aged 18 to 75

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effect of a high-dose nicotine patch on pain sensitivity in male tobacco smokers who stop smoking before thoracic surgery. Smoking is a major risk factor for complications after surgery and is linked to higher mortality and more postoperative problems. Nicotine withdrawal symptoms and increased opioid use after surgery make pain management challenging, prompting this study to explore nicotine patches as a potential aid during surgery recovery. Participants receive either a nicotine patch or a placebo patch starting 24 hours before surgery and continuing for 48 hours after. The nicotine patch dose depends on the number of cigarettes smoked daily, with one 21 mg patch per 20 cigarettes or a 42 mg patch for those smoking 40 or more cigarettes. Patches are applied to the arm, chest, or back with cleaned skin. The control group receives a placebo patch matching the nicotine patchs appearance and placement. During the study, participants undergo thoracoscopic lung surgery under general anesthesia. Researchers monitor pain by measuring analgesic pump dosage used within 48 hours post-surgery. Other assessments include clinical evaluations and monitoring for any postoperative complications or adverse reactions. The study aims to observe differences in opioid use and pain management between the nicotine patch group and placebo group over the immediate postoperative period.

Effect of Perioperative High-dose Transdermal Nicotine Patch on Pain Sensitivity Among Male Abstinent Tobacco Smokers Undergoing Thoracic Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study