Study of Central Sensitization, Fear-Avoidance, and Pain Sensitivity in Women Undergoing Abdominal or Laparoscopic Hysterectomy for Benign Conditions to Understand Chronic Post-Surgery Pain

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating factors that may contribute to chronic post-hysterectomy pain CPHP, a persistent pain lasting at least three months after hysterectomy surgery for benign conditions. This observational study explores how central sensitization, fear-avoidance behaviors, pain sensitivity, and other factors relate to developing CPHP. The study also looks at heart rate variability, anxiety, anticipated pain, and anticipated pain medicine needs as possible predictors of pain after surgery. Participants will undergo preoperative assessments including questionnaires to measure central sensitization, fear-avoidance, anxiety, depression, and pain catastrophizing. Tests for pain-pressure threshold and mechanical temporal summation will be performed. Heart rate variability will be recorded from a 5-minute ECG. All participants will have elective abdominal or laparoscopic hysterectomy. Follow-up assessments will occur at 24 and 48 hours, and at 4 and 6 months after surgery to monitor pain and related factors. During the study, participants will complete multiple standardized questionnaires and undergo physical tests before surgery. Postoperative follow-ups will assess pain levels and other outcomes. Researchers will analyze the data to find links between preoperative factors and chronic or significant postoperative pain. The primary outcomes include chronic pain at 4 months and significant pain at 24 hours. Safety and quality of life will also be monitored throughout the study, which runs until December 2027.

Evaluation of Central Sensitization, Fear-Avoidance, and Pain-Pressure Threshold With Chronic Pain After Hysterectomy