Postthoracotomy
pain syndrome (
PTPS) is a common complication following thoracic surgery. Most studies examining the influence of
PTPS on patient-reported symptoms include few patients managed using a minimally invasive approach. Associated sensory changes, potentially neuropathic in origin, are not well described. We therefore examined the symptoms and quality of life (QOL) of patients with and without
PTPS who underwent a standard
thoracotomy (n = 43) or
minimally invasive surgery (n = 54). Patients in this prospective, cross-sectional study completed questionnaires to assess
pain (McGill
Pain Questionnaire), neuropathic symptoms (Neuropathic Symptom Questionnaire), symptom distress (Symptom Distress Scale), anxiety and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), and QOL (Functional Assessment
Cancer Therapy-Lung). Excepting younger age (p = .009), no demographic or surgical characteristic differentiated patients with and without
PTPS. Patients with
PTPS described discomfort as
pain only (15.1%), neuropathic symptoms only (30.2%) or
pain and neuropathic symptoms (54.7%). Scores differed between patients with and without
PTPS for symptom distress (p < .001), anxiety and depression (p < .001), and QOL (p = .009), with higher distress associated with
PTPS. Despite new surgical techniques,
PTPS remains common and results in considerable distress. A focused assessment is needed to identify all experiencing this condition, with referral to
pain management specialists if symptoms persist.