A Narrative Review on Pain Management in Head and Neck Cancer: Integrating Multimodal Analgesia and Interventional Procedures

Anesth Pain Med. 2024 Jun 1;14(3):e146825. doi: 10.5812/aapm-146825. eCollection 2024 Jun.

Abstract

Surgical interventions and radiotherapy for head and neck cancer frequently result in substantial instances of acute and chronic discomfort. Optimizing pain management techniques stands as a pivotal factor in enhancing the well-being and overall quality of life for patients. This comprehensive review discusses various pain conditions encountered after head and neck cancer and explores a multidimensional approach to pain management. The review highlights the significance of incorporating multimodal analgesia, physical therapy, psychological support, palliative care, and emerging techniques including nerve blocks to achieve efficacious pain control. Such an endeavor necessitates cooperation among head and neck surgeons, radiotherapists, and pain specialists.

Keywords: Cancer Pain; Chronic Pain; Head and Neck Neoplasms; Neck Pain; Pain Management.

Publication types

  • Review