Persistent postsurgical pain (PPP) affects 10%–50% of patients, lasting beyond three months despite adequate pain management. The link between early and long-term pain outcomes remains unclear, with risk factors like pre-operative anxiety and severe acute pain playing key roles. While opioids are common in perioperative care, their long-term use risks addiction and hyperalgesia.
This review explores the mechanisms driving PPP—sensitisation of peripheral neurons, central nervous system neuroplasticity, and neuro-immune signaling—offering insights for better prevention and management strategies.