The purpose of this study is to compare the effectiveness of three different intravenous (IV) patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) regimens-Fentanyl, Tramadol, and Ibuprofen-in managing postoperative pain and respiratory performance in patients undergoing Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS). While regional blocks like Erector Spinae Plane (ESP) block provide effective early analgesia, their effect typically diminishes after 8-12 hours, leading to potential 'rebound pain.' This study specifically investigates the period following the duration of the regional block's action. The primary goal is to evaluate which IV PCA protocol better controls pain (Visual Analog Scale scores) and supports better respiratory performance (measured by incentive spirometry) during the first 72 hours post-surgery
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 80 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion criteria
. \- Patients aged 18 to 80 years.
. \- ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) Physical Status Score of I-III.
. \- Body Mass Index (BMI) between 18 and 35 kg/m².
. \- Undergoing elective thoracic surgery via Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS).
. \- Voluntary participation confirmed by signing the written Informed Consent Form.
Exclusion criteria
. \- Age below 18 or above 80 years.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Once the regional nerve block wears off after my thoracic surgery, this trial compares different IV pain medication protocols — can you explain what those protocols are and how they differ from what I'd receive outside the trial?
2Since this trial is measuring pain intensity using a VAS (visual analog scale) score, how will my pain be monitored and how quickly can the team adjust my medication if my pain isn't well controlled?
3This trial involves patient-controlled analgesia, which means I'd be managing some of my own pain relief — am I a good candidate for that approach, and is there anything about my health history that might make it less suitable for me?
4Because this study is listed as 'Phase NA,' it seems to be comparing existing pain management approaches rather than testing a brand-new drug — does that mean the safety profile of the medications involved is already well established?
5Given that this trial is specifically for thoracic surgery patients, would my particular type of thoracic surgery still make me eligible to discuss participation, or are there specific procedures this study is designed around that I should ask about?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.