Short summary

The purpose of this study is to evaluate aspects of the use epidural analgesia in Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (VATS) - benefits and harms. It includes three sub studies, each addressing different aspects of the use of epidural analgesia in thoracic surgery.

Rationale

The use of epidural analgesia in thoracic surgery is a well established practice and has been shown to provide both better pain relieve and quality of life in patients undergoing major surgery.

Apart from these effects, there is emerging evidence of a positive effect on immune response after surgery and a possible mortality reduction worth exploring further.

On the other hand, though serious complications of central neuraxial blocks are rare, the ramifications of such necessitate the use of epidural catheters to be judicious.

Description of the cohort

Patients included are patients with suspected lung cancer scheduled for VATS resection.

Data and biological material

This sub-study include postoperative follow-up questionnaires four times after VATS, 6 months, 1 year, 2 years and 5 years.

Collaborating researchers and departments

Cardiothoracic surgery