GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Statistics About The Most Painful Medical Procedures

The most painful medical procedures, such as limb amputation and childbirth, rank high on pain scales and can vary in intensity based on individual pain thresholds.

Highlights: Most Painful Medical Procedures

  • Almost 5-10% of patients undergoing thoracotomy procedures report experiencing severe pain.
  • Bone marrow biopsy, considered to be extremely painful, is done under local anesthesia in nearly 85% of the cases.
  • In a study, 32.2% of women who had cesarean sections reported experiencing chronic pain.
  • 53% of patients reported pain during their colonoscopy.
  • 50-80% of patients experience post-operative pain after a mastectomy.
  • 59% of surgery patients still suffer pain at 12 weeks after a hernia surgery.
  • A survey reports that up to 34% of patients experience severe pain following lumbar puncture.
  • In a study, 15.2% of patients reported serious pain after cardiac surgery.
  • Gall bladder surgery can result in post-operative pain in 40% of patients.
  • Approximately 80% of patients will experience some form of pain following total knee replacement surgery.
  • About 34% of patients report experiencing significant pain during a dialysis session.
  • Arthroscopic knee surgery can be painful, with acute postoperative pain recorded in more than 41% of cases.
  • 10-20% of children experience moderate to severe pain after a tonsillectomy.
  • Over 50% of people who had a hip replacement surgery report some level of discomfort or pain after the procedure.
  • In the first 48 hours following an appendectomy, approximately 80% of patients report moderate to severe pain.
  • More than 50% of people undergoing endoscopy report mild to moderate discomfort.
  • Roughly 30% of patients report significant pain after a lung biopsy procedure.
  • Around 60% of patients experience severe pain after a craniotomy.
  • Up to 70% of patients reported varying levels of pain after gum graft surgery.
  • About 40% of patients experience moderate to severe pain within 24 hours of receiving a pacemaker or ICD implant.

Table of Contents

The Latest Most Painful Medical Procedures Explained

Almost 5-10% of patients undergoing thoracotomy procedures report experiencing severe pain.

The statistic ‘Almost 5-10% of patients undergoing thoracotomy procedures report experiencing severe pain’ indicates that a small percentage of individuals who undergo thoracotomy surgery, a procedure involving a surgical incision into the chest wall, report experiencing severe pain post-operatively. This finding underscores the importance of pain management strategies in the perioperative period for these patients. Severe pain can have a range of negative consequences, including increased risk of complications, delayed recovery, and decreased quality of life. Healthcare providers should thus prioritize effective pain assessment and management techniques to improve the overall experience and outcomes for patients undergoing thoracotomy procedures.

Bone marrow biopsy, considered to be extremely painful, is done under local anesthesia in nearly 85% of the cases.

The statistic that bone marrow biopsy, a procedure typically perceived as extremely painful, is conducted under local anesthesia in nearly 85% of cases indicates a common practice among medical professionals to manage patient discomfort during the procedure. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the site where the biopsy needle is inserted, thereby reducing the pain experienced by the patient. This statistic suggests that healthcare providers prioritize patient comfort and strive to minimize pain during bone marrow biopsies, potentially improving patient experience and compliance with the procedure. The high rate of utilization of local anesthesia further underscores its effectiveness in enhancing the overall patient care experience in this context.

In a study, 32.2% of women who had cesarean sections reported experiencing chronic pain.

In a study examining the experiences of women who had cesarean sections, 32.2% of the participants reported experiencing chronic pain. This statistic indicates that a significant portion of women who undergo cesarean sections may continue to experience pain for an extended period following the procedure. Chronic pain can have a substantial impact on the quality of life and well-being of these women, potentially affecting their physical and emotional health in the long term. Further research into the causes and management of chronic pain post-cesarean section may be warranted to improve the overall care and outcomes for these individuals.

53% of patients reported pain during their colonoscopy.

This statistic indicates that 53% of patients who underwent a colonoscopy reported experiencing pain during the procedure. This information suggests that a significant portion of patients may find colonoscopies to be uncomfortable or painful. Understanding patient experiences with pain during colonoscopies is important for healthcare providers to improve patient care and potentially implement strategies to minimize pain and discomfort during these procedures. It also highlights the need to further investigate factors that may contribute to pain during colonoscopies and explore ways to enhance the overall patient experience.

50-80% of patients experience post-operative pain after a mastectomy.

The statistic ’50-80% of patients experience post-operative pain after a mastectomy’ indicates that a significant proportion of individuals who undergo a mastectomy surgery will likely experience pain following the procedure. This range of 50-80% suggests that while a substantial majority of patients may experience this type of pain, there is variability in individual experiences. Post-operative pain after a mastectomy can be a common outcome due to the invasive nature of the surgery and the disruption to the tissues and nerves in the chest area. Healthcare providers need to be aware of these statistics to anticipate and manage post-operative pain effectively for mastectomy patients, providing appropriate care and support to improve their overall recovery experience.

59% of surgery patients still suffer pain at 12 weeks after a hernia surgery.

This statistic suggests that a substantial proportion of patients who undergo hernia surgery continue to experience pain 12 weeks post-surgery, with 59% of surgery patients reporting persistent pain. This finding underscores the importance of understanding and managing post-operative pain in order to improve the overall quality of care and patient outcomes following hernia surgeries. The high rate of pain persistence at 12 weeks also highlights the need for healthcare providers to consider implementing more effective pain management strategies and follow-up care interventions to address the ongoing pain experienced by a significant portion of surgery patients.

A survey reports that up to 34% of patients experience severe pain following lumbar puncture.

The statistic stating that up to 34% of patients experience severe pain following a lumbar puncture refers to the proportion of individuals who report experiencing intense discomfort or agony after undergoing a spinal procedure. This finding suggests that a significant minority of patients may endure a high level of pain following lumbar puncture, highlighting the potential challenges and adverse effects associated with this medical intervention. Healthcare providers should be aware of this statistic and take appropriate measures to manage and alleviate post-procedure pain in order to enhance patient comfort and satisfaction. Further investigation and potential interventions may be warranted to better understand and address the factors contributing to the prevalence of severe pain in this context.

In a study, 15.2% of patients reported serious pain after cardiac surgery.

In a study investigating post-operative pain in patients following cardiac surgery, 15.2% of the participants reported experiencing serious pain. This statistic suggests that a considerable proportion of patients undergoing cardiac surgery may face significant pain challenges during their recovery period. The data highlights the importance of monitoring and managing pain effectively in this patient population to improve overall outcomes and enhance the quality of care provided post-surgery. Further research and interventions may be needed to address and alleviate the burden of post-operative pain in cardiac surgery patients.

Gall bladder surgery can result in post-operative pain in 40% of patients.

The statistic stating that gall bladder surgery can result in post-operative pain in 40% of patients suggests that a significant proportion of individuals undergoing this surgical procedure may experience pain after the operation. This information underscores the importance of adequately informing patients about the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery and post-operative care. Healthcare providers should be prepared to manage and address post-operative pain effectively to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients undergoing gall bladder surgery. Additionally, further research into the causes and management of post-operative pain following this procedure may be warranted to improve patient experiences and enhance recovery.

Approximately 80% of patients will experience some form of pain following total knee replacement surgery.

The statistic “Approximately 80% of patients will experience some form of pain following total knee replacement surgery” signifies that the overwhelming majority of individuals who undergo total knee replacement surgery will likely encounter pain of varying degrees post-operatively. This is a common occurrence due to the invasive nature of the surgery and the body’s natural healing process. Pain following knee replacement can stem from inflammation, tissue trauma, nerve damage, or muscle weakness. It is crucial for healthcare providers to manage and address this pain to ensure optimal recovery and patient satisfaction. By acknowledging and preparing for the likelihood of post-operative pain, healthcare professionals can implement appropriate pain management strategies and support patients through the rehabilitation process effectively.

About 34% of patients report experiencing significant pain during a dialysis session.

The statistic “About 34% of patients report experiencing significant pain during a dialysis session” indicates that approximately one-third of patients undergoing dialysis treatment have reported experiencing substantial levels of pain during the procedure. This information highlights the prevalence of pain as a common issue among dialysis patients, requiring attention and potential intervention to enhance their overall treatment experience and quality of life. Understanding the factors contributing to this pain and implementing targeted strategies to alleviate it could be crucial in promoting the well-being and treatment outcomes of individuals with kidney disease undergoing dialysis sessions.

Arthroscopic knee surgery can be painful, with acute postoperative pain recorded in more than 41% of cases.

The statistic indicates that arthroscopic knee surgery is associated with a high likelihood of experiencing acute postoperative pain, as recorded in over 41% of cases. This suggests that a significant proportion of patients undergoing this procedure may experience discomfort following the surgery. The pain experienced may vary in intensity and duration, impacting the postoperative recovery process and potentially affecting the overall satisfaction of patients with the surgical outcome. Physicians and healthcare providers should be aware of this statistic and take appropriate measures to manage pain effectively in patients undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery, ensuring optimal postoperative care and pain relief for better treatment outcomes and patient experience.

10-20% of children experience moderate to severe pain after a tonsillectomy.

This statistic indicates that between 10% to 20% of children are likely to experience moderate to severe pain following a tonsillectomy procedure. Tonsillectomy is a common surgical procedure in which the tonsils are removed due to various health reasons such as recurrent infections or obstructive sleep apnea. The range of 10% to 20% suggests that a notable proportion of children undergoing this surgery may encounter a significant level of pain postoperatively, highlighting the importance of effective pain management strategies to ensure the comfort and well-being of these individuals during the recovery period.

Over 50% of people who had a hip replacement surgery report some level of discomfort or pain after the procedure.

The statistic indicates that more than half of individuals who underwent hip replacement surgery experienced discomfort or pain to some degree following the procedure. This suggests that post-surgical pain or discomfort is a common outcome for a significant portion of patients who have had a hip replacement. The statistic underscores the importance of managing patients’ expectations and providing adequate support and pain management strategies post-surgery to address and alleviate any discomfort or pain experienced during the recovery period. Additionally, this information could inform healthcare providers and patients about the potential challenges and outcomes associated with hip replacement surgery, helping to guide discussions and decisions regarding treatment options and post-operative care.

In the first 48 hours following an appendectomy, approximately 80% of patients report moderate to severe pain.

The statistic indicates that around 80% of patients who have undergone an appendectomy experience moderate to severe pain in the first 48 hours post-surgery. This suggests that pain management is a crucial aspect of care for those recovering from the procedure. The high percentage of patients reporting pain highlights the need for healthcare providers to closely monitor and address pain levels to ensure patient comfort and well-being during the initial recovery period. Effective pain management strategies, such as medication administration and other interventions, may be necessary to alleviate discomfort and promote a smoother recovery process for individuals following an appendectomy.

More than 50% of people undergoing endoscopy report mild to moderate discomfort.

This statistic indicates that a majority of individuals who undergo endoscopy, a medical procedure involving the insertion of a long, flexible tube into the body to examine organs or tissues, experience some level of discomfort during the process. Specifically, it suggests that over half of the people who undergo endoscopy describe their discomfort as mild to moderate in severity. This discomfort could manifest as physical sensations such as bloating, cramping, or a sensation of pressure in the area being examined. It is important for healthcare providers to be aware of this common experience among patients undergoing endoscopy, as it may influence patients’ perceptions of the procedure and their overall satisfaction with the experience. Efforts to minimize discomfort and provide adequate support and information to patients before, during, and after endoscopy can help improve patient outcomes and overall procedural success.

Roughly 30% of patients report significant pain after a lung biopsy procedure.

The statistic ‘Roughly 30% of patients report significant pain after a lung biopsy procedure’ indicates that about a third of patients who undergo a lung biopsy experience notable levels of pain following the procedure. This finding suggests that pain is a common issue for a substantial portion of patients post-biopsy, potentially impacting their comfort and recovery. Understanding the prevalence of pain following this medical procedure is essential for healthcare providers to anticipate and manage patients’ needs effectively, ensuring appropriate pain management strategies are in place to enhance patient care and overall satisfaction.

Around 60% of patients experience severe pain after a craniotomy.

The statistic that around 60% of patients experience severe pain after a craniotomy indicates a substantial proportion of individuals who undergo this surgical procedure report significant levels of pain following the operation. This finding suggests that postoperative pain management is a crucial aspect of care for patients undergoing craniotomies. It highlights the importance of healthcare providers being proactive in assessing and managing pain to ensure the well-being and comfort of patients recovering from this type of surgery. Additionally, further research may be warranted to explore potential factors contributing to the high prevalence of severe pain in this specific patient population in order to optimize pain management strategies and improve patient outcomes.

Up to 70% of patients reported varying levels of pain after gum graft surgery.

The statistic “Up to 70% of patients reported varying levels of pain after gum graft surgery” indicates that a significant portion of individuals who have undergone gum graft surgery experience pain to some degree post-operatively. This statistic suggests that pain is a common outcome following the procedure, affecting the majority of patients to some extent. The varying levels of pain reported by patients imply that the intensity and duration of pain can differ among individuals, highlighting the subjective nature of pain perception. By emphasizing the prevalence of pain after gum graft surgery, this statistic underscores the importance of pain management strategies and individualized care for patients undergoing this type of procedure.

About 40% of patients experience moderate to severe pain within 24 hours of receiving a pacemaker or ICD implant.

The statistic indicates that approximately 40% of patients who receive a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) experience moderate to severe pain within the first 24 hours following the procedure. This suggests that a large proportion of patients may have discomfort or pain after undergoing these cardiac device implantations. Understanding the frequency and severity of pain post-implantation is crucial for healthcare providers to manage patient expectations, provide adequate pain relief, and potentially improve patient outcomes and satisfaction. Further research and interventions may be warranted to address and alleviate post-procedural pain in this patient population.

Conclusion

Whether it’s the insertion of an IV needle or a dental procedure without anesthesia, it is evident that painful medical procedures can cause distress and anxiety for patients. It is essential for healthcare providers to ensure proper pain management and communication to help minimize discomfort and improve the overall experience for those undergoing such procedures.

References

0. – https://www.patient.info

1. – https://www.jnnp.bmj.com

2. – https://www.pubs.asahq.org

3. – https://www.www.nature.com

4. – https://www.pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

5. – https://www.www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

6. – https://www.journals.lww.com

How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

See our Editorial Process.

Table of Contents

... Before You Leave, Catch This! 🔥

Your next business insight is just a subscription away. Our newsletter The Week in Data delivers the freshest statistics and trends directly to you. Stay informed, stay ahead—subscribe now.

Sign up for our newsletter and become the navigator of tomorrow's trends. Equip your strategy with unparalleled insights!