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Abstract Thoracotomies are increasingly utilized to provide access in patients undergoing thoracic, cardiac, vascular, orthopedic, and neurosurgical procedures. Thoracotomy, the surgical incision of the pleural cavity or chest wall, induces severe postoperative pain .The pain can cause respiratory complications such as hypoxia, atelectasis and pulmonary infection due to shallow breathing and impaired coughing. If severe enough, the postoperative pain can lead to dreadful respiratory disorders including respiratory failure and other complications. In addition, chronic pain after thoracotomy is common and may continue for many years, especially in patients who experienced acute post-operative pain. However, adequate postoperative analgesia facilitates recovery. |