“Caracterización de pacientes con síndrome doloroso postmastectomia y su prevalencia en el Instituto Nacional de Cancerología”

Abstract

Objective: to determine the prevalence of post-mastectomy pain syndrome (PMPS) and to characterize certain clinical and social conditions in patients who underwent surgical management for breast cancer at the national referral center in Colombia for comprehensive cancer care. Additionally, to identify potential associations between these factors and the development of PMPS. Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive observational study with an analytical component was conducted in patients diagnosed with breast cancer who underwent surgical treatment at the Instituto Nacional de Cancerología between January 2019 and July 2020. Results: data from 149 patients were analyzed, yielding a prevalence of 38.9%. Factors found to be associated with the development of PMPS included being under 45 years of age, undergoing non-conservative breast surgery, and having a personal history of depression. Conclusions: The prevalence of PMPS at the Instituto Nacional de Cancerología is consistent with global literature reports. These findings highlight the need to implement strategies aimed at preventing PMPS, especially in younger patients and those with risk factors such as unemployment and mental health disorders, which may predispose them to the syndrome. Furthermore, active screening for symptoms suggestive of chronic pain in the postoperative period is essential to establish optimal management strategies and to prevent a negative impact on breast cancer survivors.