Shari,
I happened to have been researching some information at the library ( I am a masters student) and I came across this study. I thought it might be of interest to you and other donors who suffer from chronic pain. Clearly, the conclusion of the research is that more follow up and investigation into this matter is necessary. It won't be a priority unless donors come forward and make it clear that they are a priority. Transplant centers cannot do surgeries without donors but we are generally a group who doesn't complain and doesn't want to take away attention from our recipients so funds will not be allocated to donor research unless we lobby for it.
sherri
Chronic pain following donor nephrectomy – A study of the incidence, nature and impact of chronic post-nephrectomy pain
Owen, M., Lorgelly, P. , and Serpell, M. (2010) Chronic pain following donor nephrectomy – A study of the incidence, nature and impact of chronic post-nephrectomy pain. European Journal of Pain, 14 (7). pp. 732-734. ISSN 1090-3801 (doi:10.1016/j.ejpain.2009.11.013)
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Abstract
Chronic pain is a consequence of some types of surgery, but its incidence following open donor nephrec- tomy has never been investigated. We surveyed 123 patients who underwent open donor nephrectomy at our institution over a 10-year period, to determine the incidence, severity and nature of chronic pain and its effect on quality of life. Of the 81 (66%) responders, 27 (33%) had experienced prolonged pain, and 21 (26%) still had chronic pain related to their surgery. The overall incidence of severe, disabling pain (visual analogue score P7) was 12% and of neuropathic pain was 14%. The average loss in quality adjusted life years (QALYs) was 1.053 for chronic pain sufferers, but was 1.851 for those who suffered specifically from neuropathic pain. Only one third of patients with chronic pain were receiving any treat- ment, and none were receiving neuropathic adjuvants or specialist pain management interventions. We conclude that the incidence of chronic pain following donor nephrectomy is underestimated and there- fore under managed. Given the voluntary and altruistic nature of this procedure, and the enormous per- sonal and social benefits which result from successful donor transplantation, those involved with the preparation and post-operative management should be more aware of, and actively question donors about chronic pain so that diagnosis and appropriate therapy can be commenced as early as possible.