Acute Pain

At the time of diagnosis, 20%–75% of patients with cancer report having pain. Acute pain is typically related to diagnostic procedures and cancer treatment and is generally defined as lasting no longer than three months. The most common types of acute pain related to cancer treatment are postoperative pain and the pain of oral mucositis. The acute pain of some patients with cancer may be caused by arthralgia or myalgia, which can be side effects of some chemotherapy drugs and biologic therapy.
Research regarding the use of common opioid preparations for pain is not included in this evidence, because opioids are clearly known to be effective and meet criteria of Recommended for Practice because of effectiveness. Only new formulations or delivery methods are included for evidence categorization. 
ONS staff researchers and clinical specialists have exhaustively assessed evidenced-based research from comprehensive sources to provide you our best recommendations on Symptom Interventions for your patients.