This study was approved by the Koç University Clinical Research Ethics Committee (2021.464.IRB1.131); patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery at the VKV American Hospital between January 2015 and May 2020 were reviewed retrospectively. Patients with a history of cerebrovascular events, scheduled carotid surgery, or emergency CABG surgery were excluded from the study. Demographic data from the preoperative evaluation forms and operation types from the surgery reports were recorded. Intraoperative anesthesia follow-up forms were assessed if regional anesthesia was used, and the type and extent of opioids during the operation were examined. The postoperative transfer forms were examined to the cardiovascular intensive care unit (CICU), intensive care follow-up forms, and service ward record follow-up forms. Pain scores (NRS) during rest and coughing, vital signs, mobilization, and the start of respiratory exercises were recorded for postoperative respiratory complications.
Background Pain after cardiac surgery is both multifocal and multifactorial. Sternotomy, sternal retraction, internal mammary dissection, posterior rib dislocation or fracture, possible brachial plexus injury, and mediastinal and pleural drains contribute to pain experienced in the immediate postoperative period. Ineffective pain management can cause systemic and pulmonary complications and significant cardiac consequences.~Methods This study was conducted to compare the effectiveness of regional anesthesia techniques for perioperative pain management in cardiac surgery patients at our clinic. The effects of analgesic methods, in terms of contributing to recovery, have been examined.