Pain management mini-series. Part I. A review of management of acute pain.

Acute pain is a complex process involving activation of nociceptors, chemical mediators and inflammation. Medications can be used to target each of the key elements within the pain pathway and eliminate or reduce the sensation of pain. Pain management begins, when possible, prior to the tissue trauma and continues throughout the perioperative period. When acute pain is appropriately managed, patient's clinical outcomes and satisfaction are improved.