Intraoperative cryolysis of intercostal nerves in thoracic surgery.

Pain is a major problem associated with thoracotomy. Intraoperative cryolysis of the intercostal nerves around the incision can essentially reduce the postoperative analgesic requirement and diminish the impairment of ventilatory capacity. To obtain maximum effect, it is recommended that the sites of drainage should also be treated with cryolysis.