Evaluation of sleep quality postoperatively in thoracic surgery patient: Study Protocol

Introduction: While thoracic surgical procedures remain complex and potentially distressing, the introduction of minimally invasive methods such as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) has led to shorter hospitalizations and fewer complications. However, numerous factors, including postoperative pain, anxiety, pharmacological interventions, environmental stressors, and pre-existing conditions such as sleep apnea, significantly influence postoperative sleep quality. Strategies such as optimized nursing care, effective analgesia, and targeted anxiety reduction can improve sleep and support recovery. 

Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the quality of sleep in patients during the postoperative period after thoracic surgery. 

Material and Methods: The population to be included in the study will consist of patients who are to undergo thoracic surgery at a University Thoracic Surgery Clinic of a General Hospital in Athens-Greece. The sample of participants will consist of 70 patients.

The tools used in this study include:

Demographic Questionnaire

Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI)

Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS)

Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS)

STOP-BANG Questionnaire

Visual Analogue Scale (VAS)

Verran and Snyder-Halpern Sleep Scale (VSH)

Expected Outcomes: It is expected that improved sleep quality following thoracic surgery will be associated with enhanced postoperative recovery outcomes in patients. Furthermore, identifying sleep-related problems arising from the procedure could inform preoperative assessments and guide interventions. Finally, preventing postoperative sleep disturbances may enhance recovery outcomes and overall patient well-being