Heart surgery pain map may predict chronic suffering

This study looked at 84 adults who had open-heart surgery through a chest incision (sternotomy). Researchers used a pain-mapping tool called algocartography two days after surgery to measure the area of increased sensitivity around the scar. They then checked if that area could predict which patients would still have pain three months later. The goal was to find a way to identify people at risk for chronic pain early, so they can get better treatment sooner.