Dr. Esses studies how various factors, such as frailty and type of anesthesia, impact the recovery and pain experienced by older adults after surgery. His research specifically addresses complications following aortic valve replacement and the treatment experiences of breast cancer patients undergoing surgery. By examining post-surgical pain and recovery methods, he seeks to enhance care for older patients and improve their overall surgical outcomes.
Key findings
Frailty, confusion, and memory problems affect recovery and pain management after surgery in older adults, emphasizing the need for tailored approaches to patient care.
Using a combination of anesthetics, including propofol and regional blocks, can lead to better recovery rates and lower chances of breast cancer recurrence in patients post-surgery.
Among 3,088 patients aged 65 and older, frailty was identified as a strong predictor of 30-day mortality after aortic valve replacement surgery.
Frequently asked questions
Does Dr. Esses study pain management in older adults?
Yes, Dr. Esses focuses on chronic post-surgical pain management specifically in frail older adults.
What treatments has Dr. Esses researched for breast cancer patients?
He has researched the effects of different anesthetic techniques and pain relief methods on recovery and cancer outcomes in breast cancer patients undergoing surgery.
Is Dr. Esses's work relevant for patients undergoing heart surgery?
Absolutely, his research directly informs practices for assessing frailty and predicting patient outcomes in older adults undergoing heart surgeries like aortic valve replacements.
Publications in plain English
Chronic Post-Surgical Pain in the Frail Older Adult.
2020
Drugs & aging
Esses G, Deiner S, Ko F, Khelemsky Y
Plain English The study focused on the problem of ongoing pain after surgery in older adults, particularly those who are frail. Researchers found that factors like frailty, confusion (delirium), and memory problems affect how well older patients recover and experience pain after surgery. Understanding these issues is key to improving pain management and recovery for this growing patient group.
Who this helps: This helps older adults undergoing surgery and their healthcare providers.
A Comparison of Three Frailty Indices in Predicting Morbidity and Mortality After On-Pump Aortic Valve Replacement.
2018
Anesthesia and analgesia
Esses G, Andreopoulos E, Lin HM, Arya S, Deiner S
Plain English This study looked at how well different frailty assessments can predict complications and death in older adults undergoing aortic valve replacement surgery. Among 3,088 patients aged 65 and older, researchers found that frailty is a strong predictor of 30-day mortality, but it doesn't significantly differ between the three assessment methods used. The findings are important because they highlight the need for better ways to evaluate patient risk before surgery, as frail patients have a higher chance of complications and longer hospital stays.
Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare providers better assess and treat their elderly patients undergoing heart surgery.
Effects of anesthetic interventions on breast cancer behavior, cancer-related patient outcomes, and postoperative recovery.
2018
Surgical oncology
Eden C, Esses G, Katz D, DeMaria S
Plain English This study looked at how different types of anesthesia used during surgery for breast cancer affect both the cancer itself and how well patients recover afterwards. The research found that using a combination of certain anesthetics, including propofol and regional anesthesia blocks, along with non-opioid pain relief methods, could lead to better recovery and lower chances of cancer returning. This is important because it helps improve the overall treatment experience for patients.
Who this helps: This benefits breast cancer patients undergoing surgery and their healthcare providers.