Improvement of recovery parameters using patient-controlled epidural analgesia for video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery lobectomy in enhanced recovery after surgery: A prospective, randomized single center study.

Compared to PCA, TEA provided better postoperative pain control after VATS lobectomy and facilitated postoperative recovery of bowel function without increasing the length of hospital stay. This beneficial effect of TEA might be attributed to the attenuation of sympathetic hyperactivation, improved analgesia, and reduced opioid use.