Background: Postoperative fatigue (POF) significantly impacts well-being after major surgery. However, this topic has received little emphasis.
Methods: We conducted a comprehensive search on major databases with a focus on studies relevant to assessment and etiology of POF.
Results: POF has been measured by a number of different and inadequate instruments. It has a complicated etiology, with a number of biological and psychological factors implicated. However, the etiology of this condition has not been fully explained.
Conclusions: The role of local inflammation in the development of POF requires further research. Multimodal interventions should be conducted with a focus on addressing various factors that contribute to the development and progression of POF.