Simple frameshifts in minimally invasive surgery postoperative pain management significantly reduce opiate prescriptions
Thenappan Chandrasekar1,*, Lydia Glick2, Daniella Wong2, Timothy M. Han2, Joon Yau Leong2, Misung Yi3, James R. Mark1, Mark J. Mann1, Edouard J. Trabulsi1, Costas D. Lallas1
Canadian Journal of Urology, Vol.27, No.3, pp. 10250-10256, 2020
Abstract Introduction: To evaluate the impact of an “opt-in” non-narcotic postoperative pain regimen on narcotic utilization and patient-reported pain scores.
Materials and methods: A prospective, non-blinded pre- and post-interventional trial was conducted, including a lead-in period for baseline evaluation. The intervention group received a new pain protocol prioritizing non-narcotic medications, an “opt-in” requirement for opiates, and standardized patient education. Study outcomes included opiate prescription and utilization (measured in Morphine Equivalent Doses) and reported pain scores on postoperative day (POD) 1, discharge, and follow-up.
Results: At discharge, 70% fewer patients were prescribed any opioids (ARR: -0.7; p < 0.001); the… More >