Opioid prescribing patterns among oculofacial plastic surgeons.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Plastic Surgery
• Pain Management

Background:

• Oculofacial plastic surgeons (OPS) exhibit higher narcotic pain prescription rates compared to other ophthalmologists.
• Understanding current opioid prescribing trends among OPS is crucial for optimizing post-operative pain management.
• This study addresses the need for data on opioid usage in oculoplastic surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and identify trends in opioid prescription patterns among oculofacial plastic surgeons (OPS) in the USA.
• To analyze the relationship between surgeon demographics, training, practice location, and opioid prescribing habits.
• To provide insights into post-operative pain management strategies following common oculoplastic surgeries.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was distributed to OPS in the USA between June and December 2020.
• Participants reported their training, practice details, and top post-operative pain management choices.
• Statistical analyses, including Fisher's exact and chi-square tests, were used to examine categorical variable relationships.

Main Results:

• Hydrocodone-acetaminophen (35%) and tramadol (21%) were the most commonly prescribed opioids overall by OPS.
• Surgeons completing training between 1991-2000 were 4.9 times more likely to prescribe opioids than those trained before 1990.
• OPS practicing in the Southeast USA were 4.2 times more likely to prescribe opioids compared to those in the Northeast USA.

Conclusions:

• This study reveals significant patterns in opioid prescribing behavior among OPS, linked to training completion dates and geographic location.
• Findings highlight the need for increased awareness and potential interventions to reduce opioid prescriptions in oculoplastics.
• Understanding these prescribing behaviors can guide efforts to improve pain management protocols and opioid stewardship.