Persistent Opioid Use Following Major Orthopedic Surgery.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Pain Management
• Public Health

Background:

• Persistent opioid use after major orthopedic surgery is a growing public health issue.
• Understanding factors contributing to the transition from acute to chronic opioid consumption is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and analyze critical factors driving persistent opioid use post-orthopedic surgery.
• To review current challenges and strategies in managing postoperative pain and opioid dependency.

Main Methods:

• This study is a narrative review.
• Analysis of patient-related and surgery-related factors influencing opioid use.
• Evaluation of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery protocols and multimodal analgesia.

Main Results:

• Patient characteristics (pre-existing conditions, prior substance use) and surgical factors (procedure type/duration) are key predictors of prolonged opioid use.
• High prevalence of persistent opioid use persists despite Enhanced Recovery After Surgery protocols and patient education.
• Multimodal analgesia is a critical strategy for mitigating long-term opioid dependency.

Conclusions:

• Persistent opioid use post-orthopedic surgery leads to significant physical, mental health, and economic challenges.
• Targeted interventions and ongoing research are essential to reduce long-term opioid dependency and improve patient outcomes.
• Effective pain management strategies are vital to address this public health concern.