Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 30, 2026

Use of the Operant Orofacial Pain Assessment Device OPAD to Measure Changes in Nociceptive Behavior
Published on: June 10, 2013
Implementing Evidence-based Opioid Prescribing in Pediatric Orthopaedics
Monica Kogan1, Kyleen Jan, Amelia Hummel
1From the Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL.
Insights
Effective pain management in pediatric orthopaedics is crucial. This review examines the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America guidelines to optimize pain control and address opioid misuse concerns.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopaedics
- Pain Management
- Public Health
Background:
- Effective pain management is vital for pediatric orthopaedic procedures.
- Opioid misuse is a significant public health issue, with pediatric patients often first exposed post-orthopaedically.
- The Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America (POSNA) offers guidelines for pain management tailored to procedure intensity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the POSNA guidelines for pediatric orthopaedic pain management.
- To identify barriers to the implementation of these guidelines.
- To explore opportunities for optimizing postoperative pain management and mitigating opioid risks.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on POSNA guidelines.
- Analysis of implementation challenges and variability.
- Examination of strategies for risk mitigation in pediatric pain management.
Main Results:
- POSNA guidelines provide a framework but face implementation challenges.
- Variability in guideline adoption exists.
- Opportunities to enhance pain management while reducing opioid risks are identified.
Conclusions:
- Optimizing postoperative pain management in pediatric orthopaedics requires addressing guideline implementation barriers.
- Future research and guideline evolution are essential to ensure patient safety and combat the opioid crisis.
Abstract:
Effective pain management is essential in pediatric orthopaedic procedures to ensure optimal patient outcomes and recovery. Although opioids are an important component of pain control, their misuse remains a notable public health concern. Pediatric patients often encounter opioids for the first time after orthopaedic procedures, underscoring the need for stringent prescribing protocols. The Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America guidelines provide a comprehensive framework for tailoring pain management to procedure intensity. Despite their potential, implementation challenges and variability persist. This review examines the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America guidelines, barriers to adoption, and opportunities to optimize postoperative pain management while mitigating risks. Future research and guideline evolution are necessary to uphold patient safety and combat the opioid crisis.
Related Concept Videos
Opioid Analgesics: Synthetic and Semisynthetic Opioids
Opioid Analgesics: Morphine and Other Natural Cogeners
Analgesia and Pain Management
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Excretion
Drug Dosing: Infants and Children
Prescription, Nonprescription and Orphan Drugs
The misuse and addiction to prescription drugs is a growing problem that can affect people of all age groups, specifically teenagers. This can happen when prescription medications are used in ways not intended by the prescriber, such as taking someone else's prescription or using medication for...

