Fewer Pills for Fewer Problems: Strategies for Reducing Postoperative Opioid Prescribing Following Total Joint Arthroplasty.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

8-2025

Institution/Department

Orthopedics

Journal Title

Arthroplast Today

Abstract

Opioid overprescribing is a concern within the field of arthroplasty, and a growing body of evidence suggests surgeons can prescribe smaller quantities of opioids for orthopaedic postoperative pain management without compromising patient care. Current literature indicates prescribing trends in arthroplasty are shifting in response. Our institution has prioritized quality improvement projects focused on multimodal pain control for patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty procedures in an active attempt to reduce postoperative narcotic use. We highlight tips for instituting similar initiatives based on our institution's experience, including communication strategies, the importance of establishing the expectation for postoperative pain management by the orthopaedic surgery team, and the role for postoperative pill counts. Future initiatives aimed to facilitate these changes, including the upcoming legislation the Nonopioids Prevent Addiction in the Nation Act, are discussed.

ISSN

2352-3441

First Page

101758

Last Page

101758

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