Pain
From the Journals
Overprescribing opioids leads to higher levels of consumption
The study findings have troubling implications for opioid abuse among surgical patients.
Conference Coverage
Harnessing the power of urine tests in pain care
SAN DIEGO - Screening offers insight into drug use, says physician who offers series of tips
From the Journals
Smaller inguinal hernias linked to more postoperative pain
Patients with smaller inguinal hernias may have high expectations regarding postoperative pain.
Conference Coverage
Smaller assistant ports mean less prolapse repair pain
LAS VEGAS – Patients experience less right-sided pain after laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy when surgeons use an 8-mm...
Conference Coverage
High rates of prescription opioid, benzodiazepine use observed in chronic liver disease
SAN FRANCISCO – Nearly one-quarter were receiving substantial high-dose opioid prescriptions.
Opinion
FDA approval of powerful opioid tinged with irony
The agency’s approval of Dsuvia comes at a time when the need is great for nonaddictive agents for pain control.
FDA/CDC
FDA approves sufentanil for adults with acute pain
The opioid is to used for only adult patients in settings that are closely controlled.
Feature
Palliative care update highlights role of nonspecialists
The latest guideline revision aims to establish a foundation for “gold-standard” palliative care.
Conference Coverage
Post-mastectomy pain strategy allows for safe, same-day discharge
Strategy offers the potential to minimize inpatient admissions while decreasing oral narcotic use.
From the Journals
Opioid use cut nearly 50% for urologic oncology surgery patients
Postoperative opioid use dropped after changing default order sets, introducing new patient communication strategies, and educating providers.
Conference Coverage
Low-dose ketamine controls pain from severe chest injury, while sparing opioid consumption
SAN DIEGO – The drug may have a benefit among patients whose Injury Severity Score was greater than 15.