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Schäfer WLA, Johnson JK, Ager MS, Iroz CB, Huang R, Balbale SN, Stulberg JJ. Learning from the implementation of a surgical opioid reduction initiative in an integrated health system: a qualitative study among providers and patients. Implement Sci Commun 2024; 5:22. [PMID: 38468284 PMCID: PMC10926556 DOI: 10.1186/s43058-024-00561-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Surgical opioid overprescribing can result in long-term use or misuse. Between July 2018 and March 2019, the multicomponent intervention, Minimizing Opioid Prescribing in Surgery (MOPiS) was implemented in the general surgery clinics of five hospitals and successfully reduced opioid prescribing. To date, various studies have shown a positive outcome of similar reduction initiatives. However, in addition to evaluating the impact on clinical outcomes, it is important to understand the implementation process of an intervention to extend sustainability of interventions and allow for dissemination of the intervention into other contexts. This study aims to evaluate the contextual factors impacting intervention implementation. METHODS We conducted a qualitative study with semi-structured interviews held with providers and patients of the general surgery clinics of five hospitals of a single health system between March and November of 2019. Interview questions focused on how contextual factors affected implementation of the intervention. We coded interview transcripts deductively, using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to identify the relevant contextual factors. Content analyses were conducted using a constant comparative approach to identify overarching themes. RESULTS We interviewed 15 clinicians (e.g., surgeons, nurses), 1 quality representative, 1 scheduler, and 28 adult patients and identified 3 key themes. First, we found high variability in the responses of clinicians and patients to the intervention. There was a strong need for intervention components to be locally adaptable, particularly for the format and content of the patient and clinician education materials. Second, surgical pain management should be recognized as a team effort. We identified specific gaps in the engagement of team members, including nurses. We also found that the hierarchical relationships between surgical residents and attendings impacted implementation. Finally, we found that established patient and clinician views on opioid prescribing were an important facilitator to effective implementation. CONCLUSION Successful implementation of a complex set of opioid reduction interventions in surgery requires locally adaptable elements of the intervention, a team-centric approach, and an understanding of patient and clinician views regarding changes being proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willemijn L A Schäfer
- Northwestern Quality Improvement, Research, & Education in Surgery (NQUIRES), Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 633 North Saint Clair Street, 20th Floor, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Julie K Johnson
- Northwestern Quality Improvement, Research, & Education in Surgery (NQUIRES), Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 633 North Saint Clair Street, 20th Floor, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Cassandra B Iroz
- Northwestern Quality Improvement, Research, & Education in Surgery (NQUIRES), Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 633 North Saint Clair Street, 20th Floor, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Reiping Huang
- Northwestern Quality Improvement, Research, & Education in Surgery (NQUIRES), Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 633 North Saint Clair Street, 20th Floor, Chicago, IL, USA
- American College of Surgeons, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Salva N Balbale
- Northwestern Quality Improvement, Research, & Education in Surgery (NQUIRES), Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 633 North Saint Clair Street, 20th Floor, Chicago, IL, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jonah J Stulberg
- Department of Surgery, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
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Jankulov A, As-Sanie S, Zimmerman C, Virzi J, Srinivasan S, Choe HM, Brummett CM. Effect of Best Practice Alert (BPA) on Post-Discharge Opioid Prescribing After Minimally Invasive Hysterectomy: A Quality Improvement Study. J Pain Res 2024; 17:667-675. [PMID: 38375407 PMCID: PMC10875180 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s432262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this study was to describe the effectiveness of an electronic health record best practice alert (BPA) in decreasing gynecologic post-discharge opioid prescribing following benign minimally invasive hysterectomy. Patients and Methods The BPA triggered for opioid orders >15 tablets. Prescribers' options included (1) decrease to 15 ≤ tablets; (2) remove the order/utilize a defaulted order set; or (3) override the alert. Results 332 patients were included. The BPA triggered 29 times. The following actions were taken among 16 patients for whom the BPA triggered: "override the alert" (n=13); "cancel the alert" (n=2); and 'remove the opioid order set' (n=1). 12/16 patients had discharge prescriptions: one patient received 20 tablets; two received 10 tablets; and nine received 15 tablets. Top reasons for over prescribing included concerns for pain control and lack of alternatives. Conclusion Implementing a post-discharge opioid prescribing BPA aligned opioid prescribing following benign minimally invasive hysterectomy with guideline recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Jankulov
- Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester Hills, MI, USA
| | - Sawsan As-Sanie
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Christopher Zimmerman
- Department of Health Information and Technology Services, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jessica Virzi
- Department of Precision Health, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sudharsan Srinivasan
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Hae Mi Choe
- Department of Health Information and Technology Services, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Chad M Brummett
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Michigan Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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3
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Alessio-Bilowus D, Luby AO, Cooley S, Evilsizer S, Seese E, Bicket M, Waljee JF. Perioperative Opioid-Related Harms: Opportunities to Minimize Risk. Semin Plast Surg 2024; 38:61-68. [PMID: 38495063 PMCID: PMC10942841 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1778043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Although substantial attention has been given to opioid prescribing in the United States, opioid-related mortality continues to climb due to the rising incidence and prevalence of opioid use disorder. Perioperative care has an important role in the consideration of opioid prescribing and the care of individuals at risk for poor postoperative pain- and opioid-related outcomes. Opioids are effective for acute pain management and commonly prescribed for postoperative pain. However, failure to align prescribing with patient need can result in overprescribing and exacerbate the flow of unused opioids into communities. Conversely, underprescribing can result in the undertreatment of pain, complicating recovery and impairing well-being after surgery. Optimizing pain management can be particularly challenging for individuals who are previously exposed to opioids or have critical risk factors, including opioid use disorder. In this review, we will explore the role of perioperative care in the broader context of the opioid epidemic in the United States, and provide considerations for a multidisciplinary, comprehensive approach to perioperative pain management and optimal opioid stewardship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic Alessio-Bilowus
- Section of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Alexandra O. Luby
- Section of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Center for Healthcare Outcomes and Policy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | | | | | - Mark Bicket
- Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Division of Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology, Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Jennifer F. Waljee
- Section of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Center for Healthcare Outcomes and Policy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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Song J, Li Y, Waljee JF, Gunaseelan V, Brummett CM, Englesbe MJ, Bicket MC. What evidence is needed to inform postoperative opioid consumption guidelines? A cohort study of the Michigan Surgical Quality Collaborative. Reg Anesth Pain Med 2024; 49:23-29. [PMID: 37247946 PMCID: PMC10684823 DOI: 10.1136/rapm-2023-104581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To balance adequate pain management while minimizing opioid-related harms after surgery, opioid prescribing guidelines rely on patient-reported use after surgery. However, it is unclear how many patients are required to develop precise guidelines. We aimed to compare patterns of use, required sample size, and the precision for patient-reported opioid consumption after common surgical procedures. METHODS We analyzed procedure-specific 30-day opioid consumption data reported after discharge from 15 common surgical procedures between January 2018 and May 2019 across 65 hospitals in the Michigan Surgical Quality Collaborative. We calculated proportions of patients using no pills and the estimated number of pills meeting most patients' needs, defined as the 75th percentile of consumption. We compared several methods to model consumption patterns. Using the best method (Tweedie), we calculated sample sizes required to identify opioid consumption within a 5-pill interval and estimates of pills to meet most patients' needs by calculating the width of 95% CIs. RESULTS In a cohort of 10,688 patients, many patients did not consume any opioids after all types of procedures (range 20%-40%). Most patients' needs were met with 4 pills (thyroidectomy) to 13 pills (abdominal hysterectomy). Sample sizes required to estimate opioid consumption within a 5-pill wide 95% CI ranged from 48 for laparoscopic appendectomy to 188 for open colectomy. The 95% CI width for estimates ranged from 0.7 pills for laparoscopic cholecystectomy to 7.0 pills for ileostomy/colostomy. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that profiles of opioid consumption share more similarities than differences for certain surgical procedures. Future investigations on patient-reported consumption are required for procedures not currently included in prescribing guidelines to ensure surgeons and perioperative providers can appropriately tailor recommendations to the postoperative needs of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyeon Song
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Jennifer F Waljee
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network, Institute for Health Policy and Innovation, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Vidhya Gunaseelan
- Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network, Institute for Health Policy and Innovation, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Chad M Brummett
- Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network, Institute for Health Policy and Innovation, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Michael J Englesbe
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network, Institute for Health Policy and Innovation, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Mark C Bicket
- Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network, Institute for Health Policy and Innovation, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Health Management and Policy, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Lane M, Berlin NL, Chung KC, Waljee JF. Strengthening Association through Causal Inference. Plast Reconstr Surg 2023; 152:899-907. [PMID: 37768861 DOI: 10.1097/prs.0000000000010305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
SUMMARY Understanding causal association and inference is critical to study health risks, treatment effectiveness, and the impact of health care interventions. Although defining causality has traditionally been limited to rigorous, experimental contexts, techniques to estimate causality from observational data are highly valuable for clinical questions in which randomization may not be feasible or appropriate. In this review, the authors highlight several methodologic options to deduce causality from observational data, including regression discontinuity, interrupted time series, and difference-in-differences approaches. Understanding the potential applications, assumptions, and limitations of quasi-experimental methods for observational data can expand our interpretation of causal relationships for surgical conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Lane
- From the Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Michigan Health System
| | - Nicholas L Berlin
- From the Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Michigan Health System
| | - Kevin C Chung
- the Section of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School
| | - Jennifer F Waljee
- From the Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Michigan Health System
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Howard R, Ryan A, Hu HM, Brown CS, Waljee J, Bicket MC, Englesbe M, Brummett CM. Evidence-Based Opioid Prescribing Guidelines and New Persistent Opioid Use After Surgery. Ann Surg 2023; 278:216-221. [PMID: 36728693 PMCID: PMC10314964 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0000000000005792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Evaluate the association of evidence-based opioid prescribing guidelines with new persistent opioid use after surgery. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA Patients exposed to opioids after surgery are at risk of new persistent opioid use, which is associated with opioid use disorder and overdose. It is unknown whether evidence-based opioid prescribing guidelines mitigate this risk. METHODS Using Medicare claims, we performed a difference-in-differences study of opioid-naive patients who underwent 1 of 6 common surgical procedures for which evidence-based postoperative opioid prescribing guidelines were released and disseminated through a statewide quality collaborative in Michigan in October 2017. The primary outcome was the incidence of new persistent opioid use, and the secondary outcome was total postoperative opioid prescription quantity in oral morphine equivalents (OME). RESULTS We identified 24,908 patients who underwent surgery in Michigan and 118,665 patients who underwent surgery outside of Michigan. Following the release of prescribing guidelines in Michigan, the adjusted incidence of new persistent opioid use decreased from 3.29% (95% CI 3.15-3.43%) to 2.51% (95% CI 2.35-2.67%) in Michigan, which was an additional 0.53 (95% CI 0.36-0.69) percentage point decrease compared with patients outside of Michigan. Simultaneously, adjusted opioid prescription quantity decreased from 199.5 (95% CI 198.3-200.6) mg OME to 88.6 (95% CI 78.7-98.5) mg OME in Michigan, which was an additional 55.7 (95% CI 46.5-65.4) mg OME decrease compared with patients outside of Michigan. CONCLUSIONS Evidence-based opioid prescribing guidelines were associated with a significant reduction in the incidence of new persistent opioid use and the quantity of opioids prescribed after surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Howard
- Department of Surgery
- Center for Healthcare Outcomes and Policy, Michigan Medicine
- Opioid Prescribing and Engagement Network
| | - Andrew Ryan
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan
| | | | - Craig S. Brown
- Department of Surgery
- Center for Healthcare Outcomes and Policy, Michigan Medicine
| | - Jennifer Waljee
- Department of Surgery
- Center for Healthcare Outcomes and Policy, Michigan Medicine
- Opioid Prescribing and Engagement Network
| | - Mark C. Bicket
- Opioid Prescribing and Engagement Network
- Department of Anesthesiology, Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Michael Englesbe
- Department of Surgery
- Center for Healthcare Outcomes and Policy, Michigan Medicine
- Opioid Prescribing and Engagement Network
| | - Chad M. Brummett
- Opioid Prescribing and Engagement Network
- Department of Anesthesiology, Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI
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7
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Sun EC, Rishel CA, Waljee JF, Brummett CM, Jena AB. Association Between State Limits on Opioid Prescribing and the Incidence of Persistent Postoperative Opioid Use Among Surgical Patients. Ann Surg 2023; 277:e759-e765. [PMID: 35129496 PMCID: PMC9081293 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0000000000005283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine whether laws limiting opioid prescribing have been associated with reductions in the incidence of persistent postoperative opioid use. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA In an effort to address the opioid epidemic, 26 states (as of 2018) have passed laws limiting opioid prescribing for acute pain. However, it is unknown whether these laws have achieved their reduced the risk of persistent postoperative opioid use. METHODS We identified 957,639 privately insured patients undergoing one of 10 procedures between January 1, 2004 and September 30, 2018. We then estimated the association between persistent postoperative opioid use, defined as having filled ≥10 prescriptions or ≥120 days supply of opioids during postoperative days 91-365, and whether opioid prescribing limits were in effect on the day of surgery. States were classified as having: no limits, a limit of ≤7 days supply, or a limit of >7 days supply. The regression models adjusted for observable confounders such as patient comorbidities and also utilized a difference-in-differences approach, which relied on variation in state laws over time, to further minimize confounding. RESULTS The adjusted incidence of persistent postoperative opioid use was 3.5% (95%CI 3.3%-3.7%) for patients facing a limit of ≤7 days supply, compared with 3.3% (95%CI 3.3%-3.3%) for patients facing no prescribing limits ( P = 0.13 for difference compared to no prescribing limits) and 3.4%, (95%CI 3.2%-3.6%) for patients facing a limit of >7 days supply ( P = 0.43 for difference compared to no prescribing limits). CONCLUSIONS Laws limiting opioid prescriptions were not associated with subsequent reductions in persistent postoperative opioid use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric C. Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Chris A. Rishel
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Jennifer F. Waljee
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Chad M. Brummett
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Anupam B. Jena
- Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; and Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA; and National Bureau of Economic Research, Cambridge, MA
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The variation of opioid prescription after injury and its association with long-term chronic pain: A multicenter cohort study. Surgery 2022; 172:1844-1850. [PMID: 36123179 DOI: 10.1016/j.surg.2022.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid overprescription in trauma contributes to the opioid epidemic through diversion of unused pills. Through our study, we sought to do the following: (1) understand the variation in opioid prescription after injury and its relationship to patient and/or clinical variables, and (2) study the relationship between opioid prescribing and long-term pain and analgesic use. METHOD Trauma patients with an injury severity score ≥9 admitted to 3 level 1 trauma centers were screened for chronic pain and analgesic use 6 to 12 months postinjury. First, multivariable linear regression models were constructed with "oral morphine equivalents" and "number of opioid pills prescribed" at discharge as dependent variables. The coefficients of determination were calculated to determine how much of the variation in opioid prescription was explained by patient and clinical variables. Second, a multivariable logistic regression analysis was created to study the association between opioid prescription at discharge and chronic pain/analgesic use at 6 to 12 months. Analyses were adjusted for patient demographics, socioeconomics, comorbidities, injury parameters, and hospital course. RESULTS Of the 2,702 patients included (mean [standard deviation] age: 61.0 [21.5]; 55% males), 74% were prescribed opioids at discharge (mean number of pills [standard deviation]: 24.0 [26.5]; mean oral morphine equivalent [standard deviation]: 204.8 [348.1]). The adjusted coefficients of determination for oral morphine equivalents and number of pills was 0.12 and 0.21, respectively, suggesting that the measured patient and clinical factors explain <21% of the variation in opioid prescribing in trauma. Patients prescribed opioids were more likely to have chronic pain (odds ratio [95%] confidence interval: 1.34 [1.05-1.71]) and use analgesics daily (odds ratio [95%] confidence interval: 1.86 [1.25-2.77]) 6 to 12 months postinjury. CONCLUSION The variation in opioid prescription after traumatic injury is more affected by system and provider level rather than clinical or patient-related factors, and opioid prescribing correlates independently with long-term chronic pain and continued analgesic use postinjury. Efforts to decrease opioid use should prioritize standardizing prescription practices after traumatic injury.
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Complete opioid cessation after surgery improves patient-reported pain measures among chronic opioid users. Surgery 2022; 172:943-948. [PMID: 35688743 DOI: 10.1016/j.surg.2022.04.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preoperative chronic opioid use is common, but it is unclear whether complete opioid tapering can be achieved postoperatively without adversely affecting pain control and quality of life. This study was designed to assess the association between complete opioid tapering after surgery and patient-reported outcomes for pain intensity and pain interference. METHODS We identified chronic opioid use patients undergoing a spectrum of nonemergency surgical procedures at a single Veterans Affairs medical institution between December 2017 and 2021. All patients were prospectively followed by a transitional pain service that promoted opioid tapering, assessed opioid use (morphine milligram equivalent), and patient-reported outcomes measurement information system for pain intensity (PROMIS-3a) and pain interference (PROMIS-6b). After stratifying based on whether complete versus partial/no opioid tapering was achieved after surgery, longitudinal changes in patient-reported outcomes and morphine milligram equivalents were compared over time. Independent predictors of complete opioid tapering were assessed using logistic regression models. RESULTS In total, 341 surgical patients (91% male, mean age 64 years) with chronic opioid use underwent surgery during the study period, of which 44 (13%) completely tapered off opioids within 60 days after discharge from the hospital. Patients who completely tapered had significant improvement in the change in patient-reported outcomes for pain intensity and interference with significant differences at 30 and 60 days after discharge for both measures when compared to the partial/no taper group (both P < .05). In risk-adjusted analyses, patients with lower baseline morphine milligram equivalents and those staying longer in the hospital were more likely to achieve complete opioid tapering (both P < .01). CONCLUSION Complete opioid tapering can be successfully achieved after surgery among patients with chronic opioid use with corresponding improvements in self-reported pain intensity and pain interference. Our results suggest that the highest potential for improving patient-reported outcomes with opioid tapering occurs among patients undergoing orthopedic procedures early after surgical discharge.
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Bicket MC, Gunaseelan V, Lagisetty P, Fernandez AC, Bohnert A, Assenmacher E, Sequeira M, Englesbe MJ, Brummett CM, Waljee JF. Association of opioid exposure before surgery with opioid consumption after surgery. Reg Anesth Pain Med 2022; 47:346-352. [PMID: 35241626 PMCID: PMC9035103 DOI: 10.1136/rapm-2021-103388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
ObjectiveTo determine the effect of prescription opioid use in the year before surgery on opioid consumption after surgery.BackgroundRecently developed postoperative opioid prescribing guidelines rely on data from opioid-naïve patients. However, opioid use in the USA is common, and the impact of prior opioid exposure on the consumption of opioids after surgery is unclear.MethodsPopulation-based cohort study of 26,001 adults 18 years of age and older who underwent one of nine elective general or gynecologic surgical procedures between January 1, 2017 and October 31, 2019, with prospectively collected patient-reported data from the Michigan Surgical Quality Collaborative (MSQC) linked to state prescription drug monitoring program at 70 MSQC-participating hospitals on 30-day patient-reported opioid consumption in oral morphine equivalents (OME) (primary outcome).ResultsCompared with opioid-naïve participants, opioid-exposed participants (26% of sample) consumed more prescription opioids after surgery (adjusted OME difference 12, 95% CI 10 to 14). Greater opioid exposure was associated with higher postoperative consumption in a dose-dependent manner, with chronic users reporting the greatest consumption (additional OMEs 32, 95% CI 21 to 42). However, for eight of nine procedures, 90% of opioid-exposed participants consumed ≤150 OMEs. Among those receiving perioperative prescriptions, opioid-exposed participants had higher likelihood of refill (adjusted OR 4.7, 95% CI 4.4 to 5.1), number of refills (adjusted incidence rate ratio 4.0, 95% CI 3.7 to 4.3), and average refill amount (adjusted OME difference 333, 95% CI 292 to 374)).ConclusionsPreoperative opioid use is associated with small increases in patient-reported opioid consumption after surgery for most patients, though greater differences exist for patients with chronic use. For most patients with preoperative opioid exposure, existing guidelines may meet their postoperative needs. However, guidelines may need tailoring for patients with chronic use, and providers should anticipate a higher likelihood of postoperative refills for all opioid-exposed patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark C Bicket
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network, Institute for Healthcare Innovation and Policy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Vidhya Gunaseelan
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network, Institute for Healthcare Innovation and Policy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Pooja Lagisetty
- Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Veterans Affairs Center for Clinical Management Research, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Anne C Fernandez
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Amy Bohnert
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Veterans Affairs Center for Clinical Management Research, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Melwyn Sequeira
- Department of Surgery, MidMichigan Medical Center, Midland, Texas, USA
| | - Michael J Englesbe
- Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network, Institute for Healthcare Innovation and Policy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Chad M Brummett
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network, Institute for Healthcare Innovation and Policy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Jennifer F Waljee
- Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network, Institute for Healthcare Innovation and Policy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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11
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Abstract
This review summarizes current evidence related to perioperative opioid prescription fulfillment and use and discusses the role of personalized anesthesia care in mitigating opioid-related harms without compromising analgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel B. Larach
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center (Nashville, TN)
| | - Jennifer M. Hah
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine (Stanford, CA)
| | - Chad M. Brummett
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan Medical School (Ann Arbor, MI)
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Chan B, Ward S, Abdallah FW, Jones C, Papachristos A, Chin K, Ladha KS, Hare GMT. Opioid prescribing and utilization patterns in patients having elective hip and knee arthroplasty: association between prescription patterns and opioid consumption. Can J Anaesth 2021; 69:953-962. [PMID: 34873641 DOI: 10.1007/s12630-021-02145-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Although guidelines can reduce postoperative opioid prescription, the problem of unused opioids persists. We assessed the pattern of opioid prescription and utilization after total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We hypothesized that opioid prescription patterns can influence opioid utilization. METHODS With institutional ethics approval, patients undergoing THA and TKA were enrolled prospectively. Surveys on opioid use were completed at two, six, and 12 weeks after surgery. Patients' age, sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists' Physical Status score, first 24-hr opioid consumption, quantity of opioid prescribed, and quantity of opioid utilized were analyzed to evaluate their effect on opioid consumption, unused opioid, and patient satisfaction. RESULTS Patients received prescriptions ranging from 200 morphine milligram equivalents (MME) to 800 MME. Three hundred and thirty THA and 230 TKA patients completed the surveys. Opioid utilization was influenced by the amount of prescribed opioids for both THA and TKA. The percentage of prescribed opioids used (~55% in THA and ~75% in TKA) and the proportion of patients using all prescribed opioids (~22% in THA and ~50% in TKA) were higher after TKA vs THA (P < 0.001 for both). Patients who used opioids for two days or less accounted for most (~50%) of the unused opioid. Patient satisfaction remained high and was not influenced by the amount of prescribed opioid. CONCLUSION This study showed that larger prescriptions are associated with higher opioid consumption. A wide variation in opioid consumption requires approaches to minimize the initial opioid prescription and to provide additional prescriptions for patients that require higher levels of analgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bokman Chan
- Department of Anesthesia, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, 30 Bond Street, Toronto, ON, M5B 1W8, Canada.
| | - Sarah Ward
- Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Department of Surgery, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Faraj W Abdallah
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, and The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Caroline Jones
- Department of Physiotherapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Kyle Chin
- Department of Anesthesia, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, 30 Bond Street, Toronto, ON, M5B 1W8, Canada.,Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Karim S Ladha
- Department of Anesthesia, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, 30 Bond Street, Toronto, ON, M5B 1W8, Canada.,Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gregory M T Hare
- Department of Anesthesia, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, 30 Bond Street, Toronto, ON, M5B 1W8, Canada.,Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Khouja T, Tadrous M, Matusiak L, Suda K. Opioid Prescribing in United States Health Systems, 2015 to 2019. VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2021; 24:1279-1284. [PMID: 34452707 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2021.04.1274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Health systems (nonfederal hospitals and clinics) are the second major source for drug expenditure in the United States. Opioids prescribed in these healthcare settings are commonly short-acting opioids that can lead to persistent opioid use. Nevertheless, there are no national data that describe trends in opioid use and the associated expenditure in health systems. Therefore, the objective of this article was to describe opioid use and expenditures in US health systems from 2015 to 2019. METHODS We used data from IQVIA National Sales Perspectives to describe prescription opioid expenditure and use in health systems (nonfederal hospitals and clinics). RESULTS Over the 5-year study period, health systems dispensed a total of 6.55 billion units of opioids (26.88% decrease) with an associated expenditure of $3.33 billion (26.78% decrease). Relative to all opioid formulations in our study, oxycodone, hydrocodone, and fentanyl were the opioids with the highest use in US health systems. All opioid prescriptions decreased except fentanyl use, which increased by 29.80% in clinics. The use of abuse-deterrent formulations of opioids decreased by 51.00% over the study period, although the decrease seems to be driven mainly by long-acting oxycodone (brand name Oxycontin). CONCLUSIONS Opioid use and expenditures in health systems have been decreasing following national trends from retail pharmacies. Nevertheless, fentanyl use increased in clinics and was prescribed at higher proportions in nonfederal hospitals than other opioids, which warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tumader Khouja
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Mina Tadrous
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Katie Suda
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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14
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Gonzalez JJ, Houchens N, Gupta A. Quality & safety in the literature: May 2021. BMJ Qual Saf 2021; 30:bmjqs-2021-013322. [PMID: 33727413 DOI: 10.1136/bmjqs-2021-013322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Juan J Gonzalez
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Nathan Houchens
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Medicine Service, Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Ashwin Gupta
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Medicine Service, Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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15
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Weiner SG. Addressing the ignored complication: chronic opioid use after surgery. BMJ Qual Saf 2020; 30:180-182. [PMID: 32989013 DOI: 10.1136/bmjqs-2020-011841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Scott G Weiner
- Department of Quality and Safety and Department of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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