The Variable Effects of NSAIDs on Osteotomy Healing and Opioid Consumption.
Academic Article
Overview
abstract
UNLABELLED: In an effort to fight the opioid epidemic, an NSAID pain protocol was created for osteotomy patients. The study asked if NSAIDs negatively affect bone healing or reduce the need for opioids. METHODS: This was a retrospective review of 155 limbs that underwent osteotomy of a long bone with fixation. Patients received an NSAID-free protocol or an NSAID protocol. Time to union and bone healing index were recorded. RESULTS: There was not a significant difference in the time to union (P = 0.89) or bone healing index (P = 0.07). In the deformity correction group, the total milligrams of morphine equivalents prescribed after discharge was significantly less in patients receiving NSAIDs (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The use of NSAIDs after osteotomy surgery did not negatively affect bone healing and resulted in a dramatic decrease in narcotic consumption for deformity correction patients. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III retrospective cohort study.
