The use of controlled-release versus scheduled oxycodone in the immediate postoperative period following total joint arthroplasty.

This prospective study examined whether better pain control could be achieved in the first 48 hours after joint arthroplasty with controlled-release oxycodone compared to scheduled oxycodone with acetaminophen. In the study group, controlled-release oxycodone was administered on the day of surgery and was continued during patients' hospital stay. The study group then was compared to a previous group in which effective pain control was obtained with around-the-clock oxycodone with acetaminophen. Findings indicated controlled-release oxycodone did not provide better pain control compared to scheduled oxycodone with acetaminophen in the first 48 hours following total joint arthroplasty.