Kristen E Limbach1, SuEllen J Pommier1, Kristen P Massimino2, Rodney F Pommier1, Arpana M Naik3. 1. Division of Surgical Oncology, Oregon Health & Science University, USA. 2. Breast Cancer Program, Providence Cancer Institute, USA. 3. Division of Surgical Oncology, Oregon Health & Science University, USA. Electronic address: Naika@ohsu.edu.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The opioid epidemic has necessitated increased attention to prescribing practices. This study seeks to prospectively quantify postoperative opioid use after breast operation. METHODS: Consecutive patients undergoing breast operation at a single institution in 2018 prospectively tracked each dose of medication and completed a survey of perceptions regarding their opioid prescription. RESULTS: Of 100 patients, 88 completed log, survey, or both. The tab quantity required to fulfill the needs of 80% of patients was: Partial mastectomy (PM) 3, PM with sentinel lymph node biopsy 6, PM with bilateral reduction 8, total mastectomy 34, and bilateral mastectomy 47. Of survey respondents, 51.2% felt they had been prescribed too much pain medication. Most (83.0%) had leftover tabs, and 67.9% indicated they kept them in their home. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of patients were overprescribed opioids after breast operation. A reduction could be achieved by targeting the needs of 80% of the population.
BACKGROUND: The opioid epidemic has necessitated increased attention to prescribing practices. This study seeks to prospectively quantify postoperative opioid use after breast operation. METHODS: Consecutive patients undergoing breast operation at a single institution in 2018 prospectively tracked each dose of medication and completed a survey of perceptions regarding their opioid prescription. RESULTS: Of 100 patients, 88 completed log, survey, or both. The tab quantity required to fulfill the needs of 80% of patients was: Partial mastectomy (PM) 3, PM with sentinel lymph node biopsy 6, PM with bilateral reduction 8, total mastectomy 34, and bilateral mastectomy 47. Of survey respondents, 51.2% felt they had been prescribed too much pain medication. Most (83.0%) had leftover tabs, and 67.9% indicated they kept them in their home. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of patients were overprescribed opioids after breast operation. A reduction could be achieved by targeting the needs of 80% of the population.