The Effect of Standardized Perioperative Patient Education on Opioid Use After Minor Soft Tissue Procedures Distal to the Wrist.

Purpose: Several studies have explored opioid consumption and opioid prescriber education for upper extremity procedures; however, less literature has focused on patient-centered interventions and their impact on opioid consumption after surgery. The purpose of this study was to create a standardized perioperative patient education program regarding postoperative pain management after hand surgery and to determine if it could reduce opioid use after hand surgery.

Methods: Patients scheduled to undergo elective outpatient hand surgery comprising minor soft tissue procedures at and distal to the wrist were randomized to receive pain management education or standard care.