Postoperative opioid-prescribing patterns among surgeons and residents at university-affiliated hospitals: a survey study.

Background: Overprescribing of opioids to patients following surgery is a public health concern, as unused pills may be diverted and contribute to opioid misuse and dependence. The objectives of this study were to determine current opioid-prescribing patterns for common surgical procedures, factors that affect surgeons’ prescribing behaviour and their perceived ability to manage patients with opioid use disorder.

Methods: Survey participants included all consultant and trainee surgeons at the University of Toronto.