A group-based brief intervention for surgery patients with high-risk substance use.

Objective: This study examined the feasibility and efficacy of a psychosocial intervention to address high-risk substance use in patients scheduled for elective surgery.

Method: A group-format intervention, based on motivational interviewing principles, was provided prior to elective surgery to 107 participants with at-risk substance use, identified using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test - Condensed (AUDIT-C) and self-report of illicit drug use. Patient satisfaction was assessed with an anonymous survey.