Purpose: While there is limited patient-centred evidence (i.e., evidence that is important for patients and end-users) to inform the use of pharmacologic opioid minimization strategies (i.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBackground: Prescription opioid use places a considerable economic burden on health care systems. Older patients undergoing surgical procedures for painful conditions commonly receive opioids pre- and postoperatively, and are susceptible to adverse reactions. This study explores predictors of prolonged postoperative opioid use among older patients after lumbar spine surgery and the consequences in terms of health care utilization and costs.
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