Variation in perioperative opioid use after total joint arthroplasty

Objective We studied variation in perioperative opioid use after total joint arthroplasty with respect to patient and procedure characteristics in order to inform initiatives to optimize pain relief. Methods We recorded perioperative opioid consumption for a cohort of total joint arthroplasty patients to identify factors underlying variation in perioperative opioid use. Results Younger patient age, tobacco use, greater symptoms of depression, private insurance, and knee arthroplasty were associated with increased opioid consumption. Conclusions Awareness of the patient characteristics associated with increased perioperative opioid use can help inform implementation of targeted strategies for safe, optimal pain relief and satisfaction.