Researchers analyzed 155,297 insurance claims between 2004 and 2012 for adults undergoing outpatient surgeries such as carpal tunnel release, laparoscopic cholecystectomy, inguinal hernia repair and knee arthroscopy.
Here are four insights:
1. Almost 87 percent of the prescriptions patients received were for hydrocodone or oxycodone.
2. Researchers were surprised by the prescribing practices for low-risk procedures.
3. In 2014, there were 18,893 U.S. deaths which involved opioids, a 16 percent increased from 2013.
4. Researchers encourage providers to reevaluate their prescribing patterns for opioids.
More articles on spine:
MIS vs. open posterior lumbar spinal fusion: 5 things to know
Molecule may play key role in healing spinal cord injuries: 5 observation
4 things to know about Orange Park Medical Center’s new neurosurgeon
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.