Researchers used an insurance claims database to evaluate 4,666 patients who had minimally invasive SI joint fusion. They found patients tended to fill opioid prescriptions one year postoperatively at a higher rate than those who had other common spine procedures. Chronic users filled the highest opiate dosages in the 30-days after surgery.
The study concluded that “opioid naïve patients use fewer opioids and for a shorter period of time compared to patients with sporadic or chronic preoperative opioid use. MIS SIJF may result in less effective pain reduction when compared to other common spine surgeries evaluated via identical methodology.”
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.
