Matched Pairs Comparison of an Enhanced Recovery Pathway Versus Conventional Management on Opioid Exposure and Pain Control in Patients Undergoing Lung Surgery

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathway on pain and opioid use following lung resection. Summary Background Data: A major component ERAS pathways is opioid-sparing analgesia; however, the effect on postoperative pain and opioid use in patients undergoing lung resection is unknown. Methods: Following implementation of an ERAS pathway for lung resection, 123 consecutive patients were identified. Patients were propensity-matched 1:1 with a group of consecutive patients (n = 907) undergoing lung resection before ERAS. Differences regarding in-hospital opioid consumption, discharge prescribing of opioids, and postoperative pain scores were examined. Morphine milligram equivalents were separately calculated including and excluding tramadol as an opioid medication. Results: There were no significant differences between matched patients regarding age, sex, performance status, receipt of preoperative treatment, extent of lung resection, or operative approach. Epidural analgesia was used in 66% of controls and in none of the ERAS group (P
Source: Annals of Surgery - Category: Surgery Tags: ORIGINAL ARTICLES Source Type: research