The practice is using multimodal analgesia — a combination of two or more analgesics — in an effort to address opioid addiction, WGME was told by anesthesiologist Ryan Mountjoy, MD.
With the advent of liposomal bupivacaine, which goes by the brand name Exparel, physicians can extend the duration of nerve blocks for upwards of 50 hours, according to Dr. Mountjoy. Other anesthetics lasted for just 12 hours, he said.
Exparel can cost about $300 per dose, WGME reported, but by using Exparel, the Centers for Orthopedics has cut the number of prescription pain pills it prescribes in half, Dr. Mountjoy said.
The practice’s pain specialists prescribe a combination of Tylenol and ibuprofen for postsurgical pain management.
More articles on anesthesia:
27 states gained Medicare-certified ASCs from 2017-18
Average salary for 5 key physician specialties
The 6 most common cases migrating to outpatient venues
At the Becker's 23rd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference, taking place June 11-13 in Chicago, spine surgeons, orthopedic leaders and ASC executives will come together to explore minimally invasive techniques, ASC growth strategies and innovations shaping the future of outpatient spine care. Apply for complimentary registration now.
