Are Opioids Really Needed After Pediatric Surgery? A Mini-Review

Abstract

Achieving adequate pain control during the post-operative period is imperative to the recovery of pediatric patients undergoing urologic surgery. While opioids are highly effective at post-operative pain management, their use comes at the cost of potential negative consequences including addiction, respiratory depression, and even death. Appropriate opioid stewardship is necessary to reduce the serious risks associated with pediatric opioid use. Option to reduce opioid use in ERAS protocols, directed provider education, use of non-opioid analgesics, regional anesthesia, and other supportive and system-based measures. Considering these alternatives can aid healthcare providers in delivering pain management that is both safe and effective.