gradually get better. Taking opioids for soreness is inappropriate.
Patients must understand they're undergoing a major surgery — so
you cannot completely eliminate their pain."
Some facilities might lack the necessary resources to adopt opioid-
free total knee arthroplasty, says Dr. Soffin.
"But rather than abandon the goal entirely, they can implement an
incremental approach," she adds. "Elements of an opioid-sparing
approach should be achievable, and they will help to protect patients
and improve outcomes."
OSM
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