Standardized opioid prescriptions after hand and forearm surgery
Discharge Opioid Prescription for Ambulatory Hand and Forearm Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
This study tests if a set prescription for pain medication after hand and forearm surgery can help patients use fewer unused opioid pills while still managing their pain effectively.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 292 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University Health Network, Toronto Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Toronto, Ontario) |
| Trial ID | NCT04044820 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate whether a standardized opioid prescription following elective hand and forearm surgery can reduce the number of unused opioid pills while still providing effective pain control. Patients at Toronto Western Hospital will be randomly assigned to receive either a standardized prescription or the usual physician-prescribed opioids. The standardized prescription includes Oxycodone or alternatives based on patient needs, along with guidance on using non-opioid analgesics to minimize narcotic consumption. The study will assess opioid use and pain management through follow-up consultations.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients undergoing elective ambulatory hand and forearm surgery at Toronto Western Hospital.
Not a fit: Patients currently on chronic opioid treatment or those with cognitive impairments may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to more effective pain management while reducing the risk of opioid over-prescription and waste.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in standardizing opioid prescriptions to improve pain management and reduce excess use, indicating this approach is supported by existing evidence.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1\. Patients presenting to TWH for elective ambulatory hand and forearm surgery Exclusion Criteria: 1. Chronic opioid treatment, defined as more than 6 tablets of Oxycodone 5 mg per day (or equivalent) 2. Cognitive impairment or any other condition causing inability to use 'as required' medication for pain control 3. Language barrier preventing completion of patient diary 4. Patient refusal
Where this trial is running
Toronto, Ontario
- Toronto Western Hospital — Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Anuj Bhatia, MD FRCPC — Uhn
- Study coordinator: Anuj Bhatia, MD FRCPC
- Email: anuj.bhatia@uhn.ca
- Phone: (416) 603 5800
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.