The latest Special Issue edition of the Canadian Journal of Anesthesia is, “…dedicated to the topic of opioid analgesia for surgical patients.” Featuring several Canadian studies that explore, “…postoperative opioid prescription patterns, their associations with short- and long-term opioid use, and associated downstream effects,” this journal edition is filled with information that will interest and educate SolvingPain.ca users. Additionally, this issue also highlights how anesthesiologists can play a role when it comes to Canada’s opioid crisis. For more on that, please read the editorial, “The Role of Anesthesiologists in Reducing Opioid Harm,“ co-authored by Dr. Ainsley M. Sutherland and Ontario’s own Dr. Hance A. Clarke.

Another study we believe SolvingPain.ca visitors will find relevant asks the question: To what extent does opioid prescribing after discharge affect self-reported pain intensity and adverse events when compared to an opioid-free analgesic regimen? Some answers around that question can be found in “Opioid Versus Opioid-Free Analgesia After Surgical Discharge: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Trials,” which was recently published in The Lancet. Authored by several researchers out of McGill University, the paper’s analysis, which “…relied on trials focused on elective surgeries of minor and moderate extent…,” notes that the evidence is ultimately, “…suggesting that clinicians can consider prescribing opioid-free analgesia in these surgical settings.” However, this research does have a few caveats, including that, “…there is a great need to advance the quality and scope of research in this field.”

Finally, we also want to highlight that the latest episode of the podcast series Body Talk with Dr. Jen Gunter. Released last week, this episode is focused on opioids and pain and, “…aims to arm you with information – because we all deserve access to responsible pain treatment.” While this podcast series is targeted at the general public, this particular episode touches on some relevant points for prescribers, including the importance of taking time to educate patients about how and when opioids should be used. Due to its clear, approachable take on a complex and sensitive topic, this podcast episode has been added to our Patient Resources section.