Inconsistent and excessive opioid prescribing after common pediatric surgical operations

Retrospective review of 470 pediatric tonsillectomy and hernia repair cases reveals 85% received postoperative opioids with significant inter-provider variation in duration (mean 6.2 days for tonsillectomy, 4.3 days for hernia). Adequate pain control was achieved regardless of regimen, suggesting current opioid prescribing exceeds clinical need and represents opportunity for stewardship intervention.