An Evidence-Based Guideline Supporting Restricted Opioid Prescription after Pediatric Appendectomy

Study of 73 pediatric patients after laparoscopic appendectomy found 83% did not use or desire opioids postoperatively, supporting restricted opioid prescribing guidelines. Evidence demonstrates most children achieve adequate pain control with non-opioid analgesics, addressing surgeon overprescription as a modifiable factor in the opioid epidemic.