Narcotic use and total hip arthroplasty

Abstract

Background:

The purpose of this study is to: (1) characterise risk factors for prolonged narcotic use following total hip arthroplasty (THA); (2) examine preoperative and prolonged postoperative narcotic use as independent risk factors for complications following THA.

Methods:

A national database identified primary THA patients from 2007–2015. Preoperative (POU) and prolonged postoperative narcotics users (PPU) were identified. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was utilised to identify any patient-related risk factors for prolonged use, and examined POU and PPU as risk factors for complications following THA.

Results:

55,354 THA patients were included, 18,740 (33.8%) POU and 14,996 (27.1%) PPU. Preoperative narcotics use was the most significant factor associated with prolonged postoperative narcotic use. Preoperative and prolonged postoperative use were associated with significantly higher complications postoperatively.

Conclusions:

Preoperative narcotic use is the most significant patient specific risk factor for prolonged postoperative narcotic use. POUs and PPUs are at a significantly higher risk of postoperative infection and revision surgery.