An American Academy of Pediatrics on Surgery symposium highlighted advancements in managing acute pain for children undergoing surgical procedures. The discussion emphasized the benefits of multimodal and multidisciplinary approaches through organized enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathways, which have led to improved perioperative outcomes and higher patient satisfaction. These pathways incorporate various pain management strategies that minimize reliance on opioids while ensuring effective pain control.
The symposium also focused on alternate methods of pain management and ongoing efforts in education and advocacy to reduce opioid exposure in pediatric patients. Participants underscored the importance of integrating innovative pain control techniques with structured perioperative care to enhance recovery and mitigate the short- and long-term risks associated with opioid use. The highlights presented in this article reflect a growing commitment to safer, more effective pediatric pain management practices.
Reference: Franklin AD, Tsao K, Barq R, et al. Updates From the Other Side of the Drape: Recent Advances in Multimodal Pain Management and Opioid Reduction Among Pediatric Surgical Patients. J Pediatr Surg. 2024 Jul;59(7):1297-1303. doi: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2024.03.027. Epub 2024 Mar 16. PMID: 38614947.
