Evaluating contemporary pain management practices in thyroid and parathyroid surgery: A national survey of head and neck endocrine surgeons

BACKGROUND: There is currently a lack of evidence-based guidelines regarding postoperative opioids after thyroid and parathyroid surgery. This study aimed to objectively characterize contemporary postoperative pain management practices via a national survey of head and neck endocrine surgeons. METHODS: A standardized electronic survey was distributed to the membership of the American Head and Neck Society\u27s Endocrine section. RESULTS: A total of 102 surgeons completed the survey representing a 34% response rate. In all, 65.7% of respondents utilize opioids with wide variations in the total morphine equivalents prescribed. Practice environment (χ CONCLUSIONS: Pain management practice patterns vary significantly among head and neck endocrine surgeons which further emphasize the need for evidence-based guidelines