Discover How a Local Bariatric Surgeon Provides Non-Opioid Pain Management

[View as webpage]( [StarTribune Offers] PAID ADVERTISEMENT Discover How a Local Bariatric Surgeon Provides Non-Opioid Pain Management By: Dr. Lucian Panait, MD, MBA, FACS, General Surgery Specialist and Bariatric Surgeon in Minneapolis, MN [Dr. Lucian Panait]( The prevalent approach of using opioids to address postoperative pain poses risks of dependency, a concern that becomes more pronounced in the context of [bariatric surgeries](. Individuals undergoing these procedures face an increased [susceptibility to opioid addiction](, particularly due to a higher prevalence of chronic pain, depression, and the potential for cross-addiction post-surgery, thereby contributing to substance abuse. For my patients, exploring effective [non-opioid]( options was non-negotiable in safeguarding their physical and psychological well-being. In 2015, I was introduced to a long-acting local anesthetic called [EXPAREL]([®](//t.e2ma.net/click/0eozo5/8k6zgzb/c8ig1qg (bupivacaine liposome injectable suspension) that has since showcased the benefits on non-opioid approaches, allowing for safe and effective pain management. In bariatric patients, it has significantly reduced opioid use, accelerated recovery, and redefined our outpatient surgery workflow, leading to less pain and shorter recovery center stays*. Post-surgery, a swift 2-4 hour transition to the recovery center is now possible, facilitating comfortable home recovery. Early ambulation post-surgery is essential to prevent venous thrombosis. Fortunately, alternative methods largely eliminate the need for additional pain medication, promoting faster recovery and preserved respiratory function. With advancements in alternative pain management, enhancing patient satisfaction and overall outcomes is achievable. It's crucial to engage healthcare providers and patients in informed discussions about non-opioid options like EXPAREL before bariatric surgery, aiming to develop a comprehensive pain management plan that surpasses recovery expectations, ensuring enhanced patient safety and a favorable surgical experience. For more information, please [click here.](   This email is sponsored by Pacira BioSciences, Inc., manufacturer of EXPAREL Dr. Panait is a paid consultant of Pacira BioSciences, Inc. *This is based on Dr. Panait's own experience using EXPAREL. Results may vary. Indication EXPAREL® (bupivacaine liposome injectable suspension) is indicated to produce postsurgical local analgesia via infiltration in patients aged 6 years and older and regional analgesia in adults via an interscalene brachial plexus nerve block, sciatic nerve block in the popliteal fossa, and an adductor canal block. Safety and efficacy have not been established in other nerve blocks. Important Safety Information EXPAREL should not be used in obstetrical paracervical block anesthesia. In studies in adults where EXPAREL was injected into a wound, the most common side effects were nausea, constipation, and vomiting. In studies in adults where EXPAREL was injected near a nerve, the most common side effects were nausea, fever, headache, and constipation. In the study where EXPAREL was given to children, the most common side effects were nausea, vomiting, constipation, low blood pressure, low number of red blood cells, muscle twitching, blurred vision, itching, and rapid heartbeat. EXPAREL can cause a temporary loss of feeling and/or loss of muscle movement. How much and how long the loss of feeling and/or muscle movement depends on where and how much of EXPAREL was injected and may last for up to 5 days. EXPAREL is not recommended to be used in patients younger than 6 years old for injection into the wound, for patients younger than 18 years old for injection near a nerve, and/or in pregnant women. Tell your health care provider if you or your child has liver disease, since this may affect how the active ingredient (bupivacaine) in EXPAREL is eliminated from the body. EXPAREL should not be injected into the spine, joints, or veins. The active ingredient in EXPAREL can affect the nervous system and the cardiovascular system; may cause an allergic reaction; may cause damage if injected into the joints; and can cause a rare blood disorder. Full Prescribing Information is available at [www.EXPAREL.com/patient](. For more information, please visit [www.EXPAREL.com/patient]( or call [1-855-793-9727](tel:8557939727). You are encouraged to report negative side effects or prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit [www.fda.gov/medwatch]( or call [1-800-FDA-1088](tel:8003321088). PP-EX-US-8936 11/23 StarTribune.com e-mail Offers contain messages from our advertisers about new products, sales, and special offers or in-store events. To stop receiving this category of email Offers, [click here to unsubscribe](. [Manage email preferences]( View our [Privacy Policy](. This email was sent by: Star Tribune, 650 3rd Ave S Suite 1300 | Minneapolis, MN 55488 US © 2023 StarTribune. All rights reserved.