from University of Colorado and American Society of Anesthesiology
Legal marijuana or cannabis has been
touted for relief from chronic pain, but
researchers say that is not the case for
acute pain, such as a broken leg.
Cannabis users may need more anesthesia
during surgery and have more pain
afterwards, requiring more pain
medication. The University of Colorado
researchers reported to the American
Society of Anesthesiology on actual
surgery cases. The study shows it is
important for patients to tell their
anesthesiologist if they have used
cannabis products prior to surgery to
ensure they get the best anesthesia
possible. Pain scores after surgery were
based on what patients reported. Those
with a history of cannabis use needed
significantly more opioids or non-opioid
alternatives to control their post-surgery
pain.