Unlocking the Healing Potential: Cannabinoids in Spine Surge... : JBJS Reviews

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Review Articles

Cannabinoids in Spine Surgery for Pain Relief and Recovery

Shahzad, Hania MD1; Lee, Maximillian BS1; Munjal, Vikas BS1; Veliky, Cole BS1; Yu, Elizabeth MD1,a

Author Information

1Department of Orthopaedics, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio

aEmail for corresponding author: [email protected]

Investigation performed at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio

Disclosure: The Disclosure of Potential Conflicts of Interest forms are provided with the online version of the article (https://links.lww.com/JBJSREV/B36).

JBJS Reviews | DOI: 10.2106/JBJS.RVW.23.00141

Metrics Abstract » Cannabinoids, such as D9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol, interact with endocannabinoid receptors in the central nervous system and immune system, potentially offering pain relief. The entourage effect, resulting from the interaction of multiple cannabis components, may enhance therapeutic impact and efficacy, making them promising candidates for exploring pain relief in spine operations, known to be among the most painful operative procedures. » The use of cannabinoids in pain management requires careful consideration of safety, including their cognitive and psychomotor effects, potential cardiovascular risks, risk of dependence, mental health implications, and drug interactions. » Few studies have analyzed cannabinoid use in relation to spine surgery, with variable results reported, indicating possible effects on reoperation rates, mortality, complications, postoperative opioid use, and length of hospital stay. » Current knowledge gaps exist in the understanding of cannabinoid effects on spine surgery, including the exploration of different administration routes, timing, dosage, and specific outcomes. In addition, mechanistic explanations for the observed results are lacking. » Ethical considerations related to informed consent, medical expertise, societal impact, and legal compliance must also be thoroughly addressed when considering the utilization of cannabinoids in spinal pathologies and back pain treatment. Copyright © 2023 by The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, Incorporated Full Text Access for Subscribers:

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