title: [Long-term Application of Opioids for Non-Tumor Associated Pain--Impact of the S3 Guidelines for the Field of Orthopaedic Surgery and Trauma Surgery].
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The S3 guidelines for long-term application of opioids for non-tumour-associated pain, the so-called "LONTS", have recently been updated. German health insurance data indicated that over the last 3 to 4 years an increasing number of patients have been treated with opioids for non-tumour-associated pain. Many patients with somatoform pain disorder were treated with opioids. The S3-guidelines have therefore been modified after 5 years on the basis of a systematic literature search.
  
  
  METHODS
  Seventeen experts in the field were appointed. In addition, among 25 medical societies, one psychological society, two patient support groups, and the DGOOC and IGOST were involved in the decision making process.
  
  
  RESULTS
  According to the updated S3 guidelines "LONTS", opioids are a valuable treatment option in the field of orthopaedics and trauma surgery for patients suffering from chronic arthritis or back pain. One third of the patients suffering from chronic arthritis or knee pain benefit from long-term application (< 26 weeks) and show pain relief, as well as improved range of motion without severe drug-induced side effects. Patients suffering from fibromyalgia syndrome benefited from treatment with tramadol, but no other opioid is recommended for fibromyalgia. Opioids are contraindicated in primary headaches, as well as in functional and psychological disorders with pain as the leading symptom. Treatment with opioids is associated with considerable risks, among them substance abuse, sexual dysfunction and an increased mortality rate. Supportive measures, such as physical therapy, physiotherapy and/or psychotherapy, are always recommended.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Opioid analgetics are a treatment option for particular pain syndromes (arthritis, back pain). However, the latest S3 guidelines emphasise patient education and therapy. The indication, effects, side effects and therapeutic objectives should be regularly assessed, both before and during treatment. Once therapeutic goals have been achieved, measures such as physical therapy, physiotherapy or psychotherapy should be continued, whereas opioid dosage should be gradually reduced.
authors: Konservative Orthopädie, Zentrum für Orthopädie, Unfallchirurgie und Paraplegiologie, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg.
authors: C
authors: C
authors: Hartz
authors: Innere Medizin I, Klinikum Saarbrücken.
authors: W
authors: W
authors: Häuser
authors: Departement Orthopädie, Unfallchirurgie und Paraplegiologie, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg.
authors: M
authors: M
authors: Schiltenwolf
mesh_terms: D000701:Analgesics, Opioid / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D000072716:Cancer Pain; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005858:Germany; D009985:Orthopedics / Q000592:standards*; D010146:Pain / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000517:prevention & control; D059408:Pain Management / Q000592:standards*; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D014194:Traumatology / Q000592:standards*
chemical_list: D000701:Analgesics, Opioid