Background

• Liposomal Bupivacaine (Exparel) has been a common post-operative analgesic option since 2012
• Commonly used for bunionectomy, hemorrhoidectomy, and interscalene brachial plexus nerve block
• Current AWP = $515 per 20 mL vial
• Literature published in Anesthesiology in February 2021 by Ilfeld et al provided opposing evidence for the use of
  liposomal bupivacaine
• Many hospital formulary committees have begun to limit the availability of liposomal bupivacaine or remove it from formulary
• In Fall 2021, FMC P&T Committee discussed possibility of limiting Exparel use
• FMC Surgeons want to see internal data before formulary alterations are made
• Most surgeons at FMC had previously used liposomal bupivacaine in combination with unencapsulated bupivacaine for post-operation analgesia
• Study assessed the post-operative pain and medication usage who receive:
  • Liposomal bupivacaine + unencapsulated bupivacaine
    
    OR
  • Unencapsulated bupivacaine alone
• Results could drive formulary changes and ultimately cost savings

Read the Outcomes Study by submitting the form below.

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