Using Exparel to avoid post-operative discomfort

Exparel also know is (Liposomal Bupivacaine injectable suspension) has made its way into the office of general dentists throughout the US. We can all relate to the instinctive desire to avoid pain. Now patient’s can make it through the first couple of days after surgery pain free (2-5 days is what is stated on the FDA data sheet, 2-3 days is more what we expect from infiltrations around surgical sites). It works by slowly breaking down and releasing local anesthetic over time. Traditionally, patients were relying on narcotic medications (such as Hydrocodone) during the first 72 hours after surgery, these medications come with some risks factors including addiction.

We are finding that many parents and patients would prefer Exparel when it comes to treating post operative pain after 3rd Molar extractions and IV sedation. Studies have shown that there is increased risk for the patient when their first exposure to opioids is at a younger age. We have found that doing everything we can to prevent opioid addiction is what most patient’s want and need, and Exparel is what has allowed us to do this while keeping our patient’s comfortable right after surgery.

Towards the end of the case the Exparel is drawn up and injected around the surgical sites. Calculations are completed to determine dosage, this is based on the patient’s body weight and other local anesthetics used peri-operatively.