NSAID Use After Spinal Fusion Surgery
Safety and Efficacy
- Short-term use of NSAIDs (<2 weeks) after spinal fusion surgery appears safe for fusion outcomes, while longer use should be avoided to minimize the risk of pseudarthrosis 1
- The use of NSAIDs after spinal fusion surgery increases bleeding risk, but recent meta-analyses show no significant increase in postoperative hematoma with proper timing 1
- Consider multimodal analgesia including acetaminophen, gabapentinoids, and limited opioids to reduce NSAID requirements, as recommended by neurosurgical guidelines 1