Exploring opioid-free pain management in complex oncologic surgery: A case of total scapulectomy

Opioids are widely used perioperatively for pain control. However, growing concerns about opioid-related adverse effects, such as respiratory depression, dependence, and delirium, have driven interest in opioid-free analgesia. These adverse effects can prolong hospital stays and complicate recovery. We present the case of a 53-year-old male with risk factors for opioid-induced morbidity (BMI >50 and obstructive sleep apnoeas [OSA]) who successfully underwent opioid-free analgesia for a left total scapulectomy in the setting of scapular Grade 3 chondrosarcoma.