Editorial

Analgesia considerations in orthopaedic surgery: the role of magnesium sulfate infusions

¹ Department of Anesthesiology, Surgery, and Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, OH 43606-3390, USA
² Department of Anesthesiology, University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, OH 43606-3390, USA
³ Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, OH 43606-3390, USA
⁴ First Department of Orthopaedics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens 11527, Greece
⁵ Second Department of Anesthesiology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens 11527, Greece
⁶ Orthopaedics Surgery and Sports Medicine Department, FIFA Medical Center of Excellence, Croix-Rousse Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon University Hospital, 103 Grande Rue de la Croix-Rousse, 69004 Lyon, France
⁷ Univ Lyon, Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University, IFSTTAR, LBMC UMR_T9406, 25 Avenue François Mitterand, 69622 Lyon, France

^* Corresponding author: afm@otenet.gr

Received: 7 May 2025
Accepted: 15 May 2025

Abstract

Orthopaedic surgical operations are associated with significant post-operative pain, often managed with opioids, which carry risks of adverse effects and dependency. Magnesium sulfate, a NMDA receptor antagonist with analgesic and muscle relaxant properties, has emerged as a potential adjunct to improve pain control and reduce opioid consumption in orthopaedic procedures. Current evidence supports magnesium sulfate as a valuable adjunct in orthopaedic pain management, particularly in reducing opioid consumption and enhancing muscle relaxation. However, heterogeneity in study design, administration protocols, and patient populations warrants cautious interpretation. Monitoring for side effects such as hypotension and respiratory depression remains essential. Further high-quality, standardized trials are needed to optimize dosing strategies and confirm long-term benefits.