On March 17th, the department enjoyed the first Fine Family Visiting Professor Lecture given by Dr. Scott Fishman, a world-renowned expert in pain medicine and a leader in the field. The recently established visiting professor series is supported by a gift from our own Dr. Perry Fine, and the inaugural topic regarding the opioid epidemic was virtually attended by over 150 people. Dr. Egan provided introductions and background of the Fine Family’s generous gift that will provide the opportunity for visiting professors to present to the Department of Anesthesiology in a self-sustaining way for years to come.
Dr. Fishman’s task was not easy given the complexity of the opioid epidemic and the constraints of delivering such a lecture through the virtual lens of Zoom. Nonetheless he was able to contextualize the background of the opioid crisis and highlight the current issues and future opportunities. For instance, a balanced approach to perioperative care that recognizes the past prescription of higher than necessary quantities of opioids for postoperative pain should not necessarily lead to a complete renunciation of opioids to manage postoperative pain. Another important theme emphasized the need to remain vigilant when treating patients with opioids. Though we understand the risks of opioids more clearly than ever before, they remain an important tool to minimize suffering. Dr. Fishman set a high bar for future Fine Family Visiting Professors in providing an engaging lecture on a topic that has a profound impact across society. We look forward to future lectures supported through this new and enduring series.