Perioperative Use of Benzodiazepines in Orthopedic Surgery: A Brief Narrative Review

Benzodiazepines are frequently administered in orthopedic anesthesia for anxiolysis, sedation, amnesia, and seizure prophylaxis. Their role continues to evolve with the growing use of regional anesthesia, outpatient joint procedures, and enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathways. This narrative review examines the pharmacology, mechanisms of action, clinical indications, contraindications, and key clinical studies of benzodiazepines commonly used in the operating room in the United States, with a specific focus on their application in orthopedic surgical practice.