Nerve Block Timing for Shoulder Pain
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores different methods of administering nerve blocks, which reduce pain during shoulder surgery. The goal is to determine if one method manages post-surgery pain more effectively than others. The trial compares four types of nerve blocks, administered either before or after surgery, using catheters (small tubes) or single injections. Suitable candidates for this trial are those scheduled for a single shoulder surgery and who have agreed to receive a nerve block as part of their procedure. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative research that could enhance pain management techniques for future patients.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the study team or your doctor.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research shows that nerve blocks are generally safe and effective for managing pain after shoulder surgery. Studies have found that single-shot interscalene blocks usually lead to fewer complications than continuous catheter blocks. Single-shot blocks provide significant short-term pain relief and are easier to administer. They also result in fewer emergency visits and require less time to administer.
In contrast, continuous catheter blocks extend pain relief and reduce the need for strong painkillers, but they carry a slightly higher risk of minor issues, such as pain near the catheter site.
Overall, both types of nerve blocks are well-tolerated by patients. The choice may depend on the desired duration of pain relief versus the likelihood of minor side effects.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the different timing methods of administering interscalene blocks for shoulder pain because they could offer significant advantages over current standard treatments, such as oral pain medications and traditional nerve blocks applied post-surgery. The trial is exploring both preemptive and postoperative approaches, using either a single shot or a catheter method. The preemptive approach aims to manage pain before it begins, potentially reducing the need for opioids and enhancing recovery. Meanwhile, the catheter method provides continuous pain relief, which might result in better pain control and improved patient comfort. By comparing these different timings and methods, the trial seeks to optimize pain management and improve patient outcomes after shoulder surgery.
What evidence suggests that this trial's nerve block methods could be effective for shoulder pain?
Research shows that both preemptive and postoperative interscalene blocks effectively manage shoulder pain after surgery. In this trial, participants will receive one of the following treatments: a preemptive or postoperative interscalene block, administered either as a continuous catheter block or a single-shot block. Studies indicate that a continuous catheter block can relieve pain for up to 48 hours, reducing the need for additional painkillers. Single-shot blocks, however, provide quick pain relief and take less time to administer. Both methods help reduce opioid use and their side effects. Current research focuses on determining which method—preemptive or postoperative, catheter or single-shot—best manages pain. Overall, these treatments significantly relieve pain after shoulder surgery.56789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Marc Mecoli, MD
Principal Investigator
Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals aged 10-21 years with shoulder injuries requiring surgery, who are in good health (ASA I-II). They must consent to a nerve block and not have other surgeries at the same time. Excluded are those with severe health issues, pre-op sedation, allergies to local anesthetics, or conditions making them unsuitable for the study.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive interscalene brachial plexus blockade either prior to or following shoulder surgery
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for pain efficacy and safety after the nerve block procedure
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Postoperative Interscalene Block - Catheter
- Postoperative Interscalene Block- Single Shot
- Preemptive Interscalene Block - Catheter
- Preemptive Interscalene Block - Single Shot
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati
Lead Sponsor