Understanding how pain sensitivity and genetics affect opioid use after knee surgery
Variation in Home Opioid Consumption after Total Knee Replacement: Investigating the Role of Pain Sensitivity and Gene Expression
This study is looking at why some people need more pain medication than others after knee surgery, focusing on how their pain sensitivity and genetics might play a role, so we can better manage pain for everyone after surgery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10892842 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates why some patients use more opioids than others after total knee replacement surgery. It aims to identify the role of pain sensitivity and genetic factors in determining opioid consumption. By examining these biological variables alongside psychological and clinical data, the study seeks to provide a more comprehensive understanding of postoperative pain management. Patients will undergo quantitative sensory testing to measure their pain sensitivity, which may help predict their opioid needs after surgery.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals scheduled for total knee replacement surgery who may experience varying levels of postoperative pain.
Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing knee surgery or those with contraindications for opioid use may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized pain management strategies, reducing the risk of prolonged opioid use after surgery.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using pain sensitivity and genetic factors to predict opioid use, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, UNITED STATES
- Vanderbilt University — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schirle, Lori — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Schirle, Lori
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.