Adding a pectoserratus block to improve pain management after shoulder surgery

Addition of a Pectoserratus Block to Interscalene Block in Patients Undergoing Total Shoulder Replacement

PHASE4 · University of Minnesota · NCT06143306

This study tests if adding a pectoserratus block to the usual pain relief method can help people feel less pain after shoulder surgery and use fewer opioids.

Quick facts

PhasePHASE4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment110 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 85 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Minnesota (other)
Locations1 site (Minneapolis, Minnesota)
Trial IDNCT06143306 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness of adding a pectoserratus block to the standard interscalene block for patients undergoing total shoulder arthroplasty. The goal is to assess whether this combination can enhance pain control and reduce the need for opioids post-surgery. Participants aged 18-85 will be randomly assigned to receive either the standard interscalene block or the combination of both blocks. The study aims to provide better pain management solutions for patients undergoing shoulder replacement procedures.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-85 undergoing total shoulder arthroplasty or reverse total shoulder arthroplasty.

Not a fit: Patients with pre-existing nerve damage, severe lung disease, or those currently using opioids may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved pain management and reduced opioid consumption for patients after shoulder surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that regional anesthesia techniques can improve pain management, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients undergoing total shoulder arthroplasty or reverse total shoulder arthroplasty;
* Patients aged 18-85 years old.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients who have an exclusion to regional anesthesia such as pre-existing nerve damage to their brachial plexus or infection at the site of injection.
* Patients who have exclusion to interscalene blockade such as severe lung disease.
* Non-English speakers will be excluded because pain scales are not validated in other languages and there is lack of standardization of pain reporting.
* Pregnant patients
* Patients who are currently using opioids and patients with a diagnosis of chronic pain will be excluded.

Where this trial is running

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Total Shoulder Arthroplasty

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.