Comparing Lidocaine and Levobupivacaine for Sciatic Nerve Block in Foot Surgery

A Prospective Randomized Comparison of the Effects of Lidocaine and Levobupivacaine on Block Dynamics After a Subparaneural Popliteal Sciatic Nerve Block

PHASE4 · Chinese University of Hong Kong · NCT04397484

This study is testing which of two local anesthetics, Lidocaine or Levobupivacaine, works better for numbing the leg during foot surgery.

Quick facts

PhasePHASE4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 75 Years
SexAll
SponsorChinese University of Hong Kong (other)
Locations1 site (Shatin, New Territories)
Trial IDNCT04397484 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to compare the effectiveness of two local anesthetics, Lidocaine and Levobupivacaine, in performing ultrasound-guided subparaneural popliteal sciatic nerve blocks for patients undergoing elective forefoot surgery. The study will enroll 40 patients and assess the block dynamics, including onset time and duration of anesthesia. By evaluating the differences in block performance between the two anesthetics, the trial seeks to identify the optimal choice for regional anesthesia in this surgical context.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults scheduled for elective forefoot surgery with an ASA physical status of I-III.

Not a fit: Patients with ASA physical status greater than III, pregnancy, or allergies to local anesthetics may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance pain management strategies for patients undergoing foot or ankle surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar approaches in regional anesthesia, suggesting potential for success in this trial.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I-III
* adult and scheduled to undergo elective forefoot surgery under regional anaesthesia

Exclusion Criteria:

* patient refusal
* ASA physical status \> III
* pregnancy
* neuromuscular disorder
* prior surgery in the popliteal fossa
* coagulopathy
* allergy to local anaesthetic drugs
* skin infection at the site of needle insertion

Where this trial is running

Shatin, New Territories

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: Musculoskeletal Diseases or Conditions, RCT, Lidocaine vs levobupivacaine, sciatic nerve block

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.