Comparing pain control methods after ankle or wrist fracture surgery
Preoperative Versus Postoperative Peripheral Nerve Block for Pain Control After Ankle and Wrist Fracture Surgery
This study tests whether a nerve block before surgery or a general anesthesia with a nerve block afterward helps people with ankle or wrist fractures feel less pain and use fewer pain medications after their surgery.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 160 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MaineGeneral Health Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Augusta, Maine) |
| Trial ID | NCT05391464 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This trial investigates the effectiveness of two pain management strategies for patients undergoing outpatient surgery for ankle or distal radius fractures. It compares the use of a peripheral nerve block administered before surgery versus general anesthesia with a postoperative nerve block. The study aims to evaluate pain intensity and the amount of analgesic medication consumed in the days following the procedure. By assessing these factors, the trial seeks to determine which method provides better pain relief and minimizes opioid use.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients with isolated ankle or distal radius fractures who are scheduled for outpatient surgery within two weeks of their injury.
Not a fit: Patients with multiple fractures, cognitive impairments, or contraindications to peripheral nerve blocks may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved pain management strategies for patients recovering from fracture surgery.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that peripheral nerve blocks can effectively reduce opioid requirements and improve pain management in similar surgical contexts.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Within 2 weeks of injury * Isolated fracture requiring surgery * Outpatient Exclusion Criteria: * Multiple fractures * Inpatients * Cognitive impairment * Unable to comply with follow-up * No means of telephone contact * Contraindication to peripheral nerve block
Where this trial is running
Augusta, Maine
- MaineGeneral Medical Center — Augusta, Maine, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Stuart A Aitken, MBChB MD
- Email: stuart.aitken@mainegeneral.org
- Phone: 2076218700
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.