Comparing pain relief methods after thumb surgery

Pain Relief After Trapeziectomy Without Opioids: Ibuprofen & Acetaminophen Versus Oxycodone

Phase 2 Interventional Stanford University · NCT04676802

This study tests whether a mix of ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help people manage pain after thumb surgery better than oxycodone, with the goal of reducing the use of stronger painkillers.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment121 (estimated)
Ages45 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorStanford University Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Redwood City, California and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04676802 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of a combination of ibuprofen and acetaminophen versus oxycodone for managing postoperative pain following trapeziectomy for osteoarthritis at the base of the thumb. The aim is to reduce reliance on prescription opioids, which are known for their addictive potential, while still providing adequate pain control during the recovery phase. Participants will be monitored for pain relief over the first 30 days after surgery, assessing the efficacy of non-narcotic medications compared to traditional opioid treatment.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals undergoing trapeziectomy for thumb osteoarthritis who are proficient in English.

Not a fit: Patients who are currently using opioids or have certain medical conditions that contraindicate the use of the study medications may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to safer pain management strategies that minimize opioid use after surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in reducing opioid use through non-narcotic pain management strategies, making this approach both relevant and timely.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Undergoing trapeziectomy for thumb osteoarthritis

English proficient,

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnancy

Current use of opioids

Concurrent surgeries (ex. trapeziectomy combined with carpal tunnel release)

Inability to complete study forms (education, cognitive ability, mental status, medical status)

Allergy or intolerance to Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen and/or Oxycodone

Liver or kidney dysfunction, abnormal liver enzymes restricting use of acetaminophen or ibuprofen

History of chronic heart failure, upper gastrointestinal bleeding or coagulopathy

History of complex regional pain syndrome

Where this trial is running

Redwood City, California and 1 other locations

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.
Conditions Pain, PostoperativeOsteoarthritis Thumb
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.