Comparing two methods for pain control after shoulder surgery
Official title: A Feasibility Randomized Control Comparison of Peripheral Interscalene Catheter to Liposomal Bupivacaine Single Injection for Interscalene Blocks Used in Pain Control for Total Shoulder Arthroplasties
Run by University of Iowa · NCT05868330 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether a new way of delivering pain relief after shoulder surgery works better than the standard method to help patients feel less pain and recover more comfortably.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 4 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 18 Years to 90 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 56 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Iowa Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Iowa City, Iowa) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | August 19, 2024 |
| Main results expected | October 2026 |
| Study ends | January 2027 |
| Registry record updated | November 10, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT05868330 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 90 undergoing reverse shoulder replacement surgery who can provide informed consent.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with significant medical conditions, chronic opioid use, or those unable to cooperate during the procedure may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study compares the effectiveness of an interscalene catheter versus a single injection interscalene block for managing post-operative pain in patients undergoing total shoulder arthroplasties. The research focuses on the use of liposomal bupivacaine, which may provide longer-lasting pain relief compared to traditional methods. By evaluating patient outcomes such as pain levels and satisfaction, the study aims to determine which method offers better recovery experiences and reduces the need for narcotics. The study is conducted at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, targeting patients who meet specific eligibility criteria.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved pain management strategies for patients undergoing shoulder surgery, enhancing recovery and reducing opioid use.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using regional anesthesia techniques for post-operative pain management, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Patients who have or are: 1. Orthopedics service patients having reverse shoulder replacement surgery 2. ASA class I, II, or III. 3. Patients at least 18 years old but less than 90 years old. 4. Patients giving informed consent. 5. Non-Emergency Surgery Exclusion Criteria: Patients who have or are: 1. An inability to cooperate during the block placement. 2. Patients who do not meet criteria for a regional block: such as those on anti-coagulation, 3. Significant pulmonary disease or allergy to medications used for peripheral nerve blocks (Exparel, Bupivacaine and Ropivacaine) 4. Neuropathy of the planned extremity to block 5. Documented Kidney Failure 6. Documented Liver Failure 7. A lack of or inability to give informed consent. 8. Currently incarcerated. 9. Pregnant 10. Unable to communicate in English 11. Chronic pre-operative opioid use (greater than 20 MME opioid used) 12. Fracture 13. Revision surgery
Where it's running
-
University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics
Iowa City, Iowa, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Melinda Seering, MD — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Melinda Seering, MD
- Email: melinda-seering@uiowa.edu
- Phone: 5156895508
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
-
Magnesium given during colorectal cancer surgery to see if it lowers inflammation afterward
We’re testing whether giving magnesium sulfate during open colorectal cancer surgery can reduce postoperative inflammation in patients.
-
Novel nanoparticle-enhanced disinfection for post-operative tooth pain
A new nanoparticle-based disinfection method is being tested to see if it reduces pain after root canal treatment in adults with certain tooth infections.
-
Oral tizanidine before surgery to calm pain after leg surgery
This trial tests whether giving a preoperative dose of oral tizanidine helps reduce postoperative pain and improve sleep quality for adults undergoing lower limb orthopedic surgery.
-
Influence of Irrigant Delivery Methods on Postoperative Pain after Root Canal Treatment in Oval Canals
This trial tests whether different irrigant delivery and activation methods affect postoperative pain after primary root canal treatment in adults.
-
Effect of NeoSEALER FLO and AH Plus Sealer on Pain and Healing after Root Canal Treatment
This test compares NeoSEALER FLO and AH Plus sealer to see how they affect postoperative pain and healing of periapical lesions in mature permanent teeth.
-
Nervous system blocks to ease pain after lung cancer surgery
This trial tests whether retro-SCTLB or TPVB can reduce the need for opioid pain medicines after thoracoscopic radical lung cancer surgery.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.