Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Phase 4 Interventional Ages 18 to 90

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

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Ages18 Years to 90 Years
SexAll
Enrollment56 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity of Iowa
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Iowa City, Iowa)
StatusRecruiting
StartedAugust 19, 2024
Main results expectedOctober 2026
Study endsJanuary 2027
Registry record updatedNovember 10, 2025
Trial IDNCT05868330 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

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.