Comparing two methods of pain relief for shoulder fractures

Continuous Standard Bupivacaine Versus Single Liposomal Bupivacaine Injection for Interscalene Brachial Plexus Block for Pain Management After Proximal Humerus Fracture Fixation

Phase 4 Interventional The University of Hong Kong · NCT04928664

This study is testing whether a new type of pain relief for shoulder fractures works better than the standard method to help patients feel less pain and recover more effectively after surgery.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment78 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorThe University of Hong Kong Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Hong Kong and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04928664 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of continuous versus liposomal bupivacaine interscalene blocks for managing pain in patients with proximal humeral fractures. The study aims to determine which method provides better pain control and functional outcomes following surgery. Participants will receive either standard bupivacaine or liposomal bupivacaine, with the procedure performed under ultrasound guidance by experienced anesthetists. The trial will monitor side effects and complications associated with each pain management technique.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 80 with a proximal humeral fracture who are classified as ASA I-III.

Not a fit: Patients with multiple fractures, significant preexisting shoulder problems, or those unable to attend rehabilitation may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved pain management and recovery outcomes for patients undergoing surgery for shoulder fractures.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with liposomal bupivacaine in pain management, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* ASA I-III
* Age between 18 and 80
* Proximal humeral fracture

Exclusion Criteria:

* Surgical exclusion criteria:
* Revision surgery
* Pathological fracture
* 4-part or shaft fracture
* Multiple fractures
* Unable to attend rehabilitation
* Preexisting shoulder problems
* Abbreviated Mental Test Score (AMT score) \< 8
* Allergy to amide local anaesthetics, paracetamol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), opioids
* Respiratory Disease with limited respiratory reserve
* Cardiac Disease: Any degree of Heart Block, Heart Failure
* Neurological: Any Seizure Disorder
* Psychiatric illnesses affecting pain perception e.g. severe depression and anxiety disorder
* Alcohol or substance abuse
* Chronic Pain, other than chronic knee pain
* Daily use of strong opioids (morphine, fentanyl, hydromorphone, ketobemidone, methadone, diamorphine, oxycodone, or meperidine) before operation
* Impaired Renal Function (defined as preoperative eGFR \< 30ml /min /1.73 m2)
* Impaired Hepatic Function
* Pregnancy
* Inability to use PCA
* Patient refusal to ISB
* Patient refusal to study

Where this trial is running

Hong Kong 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 Shoulder Fracturesliposomal bupivacaineinterscalene block
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.