Comparing two pain management techniques for children undergoing palate surgery

Quadratus Lumborum Block for Pain Control in Unilateral Anterior Iliac Bone Graft Harvesting for Pediatric Patients Undergoing Palatoplasty: a Prospective Randomized Control Trial

Not applicable Interventional Medical University of South Carolina · NCT06420336

This study is testing two different pain management techniques for kids aged 6-18 who are having palate surgery to see which one helps them feel less pain after the operation.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment46 (estimated)
Ages6 Years to 18 Years
SexAll
SponsorMedical University of South Carolina Academic / other
Locations1 site (Charleston, South Carolina)
Trial IDNCT06420336 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study involves patients aged 6-18 who are scheduled for palatoplasty surgery, which includes harvesting bone from the hip. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either a quadratus lumborum block or local anesthetic infiltration at the surgical site. The primary focus is to evaluate post-operative pain levels within the first 48 hours after surgery, while secondary outcomes will assess pain medication usage, block resolution time, and any complications arising from the interventions. The goal is to determine which method provides better pain relief and fewer side effects.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are children aged 6-18 who are undergoing palatoplasty with autologous bone grafting.

Not a fit: Patients with contraindications to the pain management techniques or those unable to provide informed consent may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved pain management strategies for children undergoing palate surgery, potentially reducing opioid use.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with similar pain management approaches, indicating potential for success in this trial.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria

* Patients undergoing palatoplasty with autologous bone graft from the anterior iliac crest.
* Ages 6-18 years of age
* Planned admission post-op
* ASA Status Range: 1-3

Exclusion Criteria

* Contraindication to QL blocks or LAI which may include:
* overlying infection skin at the block needle insertion site
* coagulopathies
* known bleeding disorders
* Allergy to local anesthetic
* Cognitive or developmental impairment that would limit ability to report pain.
* Non-English Speaking/Writing
* Subjects or their parent/guardian unable or choose to not give informed consent/assent.

Where this trial is running

Charleston, South Carolina

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 Post-operative PainOpioid UseCleft Palate
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.