Comparing two types of nerve blocks for pain relief in shoulder surgery

A Randomized Double-blinded Study to Evaluate the Efficacy of PECS II Block Versus Intercostobrachial Ring Block in Patients Undergoing Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair With Open Biceps Tenodesis

Not applicable Interventional University of Southern California · NCT04930393

This study tests which of two types of nerve blocks can provide better pain relief after shoulder surgery for patients having rotator cuff repair.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment74 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Southern California Academic / other
Locations1 site (Los Angeles, California)
Trial IDNCT04930393 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of two different nerve blocks, the PECS II block and the axillary ring block, in providing postoperative pain relief for patients undergoing rotator cuff repair surgery with biceps tenodesis. The research aims to determine which nerve block offers superior analgesia and reduces intraoperative stimulation. All participants will receive an interscalene block as part of their pain management strategy. The study focuses on medically optimized patients who meet specific eligibility criteria.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are medically optimized patients scheduled for elective arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with open biceps tenodesis.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a history of chronic opioid use, respiratory compromise, or allergies to local anesthetics or opioids may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved pain management strategies for patients undergoing shoulder surgery, reducing reliance on opioids.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with similar nerve block techniques, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* medically optimized patients who will undergo an elective surgery for an arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with open biceps tenodesis

Exclusion Criteria:

* women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, history of chronic opioid use, respiratory compromise, smokers, or allergy to local anesthetics or opioids.

Where this trial is running

Los Angeles, California

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 Pain
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.