Investigating opioid prescriptions after hip arthroscopy

Randomized Control Trial Evaluating Postoperative Opioid Demands Following Hip Arthroscopy

Not applicable Interventional Rush University Medical Center · NCT04094701

This study is testing if giving fewer pain pills after hip surgery can still help patients manage their pain while using less medication.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment170 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorRush University Medical Center Academic / other
Locations1 site (Chicago, Illinois)
Trial IDNCT04094701 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial is a prospective, single-blinded, randomized controlled trial that examines the impact of different opioid prescription amounts following primary hip arthroscopy. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either a reduced opioid regimen of 5 Norco pills along with gabapentin and Tylenol or the standard regimen of 30 Norco pills. The study will track postoperative pain scores, total morphine equivalents used, and patient-reported outcomes over a 12-month follow-up period. The goal is to determine if a reduced opioid prescription can effectively manage pain while minimizing opioid use.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-80 who are opioid naive and undergoing primary hip arthroscopy.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of opioid use, chronic pain conditions, or other significant health issues may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to safer postoperative pain management strategies that reduce reliance on opioids.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with reduced opioid prescribing strategies, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adult patients age 18-80 years
* English speaking
* Opioid naive patient (defined as not taking opioid pills within 6 weeks prior to surgery), confirmed by checking the Illinois Prescription monitoring program
* Primary hip arthroscopy
* Written and informed consent for study participation

Exclusion Criteria:

* Minors (\<18 years of age)
* Opioid tolerant patients
* Revision surgery
* Prior infections of the operative joint
* History of active malignancy within the past 5 years
* Chronic pain conditions including low back pain, chronic pain syndrome, fibromyalgia
* History of alcohol or other substance use disorder
* Other disease states including rheumatologic conditions, diabetes mellitus, hypo/hyperthyroidism, depression, anxiety
* Grade IV chondral defects

Where this trial is running

Chicago, Illinois

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 Opioid UsePainFemoral Acetabular ImpingementLabral Tear, Glenoid
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.