Using Cryoneurolysis to Reduce Pain After ACL Surgery

The Effect of Pre-Operative Cryoneurolysis on Post-Operative Narcotic Consumption in Patients Undergoing Autograft ACL Reconstruction

Not applicable Interventional Virtua Health, Inc. · NCT06603051

This study is testing if using extreme cold on specific nerves before ACL surgery can help reduce pain and the need for pain medication afterward.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages14 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorVirtua Health, Inc. Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Burlington, New Jersey and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06603051 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research investigates the impact of preoperative Cryoneurolysis on pain management for patients undergoing autograft anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either standard care or standard care plus Cryoneurolysis, which involves applying extreme cold to targeted nerves to alleviate pain. The study aims to determine if this additional treatment can reduce postoperative narcotic consumption. Both groups will receive standard pain management protocols during and after the surgery.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients aged 14 and over who are opioid naïve and undergoing autograft ACL reconstruction.

Not a fit: Patients under 14, those who are non-English speaking, or those with certain medical conditions such as Reynaud's syndrome or skin disorders may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce the need for narcotics after ACL surgery, leading to better pain management and fewer side effects associated with opioid use.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of Cryoneurolysis is established, this specific application in ACL reconstruction is novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* \- Patients aged 14 and over
* Patients who are patients within the PI's practice
* Patients who can speak and read English
* Patients undergoing autograft ACL reconstruction.
* Patients who are opioid naïve

Exclusion Criteria:

* \- Under the age of 14
* Non-English speaking/reading patients
* Patients with Reynauds' syndrome
* Patients with skin disorders or hypo-vascularity
* Patients undergoing allograft ACL reconstruction.
* Patients who consistently use opioids preoperatively

Where this trial is running

Burlington, New Jersey 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 ACL RepairCryoneurolysis
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.