Addition of a Pectoserratus Block to Interscalene Block in Patients Undergoing Total Shoulder Replacement

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA · Nov 15, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying whether adding a specific type of nerve block, called a pectoserratus block, to the standard pain management technique known as an interscalene block can help reduce pain and the need for opioid medications in patients undergoing total shoulder replacement surgery. While the interscalene block is effective, many patients still experience pain afterwards, so researchers want to see if the extra pectoserratus block can provide better pain relief.

To participate in this study, you must be between 18 and 85 years old and scheduled for a total shoulder or reverse shoulder replacement surgery. However, certain individuals, like those with severe lung problems or pre-existing nerve damage, are not eligible. If you join the study, you'll be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one will receive the pectoserratus block with a pain medication, and the other will receive a saline solution (a harmless saltwater solution). The goal is to find out if the extra pain relief helps patients feel better after their surgery.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Patients undergoing total shoulder arthroplasty or reverse total shoulder arthroplasty;
• • Patients aged 18-85 years old.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Patients who have an exclusion to regional anesthesia such as pre-existing nerve damage to their brachial plexus or infection at the site of injection.
• • Patients who have exclusion to interscalene blockade such as severe lung disease.
• • Non-English speakers will be excluded because pain scales are not validated in other languages and there is lack of standardization of pain reporting.
• • Pregnant patients
• • Patients who are currently using opioids and patients with a diagnosis of chronic pain will be excluded.