Study Comparing Single-Shot Adductor Canal Block to No Block for Recovery Quality After ACL Reconstruction in Children and Teens Aged 10 to 18

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the feasibility of a randomized trial comparing perioperative single-shot adductor canal block ACB with standard general anesthesia without regional block in children and adolescents aged 10 to 18 undergoing arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament ACL reconstruction. The study aims to determine if ACB improves quality of recovery as measured by the Quality of Recovery-15 questionnaire at several postoperative time points. Secondary questions include whether ACB reduces opioid use, shortens post-anesthetic care unit stay, improves pain scores, and increases patient satisfaction. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either a single-shot ACB with ropivacaine and dexmedetomidine after induction of general anesthesia or no nerve block, with all other care standardized between groups. The nerve block is performed under ultrasound guidance. Patients in the non-block group will have a dressing placed to maintain blinding. Follow-up visits occur at postoperative days 2, 14, and 42. During the study, participants and caregivers will complete the Quality of Recovery-15 questionnaire and pain rating scales on the day of surgery and at follow-up calls or clinic visits. Satisfaction ratings will be collected at postoperative day 42 using a 5-item scale. Researchers will also monitor opioid consumption, post-anesthetic care unit time, and any hospital admissions until day 42. Enrollment feasibility will be assessed based on recruitment rates over a 12-month period.

ACB vs no Block for Pediatric ACL Reconstruction