Comparing Two Nerve Block Techniques for Pain Relief After Knee Replacement Surgery BiFeS and iPACK Blocks

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a new technique called the Biceps Femoris Short Head BiFeS block, combined with the adductor canal block ACB, for pain relief after total knee arthroplasty, a surgery to treat advanced osteoarthritis. This study compares the BiFeS block plus ACB to the ACB plus iPACK block, aiming to find which combination provides better postoperative pain control while preserving motor function. The trial is designed as a prospective, randomized, double-blind study involving two groups of patients undergoing knee replacement surgery. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either the ACB combined with the iPACK block or the ACB combined with the BiFeS block. Both blocks use ultrasound guidance to inject bupivacaine anesthetic near specific nerves around the knee to reduce pain without affecting muscle strength. The BiFeS block targets sensory nerves around the posterolateral knee capsule. The study carefully monitors and compares the effectiveness of these two motor-sparing regional anesthesia techniques during and after surgery. During the trial, participants will have pain scores measured at multiple time points up to three months after surgery, including rest and movement pain levels. Researchers will also track opioid use, time to rescue pain medication, early mobilization, quality of recovery, and any complications like nausea or vomiting. Assessments include questionnaires and physical therapy criteria for hospital discharge. The total follow-up period extends to three months, allowing detailed evaluation of pain control and functional recovery after knee replacement surgery.

BiFeS vs. iPACK in Postoperative Knee Arthroplasty Analgesia