Pain Control Study Using Nerve Blocks Before Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating pain control methods in patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. This randomized, double-blind trial compares the effects of an interscalene brachial plexus block combined with suprascapular and axillary nerve blocks using ropivacaine versus the same brachial plexus block combined with placebo saline nerve blocks. The study aims to assess differences in pain levels and patient satisfaction at various times before and after surgery, as well as changes in blood markers related to stress and inflammation. Participants receive an ultrasound-guided interscalene brachial plexus block with ropivacaine immediately before surgery. They are then assigned to receive either suprascapular and axillary nerve blocks with ropivacaine or placebo blocks with saline. Both groups use low fixed dose patient-controlled analgesia with fentanyl and nefopam during the postoperative period. The study measures outcomes at multiple timepoints from before surgery up to 48 hours after. During the study, participants pain scores and satisfaction are recorded preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, 36, and 48 hours after surgery. Blood samples are collected before surgery and at 1, 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours postoperatively to analyze levels of cortisol, various interleukins, substance P, serotonin, beta-endorphin, and norepinephrine. This detailed monitoring helps researchers understand the effects of the nerve blocks on pain and biological stress responses following rotator cuff repair.

ISB With SSNB & ANB