Comparison of Local Infiltration Analgesia With Femoral Nerve Block for Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective, Randomized Clinical Trial

High-Dose Compound Betamethasone Used in Local Infiltration Analgesia Does Not Increase Reinfection Rates Following Periprosthetic Joint Infection Treatment

BACKGROUND

Cocktails containing glucocorticoids for local infiltration analgesia (LIA) are highly advocated and effective in managing pain in total joint arthroplasty (TJA). However, it remains ambiguous whether this protocol maintains its safety and efficacy in the treatment of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI), a devastating complication of TJA.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted on 299 single-stage revision cases for PJI spanning the years 2010 to 2021. Of these, 127 received LIAs containing high-dose compound betamethasone (CB) were termed the CB group, and the other 172 were termed the non-CB group. The rates of re-infection and other postoperative complications, along with postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) scores, and opioid consumption were compared.

RESULTS

During minimum 2-year follow-up, there was no significant difference in the re-infection rate between the non-CB and CB groups (9.3 versus 8.7%; P = 0.85), consistent within the subsets of hip (8.4 versus 4.5%; P = 0.51) and knee (10.4 versus 13.3%; P = 0.60) PJIs individually. The administration of high-dose CB was neither an independent risk factor for reinfection (P > 0.05; 95% CI [confidence interval] including 1) nor was it associated with the occurrence of reinfection (P > 0.05). The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) was significantly lower in the CB group (P < 0.05). In the first 48-hour postoperative period, the CB group exhibited lower mean scores in both resting and movement VAS evaluations (P < 0.05). For knees, the movement VAS scores of the CB group remained lower even at 72 hours post-surgery (P < 0.001). Furthermore, within the first 72 hours post-surgery, the CB group required less additional opioid analgesics than the non-CB group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

A LIA with a high-dose CB reduces postoperative pain, opioid consumption, and the incidence of PONV following a single-stage revision without affecting reinfection and other complication rates.

A Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials Assessing Intraoperative Anesthetic Therapies for Analgesic Efficacy and Morphine Consumption Following Total Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to compare intraoperative anesthetic therapies for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) regarding postoperative analgesic efficacy and morphine consumption by conducting a systematic literature search.

METHODS

Randomized controlled trials of TKA using various anesthetic therapies were identified from various databases from conception through December 31, 2021. A network meta-analysis of relevant literature was performed to investigate which treatment showed better outcomes. In total, 40 trials were included in this study.

RESULTS

Surface under the cumulative ranking curve showed local infiltration anesthesia (LIA) with saphenous nerve block (SNB) to produce the best pain relief on postoperative days (PODs) 1 and 2 and the best reduction of morphine consumption on PODs 1 and 3. However, femoral nerve block showed the largest effect on pain relief on POD 3, and liposomal bupivacaine showed the largest effect on reduction of morphine consumption on POD 2.

CONCLUSIONS

According to this network meta-analysis, surface under the cumulative ranking curve percentage showed that LIA with SNB provided the best analgesic effect after TKA. Furthermore, patients receiving LIA with SNB had the lowest consumption of morphine. Although femoral nerve block resulted in better pain relief on POD 3, LIA with SNB could be selected first when trying to reduce morphine consumption or increase early ambulation.

Neurological injury following peripheral nerve blocks: a narrative review of estimates of risks and the influence of ultrasound guidance

BACKGROUND

Peripheral nerve injury or post-block neurological dysfunction (PBND) are uncommon but a recognized complications of peripheral nerve blocks (PNB). A broad range of its incidence is noted in the literature and hence a critical appraisal of its occurrence is needed.

OBJECTIVE

In this review, we wanted to know the pooled estimates of PBND and further, determine its pooled estimates following various PNB over time. Additionally, we also sought to estimate the incidence of PBND with or without US guidance.

EVIDENCE REVIEW

A literature search was conducted in six databases. For the purposes of the review, we defined PBND as any new-onset sensorimotor disturbances in the distribution of the performed PNB either attributable to the PNB (when reported) or reported in the context of the PNB (when association with a PNB was not mentioned). Both prospective and retrospective studies which provided incidence of PBND at timepoints of interest (>48 hours to <2 weeks; >2 weeks to 6 weeks, 7 weeks to 5 months, 6 months to 1 year and >1 year durations) were included for review. Incidence data were used to provide pooled estimates (with 95% CI) of PBND at these time periods. Similar estimates were obtained to know the incidence of PBND with or without the use of US guidance. Additionally, PBND associated with individual PNB were obtained in a similar fashion with upper and lower limb PNB classified based on the anatomical location of needle insertion.

FINDINGS

The overall incidence of PBND decreased with time, with the incidence being approximately 1% at <2 weeks' time (Incidence per thousand (95% CI)= 9 (8; to 11)) to approximately 3/10 000 at 1 year (Incidence per thousand (95% CI)= 0. 3 (0.1; to 0.5)). Incidence of PBND differed for individual PNB with the highest incidence noted for interscalene block.

CONCLUSIONS

Our review adds information to existing literature that the neurological complications are rarer but seem to display a higher incidence for some blocks more than others. Use of US guidance may be associated with a lower incidence of PBND especially in those PNBs reporting a higher pooled estimates. Future studies need to standardize the reporting of PBND at various timepoints and its association to PNB.

Adductor Canal Nerve Block versus Intra-articular Anesthetic in Knee Arthroscopy: A Single-Blinded Prospective Randomized Trial

Effective perioperative pain control following knee arthroscopy allows patients to reduce narcotic intake, avoid side effects of these medications, and recover more quickly. Adductor canal nerve blockade (ACB) and intra-articular injection of local anesthetic have been described as adjuvant treatments for postoperative pain control following surgery of the knee. This study directly compares the effect of each of these treatment modalities. Patients undergoing knee arthroscopy were blinded and randomized to receive either an ACB (n = 60) or intra-articular injection of local anesthetic (IAB, n = 64). Outcome measures included patient reported visual analog scale (VAS) scores at 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 24, 36, 48 hours and 1 week and total narcotic consumption at 12, 24, and 48 hours postoperatively. Student's t-tests were used to compare unadjusted VAS scores at each time point and use of postoperative pain medication between treatment groups. Adjusted VAS scores were estimated in a multivariable general linear model with interaction of time and treatment group and other relevant covariates. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of gender, age, body mass index, and insurance type. ACB patients had significantly higher pain scores than IAB patients at hours 1 and 2 (hour 1: 4.02 [2.99] vs. 2.59 [3.00], p = 0.009; hour 2: 3.12 [2.44] vs. 2.17 [2.62], p = 0.040). ACB patients had higher pain scores than IAB patients up to hour 16, though hours 4 to 16 were not significantly different. Adjusted covariate analyses demonstrate an additional statistically significant reduction in pain score in the IAB group at hour 4. There were no differences in narcotic consumption. Intraoperative local anesthetic and regional ACB each provides adequate pain control following knee arthroscopy, and intraoperative local anesthetic may provide enhanced pain control for up to 4 hours postoperatively. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: : Level 1 evidence, randomized control trial.

Analgesic Effects of Different Local Infiltration Anesthesia Techniques Combined with Femoral Nerve Block in Patients Undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Objective

Pain after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains an unresolved problem. Femoral nerve block (FNB) could relieve pain; however, it alone is insufficient. The local infiltration anesthesia technique (LIA) has been suggested as a supplement to FNB. This study aimed to evaluate the analgesic effects of different LIA combined with FNB in TKA patients.

Methods

The femoral nerve was blocked with 0.375% ropivacaine 20mL, and all patients routinely received general anesthesia. The primary indicator was the proportion of patients who did not receive post-operative remedial analgesia. Seventy-eight patients were randomly assigned to PAI (periarticular injection combined with FNB), IAI (intra-articular injection combined with FNB), or control (FNB alone) groups. All patients underwent FNB under general anesthesia. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients who did not receive additional postoperative analgesia within the first 48 h after surgery.

Results

Compared with the PAI and control groups, the IAI group had a higher proportion (69.23%) of patients who did not receive remedial analgesia within 48 hours after surgery (P = 0.009; P = 0.009), a lower consumption of diclofenac sodium lidocaine (P = 0.021; P < 0.001), and an earlier time of walking with a walker (P < 0.001; P < 0.001). The time of first need for remedial analgesia postoperatively in IAI group was longer than the PAI group (P = 0.008) and IAI group has a shorter hospital stay than the control group (P = 0.008). The maximum NRS during the first 48 hours postoperatively and NRS 24 hours after surgery in the IAI group were lower than those in the control and PAI groups. The incidences of POD and PONV were similar among the three groups (P = 0.610; P = 0.264).

Conclusion

When combined with FNB, intra-articular injection offers a superior analgesic effect and favorable recovery compared to periarticular injection and separate application of FNB.

Local Periarticular Infiltration with Dexmedetomidine Results in Superior Patient Well-Being after Total Knee Arthroplasty Compared with Peripheral Nerve Blocks: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial with a Follow-Up of Two Years

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to compare local periarticular infiltration (LIA) with ultra-sound guided regional anesthesia (USRA) with ropivacaine and dexmedetomidine as an additive agent in primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS

Fifty patients were randomized into two groups in a 1:1 ratio. Patients in the LIA group received local periarticular infiltration into the knee joint. The USRA group received two single-shot USRA blocks. Functional outcomes and satisfaction (range of movement, Knee Society Knee Score, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, Oxford Knee Score, and Forgotten Joint Score), including well-being, were analyzed preoperatively and at five days, six weeks, and one and two years postoperatively.

RESULTS

Functional outcomes did not significantly differ between the two groups at six weeks and one and two years after the implementation of TKA. A moderate correlation was observed in the LIA group regarding well-being and pain on day five. Six weeks postoperatively, the LIA group showed significantly superior well-being but worse pain scores. No differences between the groups in well-being and functional outcomes could be observed one and two years postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

Patients treated with LIA had superior postoperative well-being in the early postoperative phase of up to six weeks. Furthermore, LIA patients had similar functionality compared to patients treated with USRA but experienced significantly more pain six weeks postoperatively. LIA leads to improved short-term well-being, which is potentially beneficial for faster knee recovery. We believe that LIA benefits fast-track knee recovery with respect to improved short-term well-being, higher practicability, and faster application.

Gonyautoxins 2/3 Local Periarticular Injection for Pain Management after Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Double-Blind, Randomized Study

The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of periarticular infiltration of gonyautoxin 2/3 (GTX 2/3) and a mixture of levobupivacaine, ketorolac, and epinephrine for pain management after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Forty-eight patients were randomly allocated to receive periarticular infiltration of 40 µg GTX 2/3 (n = 24) diluted in 30 mL of sodium chloride 0.9% (study group) or a combination of 300 mg of levobupivacaine, 1 mg of epinephrine, and 60 mg ketorolac (n = 24) diluted in 150 mL of sodium chloride 0.9% (control group). Intraoperative anesthetic and surgical techniques were identical for both groups. Postoperatively, all patients received patient-controlled analgesia (morphine bolus of 1 mg; lockout interval of 8 minutes), acetaminophen, and ketoprofen for 72 hours. A blinded investigator recorded morphine consumption, which was the primary outcome. Also, the range of motion (ROM) and static and dynamic pain were assessed at 6, 12, 36, and 60 hours after surgery. The incidence of adverse events, time to readiness for discharge, and length of hospital stay were also recorded. The median of total cumulative morphine consumption was 16 mg (range, 0-62 mg) in the GTX 2/3 group and 9 mg (range, 0-54 mg) in control group, which did not reach statistical difference (median test, p = 0.40). Furthermore, static and dynamic pain scores were similar at all time intervals. GTX 2/3 was inferior in range of motion at 6 and 12 hours; nevertheless, we noted no difference after 36 hours. No differences between groups were found in terms of complications, side effects, or length of hospital stay. No significant differences were found between groups in terms of breakthrough morphine requirement. However, local anesthetic use resulted in an increased ROM in the first 12 hours. This prospective randomized clinical trial shows that GTX 2/3 is a safe and efficient drug for pain control after TKA; nevertheless, more studies using GTX 2/3 with larger populations are needed to confirm the safety profile and efficiency. This is level 1 therapeutic study, randomized, double-blind clinical trial.

Comparison between Local Infiltration Analgesia and Ultrasound Guided Single Shot Adductor Canal Block Post Total Knee Replacement Surgery - A Randomized Controlled Trial

Context:

Good quality analgesia posttotal knee arthroplasty (TKA) contributes majorly to early mobilization and shorter hospital stay.

Aim:

To compare adductor canal block (ACB) versus local infiltration analgesia (LIA) for postoperative pain relief in patients undergoing TKA.

Settings and Design:

This prospective, single-blind, randomized controlled trial was undertaken at a tertiary care university hospital.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty patients of American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status Classes I, II, and III, who received spinal anesthesia for TKA were randomly allocated to two groups. Group A patients had LIA of the knee joint using a mixture of 50 mL of 0.25% bupivacaine, 10 mg morphine (1 mL) and 99 mL of normal saline. Group B patients received ACB using 25 mL of 0.5% bupivacaine under ultrasound guidance. All patients received multimodal analgesia comprising of paracetamol, diclofenac, and patient controlled analgesia with morphine in the first 24 h' postoperative period. The primary outcome measures were first 24 h' morphine consumption and pain scores at 4, 6, 8, 12, and 24 h. The secondary outcome measures were nausea/vomiting, sedation, and patient satisfaction scores.

Statistical Analysis:

Statistical analysis was performed using the Student's t-test, Mann–Whitney test, and Chi-square test.

Results:

The 24 h morphine consumption was 11.97 ± 7.97 and 10.83 ± 6.41 mg in the LIA group and ACB group, respectively (P = 0.54). No significant differences were noted either in the pain scores at rest and flexion or secondary outcome measures between both groups in the first 24 h.

Conclusion:

Single-shot ACB is equally effective as LIA as postoperative analgesia for TKA.

Peripheral nerve block anesthesia/analgesia for patients undergoing primary hip and knee arthroplasty: recommendations from the International Consensus on Anesthesia-Related Outcomes after Surgery (ICAROS) group based on a systematic review and meta-analysis of current literature

BACKGROUND

Evidence-based international expert consensus regarding the impact of peripheral nerve block (PNB) use in total hip/knee arthroplasty surgery.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis: randomized controlled and observational studies investigating the impact of PNB utilization on major complications, including mortality, cardiac, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, renal, thromboembolic, neurologic, infectious, and bleeding complications.Medline, PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library including Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, NHS Economic Evaluation Database, were queried from 1946 to August 4, 2020.The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach was used to assess evidence quality and for the development of recommendations.

RESULTS

Analysis of 122 studies revealed that PNB use (compared with no use) was associated with lower ORs for (OR with 95% CIs) for numerous complications (total hip and knee arthroplasties (THA/TKA), respectively): cognitive dysfunction (OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.53/OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.34 to 0.80), respiratory failure (OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.74/OR 0.37, 95% CI 0.18 to 0.75), cardiac complications (OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.76 to 0.93/OR 0.83, 95% CI 0.79 to 0.86), surgical site infections (OR 0.55 95% CI 0.47 to 0.64/OR 0.86 95% CI 0.80 to 0.91), thromboembolism (OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.58 to 0.96/OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.84 to 0.96) and blood transfusion (OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.83 to 0.86/OR 0.91, 95% CI 0.90 to 0.92).

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the current body of evidence, the consensus group recommends PNB use in THA/TKA for improved outcomes.

RECOMMENDATION

PNB use is recommended for patients undergoing THA and TKA except when contraindications preclude their use. Furthermore, the alignment of provider skills and practice location resources needs to be ensured. Evidence level: moderate; recommendation: strong.

A comparison of analgesic techniques for total knee arthroplasty: A network meta-analysis

STUDY OBJECTIVE

There is no established analgesic method for postoperative total knee arthroplasty. We comprehensively compared the analgesic methods for postoperative total knee arthroplasty.

DESIGN

A network meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials was used to compare 18 interventions, which were ranked by six outcome indices, to select the best modality.

SETTING

Postoperative recovery room and inpatient ward.

PATIENTS

98 randomised controlled trials involving 7452 patients (ASA I-III) were included in the final analysis.

INTERVENTIONS

Studies that included the use of at least one of the following 12 nerve block(fascia iliaca compartment block (FIB), FNB, cFNB, single femoral nerve block (sFNB), adductor canal block (ACB), sciatic nerve block (SNB), obturator nerve block (ONB), continuous posterior lumbar plexus block (PSOAS), FNB + SNB, ACB + LIA, FNB + LIA, PCA + FNB).

MEASUREMENTS

Pain intensity was compared using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Also, postoperative complications, function score, hospital length of stay, morphine consumption and patient satisfaction were measured.

MAIN RESULTS

For visual analogue scale scores, continuous femoral nerve block (FNB) and FNB + sciatic nerve block (SNB) were the the most effective interventions. For reducing postoperative complications, fascia iliaca compartment block, FNB, SNB, and obturator nerve block showed the best results. For reducing postoperative morphine consumption, adductor canal block (ACB) + local infiltration analgesia (LIA) and FNB + SNB were preferred. For function scores (range of motion, Timed-Up-and-Go test), ACB and LIA were optimal choices. For reducing hospital length of stay and patient satisfaction, ACB + LIA and FNB + LIA were best, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Peripheral nerve block, especially FNB and ACB, is a better option than other analgesic methods, and its combination with other methods can be beneficial. Peripheral nerve block is a safe and effective postoperative analgesia method. However, our findings can only provide objective evidence. Clinicians should choose the treatment course based on the individual patient's condition and clinical situation.

Pharmacokinetics and safety of liposomal bupivacaine after local infiltration in healthy Chinese adults: a phase 1 study

Background

Liposomal bupivacaine (LB) is a long-acting formulation of bupivacaine. The safety and efficacy of LB has been demonstrated across surgical procedures. However, pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters and safety of LB in the Chinese population have not been assessed.

Methods

In this single-arm, single center, phase 1, open-label study, PK and safety of local infiltration with LB 266 mg were assessed in healthy Chinese adults. Eligible participants were aged 18 to 55 years with biologic parents and grandparents of Chinese ethnicity, in generally good health (i.e., no clinically significant abnormalities), and with a body mass index (BMI) 19.0 to 24.0 kg/m² (inclusive) and body weight ≥ 50 kg.

Results

Participants (N = 20) were predominantly men (80 %); mean age was 32 years; and mean BMI was 21.8 kg/m². After LB administration, mean plasma levels of bupivacaine rapidly increased during the first hour and continued to increase through 24 h; plasma levels then gradually decreased through 108 h followed by a monoexponential decrease through 312 h. Geometric mean maximum plasma concentration was 170.9 ng/mL; the highest plasma bupivacaine concentration detected in any participant was 374.0 ng/mL. Twenty-two treatment-emergent adverse events were reported (mild, n = 21; moderate, n = 1).

Conclusions

After single-dose administration of LB, PK measures were similar to a previously reported profile in US adults. The highest observed peak plasma concentration of bupivacaine was several-fold below the plasma concentration threshold accepted as being associated with neurotoxicity or cardiotoxicity (2000–4000 ng/mL). These data support that LB is well tolerated and safe in individuals of Chinese descent.

Trial registration

NCT04158102 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier), Date of registration: November 5, 2019.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12871-021-01407-5.

Assessing outcome in postoperative pain trials: are we missing the point? A systematic review of pain-related outcome domains reported in studies early after total knee arthroplasty

ABSTRACT

The management of acute postoperative pain remains suboptimal. Systematic reviews and Cochrane analysis can assist with collating evidence about treatment efficacy, but the results are limited in part by heterogeneity of endpoints in clinical trials. In addition, the chosen endpoints may not be entirely clinically relevant. To investigate the endpoints assessed in perioperative pain trials, we performed a systematic literature review on outcome domains assessing effectiveness of acute pain interventions in trials after total knee arthroplasty. We followed the Cochrane recommendations for systematic reviews, searching PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase, resulting in the screening of 1590 potentially eligible studies. After final inclusion of 295 studies, we identified 11 outcome domains and 45 subdomains/descriptors with the domain "pain"/"pain intensity" most commonly assessed (98.3%), followed by "analgesic consumption" (88.8%) and "side effects" (75.3%). By contrast, "physical function" (53.5%), "satisfaction" (28.8%), and "psychological function" (11.9%) were given much less consideration. The combinations of outcome domains were inhomogeneous throughout the studies, regardless of the type of pain management investigated. In conclusion, we found that there was high variability in outcome domains and inhomogeneous combinations, as well as inconsistent subdomain descriptions and utilization in trials comparing for effectiveness of pain interventions after total knee arthroplasty. This points towards the need for harmonizing outcome domains, eg, by consenting on a core outcome set of domains which are relevant for both stakeholders and patients. Such a core outcome set should include at least 3 domains from 3 different health core areas such as pain intensity, physical function, and one psychological domain.

Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial Comparing 0.2 mg, 0.1 mg, and No Intrathecal Morphine Combined With Periarticular Injection for Unilateral Total Knee Arthroplasty

Background

The addition of intrathecal morphine (ITM) to neuraxial anesthesia during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) to achieve postoperative analgesia can elicit opioid-related side effects. The other methods of pain alleviation and side effect reduction, including multimodal analgesia, are challenging. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of various ITM dosages for primary unilateral TKA with periarticular injection (PI).

Methods

This randomized double-blind controlled trial was conducted at Vajira Hospital between April 2018 and March 2019. Patients undergoing TKA were randomized into 3 groups: no ITM (M₀), ITM 0.1 mg (M₁), and ITM 0.2 mg (M₂). All patients received PI. Postoperative pain scores, side effects of ITM, and orthopedic outcomes were compared.

Results

The trial enrolled 102 patients: M₀ (n = 32), M₁ (n = 35), and M₂ (n = 35). The postoperative pain scores and rescue analgesic consumption of groups M₁ and M₂ did not differ significantly within the first 24 hours and were significantly lower than those in group M₀. Nausea and vomiting were observed more frequently 4 hours postoperatively in M₂ than in groups M₁ and M₀ (77%, 51%, and 6%, respectively; P < .05), which required second-line antiemetic administration (29%, 9%, and 13%, respectively; P = .09).

Conclusion

Postoperative pain control achieved with PI combined with ITM 0.1 mg after primary unilateral TKA was comparable to that achieved with ITM 0.2 mg. PI without ITM resulted in higher pain scores and rescue analgesic consumption. The frequency and severity of nausea and vomiting 4 hours postoperatively were also lower in patients administered 0.1 mg of ITM than those in patients administered 0.2 mg of ITM.

A Randomised Controlled Trial of Local Infiltration Analgesia Versus Femoral Nerve Block for Postoperative Analgesia Following Total Knee Arthroplasty

Background

Total knee replacement is often associated with significant postoperative pain. Although the use of a femoral nerve block is well-established, local infiltration analgesia has gained popularity in recent years. We compared single-shot local infiltration analgesia with a single-shot femoral nerve block for patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty.

Methods

A total of 194 patients were randomised to receive either local infiltration analgesia (150 ml bupivacaine 0.067% with adrenaline) or a femoral nerve block (20 ml 0.375% levobupivacaine). Both groups received spinal anaesthesia. The primary outcome measure was the total morphine consumption. Secondary outcome measures included: post-operative pain scores, rehabilitation goals, readiness for discharge, and physical, mental, and functional outcomes, including the Oxford Knee Score (OKS).

Results

A total of 69 patients in the local infiltration analgesia group and 79 patients in the femoral nerve block group were analysed. Median total morphine consumption was significantly greater in the local infiltration analgesia group as compared to the femoral nerve block group (54.67 mg vs 45 mg, respectively, p=0.0388). The post-operative OKS at six weeks was slightly more improved for the femoral nerve block group than for local infiltration analgesia (12.5 vs 9 point median improvements for the femoral nerve block and local infiltration analgesia groups, respectively, p=0.0261). There were no statistically significant differences in other secondary outcome measures.

Conclusion

A single-shot femoral nerve block significantly reduces the opioid requirement for primary total knee arthroplasty but is otherwise comparable to single-shot local infiltration analgesia. 

Controversial Topics in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A 5-Year Update (Part 1)

This review article examines updates to the literature during the past 5 years on numerous topics related to total knee arthroplasty which were felt to have ongoing controversy. These include the use of peripheral nerve blocks and local infiltrative analgesia, intrathecal morphine, patellar resurfacing, and bearing designs.

Pain management after total knee arthroplasty: A prospective randomized study

INTRODUCTION

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a common procedure for improving mobility and quality of life in patients with osteoarthritis. Postoperative pain control management after TKA is still a concern as it relates to patients satisfaction and functional recovery.Many anesthetic regimens and techniques have been explored to decrease postoperative pain and enhance the fast recovery after TKA. The aim of this study was to evaluate the best anesthetic treatment in pain control after TKA.

METHODS

51 patients were included in a randomized prospective study and distributed in three groups. The first group (CG) in which no analgesic protocol was implemented (control group). The second group (LIA group) received an intraoperative local infiltration anesthesia (LIA) (60 ml mixture of two ropivacaine 75mg/10 mL + adrenaline 100μg/10 mL + physiological solution). The third group (FNB group) had only a femoral nerve block (FNB). Continuous outcomes including visual analogue scale (VAS) at 5,24,48 h and at 1 week, morphine consumption and range of motion (ROM) at 1,2,7 days.

RESULTS

There was significant difference between all groups (p < 0,001) in terms of the VAS score: at 5h after surgery (4.55,2.15,1.82); at 24h (4.15,2.65,3.36); at 48h (3.85,2.45,2.73); at 1 week (2.95,1.80, 1.64), respectively for groups CG, LIA, FNB.ROM was better in LIA and FNB groups than CG: at 1 die after surgery (44°,50°,54°); at 3 dies (69°,70°,71°); at 7 dies (91°,98°,98°), respectively for groups CG, LIA, FNB (p < 0,001).

DISCUSSION

LIA and FNB groups both showed a significant reduction at VAS score, better range of motion and less morphine consumption than CG (control group). LIA group has obtained a constant pain control in the postoperative days; FNB group had a good pain control in the hours after surgery, with a decrease in efficacy in the following days.

CONCLUSION

Further studies are still needed in order to define LIA as the reference pain management in TKA.

Are perioperative interventions effective in preventing chronic pain after primary total knee replacement? A systematic review

OBJECTIVES

For many people with advanced osteoarthritis, total knee replacement (TKR) is an effective treatment for relieving pain and improving function. Features of perioperative care may be associated with the adverse event of chronic pain 6 months or longer after surgery; effects may be direct, for example, through nerve damage or surgical complications, or indirect through adverse events. This systematic review aims to evaluate whether non-surgical perioperative interventions prevent long-term pain after TKR.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of perioperative interventions for adults with osteoarthritis receiving primary TKR evaluated in a randomised controlled trial (RCT). We searched The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO and CINAHL until February 2018. After screening, two reviewers evaluated articles. Studies at low risk of bias according to the Cochrane tool were included.

INTERVENTIONS

Perioperative non-surgical interventions; control receiving no intervention or alternative treatment.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Pain or score with pain component assessed at 6 months or longer postoperative.

RESULTS

44 RCTs at low risk of bias assessed long-term pain. Intervention heterogeneity precluded meta-analysis and definitive statements on effectiveness. Good-quality research provided generally weak evidence for small reductions in long-term pain with local infiltration analgesia (three studies), ketamine infusion (one study), pregabalin (one study) and supported early discharge (one study) compared with no intervention. For electric muscle stimulation (two studies), anabolic steroids (one study) and walking training (one study) there was a suggestion of more clinically important benefit. No concerns relating to long-term adverse events were reported. For a range of treatments there was no evidence linking them with unfavourable pain outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

To prevent chronic pain after TKR, several perioperative interventions show benefits and merit further research. Good-quality studies assessing long-term pain after perioperative interventions are feasible and necessary to ensure that patients with osteoarthritis achieve good long-term outcomes after TKR.

Opioid-Free Total Knee Arthroplasty? Local Infiltration Analgesia Plus Multimodal Blood-Loss Prevention Make it Possible

Opioids have been widely used in the USA for pain control after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, adverse effects, especially the possibility of addiction, have increased interest in opioid-free pain management after surgery. We therefore sought to review current pain management protocols after TKA, focusing especially on opioid-free alternatives. We reviewed the literature on pain management after TKA using Medline (PubMed), through June 30, 2018, using the keywords "TKA" and "analgesia." We found 388 articles but chose to analyze the 34 that presented high-quality (levels I and II) evidence. Local infiltration analgesia (LIA) is a good option for reducing the use of post-operative opioids; many reports have compared LIA against a nerve block or studied the synergies between two protocols of loco-regional anesthesia. Multimodal blood-loss prevention is sometimes recommended in combination with opioid-free analgesia. In most studies, however, no differences are reported or contradictory results exist. Post-operative pain management protocols vary so much that it is difficult to strongly favor a determined pathway.

Peripheral Nerve Blocks vs Periarticular Injections in Total Knee Arthroplasty

In patients undergoing surgery, optimal pain management is associated with improved perioperative outcomes, patient satisfaction with surgery, and a more rapid functional recovery. In recent years, the employment of multimodal pain management strategies has become increasingly widespread. In particular, there has been an explosion in the use of peripheral nerve blockade and periarticular injections in total knee arthroplasty. However, there is significant variability in the administration of either modality of anesthesia. As such, a critical evaluation of the current literature is warranted to elucidate the advantages and disadvantages of each technique with the ultimate goal of further refining current pain control strategies. In this symposium, we review each of these modalities and their association with pain management, narcotic consumption, length of hospital stay, and adverse events.

Comparison of the Efficacy of Different Analgesia Treatments for Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Network Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIM

The severe pain after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) brings many patients more suffering, longer hospital stay, and higher expenses. This study was designed to assess the relative efficacy of several clinical treatments for postoperative analgesia of TKA through network meta-analysis based on multiple published randomized controlled trials.

METHODS

Embase and PubMed were utilized to conduct this network meta-analysis from inception until 2016. Pain score, morphine consumption (milligrams), and length of hospitalization (day) were selected as the endpoints.

RESULTS

A total of 58 studies with 3501 patients were included in this network meta-analysis. Except for patient-controlled epidural analgesia+femoral nerve block (FNB) and sciatic nerve block, all treatments were significantly superior to placebo in pain score 6 to 8 hours. In terms of pain score 24 hours, only continuous femoral nerve block (cFNB), periarticular infiltration, periarticular infiltration+FNB, single-dose FNB, and sciatic nerve block+FNB exhibited better performance than control group. For pain score 48 hours after surgery, only cFNB and intra-articular infiltration yielded better results than control group [standard mean difference=-0.68, 95% credible intervals (CrIs)=-1.03 to -0.33; standard mean difference=-0.53, 95% CrIs=-1.07 to -0.01, respectively]. Only cFNB exhibited better results with respect to morphine consumption day 2 after surgery (mean difference=-12.95, 95% CrIs=-19.70 to -6.53).

CONCLUSIONS

Considering both pain score and morphine consumption, cFNB was potentially the most efficacious postoperative treatment for patients undergoing TKA.

Comparison of Periarticular Local Infiltration Analgesia With Femoral Nerve Block for Total Knee Arthroplasty: a Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is accompanied by moderate-to-severe postoperative pain. Postoperative pain will hamper functional recovery and lower patients' satisfaction with surgery. Recently, periarticular local infiltration analgesia (LIA) has been widely used in TKA. However, there is no definite answer as to the efficacy and safety of LIA compared with femoral nerve block (FNB).

METHOD

Randomized controlled trials about relevant studies were searched from PubMed (1996 to July 2017), Embase (1980 to July 2017), and Cochrane Library (CENTRAL, July 2017). Ten studies which compared LIA with FNB methods were included in our meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Ten studies containing 950 patients met the inclusion criteria. Our pooled data indicated that LIA was as effective as the FNB in terms of visual analog scale score for pain at 24 hours (P = .52), 48 hours (P = .36), and 72 hours (P = .27), and total morphine consumption (P = .27), range of motion (P = .45), knee society score (P = .51), complications (P = .81), and length of hospital stay (P = .75).

CONCLUSIONS

Our current meta-analysis results demonstrated that there were no differences in efficacy between the FNB and LIA method.

Perioperative Pain Management and Anesthesia: A Critical Component to Rapid Recovery Total Joint Arthroplasty

Multimodal pain management has become the standard of care following total hip and knee replacement. The advantages include decreasing opioid consumption and its associated side effects, facilitating earlier mobilization, and faster return to function. An effective rapid recovery protocol includes the use of multiple different types of medications targeting each area of the pain pathway, preemptive analgesia, regional nerve blockade, and local infiltration analgesia.

Comparison of Continuous Femoral Nerve Block versus Local Infiltration Analgesia as a Postoperative Analgesia in Unilateral Total Knee Arthroplasty

INTRODUCTION

Local infiltration of knee joint in arthroplasty, provide postoperative analgesia and preserves motor power of quadriceps, which helps in early mobilisation, as compared to femoral nerve block which paralyses vastus medialis.

AIM

To compare the quality of postoperative analgesia provided by femoral nerve block and local infiltration in unilateral Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective study was conducted on 60 patients (25-65 years) of ASA I and II, which were randomly(using random number table) divided into two groups - Group 1-femoral nerve block (FNB) and Group 2-Local Infiltration Analgesia (LIA). Patients with chronic pain and on opioids were excluded. Numeric rating scale (primary objective), sedation score, nausea vomiting score and motor power were analysed. The results were analysed by parametric and nonparametric tests using SPSS software version 22. p<0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

Pain relief was better in FNB Group (p-value <0.001) with less fentanyl demand (p-value <0.001), low sedation score (0.013, 0.179, 0.018, 0.129, 0.287, 0.432) but associated with low muscle power grading (<0.001).

CONCLUSION

FNB has better pain relief than LIA Group but range of motion was reduced in FNB Group grossly, effect on mobilisation remained comparable in both group.

Local anesthetic infusion pump for pain management following total knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysis

Background

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were to evaluate the effect and safety of local anesthetic infusion pump versus placebo for pain management following total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

In September 2016, a systematic computer-based search was conducted in the Pubmed, ISI Web of Knowledge, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Randomized controlled trials of patients prepared for primary TKA that compared local anesthetic infusion pump versus placebo for pain management following TKA were retrieved. The primary endpoint was the visual analogue scale (VAS) with rest or mobilization at 24, 48 and 72 h and morphine consumption at 24 and 48 h. The second outcomes are range of motion, length of hospital stay (LOS) and complications (infection, deep venous thrombosis (DVT), prolonged drainage and postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV)).

Results

Seven clinical studies with 587 patients were included and for meta-analysis. Local anesthetic infusion pump are associated with less pain scores with rest or mobilization at 24 and 48 h with significant difference. However, the difference was likely no clinical significance. There were no significant difference between the LOS, the occurrence of DVT, prolonged drainage and PONV. However, local anesthetic infusion pump may be associated with more infection.

Conclusion

Based on the current meta-analysis, we found no evidence to support the routine use of local anesthetic infusion pump in the management of acute pain following TKA. More RCTs are still need to identify the pain control effects and optimal dose and speed of local anesthetic pain pump.

Liposome bupivacaine for pain control after total knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysis

Background

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is associated with intense and long-duration pain. Research is currently being conducted on the use of liposome bupivacaine (LB) to prolong the effects of local infiltration anesthesia. This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluated the efficacy and safety of pain control of using LB versus placebo after TKA.

Methods

In April 2016, the Medline, Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Controlled Trials Register (CENTRAL), Web of Science, Google database, and Chinese Wanfang databases were searched to identify articles that compare a LB group versus a control group for pain control after TKA. This systematic review and meta-analysis were performed according to the PRISMA statement criteria. The primary endpoint was the visual analogue scale (VAS) score after TKA at 24, 48, and 72 h. The second outcome was nausea complications, which represent morphine-related side effects. Stata 12.0 software was used for the meta-analysis.

Results

Five studies involving 574 patients met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis revealed that LB can decrease the VAS score at 24 h (mean difference (MD) = −0.50; 95 % CI −0.97 to −0.04; P = 0.034), 48 h (MD = −0.26; 95 % CI −0.71 to 0.19; P = 0.256), and 72 h (MD = −0.26; 95 % CI −0.71 to 0.19; P = 0.256). There was no significant difference with respect to the length of hospital stay (MD = −0.08; 95 % CI −0.28 to 0.13; P = 0.475). Furthermore, LB can reduce the occurrence of nausea (RR = 0.38; 95 % CI 0.18 to 0.79; P = 0.009).

Conclusions

Based on the current meta-analysis, LB as a novel anesthetic formulation administration following TKA demonstrated better pain control; however, the sample size was limited, and further RCTs are needed to identify the effects of LB after TKA.