Continuous adductor-canal-blockade for adjuvant post-operative analgesia after major knee surgery: preliminary results

A bibliometrics and visualization analysis of ropivacaine research from 2000 to 2023

Aim

Bibliometric and data visualization methods were used to identify the current status, key areas, and emerging frontiers in ropivacaine research.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive search of the Web of Science database for publications related to ropivacaine published from 2000 to 2023. The publication types were limited to original articles and reviews. We utilized CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and the online bibliometric platform to visualize and analyze the collected data.

Results

A total of 4,147 publications related to ropivacaine were identified, with a consistent growth in annual publications over time. The United States emerged as the most influential country in the field of ropivacaine research, and ranked first in the annual number of publications until 2014. China surpassed the United States in the number of publications for the first time in 2015 and has remained in first place ever since. Of all the research institutions in the field of ropivacaine, University of Copenhagen in Denmark exhibited the highest impact. Brian M. Ilfeld and Casati A were identified as the most influential authors. The leading researchers in this field primarily focused their publications on continuous nerve blocks for postoperative analgesia and ultrasound-guided nerve block techniques. An analysis of reference co-citation clustering revealed 18 distinct research clusters, with current hotspots including erector spinae plane block, dexmedetomidine, quadratus lumborum block, labor analgesia, and mitochondrial respiration. Additionally, keywords analysis indicated that "dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant in nerve blocks" currently represents a research hotspot in the field of ropivacaine.

Conclusion

This bibliometric analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the research landscape in ropivacaine. It reveals research trends in this field and emerging areas for future investigations. Notably, the application of ropivacaine in nerve blocks is a prominent focus in current research, with a particular emphasis on its combination with dexmedetomidine.

Efficacy of adductor canal and popliteal plexus block combined with local anesthetic injection in the interspace between the popliteal artery and posterior capsule of the knee and local infiltrative analgesia for postoperative pain and functional outcome after total knee arthroplasty: A randomized controlled study

BACKGROUND

Adductor canal block and periarticular infiltration analgesia (PIA) have been shown to relieve pain in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) effectively. However, their analgesic effectiveness has some limitations. Thus, we considered a novel blocking site that could achieve analgesia without affecting the muscle strength of the lower limbs.

METHODS

Seventy-two patients undergoing primary unilateral total knee arthroplasty were randomized into two groups. One group was treated with adductor canal and popliteal plexus (APB) combined with interspace between the popliteal artery and posterior capsule of the knee (iPACK) and local infiltration anesthesia (LIA) and the other was treated with PIA. The primary outcomes included postoperative pain, as assessed by the visual analog scale (VAS), and the consumption of oral tramadol. Secondary outcomes included functional recovery and daily ambulation distance. Tertiary outcomes included postoperative adverse effects.

RESULTS

The APB group had lower VAS scores after surgery at rest and during motion. Compared with the PIA group, the walking distance of the APB group on the second day was greater. The muscle strength of the APB group was lower than that of the PIA group at the early stage. Patients in the APB group also consumed less tramadol than those in the PIA group. There was no difference in the incidence of adverse events between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

APB combined with iPACK and LIA is a novel block for TKA, and it can reduce postoperative pain sooner after TKA without affecting postoperative functional recovery or increasing complications.

Intraoperative Surgeon-Administered Adductor Canal Block Is a Safe Alternative to Preoperative Anesthesiologist-Administered Adductor Canal Block in Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

The shift toward outpatient total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) has led to a demand for effective perioperative pain control methods. A surgeon-performed "low" adductor canal block ("low-ACB") technique, involving an intraoperative ACB, is gaining popularity due to its efficiency and early pain control potential. This study examined the transition from traditional preoperative anesthesiologist-performed ultrasound-guided adductor canal blocks ("high-ACB") to low-ACB, evaluating pain control, morphine consumption, first physical therapy visit gait distance, hospital length-of-stay, and complications.

METHODS

There were 2,620 patients at a single institution who underwent a primary total knee arthroplasty between January 1, 2019, and December 31, 2022, and received either a low-ACB or high-ACB. Cohorts included 1,248 patients and 1,372 patients in the low-ACB and high-ACB groups, respectively. Demographics and operative times were similar. Patient characteristics and outcomes such as morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs), Visual Analog Scale pain scores, gait distance (feet), length of stay (days), and postoperative complications (30-day readmission and 30-day emergency department visit) were collected.

RESULTS

The low-ACB cohort had higher pain scores over the first 24 hours (5.05 versus 4.86, P < .001) and higher MME at 6 hours (11.49 versus 8.99, P < .001), although this was not clinically significant. There was no difference in pain scores or MME at 12 or 24 hours (20.81 versus 22.07 and 44.67 versus 48.78, respectively). The low-ACB cohort showed longer gait distance at the first physical therapy visit (188.5 versus 165.1 feet, P < .001) and a shorter length of stay (0.88 versus 1.46 days, P < .01), but these were not clinically significant. There were no differences in 30-day complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The low-ACB offers effective pain relief and comparable early recovery without increasing operative time or the complication rate. Low-ACB is an effective, safe, and economical alternative to high-ACB.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic study, Level III (retrospective cohort study).

Adductor Canal Block Versus Femoral Nerve Block in Total Knee Arthroplasty: Network Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVES

The quality of postoperative analgesia in total knee arthroplasty is crucial for patient recovery, rehabilitation, and hospital stay duration. In line with the above, а single-shot adductor canal block has been considered as an improved method over continuous femoral nerve block. However, continuous adductor canal block and single-shot femoral nerve block have been not adequately addressed in the discussion. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of various types of adductor and femoral nerve blocks on clinically relevant outcomes in patients following total knee arthroplasty.

METHODS

A systematic review and network meta-analysis were conducted following "PRISMA-NMA" and Cochrane Handbook guidelines. The eligibility criteria included randomized trials and, where these were lacking for a comparison, nonrandomized studies involving adults undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty, comparing single-shot adductor canal block, continuous adductor canal block, single-shot femoral nerve block, and continuous femoral nerve block.

RESULTS

A total of 36 studies involving 3308 patients were included. Single-shot adductor canal block showed higher pain scores and opioid consumption but better functional recovery at 24 h compared with continuous femoral nerve block. However, this trend vanishes by the 48 h assessment postsurgery. Continuous adductor canal block required higher opioid consumption but better functional recovery and shorter hospital stay compared with continuous femoral nerve block. Single-shot adductor canal block showed higher pain scores but comparable opioid consumption and functional recovery to continuous adductor canal block.

DISCUSSION

The shift from continuous femoral nerve block to single-shot adductor canal block as the preferred method for pain relief after total knee arthroplasty may be premature. While the latter improves mobility, it falls short in pain control and does not shorten hospital stays. Continuous adductor canal block shows promise but is currently underappreciated, and single-shot femoral nerve block is often overshadowed by other techniques in regional anesthesia. Further high-quality, multicenter randomized controlled trials are needed to validate these findings.

Continuous Catheter Techniques

Continuous peripheral nerve block catheters are simple in concept: percutaneously inserting a catheter adjacent to a peripheral nerve. This procedure is followed by local anesthetic infusion via the catheter that can be titrated to effect for extended anesthesia or analgesia in the perioperative period. The reported benefits of peripheral nerve catheters used in the surgical population include improved pain scores, decreased narcotic use, decreased nausea/vomiting, decreased pruritus, decreased sedation, improved sleep, and improved patient satisfaction.

Advanced Interventional Procedures for Knee Osteoarthritis: What Is the Current Evidence?

The prevalence of knee osteoarthritis (OA) is the highest among all joints and likely to increase over the coming decades. Advances in the repertoire of diagnostic capabilities of imaging and an expansion in the availability and range of image-guided interventions has led to development of more advanced interventional procedures targeting pain related to OA pain while improving the function of patients presenting with this debilitating condition. We review the spectrum of established advanced interventional procedures for knee OA, describe the techniques used to perform these procedures safely, and discuss the clinical evidence supporting each of them.

Efficacy of adding infiltration between the popliteal artery and the capsule of the posterior knee (IPACK) to adductor canal block and local infiltration analgesia in total knee arthroplasty: A retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

Local infiltration analgesia (LIA), adductor canal block (ACB), and infiltration between the popliteal artery and the capsule of the posterior knee (IPACK) are popular multimodal analgesia techniques used during total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This study aimed to explore the efficacy of adding the IPACK technique to ACB and LIA in patients undergoing TKA.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, patients who underwent primary unilateral TKA were divided into two groups based on their date of admission. Sixty-three patients underwent IPACK, ACB and LIA (IPACK group) during surgery, while 60 patients underwent ACB and LIA (control group). The primary outcome was the postoperative administration of morphine hydrochloride as a rescue analgesic. Secondary outcomes included time to first rescue analgesia, postoperative pain assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS), functional recovery assessed by knee range of motion and ambulation distance, time until hospital discharge, and complication rates.

RESULTS

The two groups were similar in average postoperative 0-to-24-h morphine consumption (11.8 mg for the control group vs 12.7 mg for the IPACK group, p = .428) and average total morphine consumption (18.2 mg vs 18.0 mg, p = .983) during hospitalization. There were also no significant differences in the secondary outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of IPACK to ACB and LIA did not provide any clinical analgesic benefits. Orthopedic surgeons and anesthesiologists are justified in using ACB and LIA without IPACK for TKA.

A direct saphenous nerve block in TKA: A surgeon friendly technique! Cadaveric study

Introduction

Effective management of postoperative pain in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) poses a significant challenge for surgeons. Achieving rapid recovery without pain and promoting early ambulation in immediate and early postoperative periods are essential for patient satisfaction. There are many pain management protocols including nerve blocks. Nerve blocks procedures were done using USG and anaesthetist dependent. This cadaveric study aimed to define the VMO (Vastus medialis obliquus) triangle to target the 'safe zone' of the saphenous nerve during TKA: A surgeon's friendly technique.

Methods

12 formalin-fixed embalmed cadaveric lower limbs were dissected to explore anatomy, trajectory, the relation of saphenous nerve and measured the distances from the nearby palpable bony landmarks.

Results

The average distance to target the saphenous nerve i.e target point from midpoint of superior pole of the patella was 10.6cm, the average angle to target the saphenous nerve is the angle between the line joining the medial epicondyle to the midpoint of the superior pole of the patella is found to be 64.2°. The average distance from midpoint of superior pole patella to medial epicondyle is found to be 8.1cm. Therefore, triangle so formed using these three points (1. Medial epicondyle, 2. The midpoint of superior pole of the patella, 3. Target point of the saphenous nerve) is called a VMO triangle.

Conclusions

The saphenous nerve course, relations, and the distances from intraoperative bony landmarks for the VMO triangle during TKA which is a reproducible triangle so may be useful for arthroplasty surgeons to achieve successful saphenous nerve block and to avoid related complications during total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Adductor canal block techniques do not lead to involvement of sciatic nerve branches: a radiological cadaveric study

INTRODUCTION

Low and high volume mid-thigh (ie, distal femoral triangle) and distal adductor canal block approaches are frequently applied for knee surgical procedures. Although these techniques aim to contain the injectate within the adductor canal, spillage into the popliteal fossa has been reported. While in theory this could improve analgesia, it might also result in motor blockade due to coverage of motor branches of the sciatic nerve. This radiological cadaveric study, therefore, investigated the incidence of coverage of sciatic nerve divisions after various adductor canal block techniques.

METHODS

Eighteen fresh, unfrozen and unembalmed human cadavers were randomized to receive ultrasound-guided distal femoral triangle or distal adductor canal injections, with 2 mL or 30 mL injectate volume, on both sides (36 blocks in total). The injectate was a 1:10 dilution of contrast medium in local anesthetic. Injectate spread was assessed using whole-body CT with reconstructions in axial, sagittal and coronal planes.

RESULTS

No coverage of the sciatic nerve or its main divisions was found. The contrast mixture spread to the popliteal fossa in three of 36 nerve blocks. Contrast reached the saphenous nerve after all injections, whereas the femoral nerve was always spared.

CONCLUSIONS

Adductor canal block techniques are unlikely, even when using larger volumes, to block the sciatic nerve, or its main branches. Furthermore, injectate reached the popliteal fossa in a small minority of cases, yet if a clinical analgesic effect is achieved by this mechanism is still unknown.

Bibliometric and visual analysis of research on analgesia and total knee arthroplasty from 1990 to 2022

Background

In recent decades, there have been notable advancements in the field of analgesia and total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This study aims to employ bibliometric analysis to elucidate the prevailing research focal points and trends within analgesia and TKA from 1990 to 2022.

Material and methods

Relevant publications were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection. CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and Scimago Graphica were used for visualization and bibliometric analysis of countries, institutions, authors, journals, references, and keywords.

Results

A total of 2776 publications on analgesia and TKA were identified, with the United States having the highest number of publications. The University of Copenhagen was the most productive institution, and Kehlet, Henrik was the most prolific author. The Journal of Arthroplasty had the most publications and citations. The most common keywords were "TKA," "pain management," "postoperative pain," "Total hip arthroplasty (THA)," and "postoperative management." Keyword burst detection demonstrated that adductor canal block (ACB) was a recent research hotspot.

Conclusion

Our study revealed a sharp increase in global publications on analgesia and TKA, and this trend is expected to continue. Further research is necessary to determine the optimal regimen for multimodal analgesia, the ideal location and volume of ACB, and their clinical significance.

The Twenty-Five Most Cited Articles About Adductor Canal Block: A Bibliometric Analysis from 1980 to 2022

Introduction

Loco-regional anesthesia role is increasingly important in surgery, especially in postoperative pain control. Using ultrasound-guided techniques has made the loco-regional approach increasingly safe and manageable, guaranteeing excellent analgesic results and patient compliance. This bibliometric research aimed to identify the most influential papers on the adductor canal blocks and outline their characteristics.

Methods

All articles published from 1980 to 2022 were included in the Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus databases and found using the keywords "Adductor canal block" or "Saphenous nerve block" or "Peripheral nerve block" or "Hunter canal block" or "Subsartorial canal block" or "ACB" or "Knee" or "TKR" or "TKA" or "Analgesia" or "Arthroplasty" or "Replacement" in the title section had bibliometric analysis performed. The first 25 papers were selected and analyzed by the number of citations. The correlation between numerical variables was evaluated using the Pearson Correlation coefficient.

Results

Literature screening found 252 publications. One hundred ten were only about the adductor canal block. Of these, 25 articles were selected for our bibliometric study, published in 8 different journals and with a total number of citations equal to 1.457. "Regional Anesthesia and pain medicine" journal - with 9 articles - was the one that produced the most. There was a significant strong correlation between the n. of citations and the citation rate (R = 0.84, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The purpose of this study is to be a guide on regional anesthesia and, particularly, on adductor canal block, making the most effective as well as the most cited articles available to anesthesiologists or other researchers interested in this topic.

Comparison of Different Concentrations of Ropivacaine Used for Ultrasound-Guided Adductor Canal Block + IPACK Block in Total Knee Arthroplasty

This study aimed to compare the analgesic efficacy of different concentrations of ropivacaine used for the combination of ultrasound-guided adductor canal block (ACB) and infiltration between the popliteal artery and capsule of the posterior knee (IPACK) block in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Before general anesthesia, 90 patients undergoing TKA were randomized to receive ACB + IPACK block with ropivacaine 0.2, 0.25, or 0.3% (defined as group A, B, and C, respectively). Primary outcome was the reported visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores at rest 30 minutes following arrival to the postanesthesia care unit (PACU). Secondary outcomes were postoperative VAS pain scores, postoperative morphine consumption, the time to first rescue analgesia, functional recovery of knee (including the range of motion and quadriceps strength), and postoperative complications. Compared with group A, group B and group C had significantly lower VAS scores 30 minutes following arrival to the PACU (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). These two groups also had significantly lower VAS pain scores at postoperative 2 hours (at rest: p = 0.037 and 0.002; during motion: p = 0.035 and 0.001, respectively) and 6 hour (at rest: p = 0.033 and 0.002; during motion: p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively), lower postoperative morphine consumption (p = 0.001 and 0.002, respectively), longer time to first rescue analgesia (p = 0.010 and 0.009, respectively), and better range of knee motion on the day of surgery (p = 0.008 and 0.002, respectively). Group B and group C showed no significant differences in these outcomes between each other (p > 0.05). The three groups did not show a significant difference in postoperative quadriceps strength and complication rates (p > 0.05). Compared with ropivacaine 0.2%, ropivacaine 0.25 and 0.3% can provide early pain relief in the first 6 hours after surgery. Ropivacaine 0.25 and 0.3% may provide more clinical benefits for patients undergoing outpatient TKA.

Reevaluation of the topographical anatomy of the mid-thigh: A magnetic resonance and ultrasound imaging study

Adductor canal (AC) and sciatic nerve (SN) blockades are commonly used during total knee arthroplasties for postoperative pain control. Medical professionals have begun to utilize single injection combined regional anesthesia methods due to increased patient comfort. In this study, we examined the topographical anatomy of the mid-thigh, which is recommended as the appropriate intervention level for combined AC and SN blockades, in order to provide a safe approach for clinicians. We examined 184 thigh magnetic resonance images (MRI) from 98 patients. We measured the diameter of the mid-thigh, anterior thigh muscle thickness, subcutaneous adipose tissue thickness, and SN depth on the MRIs. We obtained ultrasound (US) images of the vastoadductor membranes (VAM) of 26 volunteers, and measured the vertical distances between the greater trochanter and the adductor tubercle (A) and the greater trochanter and the upper edge of the VAM (B). We then proportioned B to A in order to determine in which part of the thigh the AC was located. The AC was in the distal third of the thigh, and the SN's depth was located in the third quarter of the thigh's diameter. Only the adductor magnus, and no neurovascular structure, was at risk of injury between the AC and the SN. The upper edge of the VAM was 6.5 cm below the mid-thigh, therefore it is not appropriate to suggest performing an AC blockade at mid-thigh. We think that it is safe to perform a combined AC and SN blockade in a single injection in selected patients.

Pro and Con: How Important Is the Exact Location of Adductor Canal and Femoral Triangle Blocks?

In this Pro-Con commentary article, we debate the importance of anterior thigh block locations for analgesia following total knee arthroplasty. The debate is based on the current literature, our understanding of the relevant anatomy, and a clinical perspective. We review the anatomy of the different fascial compartments, the course of different nerves with respect to the fascia, and the anatomy of the nerve supply to the knee joint. The Pro side of the debate supports the view that more distal block locations in the anterior thigh increase the risk of excluding the medial and intermediate cutaneous nerves of the thigh and the nerve to the vastus medialis, while increasing the risk of spread to the popliteal fossa, making distal femoral triangle block the preferred location. The Con side of the debate adopts the view that while the exact location of local anesthetic injection appears anatomically important, it has not been proven to be clinically relevant.

No Benefit of Adductor Canal Block Compared with Anterior Local Infiltration Analgesia in Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Single-Blinded Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

An adductor canal block (ACB) performed by an anesthesiologist is an established component of analgesia after total knee arthroplasty. Alternatively, surgeons may perform periarticular local infiltration analgesia (LIA) intraoperatively. We hypothesized that ACB would be superior to anterior LIA in terms of morphine consumption in the first 48 hours after primary total knee arthroplasty under spinal anesthesia.

METHODS

This prospective controlled and blinded trial included 98 patients; 48 received an ACB plus sham (saline solution) anterior LIA, and 50 received a sham (saline solution) ACB plus anterior LIA. Both groups received posterior LIA with local anesthetic. The primary outcome was cumulative morphine consumption at 48 hours after surgery. Secondary outcomes were pain while resting, standing, and walking, rehabilitation scores, opioid-related side effects, and patient satisfaction.

RESULTS

No difference in the primary outcome was found, and the 48-hour morphine consumption was low in both arms (28.8 ± 17.6 mg with ACB, 26.8 ± 19.2 mg with anterior LIA; p = 0.443). Pain scores were significantly better in the anterior LIA arm, but the differences were not clinically relevant. There were no differences in any other secondary outcome measures.

CONCLUSIONS

LIA may be used as the primary option for multimodal postoperative pain management in patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty with spinal anesthesia.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Motor-Sparing Effect of Adductor Canal Block for Knee Analgesia: An Updated Review and a Subgroup Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials Based on a Corrected Classification System

OBJECTIVE

Discrepancies in the definition of adductor canal block (ACB) lead to inconsistent results. To investigate the actual analgesic and motor-sparing effects of ACB by anatomically defining femoral triangle block (FTB), proximal ACB (p-ACB), and distal ACB (d-ACB), we re-classified the previously claimed ACB approaches according to the ultrasound findings or descriptions in the corresponding published articles. A meta-analysis with subsequent subgroup analyses based on these corrected results was performed to examine the true impact of ACB on its analgesic effect and motor function (quadriceps muscle strength or mobilization ability). An optimal ACB technique was also suggested based on an updated review of evidence and ultrasound anatomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We systematically searched studies describing the use of ACB for knee surgery. Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase were searched with the exclusion of non-English articles from inception to 28 February 2022. The motor-sparing and analgesic aspects in true ACB were evaluated using meta-analyses with subsequent subgroup analyses according to the corrected classification system.

RESULTS

The meta-analysis includes 19 randomized controlled trials. Compared with the femoral nerve block group, the quadriceps muscle strength (standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.33, 95%-CI [0.01; 0.65]) and mobilization ability (SMD = -22.44, 95%-CI [-35.37; -9.51]) are more preserved in the mixed ACB group at 24 h after knee surgery. Compared with the true ACB group, the FTB group (SMD = 5.59, 95%-CI [3.44; 8.46]) has a significantly decreased mobilization ability at 24 h after knee surgery.

CONCLUSION

By using the corrected classification system, we proved the motor-sparing effect of true ACB compared to FTB. According to the updated ultrasound anatomy, we suggested proximal ACB to be the analgesic technique of choice for knee surgery. Although a single-shot ACB is limited in duration, it remains the candidate of the analgesic standard for knee surgery on postoperative day 1 or 2 because it induces analgesia with less motor involvement in the era of multimodal analgesia. Furthermore, data from the corrected classification system may provide the basis for future research.

Regional anaesthesia: what surgical procedures, what blocks and availability of a “block room”?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

With an expected rise in day care procedures with enhanced recovery programs, the use of specific regional anaesthesia can be useful. In this review, we will provide insight in the used regional block and medication so far known and its applicability in a day care setting.

RECENT FINDINGS

Regional anaesthesia has been improved with the aid of ultrasound-guided placement. However, it is not commonly used in the outpatient setting. Old, short acting local anaesthetics have found a second life and may be especially beneficial in the ambulatory setting replacing more long-acting local anaesthetics such as bupivacaine.To improve efficiency, a dedicated block room may facilitate the performance of regional anaesthesia. However, cost-efficacy for improved operating time, patient care and hospital efficiency has to be established.

SUMMARY

Regional anaesthesia has proven to be beneficial in ambulatory setting. Several short acting local anaesthetics are favourable over bupivacaine in the day care surgery. And if available, there are reports of the benefit of an additional block room used in a parallel (monitored) care of patients.

Surgeon-Performed Intraoperative Peripheral Nerve Blocks and Periarticular Infiltration During Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty: A Critical Analysis Review

➢

Surgeon-performed intraoperative peripheral nerve blocks may improve operating room efficiency and reduce hospital resource utilization and, ultimately, costs. Additionally, these blocks can be safely performed intraoperatively by most orthopaedic surgeons, while only specifically trained physicians are able to perform ultrasound-guided peripheral nerve blocks.

➢

IPACK (infiltration between the popliteal artery and capsule of the knee) blocks are at least noninferior to periarticular infiltration when combined with an adductor canal block for analgesia following total knee arthroplasty.

➢

Surgeon-performed intraoperative adductor canal blocks are technically feasible and offer reliable anesthesia comparable with ultrasound-guided blocks performed by anesthesiologists. While clinical studies have shown promising results, additional Level-I studies are required.

➢

A surgeon-performed intraoperative psoas compartment block has been described as a readily available and safe technique, although there is some concern for femoral nerve analgesia, and temporary sensory changes have been reported.

Efficacy of Adductor Canal Blocks in Total Knee Arthroplasty

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is associated with significant postoperative pain. The population receiving TKA is generally elderly and often have multiple comorbidities that can present a challenge to postoperative management. Safe and effective multimodal pain management has led to improved outcomes while minimizing complications and side effects. The objective of this study was to investigate the efficacy of adductor canal blocks (ACB) in patients receiving TKA within a regional Queensland population. We performed a retrospective comparative cohort analysis of 458 patients who received TKA at a regional private hospital between January 2016 and December 2018. Inclusion criteria included body mass index (BMI) <50 kg/m² and unilateral TKA. Using the patients' hospital records, age, gender, American Society of Anesthesiologists' score (ASA), BMI, diabetic status, length of stay (LOS), opioid requirement on discharge, range of motion (ROM) on discharge, return to theater, and readmission within 12 months were recorded. One hundred and thirty-eight patients received ACB and 263 did not. The two groups were comparable for age, gender, diabetic status, and ASA. Patients who received an ACB had an 18-hour longer LOS (p < 0.0001), but were discharged on lower dosages of opioids equivalent to 7.9 oral morphine milligram equivalent (MME; p < 0.0001). Patients who had an ACB had a similar ROM on discharge and did not have an increased rate of readmission or return to theater. This study demonstrates that ACB are efficacious when used as part of a multimodal analgesia regime for TKA.

Application of Preoperative Adductor Canal Block Coupled with General Anaesthesia in Elderly Patients Undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty

Objective

To investigate the clinical application of preoperative adductor canal block combined with general anaesthesia in elderly patients with total knee arthroplasty.

Methods

Seventy-four patients scheduled for elective TKA in Shaanxi Nuclear Industry Hospital No. 215 were selected and were assigned into group A (continuous ACB prior to the induction of anaesthesia) and group B (continuous ACB after extraction of the tracheal catheter post-operatively) according to the random number table method. Pre and postoperative plasma adrenaline and noradrenaline levels were measured; mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) were recorded at the admission and the surgical skin incision; intraoperative sufentanil dosage, number of analgesic pump presses at 48 h postoperatively; postoperative adverse effects and length of stay were recorded; resting and active VAS pain scores were assessed at 4, 8, 12, 24, and 48 h postoperatively.

Results

Group B experienced a substantial increase in MAP and HR at the time of surgical skin incision, while group A registered a smaller change and a stable haemodynamic profile (P < 0.05). The plasma adrenaline and norepinephrine concentrations in group B were elevated compared to the preoperative period, differentially with group A. Group A received less intraoperative sufentanil than Group B (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Collectively, postoperative resting VAS scores and active VAS scores remained lower in TKA patients who were subjected to preoperative and postoperative ACB, while preoperative ACB in conjunction with general anaesthesia decreased intraoperative sufentanil dosage, contained the surgical stress response, and maintained a stable intraoperative haemodynamic state, in what is probably a preferable option for elderly patients undergoing TKA. This study has served as a reference for postoperative patients to reduce their medication and for clinicians in the treatment going forward.

Pain management after total knee arthroplasty: PROcedure SPEcific Postoperative Pain ManagemenT recommendations

BACKGROUND

The PROSPECT (PROcedure SPEcific Postoperative Pain ManagemenT) Working Group is a global collaboration of surgeons and anaesthesiologists formulating procedure-specific recommendations for pain management after common operations. Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is associated with significant postoperative pain that is difficult to treat. Nevertheless, pain control is essential for rehabilitation and to enhance recovery.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the available literature and develop recommendations for optimal pain management after unilateral primary TKA.

DESIGN

A narrative review based on published systematic reviews, using modified PROSPECT methodology.

DATA SOURCES

A literature search was performed in EMBASE, MEDLINE, PubMed and Cochrane Databases, between January 2014 and December 2020, for systematic reviews and meta-analyses evaluating analgesic interventions for pain management in patients undergoing TKA.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Each randomised controlled trial (RCT) included in the selected systematic reviews was critically evaluated and included only if met the PROSPECT requirements. Included studies were evaluated for clinically relevant differences in pain scores, use of nonopioid analgesics, such as paracetamol and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and current clinical relevance.

RESULTS

A total of 151 systematic reviews were analysed, 106 RCTs met PROSPECT criteria. Paracetamol and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory or cyclo-oxygenase-2-specific inhibitors are recommended. This should be combined with a single shot adductor canal block and peri-articular local infiltration analgesia together with a single intra-operative dose of intravenous dexamethasone. Intrathecal morphine (100 μg) may be considered in hospitalised patients only in rare situations when both adductor canal block and local infiltration analgesia are not possible. Opioids should be reserved as rescue analgesics in the postoperative period. Analgesic interventions that could not be recommended were also identified.

CONCLUSION

The present review identified an optimal analgesic regimen for unilateral primary TKA. Future studies to evaluate enhanced recovery programs and specific challenging patient groups are needed.

Adductor canal block versus femoral nerve block for pain control after total knee arthroplasty: A systematic review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Femoral nerve block is a widely accepted nerve block method with evident reduction in consumption of opioid painkiller and minimization of the duration of hospital stay but may cause weakness of quadriceps muscle strength. Adductor canal block is another nerve block technique that attracts the attention of scientific community nowadays because of its possible superiority over Femoral nerve block regarding mobility and muscle strength.

METHODS

This is a systematic review and meta-analysis of 33 studies, aiming to compare femoral nerve block with adductor canal block following total knee arthroplasty regarding pain control and mobilization.

RESULTS

Adductor canal block showed better preservation of quadriceps muscle strength (MD = 0.28, 95% CI [0.11, 0.46], P = .002), and better mobilization up to 2 days postoperatively. However, no significant difference was found between the 2 interventions regarding pain control (MD = 0.06, 95% CI [-0.06, 0.17], P = .33) or opioid consumption (SMD = 0.08, 95% CI [-0.06, 0.22], P = .28) up to 2 days postoperatively. The better mobilization results of adductor canal block did not translate into a significant difference in the risk of falls or patients' satisfaction; however, adductor canal block patients had less mean length of hospital stay than the patients with femoral nerve block.

CONCLUSION

Both femoral nerve block and adductor canal block provide similar results regarding pain control and opioid consumption, however adductor canal block provides better preservation of quadriceps strength and mobilization, giving it more advantage over femoral nerve block.

Significantly earlier ambulation and reduced risk of near-falls with continuous infusion nerve blocks: a retrospective pilot study of adductor canal block compared to femoral nerve block in total knee arthroplasty

Background

Near-falls should be detected to prevent falls related to the earlier ambulation after Total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The quadriceps weakness with femoral nerve block (FNB) has led to a focus on adductor canal block (ACB). We purposed to examine the risk of falls and the earlier ambulation in each continuous infusion nerve block.

Methods

Continuous infusion nerve block (FNB or ACB) was performed until postoperative day (POD) 2 or 3. Pain levels and falls/near-falls with knee-buckling were monitored from POD 1 to POD 3. The score on the manual muscle test, MMT (0 to 5, 5 being normal), of the patients who could ambulate on POD 1, was investigated.

Results

A total of 73 TKA cases, 36 FNB and 37 ACB, met the inclusion criteria. No falls were noted. But episodes of near-falls with knee-buckling were witnessed in 14 (39%) cases in the FNB group and in 4 (11%) in the ACB group (p = 0.0068). In the ACB group, 81.1% of patients could ambulate with parallel bars on POD 1, while only 44.4% of FNB patients could do so (p = 0.0019). The quadriceps MMT values in the ACB group was 2.82, significantly higher than 1.97 in the FNB group (p = 0.0035). There were no significant differences in pain as measured with a numerical rating scale (NRS) and rescue analgesia through POD 3.

Conclusion

ACB was associated with significantly less knee-buckling and earlier ambulation post-TKA, with better quadriceps strength. Our study indicated the incidence of falls and near-falls with continuous infusion nerve blocks, and support the use of ACB to reduce the risk of falls after TKA. It is suggested that a certain number of the patients even with continuous ACB infusion should be considered with the effect of motor branch to prevent falls.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12891-022-05735-6.

Effectiveness of ERAS (Enhanced Recovery after Surgery) Protocol via Peripheral Nerve Block for Total Knee Arthroplasty

Peripheral nerve block (PNB) for patients with total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is one of the recommended interventions in ERAS protocols. However, most existing studies involved unilateral TKA (UTKA). As such, this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of PNB in terms of immediate postoperative analgesia, length of hospital stays (LOS), and early functional outcomes in both UTKA and simultaneous bilateral TKAs (BTKAs). We reviewed 236 patients who underwent primary TKA with PNB, with 138 and 98 being UTKA and BTKAs, respectively; those in the PNB group underwent femoral nerve and adductor canal block. The matched control and PNB groups—who received intravenous/epidural patient-controlled analgesia (IVPCA/PCEA) alone or IVPCA in addition to PNB after surgery, respectively—were compared. The VAS scores at rest until 48 h after surgery were significantly lower in PNB groups compared to those in the IVPCA groups. At 0– 6 h of activity, VAS scores of the UTKA with PNB group were also lower than the IVPCA group. Compared to PCEA groups, VAS scores at 0–6 h of activity were higher in both the UTKA and BTKAs with PNB groups. However, at 24–48 h at rest, the scores of those in the UTKA with PNB group were lower than those in the PCEA group. The control and experimental UTKA and BTKAs groups had similar LOS and functional outcomes at 90 days postoperatively. In primary TKA, PNB has great analgesic effects for immediate postoperative pain control, and represents a similar analgesic effect to epidural PCA.

Ultrasound-Guided Adductor Canal Block Versus Intraoperative Transarticular Saphenous Nerve Block: A Retrospective Analysis

BACKGROUND

The ultrasound-guided adductor canal block (High-ACB) is an effective option for pain control in total knee arthroplasty (TKA), but its use can add substantial cost and preparatory time to a TKA procedure. An intraoperative adductor canal block (Low-ACB) performed by the operative surgeon has been described as an alternative. The hypothesis of this study is that the Low-ACB would achieve noninferior pain control and opioid utilization postoperatively when compared to the High-ACB.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study of a prospectively maintained database comparing the High-ACB vs the Low-ACB. The primary outcome measure was morphine milligram equivalents consumed. Secondary outcome measures included Visual Analog Scale pain scores, postoperative outcomes (Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, knee range of motion), length of stay, postoperative speed of mobilization, and complications related to the type of block.

RESULTS

There were 139 patients in the study. There was lower opioid use in the first 24 hours in the Low-ACB compared to the High-ACB group respectively (26.3 vs 30, P = .29) but this did not reach statistical significance. There was a statistically significant difference in Visual Analog Scale score on postoperative day 1 in the Low-ACB vs High-ACB groups respectively (4.6 vs 3.7, P = .02) but this did not reach the level of clinical significance. There was no statistical difference in the Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, or postoperative range of motion. There were no block-related complications in either group.

CONCLUSION

The Low-ACB is a safe, effective, and cost-saving alternative to the traditional High-ACB for pain control in TKA.

Adductor canal block versus intra-articular steroid and lidocaine injection for knee osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled study

Background

This study aimed to assess the efficacy of the adductor canal block (ACB) in comparison to intra-articular steroid-lidocaine injection (IASLI) to control chronic knee osteoarthritis (KOA) pain.

Methods

A randomized, single-blinded trial in an outpatient rehabilitation clinic recruiting chronic KOA with pain ≥ 6 months over one year. Following randomization, subjects received either a single ACB or IASLI under ultrasound guidance. Numerical rating scale (NRS) scores for pain, and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores (KOOS) were recorded at baseline, 1 hour, 1 month, and 3 months post-injection.

Results

Sixty-six knees were recruited; 2 were lost to follow-up. Age was normally distributed (P = 0.463), with more female subjects in both arms (P = 0.564). NRS scores improved significantly for both arms at 1 hour, with better pain scores for the IASLI arm (P = 0.416) at 1st month and ACB arm at 3rd month (P = 0.077) with larger effect size (Cohen’s d = 1.085). Lower limb function improved significantly in the IASLI arm at 1 month; the ACB subjects showed greater functional improvement at 3 months (Cohen’s d = 0.3, P = 0.346). Quality of life (QoL) improvement mirrored the functional scores whereby the IASLI group fared better at the 1st month (P = 0.071) but at the 3rd month the ACB group scored better (Cohen’s d = 0.08, P = 0.710).

Conclusions

ACB provides longer lasting analgesia which improves function and QoL in chronic KOA patients up to 3 months without any significant side effects.

Surgeon administered direct adductor canal block is as good as ultrasound guided adductor canal block in pain management in knee replacements- A retrospective case-control study

Aim

The aim of this study is to assess the feasibility of the DACB in a clinical setting and compare the efficacy of postoperative pain relief after TKR in the patients administered DACB versus USG guided ACB. Also to see efficacy and safety of USACB in patients operated with medial parapatellar and subvastus approach.

Material and methods

250 consecutive patients operated with TKR between Jan 2019 to March 2022 were included. Group A included patients operated with medial parapatellar approach and received USACB, Group B included patients operated with medial parapatellar approach and received DACB while Group C included patients operated with subvastus approach and received USACB. VAS scores between three groups were compared at 12 and 24 h. All three groups of patients were otherwise treated identically in the hospital.

Results

The mean age and BMI was not statistically significant between the three groups. The mean VAS pain score at rest at 12 h was 3.06 ± 1.49 (Group A) vs 1.58 ± 1.19 (Group B) [p < 0.0001] and 3.06 ± 1.49 (Group A) vs 1.88 ± 1.18 (Group C) [p < 0.0001]; and at 24 h was 1.88 ± 1.31 (Group A) vs 2.39 ± 1.27 (Group B) [p = 0.023] and 1.88 ± 1.31 (Group A) vs 2.19 ± 1.29 (Group C) [p = 0.16]. The mean theatre time was 151.9 ± 11.37 min (Group A) vs 141.02 ± 19.46 min (Group B) (p = 0.0003) and 151.9 ± 11.37 min (Group A) vs 150.4 ± 28.74 min (Group C) (p = 0.72). Hospital stay was 3.82 ± 0.80 (Group A) vs 4.0 ± 1.09 (Group B) [p = 0.30] and 3.82 ± 0.80 (Group A) vs 2.7 ± 0.69 (Group C) [p < 0.0001]. Group B and Group C had one complication each.

Conclusion

USG ACB irrespective of approach used remains the gold standard in providing consistent pain relief and thereby facilitating early discharge. However, increased operating room turnover time and repeated top-ups remain a disadvantage. Both the quantum of pain relief and the potential downsides remained the same irrespective of the surgical approach used and whether or not steroid was added to the cocktail used for infiltration. On the other hand, DACB provides a short lasting (24 h) adequate pain relief after TKR with similar low complication rates. The technique of DACB may have a potential for a wider use especially in centres where outpatient arthroplasties are performed, if newer longer acting anaesthetic/analgesic combinations are devised.

Continuous Catheter Techniques

Continuous peripheral nerve block catheters are simple in concept: percutaneously inserting a catheter adjacent to a peripheral nerve. This procedure is followed by local anesthetic infusion via the catheter that can be titrated to effect for extended anesthesia or analgesia in the perioperative period. The reported benefits of peripheral nerve catheters used in the surgical population include improved pain scores, decreased narcotic use, decreased nausea/vomiting, decreased pruritus, decreased sedation, improved sleep, and improved patient satisfaction.

Regional anesthesia for orthopedic procedures: What orthopedic surgeons need to know

Regional anesthesia is an integral component of successful orthopedic surgery. Neuraxial anesthesia is commonly used for surgical anesthesia while peripheral nerve blocks are often used for postoperative analgesia. Patient evaluation for regional anesthesia should include neurological, pulmonary, cardiovascular, and hematological assessments. Neuraxial blocks include spinal, epidural, and combined spinal epidural. Upper extremity peripheral nerve blocks include interscalene, supraclavicular, infraclavicular, and axillary. Lower extremity peripheral nerve blocks include femoral nerve block, saphenous nerve block, sciatic nerve block, iPACK block, ankle block and lumbar plexus block. The choice of regional anesthesia is a unanimous decision made by the surgeon, the anesthesiologist, and the patient based on a risk-benefit assessment. The choice of the regional block depends on patient cooperation, patient positing, operative structures, operative manipulation, tourniquet use and the impact of post-operative motor blockade on initiation of physical therapy. Regional anesthesia is safe but has an inherent risk of failure and a relatively low incidence of complications such as local anesthetic systemic toxicity (LAST), nerve injury, falls, hematoma, infection and allergic reactions. Ultrasound should be used for regional anesthesia procedures to improve the efficacy and minimize complications. LAST treatment guidelines and rescue medications (intralipid) should be readily available during the regional anesthesia administration.

Defining the Value of Analgesia for Total Knee Arthroplasty Using Time-Driven Activity-Based Costing: A Novel Approach to Clinical Practice Transformation

Objective

To compare the relative value of 3 analgesic pathways for total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Patients and Methods

Time-driven activity-based costing analyses were performed on 3 common analgesic pathways for patients undergoing TKA: periarticular infiltration (PAI) only, PAI and single-injection adductor canal blockade (SACB), and PAI and continuous adductor canal blockade (CACB). Additionally, adult patients who underwent elective primary TKA from November 1, 2017, to May 1, 2018, were retrospectively identified to analyze analgesic (pain score, opiate use) and hospital outcomes (distance walked, length of stay) after TKA based on analgesic pathway.

Results

There was no difference in patient demographic characteristics, specifically complexity (American Society of Anesthesiologists score) or preoperative opiate use, between groups. Compared with PAI, total cost (labor and material) was 1.4-times greater for PAI plus SACB and 2.3-times greater for PAI plus CACB. The addition of SACB to PAI resulted in lower average and maximum pain scores and opiate use on the day of operation compared with PAI alone. Average and maximum pain scores and opiate use between SACB and CACB were not significantly different. Walking distance and hospital length of stay were not significantly different between groups.

Conclusion

Perioperative care teams should consider the cost and relative value of pain management when selecting the optimal analgesic strategy for TKA. Despite slightly higher relative cost, the combination of SACB with PAI may offer short-term analgesic benefit compared with PAI alone, which could enhance its relative value in TKA.

Efficacy of Two Unique Combinations of Nerve Blocks on Postoperative Pain and Functional Outcome After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective, Double-Blind, Randomized Controlled Study

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to explore the efficacy of two unique combinations of nerve blocks on postoperative pain and functional outcome after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS

Patients scheduled for TKA were randomized to receive a combination of adductor canal block (ACB) + infiltration between the popliteal artery and capsule of the posterior knee block (IPACK) + sham obturator nerve block (ONB) + sham lateral femoral cutaneous nerve block (LFCNB) (control group), or a combination of ACB + IPACK + ONB + sham LFCNB (triple nerve block group), or a combination of ACB + IPACK + ONB + LFCNB (quadruple nerve block group). All patients received local infiltration analgesia. Primary outcome was postoperative morphine consumption. Secondary outcomes were the time until first rescue analgesia, postoperative pain assessed on the visual analog scale (VAS), QoR-15 score, functional recovery of knee, and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Compared with the control group, the triple and quadruple nerve block groups showed significantly lower postoperative morphine consumption (17.2 ± 9.7 mg vs. 11.2 ± 7.0 mg vs. 11.4 ± 6.4 mg, P = .001). These two groups also showed significantly longer time until first rescue analgesia (P = .007 and .010, respectively, analyzed with Kaplan-Meier method), significantly lower VAS scores on postoperative day 1 (P < .01), significantly better QoR-15 scores on postoperative days 1 and 2 (P < .001), and significantly better functional recovery of knee including range of motion (P = .002 and .001 on postoperative days 1 and 2), and daily ambulation distance (P < .001 and P = .004 on postoperative days 1 and 2). However, the absolute change in morphine consumption, VAS scores, and QoR-15 scores did not exceed the reported minimal clinically important differences (MCIDs) (morphine consumption: 10 mg; VAS scores: 1.5 at rest and 1.8 during movement; QoR-15 scores: 8.0). The MCIDs of other outcomes have not been reported in literature. The triple and quadruple nerve block groups showed no significant differences in these outcomes between each other. The three groups did not show a significant difference in complication rates.

CONCLUSION

Adding ONB or ONB + LFCNB to ACB + IPACK can statistically reduce morphine consumption, improve early pain relief, and functional recovery. However, the absolute change in morphine consumption, VAS scores, and QoR-15 scores did not exceed the MCIDs. Based on our findings and considering the sample size of this study, there is not enough clinical evidence to support the triple or quadruple nerve block use within a multimodal analgesic pathway after TKA.

Effectiveness of liposomal bupivacaine in adductor canal blocks for pediatric knee procedures: A case series

Adductor canal block (ACB) using liposomal bupivacaine (LB) has been shown to be effective in achieving prolonged postoperative pain control for knee procedures in adults. However, published literature on the use of ACB with LB in pediatric patients continues to be lacking. We present a case series on the effectiveness of ACB using LB in achieving extended postoperative pain control for pediatric patients undergoing knee surgeries. Our patients reported at least 96 h of pain relief with zero postoperative opioid requirements and no major adverse reactions from LB.

Fascial plane blocks: a narrative review of the literature

Fascial plane blocks (FPBs) are increasingly numerous and are often touted as effective solutions to many perioperative challenges facing anesthesiologists. As 'new' FPBs are being described, questions regarding their effectiveness remain unanswered as appropriate studies are lacking and publications are often limited to case discussions or technical reports. It is often unclear if newly named FPBs truly represent a novel intervention with new indications, or if these new publications describe mere ultrasound facilitated modifications of existing techniques. Here, we present broad concepts and potential mechanisms of FPB. In addition, we discuss major FPBs of (1) the extremities (2) the posterior torso and (3) the anterior torso. The characteristics, indications and a brief summary of the literature on these blocks is included. Finally, we provide an estimate of the overall level of evidence currently supporting individual approaches as FPBs continue to rapidly evolve.

Is There an Optimal Timing of Adductor Canal Block for Total Knee Arthroplasty?-A Retrospective Cohort Study

Adductor canal block (ACB) has gained popularity for postoperative pain control after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, its role in TKA has been questioned recently. Our study aimed to clarify the role of ACB in reducing postoperative pain after TKA and to elucidate an optimal timing to perform ACB for better outcomes. We conducted a comprehensive review of the perioperative records of 652 patients undergoing primary TKA from January 2019 to December 2019. Patients were divided into three groups: Group A received general anesthesia without ACB, Group B received ACB before inducing general anesthesia, and Group C received ACB at the post-anesthesia recovery unit (PACU). Patients in Groups B and C had lower pain visual analogue scale (VAS) scores than patients in Group A at the PACU. Opioid consumption was similar among the three groups; however, a slightly higher dose was required by Group A patients. Higher VAS scores were recorded in the ward in Group A than in Groups B and C with the leg at rest. In addition, higher VAS scores were recorded in Group A than in Groups B and C with the leg in continuous passive motion (CPM) training. More patients in Group A (34.9%) quit their first CPM training after a few cycles than those in Groups B (27.0%) and C (20.1%). Group A patients required a higher per kg dose of opioids in the ward than Groups B and C patients. Additionally, the hourly consumption of sevoflurane was similar among the three groups of patients, while Group A and C patients required a higher hourly per kg dose of intraoperative opioids than Group B patients. More patients in Group A (67.6%) and C (61.7%) developed intraoperative hypertension than patients in Group B (52.7%). There was no significant difference in PON (postoperative nausea), POV (postoperative vomiting), postoperative dizziness, or patient satisfaction among the three groups of patients. Group A patients had a longer length of hospital stay compared to Group B and C patients. In conclusion, preoperative ACB could be a better choice for patients undergoing TKA as it decreases intraoperative opioid consumption and facilitates a stable hemodynamic state during surgery.

Retrospective Analysis of Pain Relief in Total Knee Replacement Surgeries

Background and Aims

The aim of the study is to measure the postoperative adequacy of pain relief and functional recovery after unilateral primary total knee arthroplasty or total knee replacement (TKR) with a multimodal approach.

Settings and Design

This was a retrospective observational study done in a tertiary care center.

Materials and Methods

Eighty patients aged 18-65 years (yrs) with ASA Physical Status Classes I, II, and III operated for unilateral primary TKR surgery under suitable Anaesthesia and was administered ultrasound-guided adductor canal block + periarticular infiltration (PI) from January 2018 to January 2019 were included. Thereafter, the patients visual analog scale (VAS) scores at rest, 45° knee flexion, and mobilization as well as additional analgesia given were noted after going through the records at following time points: 12 hourly for 24 h and thereafter on postoperative day 1 (POD1) and POD2. Level of block, adverse events, and functional recovery (time up and go [TUG] test, 10 s walk test) on POD1 and POD2 were also noted.

Statistical Analysis and Results

The statistical software namely SPSS 18.0 were used for the analysis of the data. The mean VAS score at 12 h was 4.33 ± 1.3 which worsened at 24 h with steady improvement over the next 2 days. Similarly, the case with a mean VAS score at 45° flexion and on mobilization showed a similar trend. At 12 h postadductor block, besides intravenous (i.v.) paracetamol, 32.6% of patients were given tramadol 50 mg i.v. whereas one patient was given a buprenorphine patch in addition to tramadol. The number of patients requiring additional tramadol and buprenorphine patch steadily increased over the next 2 days. The average time taken for the TUG test at 24 h was 30.98 ± 4.77 s, and the average time taken for the 10 s walk test at 24 h was 6.16 ± 1.10 steps with improvement in performance over the next 2 days.

Conclusion

In our study, our multimodal analgesia model did not provide satisfactory analgesia though mobilization was not hampered.

A comparison of adductor canal block before and after thigh tourniquet during knee arthroscopy: A randomized, blinded study

Background

Adductor canal block (ACB) provides effective analgesia after arthroscopic knee surgery. However, there is insufficient data regarding whether ACB should be performed before or after inflation of a thigh tourniquet. We aimed to investigate the efficacy of ACB performed before and after placement of a thigh tourniquet and evaluate associated quadriceps motor weakness.

Methods

ACB was performed before tourniquet inflation in the PreT group, and it was performed after inflation in the PostT group. In the PO group, ACB was performed at the end of surgery after deflation of the tourniquet.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences between the groups in terms of demographic data. There was no statistically significant difference among the three groups in terms of total postoperative opioid consumption (P = 0.513). Patient satisfaction and the amount of rescue analgesia administered were also not significantly different between the groups. There was no significant difference in terms of static and dynamic visual analog scale scores between the groups (for 24 h: P = 0.306 and P = 0.271, respectively). The incidence of motor block was higher in the PreT group (eight patients) than in the PostT group (no patients) and the PO group (one patient) (P = 0.005).

Conclusions

Using a tourniquet before or after ACB did not result in differences in terms of analgesia quality; however, applying a tourniquet immediately after ACB may lead to quadriceps weakness.

The Effect of Femoral Nerve Block and Adductor Canal Block Methods on Patient Satisfaction in Unilateral Knee Arthroplasty: Randomized Non-Inferiority Trial

Introduction:

Femoral Nerve Block (FNB) and Adductor Canal Block (ACB) methods, which are regional analgesic techniques, are successfully used in postoperative pain control after total knee arthroplasty. This study aimed to compare adductor canal block method that was preoperatively used and femoral nerve block method in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) patients who underwent spinal anesthesia in terms of factors effecting patient satisfaction and determine whether these methods were equally effective or not.

Methods:

A total of 80 patients between the ages of 60 and 75 who were in the American Society of Anesthesia (ASA) physical status of I-III were prospectively included in this randomized study. Patients (n = 40) who received FNB were called Group FNB and patients (n = 40) who received Adductor Canal Block were called Group ACB.

Results:

Although mean postoperative VAS values were lower in FNB group only in the first hour (p = 0.02) there was no significant difference between the groups in the third, fifth, seventh, ninth, 12th and 24th hours (p≥0.05). Although Bromage scores were lower in FNB group in the first, second, third, fourth and fifth hours there was no statistically significant difference between the groups (p≥0.05). When mobilization time, patient satisfaction level, time of first analgesia, intraoperative sedation need, and recovery time of sensorial block were compared no statistically significant difference was found (p≥0.05).

Discussion:

When ACB and FNB that are used for postoperative analgesia in patients who undergo total knee arthroplasty are compared in terms of factors affecting patient satisfaction it is observed that they result in the same level (non-inferiority) of patient satisfaction.

Conclusion:

We recommend the routine use of ACB method with FNB in total knee arthroplasty. More studies focusing especially on measuring patient satisfaction are needed.

Continuous adductor canal block provides better performance after total knee arthroplasty compared with the single-shot adductor canal block?: An updated meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Adductor canal block (ACB) has emerged as an attractive alternative for femoral nerve blocks (FNB) as the peripheral nerve block of choice for total knee arthroplasty (TKA), preserving quadriceps motor function while providing analgesia comparable to FNB. However, its optimal application for TKA remains controversial. The objective of this meta-analysis was to compare continuous-injection ACB (CACB) vs single-injection ACB (SACB) for postoperative pain control in patients undergoing TKA.

METHODS

This study attempts to identify the available and relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) regarding the analgesic effects of CACB compared to SACB in patients undergoing TKA according to electronic databases, including PubMed, Medline, Web of Science, EMbase, and the Cochrane Library, up to September 2019. Primary outcomes in this regard included the use of a visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score with rest or activity, while secondary outcomes were cumulative opioid consumption, length of hospital stay (LOS), complications of vomiting and nausea, and rescue analgesia. The corresponding data were analyzed using RevMan v5.3.

ETHICAL REVIEW

Because all of the data used in this systematic review and meta-analysis has been published, the ethical approval was not necessary RESULTS:: This research included 9 studies comprised of 739 patients. The analyzed outcomes demonstrated that patients who received CACB had a better at rest-VAS scores at 4 hours (P = .007), 8 hors (P < .0001), 12 hours (P < .0001), 24 hours (P = .02), mobilization-VAS score at 48 hours (P < .0001), and rescue analgesia (P = .03) than those who underwent SACB. Nevertheless, no significant differences were present between the 2 strategies in terms of pain VAS scores 48 hours at rest (P = .23) and 24 hours at mobilization (P = .10), complications of vomiting and nausea (P = .42), and length of hospital stay (P = .09).

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis indicated that CACB is superior to SACB in regard to analgesic effect following TKA. However, due to the variation of the included studies, no firm conclusions can be drawn. Further investigations into RCT are required for verification.

Evidence-based Review of Periarticular Injections and Peripheral Nerve Blocks in Total Knee Arthroplasty

Background:

Recently, post-operative pain management after Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) has focused on a multimodal approach for reducing opioid requirements, promoting early rehabilitation, and expediting discharge from hospital. Regional anesthesia, in the form of Periarticular Injections (PAI) and Peripheral Nerve Blocks (PNB), has shown promise as adjunctive therapy to oral analgesics.

Objective:

To review the current literature surrounding regional anesthesia for TKA.

Discussion:

PNBs provide effective analgesia after TKA. Historically, femoral nerve blocks (FNB) have been commonly employed. FNBs, however, lead to the significant motor blockade to the quadriceps musculature, which can dampen early rehabilitation efforts and increase the risk of post-operative falls. Adductor Canal Blocks (ACB) have shown excellent results in reducing post-operative pain while minimizing motor blockade. Periarticular injections (PAI), and infiltration between the popliteal Artery and Capsule of the Knee (IPACK) have similarly helped in reducing patient discomfort after TKA and providing analgesia to the posterior capsular region of the knee.

Conclusion:

PAIs, and PNBs are important elements in many multimodal postoperative pain management protocols after TKA. Current evidence appears to suggest that a combination of an ACB supplemented by posterior capsular analgesic coverage through PAI or IPACK may provide optimal results.

Is continuous catheter adductor canal block better than single-shot canal adductor canal block in primary total knee arthroplasty?: A GRADE analysis of the evidence through a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The adductor canal block (ACB) has emerged as an alternative to the femoral nerve block (FNB) after total knee arthroplasty. This meta-analysis was conducted to investigate which ACB method provides better pain relief and functional recovery after total knee arthroplasty METHODS:: We conducted a meta-analysis to identify randomized controlled trials involving single-shot adductor canal block (SACB) and continuous catheter ACB (CACB) after TKA up to December 2019 by searching databases including the PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, Cochrane Library, CBM, CNKI, VIP, and Wanfang databases. Finally, we included 8 randomized controlled trials involving 702 knees in our study. We used Review Manager Software and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation profiler to perform the meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Compared with SACB, CACB can achieve better postoperative pain relief at 24 and 48 h both at rest and after mobilization, lower amount of opioid consumption at 72 h, a shorter length of hospital stay (LOH) and larger range of motion (ROM). In addition, the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test results; quadriceps strength; and incidence of complications, including postoperative nausea and vomiting, DVT, catheter-related infections, catheter dislodgement and neurologic deficits, showed no significant difference between the two ACB methods.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study demonstrate that CACB is an effective alternative to SACB and can provide better pain relief, a shorter LOH, more degrees of maximum flexion and a lower amount of opioid consumption over time, but it provides a comparable level of recovery of quadriceps strength and mobility with a similar risk of catheter-related complications. Thus, CACB may be a better analgesia strategy than SACB after TKA at present.

Comparison of Continuous Adductor Canal and Femoral Nerve Blocks for Analgesia and Return of Quadriceps Function After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Adolescent Patients

PURPOSE

To compare early pain relief and late quadriceps function after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) with hamstring autograft in adolescent patients treated with either a continuous femoral nerve block (cFNB) or continuous adductor canal block (cACB).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed a consecutive series of adolescent patients who underwent ACLR and received either a cACB or cFNB for postoperative pain management. Over a 1-year period, all patients underwent ACLR with cFNBs. Over the subsequent 9 months, all patients underwent their ACLR with cACBs. Patient demographics, postoperative pain scores, opioid consumption, satisfaction and complications, and dates and results of quadriceps function derived at the Return to Sports evaluation were compared.

RESULTS

Ninety-one patients (53 cFNB, 38 cACB) were reviewed. There were no differences in the demographics of the 2 groups. There were no statistically significant differences between groups in variations in postoperative pain scores (P = .21), or satisfaction with the blocks (P = .93). Patients in the cFNB group consumed a greater number of opioid doses on postoperative day 3 (2.2 ± 2.1 doses cFNB, 1.1 ± 1.6 doses cACB, P = .03) and a greater number of opioid doses overall for postoperative days 1 to 3 (mean 6.8 ± 5.3 doses cFNB, 3.8 ± 2.1 doses cACB, P = .03). There was no difference in time to return of acceptable quadriceps strength and function when comparing the 2 groups (30.9 ± 7.7 weeks cFNB, 28.9 ± 6.6 weeks cACB, P = .087).

CONCLUSIONS

We found few differences in postoperative analgesic requirements when comparing patients who underwent ACLR with hamstring autograft with a cACB to those who underwent a similar procedure with a cFNB. Return of quadriceps strength and function by six months did not appear to vary with regional technique, either cACB or cFNB, employed at surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III, Retrospective comparative study.

The effects of pregabalin and adductor canal block on postoperative pain in arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Background/aim

To determine the effectiveness of pregabalin and adductor canal block on opioid consumption, postoperative pain, and fast-tracking.

Materials and methods

A total of 51 American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) classification I–II patients aged 18–70 years who were scheduled to undergo elective anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction were included in the study. Patients were randomized into groups P, A, and C. Patients in group P (n = 16), received 150 mg of preoperative oral pregabalin, patients in group A (n = 17) received postoperative adductor canal blockade, and patients in group C (n = 18) received neither adductor canal block nor pregabalin. Surgeries were performed under spinal anaesthesia with hyperbaric bupivacaine following monitorization. Demographic data along with block features, hemodynamic data, mean opioid consumption, numerical rating scale score, White’s fast-track score, and postoperative adverse effects were recorded.

Results

Fifty-seven patients were enrolled in the study, and 6 patients were excluded from the study; the data of 51 patients were included in the final analyses. Demographic characteristics and hemodynamic data were similar between the 3groups. Postoperative opioid consumption was significantly lower in groups A and P compared with group C (group P = 178.75 mg, group C = 318.61 mg, group A = 236.47 mg; P < 0.05). The regression of sensory block was significantly slower in group P (P < 0.05). The first analgesic requirement was earlier in group C than in groups P and A (P < 0.05). Patients in group P had higher fast-track scores at 8 h and 12 h compared with group C (P < 0.05); however, group A fast-track scores were similar to those of the other 2groups (P > 0.05). The rate of postoperative adverse effects was similar between the groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Preoperative pregabalin (150 mg) reduced postoperative opioid consumption as much as adductor canal block in patients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. The first analgesic requirement was earlier in group C than in groups P and A. In addition, pregabalin can prolong the duration of spinal sensory block and shorten the time required to achieve high fast-tracking scores. We recommend the use of both methods as a part of multimodal analgesia.

Evaluation of the proximal adductor canal block injectate spread: a cadaveric study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Quadriceps sparing adductor canal block has emerged as a viable intervention to manage pain after total knee arthroplasty. Recent studies have defined ultrasound (US) landmarks to localize the proximal and distal adductor canal. US-guided proximal adductor canal injection has not been investigated using these sonographic landmarks. The objectives of this cadaveric study were to evaluate dye injectate spread and quantify the capture rates of nerves supplying articular branches to the knee joint capsule using a proximal adductor canal injection technique.

METHODS

A US-guided proximal adductor canal injection with 10 mL of dye was performed in seven lightly embalmed specimens. Following injection, specimens were dissected to document dye spread and frequency of nerve staining.

RESULTS

Following proximal adductor canal injection, dye spread consistently stained the deep surface of sartorius, vastoadductor membrane, aponeurosis of the vastus medialis obliquus, and adductor canal. The saphenous nerve, posteromedial branch of nerve to vastus medialis, superior medial genicular nerve and genicular branch of obturator nerve were captured in all specimens at the proximal adductor canal. There was minimal to no dye spread to the distal femoral triangle, anterior division of the obturator nerve and anterior branches of nerve to vastus medialis.

CONCLUSIONS

This anatomical study provides some insights into the mechanism of analgesia to the knee following a proximal adductor canal injection and its motor sparing properties. Further clinical investigation is required to confirm cadaveric findings.

Descriptive observational study on early functional recovery and postoperative pain in knee joint replacement surgery

INTRODUCTION

The management of postoperative pain in joint replacement surgery represents a challenge. Therefore, the advent of new strategies in the management of pain such as local infiltration analgesia (LIA) and the adductor canal block, allowed an adequate postoperative pain control and early rehabilitation of the patient in total knee arthroplasty.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A descriptive, observational and longitudinal study of a prospective cohort of patients operated by the group of joint replacements between September 29, 2017 and November 30, 2017 was conducted. They were evaluated with the analog pain scale for postoperative pain at 5 different times (1:Upon leaving recovery; 2:On the first postoperative day; 3:Before initiating in-hospital physical therapy; 4:At the end of physical therapy, and 5:Upon departure from the clinic).

RESULTS

Of the 141 patients operated on, 70.9% of the patients were managed with LIA and 29.1% with adductor canal block. There were no differences between groups in postoperative pain assessment during the 5 different times (P≥.45).

DISCUSSION

Our results indicate that LIA and the adductor canal blockade demonstrated the same efficacy for the control of postoperative pain and rehabilitation.

An evidence-based review of enhanced recovery after surgery in total knee replacement surgery

Rationale: Enhanced recovery after surgery is gaining popularity among orthopaedic surgeons across the globe and hence a strong evidence base had to be reviewed to make an evidence-based sustainable protocol.

Methods

The following databases, PubMed, OVID, Cochrane database and EMBASE were searched. The search was limited to 15 components of enhanced recovery after surgery programme which is divided into preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative phases. Inclusion criteria were restricted to articles published in English within the last 15 years and articles comprising of unicompartmental arthroplasty, revision knee arthroplasty, bilateral simultaneous knee arthroplasty and only hip arthroplasty excluded. The full texts were analysed and controversies and limitations of various studies were summarised.

Discussion

Each component of the programme was thoroughly reviewed and strength and weaknesses of the evidence base summarised. The strength of the evidence was assessed by critically appraising the study methodology and justifying the appropriateness of the inclusion in enhanced recovery after surgery protocol.

Conclusion

Enhanced recovery after surgery has already been used successfully in various surgical specialities. Enhanced recovery after surgery programmes in knee arthroplasty are yet to be established as a universal practice to be adopted globally. This evidence-based review provides an insight into the best evidence linked to each component and their rationale for inclusion in the proposed enhanced recovery after surgery protocol.