Pain Management After Hip Arthroscopy: Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials and Cohort Studies

Quadratus Lumborum Block Provides Similar or Reduced Postoperative Pain and Opioid Consumption Compared to Control Following Hip Arthroscopy: A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

To investigate whether the quadratus lumborum (QL) block is associated with reduced postoperative pain and opioid consumption in patients undergoing hip arthroscopy.

METHODS

A search following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines was performed in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases to identify comparative studies of patients undergoing the QL block before hip arthroscopy. The primary outcomes of interest included postoperative pain and opioid consumption.

RESULTS

Eight studies (5 randomized, 3 nonrandomized) with 274 patients receiving the QL block were included. Control groups included no block (3 studies), sham block (2 studies), pericapsular injection of anesthetic (1 study), lumbar plexus block (1 study), and femoral nerve/fascia iliaca block (1 study). In 1 randomized and 2 nonrandomized studies, the pain scores were significantly lower, at all postoperative time points, in the QL block versus sham, no block, and femoral nerve/fascia iliaca control groups. The same 3 studies reported significantly less opioid consumption in the QL group at all measured postoperative time points. The remaining 5 studies reported mostly no significant differences in pain scores and opioid consumption at multiple postoperative time points. In no study did the QL block group have significantly more pain or opioid consumption relative to the control groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to a variety of control groups, the QL block provides similar or reduced postoperative pain and opioid consumption in patients undergoing hip arthroscopy.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, systematic review of Level I and III studies.

Study on the Analgesic Efficacy of Femoral Nerve Block for Post-Hip Arthroscopy Pain

INTRODUCTION

Postoperative pain management is challenging for hip arthroscopy, and the effectiveness and specific protocols of femoral nerve block (FNB) in hip surgeries remain insufficient. Therefore, we designed this study to investigate the analgesic efficacy and optimal drug concentrations of FNB after hip arthroscopy.

METHODS

A total of 148 patients undergoing hip arthroscopy were included and randomly divided into three groups: 0.3% ropivacaine FNB group, 0.4% ropivacaine FNB group, and 0.4% ropivacaine intra-articular injection (IAI) group (positive control). The main outcomes included dynamic and static visual analog scale (VAS) scores at various time points postoperatively, total intraoperative remifentanil consumption, and cumulative consumption of morphine within 24 h postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included total intraoperative dexmedetomidine consumption, RASMAY sedation scores, and patients' satisfaction scores postoperatively.

RESULTS

Both FNB and IAI anesthesia were shown to be safe for post-hip arthroscopy analgesia. Compared with IAI anesthesia, FNB showed no significant differences in analgesic effect within 12 h postoperatively but had a better analgesic effect after 24 h and lower remifentanil consumption intraoperatively. Group 0.4% ropivacaine showed lower dynamic VAS scores within the first 12 h compared with 0.3% ropivacaine for FNB, however, there were no significant differences in patient satisfaction and sedation, and postoperative ambulation was delayed, indicating that the higher concentration of ropivacaine correlated with a longer time to ambulation. The IAI group had greater intraoperative opioid consumption and more side effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with IAI anesthesia, FNB can better alleviate post-hip arthroscopy pain and reduce opioid consumption. However, it requires specialized equipment and technical support and carries a certain risk of puncture.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Chinese Clinical Trials Registry (ChiCTR2400091579).

Efficacy of iliopsoas plane block for patients undergoing hip arthroscopy: a prospective, triple-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Intraoperative stretching of the hip joint capsule often generates severe pain during the first 3 hours after hip arthroscopy. The short-lived severe pain mandates high opioid consumption, which may result in adverse events and delay recovery. The femoral nerve nociceptors are located anteriorly in the hip joint capsule. A femoral nerve block reduces pain and opioid demand after hip arthroscopy. It impedes, however, ambulation and home discharge after outpatient surgery. The iliopsoas plane block selectively anesthetizes the femoral sensory nerve branches innervating the hip joint capsule without compromising ambulation. We aimed to assess reduction of opioid consumption after iliopsoas plane block during the short-lived painful postsurgical period of time after hip arthroscopy.

METHODS

In a randomized, triple-blind trial, 50 patients scheduled for hip arthroscopy in general anesthesia were allocated to active or placebo iliopsoas plane block. The primary outcome was opioid consumption during the first three postoperative hours in the postanesthesia care unit. Secondary outcomes included pain, nausea, and ability to ambulate.

RESULTS

Forty-nine patients were analyzed for the primary outcome. The mean 3-hour intravenous morphine equivalent consumption in the iliopsoas plane block group was 10.4 mg vs 23.8 mg in the placebo group (p<0.001). No intergroup differences were observed for the secondary outcomes during the postoperative follow-up.

CONCLUSION

An iliopsoas plane block reduces opioid consumption after hip arthroscopy. The reduction of opioid consumption during the clinically relevant 3-hour postsurgical period of time was larger than 50% for active versus placebo iliopsoas plane block in this randomized, triple-blind trial.

Combined Pericapsular Nerve Group Block and Intrapelvic Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve Block Is Associated With Decreased Opioid Consumption After Hip Arthroscopy: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Introduction

Ambulatory hip arthroscopies are associated with moderate-to-severe pain often requiring opioid analgesia. Novel motor-sparing blocks, the pericapsular nerve group (PENG) and lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) block, have shown efficacy in hip surgery.

Purpose

We sought to investigate the analgesic benefits of these novel blocks in terms of opioid-sparing and discharge efficiency.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study with propensity score matching of 224 patients who underwent ambulatory elective unilateral hip arthroscopy. One group received a combined PENG and LFCN block (PENG/LFCN, n = 86), while a second group received only a PENG block (n = 26). A control group (n = 112) received no blocks. The primary outcome was postanesthesia care unit (PACU) mean opioid consumption. Secondary outcomes were maximum numeric rating scale (NRS) pain score, intravenous rescue analgesia, and PACU readiness-for-discharge times.

Results

The PENG/LFCN-block group required significantly less opioids than the control group in the PACU (25.98 ± 13.04 vs 14.58 ± 5.77, respectively) and were discharged earlier 2.72 ± 1.16 vs 4.42 ± 1.63 hours, respectively). The combined PENG/LFCN group also used less intravenous rescue opioids than the control group (0.47 ± 1.18 vs 1.44 ± 2.1 mg, respectively) and showed a significant difference in the highest NRS pain scores than the control group (6.01 ± 2.38 vs 6.77 ± 2.1 respectively). The PENG block alone group did not show a significant difference in opioid reduction (21.95 ± 15.83 vs 27.72 ± 15.01, respectively).

Conclusions

This retrospective study found that in patients who underwent ambulatory elective unilateral hip arthroscopy, a combined PENG and LFCN block was associated with expedited PACU discharge and a clinically significant reduction in postoperative opioid use. Further study is warranted.

Subpectineal obturator nerve block reduces opioid consumption after hip arthroscopy: a triple-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Hip arthroscopy causes severe pain during the first few hours in the postoperative care unit. This is probably due to the intraoperative stretching of the hip joint capsule. Pain relief requires high doses of opioids which may prolong recovery and may cause opioid-related adverse events.The majority of hip joint capsule nociceptors are located anteriorly. The obturator nerve innervates the anteromedial part of the hip joint capsule. We hypothesized that a subpectineal obturator nerve block using 15 ml bupivacaine 5 mg/mL with added epinephrine 5 μg/mL would reduce the opioid consumption after hip arthroscopy.

METHODS

40 ambulatory hip arthroscopy patients were enrolled in this randomized, triple-blind controlled trial. All patients were allocated to a preoperative active or placebo subpectineal obturator nerve block. The primary outcome was opioid consumption for the first 3 hours in the postanesthesia care unit. Secondary outcomes were pain, nausea, and hip adductor strength.

RESULTS

34 patients were analyzed for the primary outcome. The mean intravenous morphine equivalent consumption in the subpectineal obturator nerve block group was 11.9 mg vs 19.7 mg in the placebo group (p<0.001). The hip adductor strength was significantly reduced in the active group. No other intergroup differences were observed regarding the secondary outcomes.

CONCLUSION

We found a significant reduction in the opioid consumption for patients receiving an active subpectineal obturator nerve block. The postoperative intravenous morphine equivalent reduction the first painful 3 hours was reduced by 40% for patients receiving a subpectineal obturator nerve block in this randomized, triple-blind trial.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

EudraCT database 2021-006575-42.

ChatGPT Provides Satisfactory but Occasionally Inaccurate Answers to Common Patient Hip Arthroscopy Questions

PURPOSE

To assess the ability of ChatGPT to answer common patient questions regarding hip arthroscopy, and to analyze the accuracy and appropriateness of its responses.

METHODS

Ten questions were selected from well-known patient education websites, and ChatGPT (version 3.5) responses to these questions were graded by 2 fellowship-trained hip preservation surgeons. Responses were analyzed, compared with the current literature, and graded from A to D (A being the highest, and D being the lowest) in a grading scale on the basis of the accuracy and completeness of the response. If the grading differed between the 2 surgeons, a consensus was reached. Inter-rater agreement was calculated. The readability of responses was also assessed using the Flesch-Kincaid Reading Ease Score (FRES) and Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL).

RESULTS

Responses received the following consensus grades: A (50%, n = 5), B (30%, n = 3), C (10%, n = 1), D (10%, n = 1). Inter-rater agreement on the basis of initial individual grading was 30%. The mean FRES was 28.2 (± 9.2 standard deviation), corresponding to a college graduate level, ranging from 11.7 to 42.5. The mean FKGL was 14.4 (±1.8 standard deviation), ranging from 12.1 to 18, indicating a college student reading level.

CONCLUSIONS

ChatGPT can answer common patient questions regarding hip arthroscopy with satisfactory accuracy graded by 2 high-volume hip arthroscopists; however, incorrect information was identified in more than one instance. Caution must be observed when using ChatGPT for patient education related to hip arthroscopy.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Given the increasing number of hip arthroscopies being performed annually, ChatGPT has the potential to aid physicians in educating their patients about this procedure and addressing any questions they may have.

Comparison of the Effect of Pericapsular Nerve Group Block Combined with Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve Block and Fascia Iliaca Compartment Block in Patients Undergoing Hip Arthroscopy Under General Anesthesia: A Randomized, Double-Blind Trial

Purpose

Patients undergoing arthroscopic hip surgery (AHS) require good analgesia and early rehabilitation after surgery, and there is no consensus on the optimal nerve block. We aimed to compare the efficacy of the pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block with lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) block compared to fascia iliaca compartment block (FICB) in patients with AHS.

Patients and Methods

A total of 80 patients receiving AHS under general anesthesia were randomized to receive either FICB (group F) or PENG block in combination with LFCN block (group P). The primary outcomes were the rate of quadriceps weakness after block on the afflicted side, as well as muscle strength grading and pain score after block, and the quality of recovery on the second postoperative day.

Results

Compared with group F, group P had a lower incidence of quadriceps weakness 48 h after block (76.9% vs 28.2%, P < 0.001), and had less impact on muscle strength grade and lower static pain score at 6, 12, 18, 24, 36, and 48 h after block (P < 0.001), and a lower dynamic pain score at 6 and 12 h after block in group P (p < 0.05). The quality of recovery on the second postoperative day improved (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

In comparison to FICB, PENG block in combination with LFCN block can affect less quadriceps muscle strength and reduce the use of postoperative analgesics, which is beneficial for the postoperative recovery of AHS patients.

The Addition of a Pericapsular Nerve Group Block for Postoperative Pain Control Does Not Result in Less Narcotic Use After Hip Arthroscopy: A Systematic Review

Purpose

To perform a systematic review of clinical studies evaluating the pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block in patients undergoing hip arthroscopy.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines to identify comparative studies of patients undergoing the PENG block before hip arthroscopy. The search phrase used was hip arthroscopy pericapsular nerve block. Patients were evaluated based on analgesic consumption, time to discharge from the postanesthesia care unit (PACU), and pain scores (Numeric Rating Scale and visual analog scale). The Modified Coleman Methodology Score was used to evaluate study methodology quality.

Results

Five studies (2 Level I, 3 Level III) met inclusion criteria. The 5 studies included the following comparison groups: 0.9% normal saline injection, general anesthesia alone, and general anesthesia with intraoperative pericapsular bupivacaine injection. The 2 randomized controlled trials included in this review reported no significant difference between groups regarding opioid consumption. One of these did not find any statistically significant differences in their secondary outcomes either, including patient satisfaction with analgesia, opioid-related adverse events, or persistent opioid use at 1 week. However, the other 3 studies found significantly lower opioid consumption in patients receiving the PENG block versus the control group intraoperatively, in the PACU, and/or postoperatively. Four studies reported significantly lower pain levels in the PENG block group compared with the control groups, measured differently in each study: 24 hours postoperatively, initial pain score in the PACU, mean score in the PACU, and highest score in the PACU. None of the studies found significantly worse outcomes in the PENG block group compared to the comparison group.

Conclusions

Systematic review of randomized controlled trials shows that patients undergoing hip arthroscopy who receive a PENG block do not consume fewer opioids for postoperative pain control than patients who do not receive the block.

Level of Evidence

Level III, systematic review of Level I-III studies.

Perioperative Intravenous Dexamethasone Significantly Reduces Postoperative Opioid Requirement and Nausea After Unilateral Elective Hip Arthroscopy: A Randomized Double-blinded Placebo-controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have shown that dexamethasone has a positive effect on postoperative pain control, opioid consumption, nausea, and vomiting and length of hospital stay after arthroplasty surgery.

PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS

The purpose of this study was to assess whether adding perioperative dexamethasone to our current pain regimen after hip arthroscopy is more effective than a placebo. It was hypothesized that dexamethasone would reduce postoperative pain, reduce opioid consumption, improve subjective pain and nausea scores, and reduce the number of vomiting events.

STUDY DESIGN

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

METHODS

A total of 50 patients requiring unilateral elective hip arthroscopy were randomized to receive intravenous dexamethasone immediately before induction of anesthesia and at 8 am on the first postoperative day (2 ×12 mg) or a placebo (sodium chloride 0.9%). The patient, the surgeons, the treating anesthesiologist, and the involved nursing and physical therapy personnel were blinded to group assignment. The primary outcome was postoperative pain, and secondary outcomes were opioid consumption and nausea scores-assessed using a translated revised version of the American Pain Society Patient Outcome Questionnaire 6 hours postoperatively and on days 1 and 2-and vomiting events. A clinical follow-up was performed 12 weeks postoperatively to assess adverse events.

RESULTS

The mean age at inclusion was 29 years in both groups. Postoperative pain levels did not differ significantly in most instances. Opioid requirements during the hospitalization in the dexamethasone group were significantly lower than those in the placebo group (31.96 ± 20.56 mg vs 51.43 ± 38 mg; P = .014). Significantly fewer vomiting events were noted in the dexamethasone group (0.15 ± 0.59 vs 0.65 ± 0.91; P = .034). Descriptive data and surgical parameters did not differ significantly.

CONCLUSION

Perioperative intravenous dexamethasone significantly reduced postoperative opioid consumption by 40% without compromising pain level and safety, as no corticosteroid-related side effects were observed. Dexamethasone may be a valuable adjuvant to a multimodal systemic pain regimen after hip arthroscopy.

REGISTRATION

NCT04610398 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).

Pericapsular Nerve Group Block Leads to Small but Consistent Reductions in Pain Between 18 and 24 Hours Postoperatively in Hip Arthroscopy for Femoroacetabular Impingement Surgery: A Prospective, Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

PURPOSE

To investigate whether the use of a pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block would reduce perioperative pain after arthroscopic therapy for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) and to examine opioid requirements and occurrence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV).

METHODS

Between May 2022 and October 2022, patients (N = 68) undergoing arthroscopic surgery for FAIS were randomly allocated into 2 groups. The first group received an ultrasound-guided PENG preoperatively with 20 mL of 0.375% ropivacaine and standardized postoperative oral medication. The second group received a sham block preoperatively with 20 mL of 0.9% saline and standardized postoperative oral medication. The primary end point was pain scores (visual analog score [VAS], 0-10) during the first 24 hours postoperatively. To quantify clinical significance of outcome achievement for the VAS pain score, the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) was calculated using the half standard deviation method. The incidence of PONV as well as opioid usage (converted to morphine equivalent) within the first 24 hours were secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

Randomization and permission were successfully obtained from 68 participants. From the fifteenth postoperative hour, the PENG group reported significantly less postoperative pain than the control group (24th postoperative hour: VAS pain PENG group 1.3 ± 0.9 [0-3]; 95% confidence interval {CI} 0.4-1.2 vs the VAS pain control group 2.4 ± 1.6 [0-5]; 95% CI 1.4-4.7; P = .009). The VAS pain score threshold for achieving the MCID at 24 hours postoperative was defined as a decrease of 1.1. 27 patients (79%) in the PENG group and 22 patients (65%) in the control group were able to achieve MCID (P = .009). Opioid dosage and postoperative nausea did not differ significantly between groups (P = .987 and P = .655, respectively). Concomitant complications such as falls, hematomas, or weakened muscles did not occur in either group.

CONCLUSIONS

According to this study, a PENG block minimally reduced pain after arthroscopic treatment for FAIS between the 18th and 24th postoperative hours. The PENG group achieved significantly more often the pain VAS MCID. However, there was no proof that the PENG group consumed fewer opioids than the control group. Overall, PONV was found at a low and comparable rate.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I, randomized controlled trial.

Editorial Commentary: The Addition of the Pericapsular Nerve Group Block Leads to Reduced Pain Up to 24 Hours After Hip Arthroscopy

Surgeons performing hip arthroscopy (HA) continue to look for solutions to address immediate postoperative pain and achieve a safe and efficient same-day discharge. Multiple studies have looked at modalities to achieve this, and we have learned that some methods are successful whereas others have a high-risk profile and should be avoided. The pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block is at the forefront of the literature. The PENG block is an easy-to-perform pericapsular nerve block that has been shown in prospective and retrospective studies to decrease acute postoperative pain. With modern ultrasound techniques, the PENG block has a short learning curve and acceptable patient safety profile. Other regional blocks have been extensively studied and are not without their drawbacks. Neuraxial anesthesia has shown decreased pain after HA but carries the risk of neuraxial complications and ambulatory discharge delay. Quadratus lumborum, lumbar plexus, and femoral nerve blocks can impact muscle strength and carry the risk of falls. Fascia iliaca blocks have shown the potential for increased pain and have been abandoned. The PENG block has been shown to be safe, but there are risks of inadvertent femoral nerve block if the probe or needle is out of plane. The PENG block does not seem to be the only answer to controlling post-HA pain but is one more weapon in our armamentarium to treat acute postoperative pain. Our current multimodal HA protocol consists of intravenous ketorolac, a PENG block, general endotracheal anesthesia, 4 mg of dexamethasone, 25 mg of ketamine at induction and 25 mg of ketamine slowly infused throughout the case, and post-free HA. We have a 100% same-day discharge rate, with no reported block complications and no groin complications, and for us, this method has proved to decrease the time to discharge.

Does preoperative gabapentin or intraoperative ketorolac influence postoperative pain following hip arthroscopy?

Optimization of perioperative analgesia has important implications for patient satisfaction and short-term outcomes. This study's purpose is to assess if preoperative gabapentin or intraoperative ketorolac influences postoperative pain or time to discharge following hip arthroscopy. In total, 409 patients who underwent hip arthroscopic femoroplasty and/or acetabuloplasty with a single surgeon for femoroacetabular impingement were retrospectively reviewed (September 2017 to February 2021). The effect of preoperative gabapentin or intraoperative ketorolac on postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores, perioperative opioids in morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs), time in post-anesthesia care unit (PACU), second-stage recovery and time to discharge was assessed using unadjusted and adjusted t-tests, and generalized linear models controlling for operative time, traction time, preoperative MME, intraoperative MME and postoperative MME were compared between the groups of gabapentin to no gabapentin and ketorolac to no ketorolac. There was no difference in first PACU VAS pain score, final PACU VAS score, VAS pain score prior to discharge, average VAS pain score or pain level on follow-up call in the unadjusted or adjusted analysis for the preoperative gabapentin or intraoperative ketorolac groups. Females had higher first PACU VAS pain score (6.05 versus 5.15 P = 0.0026), final PACU VAS pain score (4.43 versus 3.90, P = 0.0045), final VAS pain score prior to discharge (3.87 versus 3.03, P < 0.001) and average postoperative pain score (4.60 versus 4.03, P < 0.001), but no difference in VAS pain score on follow-up call following surgery. Gabapentin or ketorolac was not associated with decreased VAS pain scores or time to discharge after hip arthroscopy.

Layered Double Hydroxides: A Novel Promising 2D Nanomaterial for Bone Diseases Treatment

Bone diseases including bone defects, bone infections, osteoarthritis, and bone tumors seriously affect life quality of the patient and bring serious economic burdens to social health management, for which the current clinical treatments bear dissatisfactory therapeutic effects. Biomaterial-based strategies have been widely applied in the treatment of orthopedic diseases but are still plagued by deficient bioreactivity. With the development of nanotechnology, layered double hydroxides (LDHs) with adjustable metal ion composition and alterable interlayer structure possessing charming physicochemical characteristics, versatile bioactive properties, and excellent drug loading and delivery capabilities arise widespread attention and have achieved considerable achievements for bone disease treatment in the last decade. However, to the authors' best knowledge, no review has comprehensively summarized the advances of LDHs in treating bone disease so far. Herein, the advantages of LDHs for orthopedic disorders treatment are outlined and the corresponding state-of-the-art achievements are summarized for the first time. The potential of LDHs-based nanocomposites for extended therapeutics for bone diseases is highlighted and perspectives for LDHs-based scaffold design are proposed for facilitated clinical translation.

Effect of Psychosocial Interventions for Individuals Who Underwent Arthroscopy in Femoroacetabular Impingement: A Randomized Controlled Trial

PURPOSE

The purpose of this protocol was to discover the connection between patients with non-surgical pain or other discomfort and their psychosocial status. Cognitive behavior therapy will be used, which we verified will determine the effect and feasibility of postoperative rehabilitation processes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study will include 200 patients ranging from 18 to 60 years old who have underwent or will undergo FAI arthroscopy in the West China Hospital Sports Medicine Center from 2023 to 2026. A standardized prospective single-center parallel-group randomized controlled trial will be used for these participants. The participants will be divided into intervention (telephone versus face-to-face versus music versus floatation) and control groups. The follow-up periods will be measured pre-operatively, as well as postoperatively at 1, 3, and 6 months. The primary outcomes will include the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) and the Visual Analogic Score (VAS), and the secondary outcomes will include the range of motion (ROM), the Huaxi Emotional-distress Index (HEI), and the depression, anxiety, and stress scale (DASS-21 scale). Furthermore, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and a Short-Form 12 (SF-12) questionnaire will also be evaluated.

DISCUSSION

This study will evaluate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of different types of psychosocial-therapy-based rehabilitation methods designed to improve the quality of life of FAI patients with persistent symptoms.

A Practical Guide to Lower Extremity Nerve Blocks for the Sports Medicine Surgeon

BACKGROUND

Peripheral nerve blocks (PNBs) are vital in the administration of surgical analgesia and have grown in popularity for use in lower extremity arthroscopic procedures because of their capacity to safely and effectively control pain. The number and specificity of PNBs, however, have made choosing the best option for a procedure nebulous for orthopaedic surgeons.

PURPOSE

To present a narrative literature review of the PNBs available for arthroscopic hip and knee procedures that is adapted to an audience of orthopaedic surgeons.

STUDY DESIGN

Narrative literature review.

METHODS

A combination of the names of various lower extremity PNBs AND "hip arthroscopy" OR "knee arthroscopy" was used to search the English medical literature including PubMed, Cochrane Library, ScienceDirect, Embase, and Scopus. Placement technique, specificity of blockade, efficacy, and complications were assessed. Searches were performed through May 2, 2021.

RESULTS

A total of 157 studies were included in this review of lower extremity PNBs. Femoral nerve, lumbar plexus, sciatic nerve, and fascia iliaca compartment blocks were most commonly used in arthroscopic hip surgery, while femoral nerve, 3-in-1, and adductor canal blocks were preferred for arthroscopic knee surgery. Each block demonstrated a significant benefit (P > .05) in ≥1 of the following outcomes: intraoperative morphine, pain scores, nausea, and/or opioid consumption. Combination blocks including the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve block, obturator nerve block, quadratus lumborum block, and L1 and L2 paravertebral block have also been described. Complication rates ranged from 0% to 4.8% in those administered with ultrasound guidance. The most commonly reported complications included muscular weakness, postoperative falls, neuropathy, intravascular and intraneural injections, and hematomas.

CONCLUSION

When administered properly, PNBs were a safe and effective adjuvant method of pain control with a significant potential to limit postoperative narcotic use. While blockade choice varies by surgeon preference and procedure, all PNBs should be administered with ultrasound guidance, and vigilant protocols for the risk of postoperative falls should be exercised in patients who receive them.

Efficacy of Ultrasound-Guided Quadratus Lumborum Block for Postoperative Analgesia After Hip Arthroplasty: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

Ultrasound-guided quadratus lumborum (QL) block as a novel regional anesthetic technique was proposed in 2007 that can be applied in patients following hip arthroplasty. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the QL block for pain control in patients undergoing hip arthroplasty.

METHODS

We performed a comprehensive search of PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Embase databases, Google Scholar, and CNKI for randomized controlled trials up to December 2021. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria established in advance, "QL block" and "hip arthroplasty" related MeSH terms and free-text words were used.

RESULTS

Our meta-analysis included 11 randomized controlled trials involving a total of 830 patients between 2018 and 2021. The results indicated that compared to the non-QL block group, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score at mobilization in the QL block group demonstrated statistical and clinical significance at all time points (12, 24, and 48 hours), but VAS score at rest failed to reach the MCID (minimal clinically important difference). Meanwhile, opioid consumption in the QL block group only demonstrated statistical and clinical significance at 48 hours postoperatively, but did not reach the MCID at 12 or 24 hours postoperatively. The QL block increased satisfaction scores. There was a statistically significant reduction in the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting, but no difference in the incidence of pruritus and urinary retention.

CONCLUSION

The QL block significantly reduced postoperative VAS score at mobilization, and opioid consumption at 48 hours in patients after hip arthroplasty compared to no block, which reached the MCID. The QL block also decreased postoperative nausea and vomiting and increased satisfaction scores. Although these are promising results, the clinical relevance of the efficacy of the QL block remains to be further understood as larger studies are needed.

The analgesic benefit of Pericapsular Nerve Group (PENG) block in hip arthroscopic surgery: a retrospective pragmatic analysis at an academic health center

INTRODUCTION

The novel pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block has recently been reported to provide effective motor-sparing local anesthetic-based analgesia to the hip joint. We aimed to evaluate the analgesic efficacy and safety of a preoperative PENG block among patients undergoing ambulatory hip arthroscopic surgery where systemic analgesia is the gold standard.

METHODS

We conducted a single-center, retrospective pragmatic exploratory cohort study of consecutive outpatient hip arthroscopic surgery cases from January 2017 to March 2019. We identified 164 cases in which patients received general anesthesia with or without a preoperative PENG block. The primary analgesic outcome measures were time to first postoperative analgesic request, intraoperative and postoperative opioid consumption (intravenous morphine equivalent), and postoperative pain severity (visual analog scale 10 cm scale ranging from 0=no pain to 10=severe pain) in hospital. Secondary outcomes included duration of stay in the postanesthesia care unit, opioid-related side effects, time to discharge readiness, and block-related complications.

RESULTS

Seventy-five cases received a preoperative PENG block and 89 cases received systemic analgesia alone. The addition of a PENG block reduced intraoperative (6.6 mg vs 7.5 mg, difference: 0.9 mg; 95% CI 0.2 to 1.7; p=0.01) and postoperative (10.7 mg vs 13.9 mg, difference: 3.2 mg; 95% CI 0.9 to 5.5; p=0.01) intravenous morphine consumption, as well as the mean (3.5 vs 4.2, difference: 0.7; 95% CI 0.1 to 1.3; p=0.03) and highest (5.5 vs 6.5, difference: 1.0; 95% CI 0.2 to 1.7; p=0.02) postoperative pain severity scores in hospital. The PENG block did not prolong the time to first analgesic request (15.8 min vs 12.3 min, difference: 3.5 min; 95% CI -9.0 to 2.0; p=0.23). Fewer patients in the PENG group experienced postoperative nausea and vomiting compared with systemic analgesia alone (36% vs 52%, OR 1.9; 95% CI 1.0 to 3.6; p=0.02), while the PENG block expedited discharge readiness (165.0 min vs 202.8 min, difference: 37.8 min; 95% CI 2.9 to 72.3; p=0.04). No block-related complications were noted in any patient.

DISCUSSION

Based on our retrospective dataset, this pragmatic exploratory cohort study suggests that a preoperative PENG block is associated with questionable improvements in postoperative in-hospital analgesic outcomes which may or may not prove to be clinically relevant when compared with systemic analgesia alone for patients undergoing hip arthroscopic surgery. This small signal should be investigated in a prospective randomized trial.

Preoperative Pericapsular Nerve Group Block Results in Less Pain, Decreased Narcotic Use, and Quicker Discharge Time Than No Block in Patients Who Were Surgically Treated for Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Level of Evidence

Peripheral Nerve Block for Hip Arthroscopy Does Not Have any Clinical Advantage Compared With Local Anesthetic Regarding Pain Management: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy of peripheral nerve block on reduction in opioid consumption and pain control after hip arthroscopy.

METHOD

To identify studies evaluating the effects of peripheral nerve block on pain control and reduction in opioid consumption in hip arthroscopy, we searched all records in the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases until May 2021. Studies with the following characteristics were considered eligible: 1) patients who underwent a hip arthroscopy (population); 2) patients who received peripheral nerve block (intervention); 3) patients who did not receive peripheral nerve block (comparator); 4) record of total opioid consumption as a primary outcome and pain level at 1, 3 to 6, and 24 hours after surgery, patient satisfaction, and incidence of nausea and vomiting as secondary outcomes (outcomes); and 5) randomized controlled trial (study design). Data were independently extracted by two reviewers and synthesized using a random or fixed-effects model, according to the heterogeneity.

RESULTS

Eight RCTs were finally included in the meta-analysis. There were no significant differences in postoperative opioid consumption at 24 hours (standardized mean difference [SMD] = -0.091, 95% confidence interval [CI] [-0.270, 0.089]) or in visual analog scale (VAS) score at 1 (SMD = 0.299, 95% CI [-0.758, 0.160]), 3 to 6 (SMD = -0.304, 95% CI [-0.655, 0.047]), and 24 (SMD = -0.230, 95% CI [-0.520, 0.060]) hours postoperatively between the peripheral nerve block and control groups. Moreover, no significant differences were observed in patient satisfaction (SMD < 0.001, 95% CI [-0.284, 0.284]) or the incidence of nausea and vomiting (SMD = 0.808, 95% CI [0.311, 2.104]) between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Peripheral nerve block for hip arthroscopy has no clinical advantage regarding pain management after surgery when compared with the group that received the local infiltration of analgesics without peripheral nerve block.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II, meta-analysis of level I and II randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Patient-specific factors, but neither regional anesthesia nor hip-specific cryotherapy, predict postoperative opioid requirements after hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) syndrome

Background

We sought to determine whether regional nerve block, cryotherapy variant, or patient-specific factors predict postoperative opioid requirements and pain control following hip arthroscopy.

Methods

104 patients underwent hip arthroscopy with (n = 31) or without (n = 73) regional block and received cryotherapy with a universal pad [joint non-specific; no compression (n = 60)] or circumferential hip/groin wrap with intermittent compression (n = 44). Outcomes included total opioid prescription amounts, requests for refills, and unplanned clinical encounters for postoperative pain within 45 days of surgery. Multivariate modeling was used to determine the effect of perioperative regional nerve block and type of cryotherapy device on outcomes after adjusting for patient demographics, previous opioid use, mental health disorder history, and surgery length.

Results

The average amount of 5 mg oxycodone pill equivalents prescribed within 45 days of surgery was 40.5 (SD 14.8); 36% requested refills, 20% presented to another physician, and 21% called the surgeon's office due to pain. Neither the hip-specific cryotherapy pad nor regional block was predictive of opioid amounts prescribed, refill requests, or unplanned clinical encounters due to pain. Refill requests within 45 days were more common with baseline opioid use (p < 0.001), increased age (p = 0.007), and mental health disorder history (p = 0.008). Total opioid amounts prescribed within 45 days were higher with workers compensation (p = 0.03), a larger initial opioid prescription (p < 0.001), baseline opioid use (p < 0.001), history of mental health disorder (p = 0.02), and increased age (p = 0.02). Together, these variables explained 61% of the variance in opioid amounts prescribed.

Conclusion

Patient factors are strong predictors of postoperative opioid requirements after hip arthroscopy. Postoperative opioid prescription amounts, opioid refill requests, and pain-related calls or office visits were not affected by use of a perioperative regional nerve block or type of cryotherapy delivery system.

Level of evidence

III, retrospective cohort study.

Tranexamic Acid Administration in Arthroscopic Surgery Is a Safe Adjunct to Decrease Postoperative Pain and Swelling: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To systematically screen the literature in an effort to critically examine the effect of tranexamic acid (TXA) in patients undergoing arthroscopic surgery, specifically pertaining to pain, blood loss, length of surgery, and both major and minor complications.

METHODS

In accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and Revised Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews (R-AMSTAR) guidelines, 3 databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane) were searched April 2020 and screened in duplicate using inclusion and exclusion criteria for studies on the given subject. Study findings were reviewed, and meta-analysis was then performed on sufficiently congruent data using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

There were 7 eligible randomized controlled trials, with 724 total patients, undergoing anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (4 studies, 537 patients), meniscectomy (1 study, 45 patients), femoroacetabular impingement (1 study, 70 patients), or rotator cuff repair (1 study, 72 patients). The mean age throughout the included studies was 33.9 years, with a mean of 27.7% female patients. There was a 1% drop out rate at 3 months postoperatively. There were significantly lower visual analog scale scores at 2 weeks postoperatively in the TXA groups (mean difference: -1.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] -3.41 to 0.10, P = .06, I² = 97%). Furthermore, there was a significant decrease in the number of patients requiring joint aspiration in the TXA groups (risk ratio 0.27, 95% CI 0.12-0.56, I² = 0%, P = .0006). The drainage output in TXA groups was also significantly decreased (mean difference: -61.14 mL, 95% CI -104.43 to -17.85, I² = 94%, P = .006). Furthermore, there was a statistically significant decrease in hemarthrosis grade (Coupens & Yates) at 2 weeks postoperatively (Mean difference: -0.76, 95% CI -0.97 to -0.54, I² = 0%, P < .0001). Finally, there was no significant difference in operating time, across all studies (Mean difference: 0.53, 95% CI -3.43 to 4.50, I² = 57%, P < .79). The use of TXA showed no increased incidence of deep vein thrombosis, infection, arthrofibrosis, or other major complications or adverse reactions between the TXA and control groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trialss found that the use of TXA significantly improves pain scores up to 6 weeks postoperatively, decreases drainage output, decreases the need for joint aspirations, decreases incidence of hemarthrosis, increases visual clarity and technical ease, and has no increased incidence of other complications, at no loss to operative time. These findings indicate that TXA may be a useful adjunct in arthroscopic knee and shoulder surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

Preoperative Quadratus Lumborum Block Reduces Opioid Requirements in the Immediate Postoperative Period Following Hip Arthroscopy: A Randomized, Blinded Clinical Trial

PURPOSE

To examine acute postoperative opioid consumption in patients undergoing hip arthroscopy and randomized to either receive a preoperative lateral quadratus lumborum block or sham injection.

METHODS

This trial randomized 46 subjects undergoing hip arthroscopy with a single surgeon to receive a preoperative lateral quadratus lumborum block (40 mL, ropivacaine 0.25%) or sham injection. The primary outcome was postoperative opioid consumption in patients with and without a block. All opioid medications were converted to morphine milligram equivalents for comparisons. Categorical data were compared with χ2 tests and Fisher exact tests where appropriate. Continuous data were compared with 2-sided t-test and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests.

RESULTS

Forty-six subjects scheduled for elective hip arthroscopy were successfully consented and randomized. Demographic and clinical characteristics did not differ. Postoperative opioid consumption decreased 28.3% in patients who received a preoperative lateral quadratus lumborum block (P = .04). Total perioperative opioid consumption (intraoperative and postoperative combined) was reduced 20% in the block group; however, this did not achieve statistical significance (P = .05). Three subjects in the sham group (12.5%) required unblinding for a rescue block in the postoperative anesthetic care unit (PACU) for uncontrolled pain despite systemic analgesics. While cold sensation was decreased postoperatively over the abdomen (P < .001) and anterior thigh (P = .03) in the block group, other PACU variables did not differ, including VAS pain scores, motor function, side effects, PACU duration, and patient satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS

Opioid consumption was reduced in patients who received a preoperative lateral quadratus lumborum block combined with a standardized, multimodal protocol as compared with patients who did not receive a block. Our findings support the growing evidence that quadratus lumborum blocks are an effective component of multimodal analgesia options for patients undergoing elective hip arthroscopy.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I, randomized controlled trial.

Analgesic efficacy of posterior and anterior psoas compartment block: Lumbar plexus versus three -in-one nerve block after lower limb orthopedic surgery under spinal anesthesia: A prospective cohort study

Introduction

Postoperative pain is the most common complaint in patients who underwent orthopedic surgery. Regarding with the severity of pain, orthopedic patients suffered more than non-orthopedic patients in the immediate post-operative period. Therefore, pain management is crucial for better patient outcome. Lumbar plexus (LB) and three -in-one (3IN1) nerve blocks have been routinely practiced as pain management techniques in the study area but the analgesic efficacy was not studied yet. Thus, this study was aimed to compare the analgesic efficacy of the LBP versus 3IN1B as postoperative pain management after thigh orthopedic surgery under spinal anesthesia.

Method

An institutional-based prospective cohort study was conducted from October 10, 2020 to March 30, 2021 at the University comprehensive specialized hospital. Non-probability convenient sampling was used to select participants in both groups. The time to first analgesic request, severity of pain and total analgesia consumption within the first postoperative 24 h were measured.

Result

The mean and standard deviation to seek the first analgesia request time was 11. 55 ± 2. 82hr and 13. 35 ± 2. 58hr (p- 0.07) in patients who received LPB and 3IN1B respectively. Pain severity at rest and on movement was also comparable. The total tramadol consumption was 67. 65 ± 27. 20 mg and 70. 59 ± 37. 19 mg (p- 0.71), while total Diclofenac consumption was 63. 23 ± 45. 74 mg and 44. 88 ± 34. 72 mg (p-0.07) in LPB and 3IN1B groups respectively.

Conclusion

The study showed that there was no significant difference in the time to first analgesia request, postoperative pain, both at rest and movement and total analgesic consumption, between the LPB and 3IN1B.

•

Orthopedic patients suffered more than non-orthopedic patients in the immediate post-operative period.

•

Nerve blocks provide effective analgesic options.

•

There are controversies comparing the efficacy of lumbar plexus and three in one femoral nerve block.

•

Lumbar plexus and three in one nerve blocks have comparable time to seek 1st analgesia.

•

Lumbar plexus and three in one nerve blocks have comparable pain severity and comparable analgesic consumption.

The Erector Spinae Plane Block in the Setting of Hip Arthroscopy: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

PURPOSE

To investigate whether the use of an erector spinae plane block (ESPB) would reduce perioperative pain after arthroscopic therapy for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) and to examine the amount of additional opioids and postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV).

METHODS

From October 2019 to October 2020, 68 patients undergoing arthroscopic therapy for FAIS were randomly allocated into 2 groups. The first group received an ultrasound-guided ESPB preoperatively with 30 mL of 0.375% ropivacaine and standard postoperative oral medication. The second group received a sham block preoperatively with 30 mL of 0.9% saline and standard postoperative oral medication. The primary endpoint was pain scores (numeric pain score out of 10) during the first 24 hours postoperatively. Secondary outcomes were opioid consumption during the first 24 hours (converted to morphine equivalents) and the incidence of PONV. Demographic and clinical characteristics were recorded for all patients. Categorial data were compared with chi-squared and Fisher's exact tests. Continuous data were compared with 2-sided t tests and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight subjects consented and were successfully randomized. Reported postoperative pain was significantly lower in the ESPB group than in the control group during the first 24 hours. The opioid amount (P = .865) and postoperative nausea (P = .642) did not differ significantly between groups. No associated complications such as falls, hematomas, or muscular weakness occurred in either group.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that ESPB significantly decreases pain in the first 24 hours after arthroscopic therapy for FAIS. However, there was no evidence of lower opioid consumption compared with the control group. Overall, a low and comparable rate of PONV was present. Therefore, the ESPB seems to complement a multimodal approach to perioperative pain management in hip arthroscopy.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

1, randomized controlled trial.

Pragmatic comparative effectiveness study of multimodal fascia iliaca nerve block and continuous lumbar epidural-based protocols for periacetabular osteotomy

Perioperative pain management protocols have a significant impact on early surgical outcomes and recovery. We hypothesized that multimodal protocol including fascia iliaca compartment nerve block (MM-FICNB) would decrease the length of hospital stay (LOS) by facilitating earlier mobilization, without compromising analgesia, compared to a traditional lumbar epidural-based protocol (EP). Demographics/comorbidities, surgical/block characteristics and perioperative pain/mobilization data were collected from a prospectively recruited MM-FICNB group (N = 16) and a retrospective EP cohort (N = 16) who underwent PAO using similar surgical techniques, physical therapy/discharge criteria. Association of MM-FICNB group with LOS (primary outcome), postoperative pain, postoperative opioid requirements in morphine equivalent rates (MER) (mcg/kg/h) and time to complete physical therapy were tested using multivariable and survival regression. Patient and surgical characteristics were similar between groups. Median time for FICNB performance was significantly less than epidural (6 versus 15 min; P < 0.001). LOS was significantly decreased in the MM-FICNB group (2.88 ± 0.72 days) compared to the EP group (4.38 ± 1.02 days); P < 0.001. MM-FICNB group had significantly lower MER on POD1 (P = 0.006) and POD2 (P < 0.001), with similar pain scores on all POD. MM-FICNB group was associated with decreased LOS and earlier mobilization (P < 0.001) by covariate-adjusted multivariate regression. Cox proportional hazard regression model showed MM-FICNB subjects had 63 (95% CI 7–571, P < 0.001) times the chance of completing physical therapy goals, compared to EP. Compared to EP, MM-FICNB protocol allowed earlier mobilization and decreased post-surgical hospitalization by 1.5 days, without compromising analgesia, with important implications for value-based healthcare and cost-effectiveness.

Institutional Reductions in Opioid Prescribing Following Hip Arthroscopy Do Not Change Patient Satisfaction Scores

Purpose

To investigate what effect decreased opioid prescribing following hip arthroscopy had on Press-Ganey satisfaction survey scores.

Methods

A retrospective review of prospectively collected data was conducted on patients who underwent primary hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement between October 2014 and October 2019. Inclusion criteria consisted of complete Press-Ganey survey information, no history of trauma, fracture, connective tissue disease, developmental hip dysplasia, autoimmune disease, or previous hip arthroscopy. Groups were separated based on date of surgery relative to implementation of an institutional opioid reduction policy that occurred in October 2018. Prescriptions were converted to milligram morphine equivalents (MME) for direct comparison between different opioids.

Results

A total of 113 patients met inclusion criteria, 88 preprotocol and 25 postprotocol. There were no statistically significant differences between groups with respect to patient demographics or intraoperative pathologies (P > .05). Average opioid prescription dropped from 249.6 ± 152 MME (equivalent to 33.3 tablets of oxycodone 5 mg) preprotocol to 108.6 ± 84.7 MME (equivalent to 14.5 tablets of oxycodone 5 mg) postprotocol; P = .0002. There were no statistically significant differences in Press-Ganey survey scores between pre- and postprotocol groups (P > .05).

Conclusions

A reduction in opioids prescribed after a hip arthroscopy is not associated with any statistically significant difference in patient satisfaction with pain management, as measured by the Press-Ganey survey.

Level of Evidence

Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Addition of Celebrex and Pregabalin to Ropivacaine for Posterior Spinal Surgery: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Background

Serious pain commonly occurs after posterior spinal surgery. This study aims to evaluate the effect of preemptive and multimodal analgesia using celebrex, pregabalin and ropivacaine on pain control after this surgery.

Methods

Ninety-three patients undergoing posterior spinal surgery were enrolled in this prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. All patients were treated with patient- controlled analgesia (PCA, intravenous tramadol hydrochloride and flurbiprofen) as required. They were randomized to combination analgesia intervention (oral celebrex, pregabalin and subcutaneous infiltration of ropivacaine), ropivacaine intervention (only subcutaneous infiltration of ropivacaine), and control intervention (placebo). We compared postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) scores and PCA dose among the three groups.

Results

The VAS scores were significantly lower in the combination analgesia group than in the control group at 0 h, 2 h, 12 h, 24 h, 3 d, 5 d, 7 d and 14 d after posterior spinal surgery, while combination analgesia was also superior to ropivacaine in terms of VAS scores at 24 h and 14 d postoperatively. The combination analgesia group was also associated with significantly reduced PCA consumption compared with the control group, but there was no statistical difference in PCA consumption between the ropivacaine group and control group.

Conclusion

Combination analgesia using celebrex, pregabalin and ropivacaine is effective and safe to alleviate pain after posterior spinal surgery.

Clinical Trial Registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry No. ChiCTR2000031236.

Celecoxib significantly reduces opioid use after shoulder arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

The opioid crisis has illuminated the risks of opioid use for pain management, with renewed interest in reducing opioid consumption after common orthopedic procedures. Anti-inflammatory medication is an important component of multimodal pain management for patients undergoing orthopedic surgery. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of celecoxib on pain control and opioid use after shoulder surgery.

METHODS

Patients scheduled for either total shoulder replacement (group 1) or rotator cuff repair (group 2) were candidates for the study. The exclusion criteria included allergy to celecoxib, coagulopathy, use of anticoagulants, baseline use of long-acting opioids, and a history of medical conditions such as myocardial infarction or stroke. Consenting patients were randomized by type of procedure using block randomization to receive either placebo or celecoxib 1 hour prior to the procedure and for 3 weeks postoperatively. The primary outcome measure assessed was opioid utilization as measured by morphine-equivalent dose (MED). Secondary outcome measures included pain scores at 3 and 6 weeks postoperatively. Data were analyzed using multiple linear regression.

RESULTS

Of 1081 patients scheduled for either total shoulder replacement or rotator cuff repair from February 2014 to February 2018, 78 were enrolled for arthroplasty (group 1, with 39 receiving celecoxib and 39 receiving placebo) and 79 were enrolled for rotator cuff repair (group 2, with 40 receiving celecoxib and 39 receiving placebo). Compared with the placebo arm, patients prescribed celecoxib took fewer MEDs by -168 (95% confidence interval [CI], -272 to -64; P < .01) at 3 weeks in the total population and by -197.7 (95% CI, -358 to -38; P = .02) in the arthroplasty group. Similarly, at 6 weeks, total MEDs used was -199 (95% CI, -356 to -42; P < .01) in the total population and -270 (95% CI, -524 to -16; P = .04) in the arthroplasty group. No statistically significant differences in opioid consumption were found between study arms in the cuff repair group, at either 3 or 6 weeks. Of note, preoperative opioid use was statistically associated with higher levels of opioid use in the total population and group 1 at 3 and 6 weeks (P < .01 for all) but not in group 2 (P > .05 for both).

CONCLUSIONS

Use of morphine equivalents was statistically significantly less at 3 and 6 weeks in patients who took celecoxib in the total population and in the arthroplasty group. Patients prescribed celecoxib for 3 weeks after shoulder surgery took less opioid medication for pain at 3 and 6 weeks. Multimodal pain control using celecoxib is an effective way to reduce postoperative opioid use in shoulder arthroplasty patients. Preoperative opioid use is associated with higher levels of opioid use after shoulder arthroplasty.

Pain management practice patterns after hip arthroscopy: an international survey

Several post-operative pain control methods have been described for hip arthroscopy including systemic medications, intra-articular or peri-portal injection of local anesthetics and peripheral nerve blocks. The diversity of modalities used may reflect a lack of consensus regarding an optimal approach. The purpose of this investigation was to conduct an international survey to assess pain management patterns after hip arthroscopy. It was hypothesized that a lack of agreement would be present in the majority of the surgeons’ responses. A 25-question multiple-choice survey was designed and distributed to members of multiple orthopedic professional organizations related to sports medicine and hip arthroscopy. Clinical agreement was defined as > 80% of respondents selecting a single answer choice, while general agreement was defined as >60% of a given answer choice. Two hundred and fifteen surgeons completed the survey. Clinical agreement was only evident in the use of oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain management after hip arthroscopy. A significant number of respondents (15.8%) had to readmit a patient to the hospital for pain control in the first 30 days after hip arthroscopy in the past year. There is significant variability in pain management practice after hip arthroscopy. The use of oral NSAIDs in the post-operative period was the only practice that reached a clinical agreement. As the field of hip preservation surgery continues to evolve and expand rapidly, further research on pain management after hip arthroscopy is clearly needed to establish evidence-based guidelines and improve clinical practice.

A Comparative Analysis of the Quadratus Lumborum Block Versus Femoral Nerve and Fascia Iliaca Blocks in Hip Arthroscopy

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of the single-shot quadratus lumborum (QL) block versus femoral nerve and fascia iliacus (F/FI) blocks performed preoperatively on perioperative opioid requirements, subjective pain scores, and time to discharge.

Methods

Patients who underwent hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement and had a preoperative nerve block between January 2017 and August 2019 at our institution were identified. Patients were separated into 2 groups: those who either received a preoperative single-shot QL block or a preoperative single-shot F/FI block. All patients received general anesthesia. Intraoperative, postanesthesia care unit (PACU), and total morphine equivalents were analyzed using unpaired t test. Secondary outcome measures including total time in PACU and block-related complications were recorded and analyzed as well.

Results

One hundred one patients were retrospectively reviewed. Forty-three patients received preoperative QL blocks, and 58 patients received preoperative F/FI blocks. Demographics and operative characteristics were similar between the 2 groups. Patients receiving a QL block required significantly lower total morphine equivalents (63.1 vs 87.0, P < .001). Patients receiving a QL block also had shorter PACU stays (116 vs 148 minutes, P < .001) and lower subjective pain scores at the time of discharge (3.27 vs 4.98, P < .001) compared with the F/FI block group. There were also significant decreases in the number of intraoperative opioids (42.1 vs 58.4, P < .001) and PACU opioids (20.7 vs 28.7, P = .03) used when analyzed separately. Two patients in the femoral nerve block group had noted a fall postoperatively while the block was in effect. No patients in the QL block group had a block-related complication.

Conclusions

Patients receiving a preoperative QL block for hip arthroscopy demonstrated lower total opioid requirements, shorter PACU stay, and lower pain scores at discharge than patients receiving preoperative F/FI blocks with no reported adverse events.

Level of Evidence

Level III, retrospective comparative trial.

A comprehensive three-phase opiate sparing multimodal pain protocol for hip arthroscopy: a retrospective review

The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy of a three-phase, multimodal, perioperative pain protocol for primary hip arthroscopy based on pain scores, narcotic use, time to discharge, hospital admission and complications. A retrospective study of patients undergoing primary hip arthroscopy over a 48-month time period was conducted. Patients were separated into a multimodal group consisting of non-narcotic medication, local analgesia and a peripheral nerve block (PNB) versus patients receiving only a PNB. Differences in post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) visual analog scores, PACU time to discharge, PACU opioid consumption, hospital admission and complications between protocols were recorded and analyzed. There were 422 patients who underwent 484 surgeries, with 15 patients crossing over pain protocol groups for surgery on the contralateral hip. One hundred and ninety-six patients underwent 213 procedures in the multimodal group and 241 patients underwent 271 procedures in the PNB group. No differences in baseline characteristics were appreciated between groups. Mean time to discharge was significantly shorter in the multimodal group (137.4 ± 49.3 min versus 176.3 ± 6.5 min; P < 0.001) which also had less post-operative admissions (0 versus 9; P = 0.006) than the PNB group. In patients who crossed over protocol groups, a statistically shorter time to discharge was appreciated with the multimodal protocol compared with the PNB protocol (119.9 ± 32.1 min versus 187.9 ± 9.2; P = 0.012). The three-phase, multimodal pain protocol led to significantly faster discharge times and fewer hospital admissions when compared with isolated PNB in patients undergoing primary hip arthroscopy.

Healing rates after rotator cuff repair for patients taking either celecoxib or placebo: a double-blind randomized controlled trial

Background

Use of anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) is an important component of multimodal pain control after orthopedic procedures to avoid opioid overutilization and abuse. However, the deleterious effects of NSAIDs on tendon healing are of particular concern in rotator cuff repair (RCR). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of celecoxib or placebo on healing rates after RCR when administered in the perioperative and immediate postoperative period using MRI evaluation at one year postoperatively. A secondary aim was to determine whether clinical differences existed between patients with intact or non-intact repairs.

Methods

Patients aged ≤65 years with partial- or full-thickness rotator cuff tear (<25x25 mm) were randomized to receive celecoxib 400 mg or placebo 1 hour before the procedure and 200mg bid for 3 weeks postoperatively. All patients were treated as clinically indicated at the time of surgery and followed standard postoperative protocol. Repair integrity was evaluated with MRI using the Sugaya classification for repair integrity. Data were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression by intent to treat.

Results

Seventy-nine patients were enrolled; 21 were lost to follow-up, 6 did not have cuff repair, 5 were revised, and 2 declined follow-up, leaving 45 patients with one-year follow-up. Five of these patients did not complete MRI, leaving 40 patients for review. Eighteen of 20 patients (90%) who received celecoxib completed all doses of study medication as did 15 of 20 patients (75%) who received placebo. The patient groups were similar for demographics, clinical results, and healing rate. After adjusting for tear size, no statistically significant difference in healing rate was found between groups, with 10 of 20 celecoxib patients (50%) having intact repair at 1 year compared with 14 of 20 placebo patients (70%) (OR = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.14, 2.08, P = 0.35).

Conclusion

Half of the patients who received celecoxib had an intact repair compared with 70% intact repair for patients receiving placebo. Although not statistically significant in this small study, larger studies are needed to clarify this important clinical concern. The authors do not recommend use of celecoxib for postoperative pain control after RCR.

Pain Scores and Activity Tolerance in the Early Postoperative Period After Hip Arthroscopy

Background:

Despite the rapid growth in the use of hip arthroscopy, standardized data on postoperative pain scores and activity level are lacking.

Purpose:

To quantify narcotic consumption and use of the stationary bicycle in the early postoperative period after hip arthroscopy.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

In this prospective case series, patients undergoing a primary hip arthroscopy procedure by a single surgeon were asked to fill out a daily survey for 9 days postoperatively. Patients were asked to report their pain level each day on a visual analog scale from 1 to 10, along with the amount of narcotic pain pills they used during those postoperative days (PODs). Narcotic usage was converted to a morphine-equivalent dosage (MED) for each patient. Patients were also instructed to cycle daily starting on the night of surgery for a minimum of 3 minutes twice per day and were asked to rate their pain as a percentage of their preoperative pain level and the number of minutes spent cycling on a stationary bicycle per day.

Results:

A total of 212 patients were enrolled in this study. Pain levels (POD1, 5.5; POD4, 3.8; POD9, 2.9; P < .0001) and the percentage of preoperative pain (POD1, 51.6%; POD4, 31.8%; POD9, 29.5%; P < .01) significantly decreased over the study period. The amount of narcotics used per day (reported in MED) also significantly decreased (POD1, 27.3; POD4, 22.3; POD9, 8.5; P < .0001). By POD4, 41% of patients had discontinued all narcotics, and by POD9, 65% of patients were completely off narcotic medication. Patients were able to significantly increase the number of minutes spent cycling each day (POD1, 7.6 minutes; POD4, 13.8 minutes; POD9, 19.0 minutes; P < .0001). Patients who received a preoperative narcotic prescription for the affected hip were significantly more likely to require an additional postoperative narcotic prescription (P < .001).

Conclusion:

Patients can expect a rapid decrease in narcotic consumption along with a high degree of activity tolerance in the early postoperative period after hip arthroscopy.

Functional outcome and return to sports after the arthroscopic latarjet procedure in young and physically active patients

PURPOSE

The ideal treatment strategy for traumatic anterior shoulder instability with glenoid bone loss in young, physically active patients is still controversial. This study examines sporting activity, the ability to practice sports and the ability to return to sports after the arthroscopic Latarjet procedure.

METHODS

A total of 47 physically active patients with an average age of 24.5 ± 5.9 years were included in the study and evaluated at a minimum of two years after surgical treatment using shoulder and sport-specific scores. The shoulder sport activity score, Brophy marx activity score, Athletic shoulder outcome scoring system and the SPORTS score were used to assess the ability to practice sports, the sporting activity and the ability to return to sports. To assess functional outcome and shoulder stability, the evaluation was conducted using the Western Ontario shoulder instability index, the Constant score, the American shoulder and elbow surgeon score, and the Subjective shoulder value.

RESULTS

89.4% of the patients examined were able to perform the sport they had previously practiced after an average of 4.6 ± 2.0 months. Overhead athletes and martial arts athletes demonstrated a significantly lower return to sports rate than non-collision/non-overhead athletes (p = 0.01). With regard to sport-, instability-, or function-specific scores, no significant difference was found between patients after primary Latarjet procedure and patients after Latarjet procedure following a failed open or arthroscopic Bankart repair. All scores showed good to very good functional results on average. Two patients suffered a traumatic recurrent instability (4.1%) during the follow-up period and were therefore excluded from this study.

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic Latarjet procedure presents a good surgical option, especially for young, physically active patients; it has very good clinical outcome, a high return to sports rate and a low probability of recurrent dislocation.

Prospective Single-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Pericapsular Injection Versus Lumbar Plexus Peripheral Nerve Block for Hip Arthroscopy

BACKGROUND

Hip arthroscopy has become the standard for the operative treatment of symptomatic femoroacetabular impingement. Given the high levels of postoperative pain associated with hip arthroscopy, optimal analgesia is critical to ensure patient comfort and safety after discharge.

PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS

Our purpose was to perform a single-blinded randomized controlled trial comparing the use of pericapsular injection versus lumbar plexus blockade for postoperative pain control after arthroscopic surgery on the hip. We hypothesized that pericapsular injection would provide equivalent pain relief to that of lumbar plexus blockade while minimizing adverse effects and alleviating the dependence on a qualified individual to administer.

STUDY DESIGN

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

METHODS

A total of 64 consecutive patients undergoing hip arthroscopy were prospectively assessed over a 6-month period between 2017 and 2018. Patients were randomly allocated to 1 of 2 groups: 32 patients received a lumbar plexus blockade by a single anesthesiologist, while 32 patients received a pericapsular injection of 30 mL of ropivacaine and 12 mg of morphine. Postoperative pain in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) as measured using the numeric rating scale, time to discharge, PACU morphine equivalents, and adverse effects were collected by PACU staff. Postoperative day 1 and 2 narcotic use was obtained through a telephone call with the patient on postoperative day 3.

RESULTS

We found no statistically significant difference in PACU pain scores at all time points, although there was a trend toward lower pain for patients receiving a pericapsular injection. PACU and short-term narcotic demand did not vary across the 2 arms. Time to discharge from the PACU did not differ. There were no major adverse events reported for either intervention.

CONCLUSION

Pericapsular injection provides equivalent analgesia when compared with lumbar plexus blockade. It is a safe intervention that allows for efficient postoperative analgesia for patients undergoing hip arthroscopy.

REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT03244631.

Editorial Commentary: Hip Preservation and Opioids

Approximately one-third of patients undergoing arthroscopic hip preservation surgery for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome and labral tears are on preoperative opioid medications. The single most important predictor for prolonged chronic postoperative opioid use is preoperative use. Despite the well-documented high success rates in nonarthritic, nondysplastic individuals undergoing hip arthroscopy, up to half of those individuals on preoperative opioids may still be on opioids at 1 to 2 years of follow-up. Mental wellness disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety, substance abuse) significantly impact both pre- and postoperative pain, function, and activity in nearly all joint and general health outcome measures. Multimodal pain management strategies have shown excellent reduction in perioperative opioid utilization. Intraoperative techniques should strive for comprehensive true hip preservation: labral repair, accurate cam/pincer morphology correction, and routine capsular management. Objective, quantitative pain threshold and pain tolerance measurements may improve treatment decision-making, with better prediction of surgical outcomes. Future personalized health care may use a single individual's mu opioid receptor (OPRM-1 gene) and a number of other genetic markers for pain management to reduce the need for traditional opioid medications. Is opioid-free hip arthroscopy possible? Absolutely. Will the opioid epidemic end? Yes, but we have a lot of work to do.

Editorial Commentary: Pain After Hip Arthroscopy-Are We Truly Addressing the Problem?

Pain after hip arthroscopy is a significant and challenging issue as is evidenced by the number of publications on this subject. Various analgesic strategies to circumvent this issue have been tried, with variable results. The central problem is that pain experienced by patients after hip arthroscopy is multifactorial in origin. Regarding local injection, an anatomic approach to the nerve supply to the hip with an effective pain relief strategy should take this into consideration and focus on using drugs with a low risk of complications and infiltration techniques that do not cause an unnecessary delay in rehabilitation and discharge of the patient. Furthermore, addressing traction time, surgical technique, and fluid extravasation and applying an individualized approach, keeping the patient's personality and profile in mind, will ensure adequate analgesia after arthroscopic intervention.

Implementation of the Obturator Nerve Block into a Supra-Inguinal Fascia Iliaca Compartment Block Based Analgesia Protocol for Hip Arthroscopy: Retrospective Pre-Post Study

Background and Objectives: The effect of supra-inguinal fascia iliaca compartment block (SI-FICB) in hip arthroscopy is not apparent. It is also controversial whether SI-FICB can block the obturator nerve, which may affect postoperative analgesia after hip arthroscopy. We compared analgesic effects before and after the implementation of obturator nerve block into SI-FICB for hip arthroscopy. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed medical records of 90 consecutive patients who underwent hip arthroscopy from January 2017 to August 2019. Since August 2018, the analgesic protocol was changed from SI-FICB to SI-FICB with obturator nerve block. According to the analgesic regimen, patients were categorized as group N (no blockade), group F (SI-FICB only), and group FO (SI-FICB with obturator nerve block). Primary outcome was the cumulative opioid consumption at 24 hours after surgery. Additionally, cumulative opioid consumption at 6 and 12 hours after surgery, pain score, additional analgesic requests, intraoperative opioid consumption and hemodynamic stability, and postoperative nausea and vomiting were assessed. Results: Among 87 patients, there were 47 patients in group N, 21 in group F, and 19 in group FO. The cumulative opioid (fentanyl) consumption at 24 hours after surgery was significantly lower in the group FO compared with the group N (N: 678.5 (444.0–890.0) µg; FO: 482.8 (305.8–635.0) µg; p = 0.014), whereas the group F did not show a significant difference (F: 636.0 (426.8–803.0) µg). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that implementing obturator nerve block into SI-FICB can reduce postoperative opioid consumption in hip arthroscopy.

Reduction of Postoperative Hip Arthroscopy Pain With an Ultrasound-Guided Fascia Iliaca Block: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Ultrasound-guided fascia iliaca blocks have been used for pain control after hip arthroscopy. There is little evidence regarding their effectiveness in comparison with other pain control modalities in patients who have undergone hip arthroscopy.

PURPOSE

To compare the efficacy of ultrasound-guided fascia iliac block with intra-articular ropivacaine in controlling pain after hip arthroscopy.

STUDY DESIGN

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 2.

METHODS

Between 2015 and 2017, patients (N = 95) undergoing hip arthroscopy were randomly assigned to 2 groups. The first group received an ultrasound-guided fascia iliaca block with 50 to 60 mL of 0.35% ropivacaine. The second group received an intra-articular injection of 20 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine at the completion of the surgical case. Primary outcomes were postoperative pain scores in the recovery room; at postanesthesia care unit (PACU) discharge; and at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months. Secondary outcomes included intraoperative and PACU narcotic usage (converted to morphine equivalent use) as well as readmission rates, PACU recovery time, and postoperative nausea and vomiting.

RESULTS

Postoperative pain across all points did not significantly differ between the groups. Intraoperative and PACU narcotics did not differ significantly between the groups. Readmission rates, PACU recovery time, and postoperative nausea and vomiting did not significantly differ between the groups. There were no associated complications in either group.

CONCLUSION

Ultrasound-guided fascia iliaca block for hip arthroscopy had no clinical advantage when compared with onetime intra-articular ropivacaine injection.

REGISTRATION

NCT02365961 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).

Peri-operative pain management in hip arthroscopy: a systematic review of the literature

The purpose of this article was to review current literature on peri-operative pain management in hip arthroscopy. A systematic review of the literature on pain control in hip arthroscopy published January 2008 to December 2018 was performed. Inclusion criteria consisted of English language or articles with English translations, subjects undergoing hip arthroscopy with documented peri-operative pain control protocols in studies reporting Level I to IV evidence. Exclusion criteria were non-English articles, animal studies, prior systematic review or meta-analyses, studies not reporting peri-operative pain control protocols, studies documenting only pediatric (<18 years of age) patients, studies with Level V evidence and studies including less than five subjects. Statistical analysis was performed to assess pain protocols on narcotic consumption in PACU, VAS score on discharge, time to discharge from PACU and incidence of complications. Seventeen studies were included, comprising 1674 patients. Nerve blocks were administered in 50% of patients (n = 838 of 1674), of which 88% (n = 740 of 838) received a pre-operative block while 12% (n = 98 of 838) post-operative block. Sixty-eight complications were recorded: falls (54%, n = 37), peripheral neuritis (41%, n = 28), seizure (1.5%, n = 1), oxygen desaturation and nausea (1.5%, n = 1) and epidural spread resulting in urinary retention (1.5%, n = 1). No significant differences in narcotic consumption, VAS score at discharge, time until discharge or incidence of complication was found based on pain control modality utilized. No statistically significant difference in PACU narcotic utilization, VAS pain scores at discharge, time to discharge or incidence of complications was found between peri-operative pain regimens in hip arthroscopy.

Postoperative Pain Management Strategies in Hip Arthroscopy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Hip arthroscopy is a rapidly growing field due to its significant diagnostic and therapeutic value in the management of numerous hip disorders. Adequate control of postoperative pain in patients undergoing hip arthroscopy continues to be a challenging and evolving area in orthopedics. In the absence of standardized protocols for pain management in these patients, a variety of different approaches have been utilized in an effort to find a regimen that is effective at reducing postoperative pain, narcotic consumption, and cost to the patient and healthcare system. The purpose of this article, therefore, is to provide a comprehensive review of current literature regarding postoperative pain management techniques in patients undergoing hip arthroscopy.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent literature demonstrates the importance of a multimodal approach to treat postoperative pain in patients undergoing hip arthroscopy. When a peripheral nerve block or intraoperative anesthetic is used in combination with a pre- and postoperative analgesic medication regimen, patients report less pain and postoperative narcotic consumption. Patient-reported pain scores and postoperative opioid use were similar between the different modalities, however, postoperative complications appear to be less in groups receiving intra-articular (IA) injection or local anesthetic infiltration (LAI) compared to peripheral nerve blocks. In summary, we present evidence that intraoperative techniques, such as IA injection or LAI, in conjunction with pre- and postoperative pain medications, offers an effective multimodal strategy for treating postoperative pain following hip arthroscopy. This topic is of increasing importance due to the need for cost-effective strategies of managing pain and decreasing opioid consumption following hip arthroscopy.

Efficacy of preemptive analgesia versus postoperative analgesia of celecoxib on postoperative pain, patients' global assessment and hip function recovery in femoroacetabular impingement patients underwent hip arthroscopy surgery

We aimed to investigate the efficacy of preemptive analgesia of celecoxib on postoperative pain, patients' global assessment (PGA) and hip function recovery compared to postoperative analgesia of celecoxib in femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) patients who underwent hip arthroscopy surgery (HAS). The 100 FAI patients underwent HAS were randomly allocated to preemptive analgesia group (N = 50) or postoperative analgesia group (N = 50) as a 1:1 ratio for 3 months. Pain visual analog scale (VAS) score, PGA score, rescue-use pethidine consumption and Harris hip score were assessed. Compared to postoperative analgesia group, pain VAS score decreased on day 1 (P = 0.036), day 2 (P = 0.046) and day 3 (P = 0.046), while was similar prior to operation (P = 0.587), on day 7 (P = 0.398), at month 1 (P = 0.461) and month 3 (P = 0.805) in preemptive analgesia group. Besides, rescue-use pethidine consumption was decreased in preemptive analgesia group than postoperative analgesia group within 3 days (P = 0.016) and within 7 days (P = 0.033) post-operation. For PGA score, it reduced on day 2 (P = 0.030) and day 3 (P = 0.048), while was similar prior to operation (P = 0.699), on day 1 (P = 0.699), day 7 (P = 0.224), at month 1 (P = 0.640) and month 3 (P = 0.400) in preemptive analgesia group than postoperative analgesia group. For Harris hip score, it was similar prior to operation (P = 0.372), on day 7 (P = 0.366), at month 1 (P = 0.466) and month 3 (P = 0.658) between the two groups. In conclusion, preemptive analgesia of celecoxib decreases short-term postoperative pain and PGA, but without effect on long-term hip function recovery than postoperative analgesia of celecoxib in FAI patients who underwent HAS.

The effect of suprainguinal fascia iliaca block on the recovery of patients after arthroscopic hip surgery

BACKGROUND

Adolescent and young adult patients undergoing arthroscopic hip surgery experience significant pain in the immediate postoperative period. There is a small body of evidence that indicates suprainguinal fascia iliaca blocks can improve comfort during recovery from this intervention. Our hypothesis was that patients undergoing hip surgery would consume fewer opioids and have less pain in the perioperative time frame if they received the block as part of their analgesic regimen.

METHODS

In this study, we evaluated the outcomes of 716 patients, including 275 who received a suprainguinal fascia iliaca block, and 441 who did not have a block. Inclusion criteria included all age groups and American Society of Anesthesiologists, functional classes 1-2. Patients who received other concurrent procedures or those with incomplete data sets were excluded. We utilized a regional anesthesia database that combined data from various repositories into one web-based relational system. The primary outcomes were total opioid consumption and pain scores in the recovery room. Secondary outcomes included opioid side effects, block-related complications, and total recovery room time. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate opioid consumption, side effects, and total recovery times. Pearson chi-square was applied to assess the level of pain between the two groups.

RESULTS

Total opioid consumption was significantly less in the block group compared to those not receiving a block (0.28 mg/kg vs 0.35 mg/kg, P < 0.001, 95% CI of difference in medians 0.04-0.10 mg/kg), but there was no statistical difference in pain scores. Patients with the regional block had a lower frequency of emesis in the PACU (0.7% vs 4.3%; P < 0.005, 95% CI of difference: 2-25) and shorter PACU times (93 vs 108 minutes, P < 0.001, 95% CI of difference: 8-23 minutes).

CONCLUSION

Our study supports the clinical effectiveness of suprainguinal fascia iliaca blocks in young patients undergoing arthroscopic hip surgery.

Prescription Opioid Use Before and After Hip Arthroscopy: A Caution to Prescribers

PURPOSE

To determine pre- and postoperative opioid utilization while identifying risk factors for prolonged postoperative opioid use following hip arthroscopy.

METHODS

All patients undergoing hip arthroscopy between 2007 and the second quarter of 2016 were identified within the Humana Inc. administrative claims database. Chronic preoperative opioid utilization was defined as filling of any opioid prescription 1 to 3 months before surgery, whereas acute preoperative opioid utilization was defined as filling any opioid prescription within 1 month of surgery. Rates of pre- and postoperative opioid utilization were calculated, and patient demographic characteristics and medical conditions associated with pre- and postoperative opioid utilization were identified.

RESULTS

Of the 1,208 patients undergoing hip arthroscopy, chronic and acute preoperative opioid utilization was observed in 24.9% and 17.3% of patients, respectively. Chronic preoperative opioid utilization was more frequently observed in obese (P < .001) patients, those ≥50 years of age (P = .002), and those with preexisting anxiety and/or depression (P < .001). In multivariate analysis, chronic preoperative opioid utilization was the strongest predictor of opioid prescription filling at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months postoperatively (odds ratio at 3 months, 18.60, 95% confidence interval, 12.41 to 28.55), whereas preexisting anxiety and/or depression and obesity were additionally identified as predictors of prolonged postoperative opioid utilization.

CONCLUSIONS

Chronic preoperative opioid utilization before hip arthroscopy is common at 24.9%. The high rate of chronic preoperative opioid utilization is particularly important considering that chronic preoperative opioid utilization is the strongest predictor of continued postoperative opioid prescription filling out to 12 months postoperatively.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, retrospective case series.

Quadratus lumborum block provides improved immediate postoperative analgesia and decreased opioid use compared with a multimodal pain regimen following hip arthroscopy

The purpose of our study was to evaluate the effect on immediate patient outcomes following hip arthroscopy with use of a preoperative, single shot quadratus lumborum (QL) block. We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent hip arthroscopy following a preoperative QL block. These patients were matched by age and gender to patients who had not received a block. Visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores immediately postoperatively and at the time of discharge were recorded. Hourly and overall opioid intake in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) was also recorded. Continuous data was analysed with paired t-test, with significance being defined as P < 0.05. Complications in the immediate postoperative period were recorded, as was time from admission to PACU to discharge. Fifty-six patients were included. Twenty-eight patients underwent QL block and 28 did not undergo a block. QL block patients required significantly less hydromorphone (P = 0.010) and oxycodone (P = 0.001) during their time in the PACU, and significantly fewer morphine equivalents overall and per hour in the PACU (P < 0.001). Despite receiving less opioid analgesia, QL block patients had significantly less pain immediately postoperatively (P = 0.026) and at the time of discharge (P = 0.015). The mean time to PACU discharge was 155 ± 49 min, and there was no difference in time to discharge between groups (P = 0.295). One patient in the QL block group experienced persistent flank numbness. Hip arthroscopy patients who received a preoperative QL block had less pain and a lower opioid requirement in PACU than those who did not receive a block.

Level of Evidence: Level III (Retrospective matched cohort study).

Update on Selective Regional Analgesia for Hip Surgery Patients

In hip surgery, regional anesthesia offers benefits in pain management and recovery. There are a wide range of regional analgesic options; none have shown to be superior. Lumbar plexus block, femoral nerve block, and fascia iliaca block are the most supported by published literature. Other techniques, such as selective obturator and/or lateral femoral cutaneous nerve blocks, represent alternatives. Newer approaches, such as quadratus lumborum block and local infiltration analgesia, require rigorous studies. To realize long-term outcome benefits, postoperative regional analgesia must be tailored to the individual patient and last longer.

A Systematic Summary of Systematic Reviews on the Topic of Hip Arthroscopic Surgery

BACKGROUND

There is a rapidly growing body of literature on the topic of hip arthroscopic surgery.

PURPOSE

To provide an overall summary of systematic reviews published on the indications, complications, techniques, outcomes, and information related to hip arthroscopic surgery.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

A systematic review of all hip arthroscopic surgery-related systematic reviews published between January 2000 and May 2018 was performed using PubMed, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Library. Narrative reviews and non-English articles were excluded.

RESULTS

A total of 837 articles were found, of which 85 met the inclusion criteria. Included articles were summarized and divided into 6 major categories based on the subject of the review: femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), non-FAI indications, surgical technique, outcomes, complications, and miscellaneous.

CONCLUSION

A summary of systematic reviews on hip arthroscopic surgery can provide surgeons with a single source for the most current synopsis of the available literature. As the prevalence of orthopaedic surgeons performing hip arthroscopic surgery increases, updated evidence-based guidelines must likewise be advanced and understood to ensure optimal patient management.