AuthorisedTherapeutic use (Phase IV)Interventional

Adductor canal and IPACK (infiltration between the popliteal artery and the capsule of the knee) blocks versus genicular nerves block for total knee arthroplasty: A randomized clinical trial

This research is looking into common pain relief methods used after knee replacement surgery for people with knee osteoarthritis. It specifically compares two types of nerve blocks – adductor canal and IPACK blocks – against a genicular nerve block. The main goal is to find out which method is most effective at reducing pain. Researchers will measure pain using a simple rating scale, check how much other pain medication (like opioids) patients need, and assess how well they can move their knee after surgery. They will also look at the overall quality of a patient's recovery to understand which pain control method helps people get back on their feet better and faster. This study is for adults aged 18 and over, both men and women.

At a glance

Status

Authorised

Phase

Therapeutic use (Phase IV)

Sponsor

Fundacio De Recerca Clinic Barcelona-Institut D’Investigacions Biomediques August Pi I Sunyer

Enrolment target

Start

06 Feb 2026

Knee Osteoarthritis

What is this study about?

Imagine you're having a knee replacement operation because of painful arthritis. After surgery, pain relief is really important to help you recover well and get moving again. This study is looking closely at different ways to help manage that pain using special injections called nerve blocks.

Nerve blocks are like temporary switches that turn off pain signals from your knee. This study is comparing a combination of two common types of nerve blocks (adductor canal and IPACK blocks) against another type called a genicular nerve block. The main aim is to see which of these options works best to reduce your pain after surgery, so you can recover more comfortably.

Researchers want to understand not only how much pain you feel, but also how much other strong pain medication you might need. They will also check how well you can bend and straighten your new knee, and how you feel about your overall recovery. This information will help doctors choose the best pain relief options for patients in the future, making knee replacement surgery and recovery as smooth as possible.

Key takeaways

Compares different nerve blocks for pain relief after knee replacement.
Aims to find the most effective pain control method.
Measures pain levels, need for other pain medicines, and knee movement.
Focuses on adults having knee replacement for osteoarthritis.
Contributes to better future pain management for patients.
Participation involves monitoring recovery for 48 hours post-surgery.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for volunteers who are adults, aged 18 and older. Both men and women can take part.

To be eligible, you would need to be approved for a total knee replacement operation. The study will focus specifically on people who have knee osteoarthritis, which is a common type of arthritis where the protective cartilage on the ends of your bones wears down over time.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Are you scheduled for a total knee replacement?
Is your knee replacement due to knee osteoarthritis?
Are you able to provide consent to take part in the study?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join this study, your doctor will perform a total knee replacement. As part of your pain management, you will receive one of the study's nerve block treatments; you won't know which one you are getting, and neither will your doctors or nurses. The medications used for the nerve blocks are standard local anaesthetics, similar to those used by dentists.

After your surgery, you'll be asked to rate your pain using a simple scale at specific times: immediately after the operation, then 12 hours later, and again 48 hours after surgery. Nurses will keep track of any other pain medication you receive. You'll also have the movement in your knee checked, and you'll complete a short questionnaire about your recovery. The total duration of your active participation, including assessments, will be for the first 48 hours after your surgery before you're discharged home.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study means you'll receive pain relief that is commonly used and safe after knee replacement surgery. The potential benefit is that one of the nerve block methods might work particularly well for you, leading to better pain control and a smoother recovery. As with any medical procedure, there are minor risks associated with nerve blocks, such as bruising, numbness, or rarely, infection at the injection site, but these are generally temporary. You are always free to withdraw from the study at any time without affecting your care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

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Unverified
Spain

Common questions

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a common condition that causes joints to become painful and stiff. It's often called 'wear and tear' arthritis because it happens when the smooth cartilage on the ends of bones wears down.

What is a total knee arthroplasty?

This is the medical term for a total knee replacement surgery. It's an operation to replace a damaged knee joint with artificial parts.

What are nerve blocks?

Nerve blocks are injections that contain special medicines to numb nerves, which helps to stop pain signals from reaching your brain. They are used to relieve pain, especially after surgery.

Will I know which pain relief treatment I'm getting?

No, you won't know which specific nerve block treatment you receive, and neither will your doctors or nurses. This is done to ensure the study results are fair and unbiased.

Does taking part affect my standard care?

No, your standard care for a knee replacement will not be affected. The study is about comparing different well-established methods of pain relief after your surgery.