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Popliteal Nerve Block for Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture Repair Surgery
Sponsor: Women's College Hospital
Summary
Achilles tendon rupture is common, yet the value of popliteal nerve block for postoperative pain control during surgical repair remains uncertain. Despite widespread use, evidence supporting its analgesic effectiveness is limited, and both popliteal nerve block and Achilles tendon repair carry risks of nerve injury. This randomized, placebo-controlled trial will evaluate whether adding a popliteal nerve block to standard systemic analgesia improves postoperative pain and reduces opioid use in patients undergoing acute Achilles tendon rupture repair. Secondary outcomes will examine the incidence and impact of nerve complications on recovery, including return to physical activity and functional performance.
Official title: The Effects of Popliteal Nerve Block on Pain and Nerve-Related Symptoms After Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture Repair Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 65 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
80
Start Date
2026-02
Completion Date
2028-03
Last Updated
2026-02-13
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Popliteal Nerve Block
Under ultrasound guidance, a 22G, 80-mm echogenic needle (SonoTAP II, Pajunk Medical Systems, USA) will be inserted using an in-plane lateral-to-medial approach. 30 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine with 2.5 µg/ml of epinephrine will be deposited between tibial and common peroneal nerves within the paraneural sheath. Adequate spread of local anesthetics will be confirmed by visualization of paraneural spread.
Sham Block
Patients in the Control group will receive sham blocks using a 25G needle to inject 1 mL of saline subcutaneously in the same location (popliteus of the surgical knee). Sterilization and ultrasound scanning will match actual PN block. Such a non-invasive placebo allows maintaining patient blinding, while reducing the risks associated with high-volume placebo nerve block injections. The ultrasound screen will be blinded from the patient's vision for all patients in the trial to prevent unblinding by patients with knowledge of the technique.
Locations (1)
Women's College Hospital
Toronto, Ontario, Canada