Popliteal Nerve Block for Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture Repair Surgery (NCT06886815) | Clinical Trial Compass
RecruitingNot Applicable
Popliteal Nerve Block for Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture Repair Surgery
Canada80 participantsStarted 2026-03-17
Plain-language 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.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 65 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Age 18 - 65
* ASA classification: I - III
* BMI \< 35 kg/m2
* Undergoing acute Achilles tendon rupture repair surgery as a day surgery procedure
Exclusion Criteria:
* Pre-existing neurological deficits or peripheral neuropathy in the distribution of the tibial or common peroneal nerves
* Local infection
* Contraindication to regional anesthesia (e.g., bleeding diathesis, coagulopathy)
* History of use of over 30 mg oxycodone or equivalent per day
* Contraindication to any component of a standard multi-modal analgesia
* Allergy to local anesthetics
* History of significant psychiatric conditions that may affect patient assessment
* Pregnancy
* Inability to provide informed consent
* Patient refusal of popliteal nerve blockade
* Prior Achilles tendon surgeries on the operative leg
* Unable to speak or read English
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.