PENG Block Optimization: Volume and Dexamethasone Effects
Poland120 participantsStarted 2025-06-25
Plain-language summary
This randomized controlled trial investigates the impact of local anesthetic volume and perineural dexamethasone on the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effectiveness of the pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA). Patients were randomized to receive one of four PENG block variants differing in ropivacaine volume (10 mL or 20 mL of 0.2%) and the addition of 4 mg of perineural dexamethasone. The study evaluates postoperative pain, opioid requirements, systemic inflammatory markers, and quadriceps motor preservation.
Who can participate
Age range
60 Years – 100 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:
* Adults aged ≥18 years scheduled for primary unilateral total hip arthroplasty (THA).
* American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I-III.
* Ability to provide written informed consent.
* Spinal anesthesia planned as the primary anesthetic technique.
* Body mass index (BMI) between 18 and 35 kg/m².
* Fluent in the local language and able to understand the NRS pain scoring system.
Exclusion Criteria:
* Known allergy or hypersensitivity to ropivacaine, dexamethasone, or other amide local anesthetics.
* Pre-existing neurological deficits or neuropathies affecting lower limb motor or sensory function.
* Chronic opioid use (daily use \>30 mg oral morphine equivalents for \>1 month prior to surgery).
* History of coagulopathy, current anticoagulant therapy not eligible for regional anesthesia.
* Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (HbA1c \> 9%) or active systemic infection.
* Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
* Previous surgery or implantation on the ipsilateral hip.
* Inability to cooperate with postoperative assessments or participate in follow-up.
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.