Preoperative Versus Postoperative Interscalene Block in Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair (NCT07689448) | Clinical Trial Compass
Not Yet RecruitingNot Applicable
Preoperative Versus Postoperative Interscalene Block in Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair
Turkey (Türkiye)42 participantsStarted 2026-07-13
Plain-language summary
This study is evaluating whether the timing of an interscalene nerve block affects pain control and recovery after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair surgery.
An interscalene block is commonly used to reduce pain after shoulder surgery. However, it is not known whether administering the block before surgery or after surgery provides better outcomes. Participants undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair are assigned to receive the interscalene block either before the surgical incision or after completion of the procedure.
The study compares postoperative pain levels, opioid medication use, length of hospital stay, and ultrasound imaging quality during block administration between the two groups. Functional recovery is also assessed using patient-reported outcome measures during follow-up.
The investigators hypothesize that administration of the interscalene block before surgery may provide superior early pain control and reduce postoperative opioid requirements while maintaining similar functional outcomes compared with administration after surgery.
Who can participate
Age range
18 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 or older.
* Patients undergoing primary arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.
* Presence of a repairable small-, medium-, or large-sized rotator cuff tear confirmed by clinical and imaging evaluation.
* Receipt of an ultrasound-guided interscalene nerve block as part of perioperative pain management.
* Ability to provide informed consent and comply with study follow-up requirements.
Exclusion Criteria:
* Irreparable rotator cuff tears.
* Partial-thickness rotator cuff tears not requiring repair.
* Revision rotator cuff repair procedures.
* Concomitant shoulder procedures that could substantially influence postoperative pain or functional outcomes (e.g., shoulder arthroplasty, fracture fixation).
* Previous surgery on the affected shoulder.
* Contraindications to interscalene nerve block, including local anesthetic allergy, infection at the injection site, or severe neurologic disease affecting the brachial plexus.
* Chronic opioid use or opioid dependence before surgery.
* Inability to complete study questionnaires or follow the postoperative rehabilitation protocol.
* Missing baseline or follow-up data required for outcome assessment.
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.