RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT06886815

Popliteal Nerve Block for Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture Repair Surgery

The Effects of Popliteal Nerve Block on Pain and Nerve-Related Symptoms After Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture Repair Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Sponsor

Women's College Hospital

Enrollment

80 participants

Start Date

Mar 17, 2026

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture

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.

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 YearsMax Age: 65 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This clinical trial is studying a procedure called Popliteal Nerve Block and a procedure called Sham Block for people with acute achilles tendon rupture. The study is currently recruiting participants at 1 location. People eligible for this study include aged 18 Years to 65 Years.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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Interventions

PROCEDUREPopliteal 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.

PROCEDURESham 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

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NCT06886815