Could a simple IV drug replace needles for knee surgery pain?

NCT ID NCT04828083

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Rhode Island Hospital Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether giving lidocaine through an IV works as well as an ultrasound-guided nerve block for controlling pain after total knee replacement. 120 adults having knee surgery were randomly assigned to receive either IV lidocaine or a saline placebo (with the nerve block group getting the opposite). The main goal was to see if IV lidocaine could reduce the amount of opioids needed after surgery.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: lidocaine
What this could lead to: If IV lidocaine works as well as a nerve block, it could offer a simpler, needle-free option for managing pain after knee replacement surgery.
What could go wrong: This is a small, completed Phase 4 trial with only 120 participants. The results may not apply to everyone, and IV lidocaine can have side effects like dizziness or heart issues.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ARTHROPLASTY REPLACEMENT, KNEE TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Rhode Island Hospital

Providence, Rhode Island, 02903, United States

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