Which nerve block is best for knee surgery recovery?

NCT ID NCT05190120

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study compared two types of nerve blocks—femoral and adductor canal—for people having knee arthroscopy (like ACL repair or meniscus surgery). The goal was to see which block provides better pain control while keeping the quadriceps muscle strong. 132 participants received one of the two blocks before surgery, and their muscle strength and pain scores were measured. The results could help guide which block to use for faster recovery.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Ropivacaine

What this could lead to

If successful, this could help doctors choose a nerve block that provides good pain relief while preserving leg strength after knee surgery.

What could go wrong

This is a small, completed Phase 4 study with 132 participants. Results may not apply to all patients or surgeries. Both blocks are already used in practice, so no major breakthrough is expected.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • UCSF Orthopedic Trauma Service

    San Francisco, California, 94158, United States