New pain shot could replace catheters after leg amputation
NCT ID NCT05140499
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested two standard pain relief methods after below-knee amputation: a long-lasting numbing injection (liposomal bupivacaine) versus a continuous nerve catheter that delivers numbing medicine. The goal was to see which provides better pain control and reduces the need for opioids. Only 11 people took part before the study was stopped early, so the results are very preliminary.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Liposomal bupivacaine (Exparel) and bupivacaine hydrochloride
What this could lead to
If this works, it could show that a single injection controls pain as well as a catheter, possibly reducing opioid use and simplifying recovery after amputation.
What could go wrong
This is a very small pilot study (11 participants) that was terminated early, so results are preliminary and may not apply widely. Neither method is new, so the upside is modest.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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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.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Maine Medical Center
Portland, Maine, 04102, United States