Bolus vs. continuous: which pain pump works best after surgery?

NCT ID NCT03230565

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Stanford University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tests two methods of delivering local anesthetic through a nerve block catheter after surgery: a steady continuous drip or scheduled small bursts (boluses). Researchers want to see which approach reduces pain and the need for opioid painkillers. About 240 adults having surgery will take part, and their pain levels and medication use will be tracked.

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 it works, this could show that scheduled bolus infusions provide better pain control after surgery than continuous infusions, potentially reducing the need for opioid painkillers.
What could go wrong: This is a Phase 4 study comparing two standard techniques, so no major breakthrough is expected. Results may not apply to all surgeries or patient groups.

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

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for PAIN, POSTOPERATIVE are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Pain, Postoperative

As listed by the trial registrant

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

PAIN, POSTOPERATIVE SURGICAL PROCEDURE, UNSPECIFIED

Contacts and locations

Locations

Stanford University
RECRUITING

Stanford, California, 94305, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.