Single device could replace opioids for weeks after surgery
NCT ID NCT06818708
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested a new device called RELAY that delivers both local anesthetic and mild electrical stimulation through a single catheter to control pain after shoulder or foot surgery. Twenty adults who had surgery for rotator cuff tears, shoulder replacement, or foot problems took part. The goal was to see if the device could provide up to 28 days of pain relief, compared to the usual 24-72 hours from standard nerve blocks.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- RELAY device (catheter with local anesthetic and electrical nerve stimulation)
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this device could provide up to 28 days of pain relief after surgery using a single placement, reducing the need for opioids.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early feasibility study with only 20 participants. The device is still experimental, and results may not apply to everyone. Risks include infection or nerve damage from the device.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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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
Locations
-
University of California San Diego
La Jolla, California, 92037, United States
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