Nerve block could ease pain after leg fracture surgery without hiding danger signs

This study tests whether a saphenous nerve block can safely reduce pain after surgery for a tibial plateau fracture. Typically, nerve blocks are avoided in these fractures because numbness might mask compartment syndrome, a serious complication. The saphenous nerve block targets only the front of the leg, leaving the sciatic nerve untouched, which may preserve the ability to feel compartment syndrome pain. Researchers will measure pain scores, opioid use, and hospital stay length in adults undergoing this surgery.