New pain block could cut opioid use in kids after back surgery
NCT ID NCT07561827
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether an erector spinae plane block (ESPB) — an injection of the anesthetic ropivacaine into back muscles — can reduce pain and the need for pain medication in children undergoing posterior spinal fusion for scoliosis. About 42 children with adolescent idiopathic or neuromuscular scoliosis will be randomly assigned to receive either the block plus standard pain care or standard care alone. Researchers will measure pain scores and painkiller use in the first three days after surgery.
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 provide a better way to manage pain after scoliosis surgery in children, reducing their need for strong painkillers.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small Phase 3 trial (42 participants), so results may not apply to all children. The block may not significantly reduce pain or opioid use.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
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Phase 3
Large-scale testing in a bigger group. Usually the last step before a treatment can be approved.
- Participants
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About 42 people
The number the study aims to enrol. It can still change while the study runs.
- Started
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Jun 2025
- Expected to finish
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Jan 2027
An estimate. End dates often move.
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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10 to 18 years
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) or neuromuscular scoliosis * Undergoing Posterior Spinal Fusion (PSF) Surgery Exclusion Criteria: * Patients with forms of scoliosis other than AIS or NM Scoliosis. * Patients undergoing a spinal deformity correction surgery other than Posterior Spinal Fusion Surgery * Allergy or other contraindication to erector spinae plane block (ESPB) with Ropivacaine patients who are taking pre-operative opioids
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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.
How to take part
Only the study team decides who joins. These are the ways to reach them.
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The places running it
1 site. The list below names each one and where it is.
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The official record
ClinicalTrials.gov lists the study team's own contact details, including names and phone numbers. We don't republish those.
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A doctor treating you
A doctor who knows your case can contact a study site on your behalf, and can tell you whether this study is worth pursuing at all.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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University of California San Francisco
RECRUITINGSan Francisco, California, 94158, United States
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
- Scoliosis curves may change how teenagers stand and walk
- Can 3D scans and muscle sensors unlock scoliosis secrets?
- Virtual reality could transform scoliosis therapy for teens
- Can a Night-Time brace or targeted exercises halt scoliosis curves in teens?
- Can home exercises straighten scoliosis as well as a therapist?
- Could a sweet drink before surgery speed up recovery?