Author: Hu J et al.
Korean Journal of Anesthesiology 2025;78(4):351-360. doi:10.4097/kja.24593
This prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled study evaluated a modified hip pericapsular nerve block (hip-PNB)—combining anterior pericapsular nerve group (PENG) and posterior pericapsular deep-gluteal (PPD) blocks—on pain control and recovery after total hip arthroplasty (THA) via the posterolateral approach. Seventy patients were randomized to hip-PNB with sham local infiltration analgesia (Group N) or sham hip-PNB with local infiltration analgesia (Group C).
Hip-PNB significantly reduced morphine consumption in the first 24 hours (median 10 mg vs 10–20 mg; P < 0.001) and over the entire hospitalization, lowered perioperative opioid use, and delayed the need for rescue analgesia. Pain scores at rest and during movement were lower in the first 24 hours, and functional recovery was faster in Group N. Quadriceps strength and complication rates were similar between groups.
The authors conclude that hip-PNB provides superior analgesia and promotes faster recovery compared to local infiltration analgesia for THA patients.
References
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Hu J, Wang Q, Hu J, et al. Korean J Anesthesiol. 2025;78:351-360. doi:10.4097/kja.24593.
Thank you to the Korean Society of Anesthesiologists for providing this important research. This is an excellent society, and we highly encourage all anesthesia providers to become members.