Total shoulder surgery (arthroplasty) is a widely successful method of treating shoulder
arthritis. Although the goal of the procedure is pain relief, post-operative pain is
unavoidable. Pain is a common side effect that many patients undergo while in the clinical
setting and is a vital factor in influencing the length of hospital stay, narcotic usage, as
well as overall patient satisfaction. Post-operative pain management typically involves
elevated usage of narcotics, which is a concern among clinicians and researchers alike. To
combat this issue, research is examining intraoperative procedures as a means of reducing
post-operative pain scores.
Research has discovered the advantages of utilizing local anesthetic techniques as opposed to
just general anesthesia. Local anesthetic blocks function by preventing the generation of
nerve impulses by increasing the action-potential threshold, thereby inhibiting movement.
Previous studies have demonstrated the success of local anesthetic interscalene blocks across
several medical procedures. For instance, Exparel (liposomal bupivacaine) has been effective
in reducing post-operative pain scores in tonsillectomy and shoulder arthroplasty. Another
local anesthetic, Ropivacaine, has been found to be potent when utilized via a cervical
paravertebral catheter among thoracic procedures.
Our study will compare Exparel (bupivacaine liposome) with Ropivacaine continuous infusion
for post-operative pain scores in total shoulder surgery patients. Additionally, we will
collect data on complications, length of stay, and other variables.