Popliteal Nerve Block for Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture Repair Surgery

Last updated: February 11, 2026
Sponsor: Women's College Hospital
Overall Status: Active - Recruiting

Phase

N/A

Condition

Anesthesia (Local)

Anesthesia

Treatment

Popliteal Nerve Block

Sham Block

Clinical Study ID

NCT06886815
2025-0039-B
  • Ages 18-65
  • All Genders

Study Summary

Achilles tendon rupture is common, yet the value of popliteal nerve block for postoperative pain control during surgical repair remains uncertain. Despite widespread use, evidence supporting its analgesic effectiveness is limited, and both popliteal nerve block and Achilles tendon repair carry risks of nerve injury. This randomized, placebo-controlled trial will evaluate whether adding a popliteal nerve block to standard systemic analgesia improves postoperative pain and reduces opioid use in patients undergoing acute Achilles tendon rupture repair. Secondary outcomes will examine the incidence and impact of nerve complications on recovery, including return to physical activity and functional performance.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Age 18 - 65

  • ASA classification: I - III

  • BMI < 35 kg/m2

  • Undergoing acute Achilles tendon rupture repair surgery as a day surgery procedure

Exclusion

Exclusion Criteria:

  • Pre-existing neurological deficits or peripheral neuropathy in the distribution ofthe tibial or common peroneal nerves

  • Local infection

  • Contraindication to regional anesthesia (e.g., bleeding diathesis, coagulopathy)

  • History of use of over 30 mg oxycodone or equivalent per day

  • Contraindication to any component of a standard multi-modal analgesia

  • Allergy to local anesthetics

  • History of significant psychiatric conditions that may affect patient assessment

  • Pregnancy

  • Inability to provide informed consent

  • Patient refusal of popliteal nerve blockade

  • Prior Achilles tendon surgeries on the operative leg

  • Unable to speak or read English

Study Design

Total Participants: 80
Treatment Group(s): 2
Primary Treatment: Popliteal Nerve Block
Phase:
Study Start date:
February 01, 2026
Estimated Completion Date:
March 31, 2028

Study Description

This will be a prospective, double-blinded, randomized controlled superiority trial conducted at Women's College Hospital (WCH). The study aims to enroll 80 patients (40 per group) undergoing ambulatory surgical repair of acute Achilles tendon ruptures.

Connect with a study center

  • Women's College Hospital

    Toronto, Ontario M5S 1B2
    Canada

    Site Not Available

  • Women's College Hospital

    Toronto 6167865, Ontario 6093943 M5S 1B2
    Canada

    Active - Recruiting

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