Evaluation of a Fast-track Knee Arthroplasty Concept

Mobilisation following knee arthroplasty is important for patients to achieve early and enhanced recovery after surgery and sufficient joint function. Analgesia is a crucial therapeutic element in this context. There is evidence that regional- anaesthesiological catheter techniques are very efficient to control pain postoperatively. On the other hand, motoric function may be reduced due to nerve blocks depending on location and concentration of drug used. Local infiltration of the knee during surgery is an alternative component in pain management that may reduce impaired motor function and allow early mobilisation of patients. However, currently it is not known which analgesia technique provides optimal pain control paralleled with sufficient motor function. Against this background, this RCT evaluates two analgesia regimens for patients undergoing primary total knee-replacement to assess impact on postoperative recovery.

Inclusion criteria

• patients undergoing elective, primary knee joint replacement in combined general anaesthesia

Exclusion criteria

• heart insufficiency NYHA >2
• liver insufficiency > CHILD B
• evidence of diabetic polyneuropathy
• severe adipositas BMI >40
• patients < 18 years
• pregnancy
• in case of police custody
• participation in a paralleled interventional RCT in a time frame of 30 days
• chronic opioid therapy >3 months before scheduled surgery
• allergy against medication required for surgery or anaesthesia