Optimizing PENG Block in Hip Arthroplasty: Influence of Ropivacaine Volume and Dexamethasone on Analgesic Efficacy
This randomized controlled trial investigates the impact of local anesthetic volume and perineural dexamethasone on the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effectiveness of the pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA). Patients were randomized to receive one of four PENG block variants differing in ropivacaine volume (10 mL or 20 mL of 0.2%) and the addition of 4 mg of perineural dexamethasone. The study evaluates postoperative pain, opioid requirements, systemic inflammatory markers, and quadriceps motor preservation.
• Adults aged ≥18 years scheduled for primary unilateral total hip arthroplasty (THA).
• American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I-III.
• Ability to provide written informed consent.
• Spinal anesthesia planned as the primary anesthetic technique.
• Body mass index (BMI) between 18 and 35 kg/m².
• Fluent in the local language and able to understand the NRS pain scoring system.