The Effectiveness of Periarticular Anesthetic Infiltration in Postoperative Analgesia of Total Hip Arthroplasty

Objective The present study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the periarticular hip infiltration technique in the postoperative period of total hip arthroplasty. Methods This is a randomized double-blind controlled clinical trial in patients with femoral neck fractures or hip osteoarthritis submitted to a total hip arthroplasty at our institution. The periarticular infiltration technique consisted of the administration of an anesthetic (levobupivacaine) and a steroid (dexamethasone) agent in the nociceptor-rich tissues of the hip after orthopedic implants placement. The control group received an injection of 0.9% saline into the same tissues. Pain, range of motion, and use of opioid analgesic agents after 24 and 48 hours of the procedure were evaluated, as well as the presence of adverse effects, time to resume walking, and total hospitalization time. Results The study evaluated 34 patients. The experimental group required fewer opioid agents between 24 and 48 hours. The reduction in pain scores was greater in the placebo group. Conclusion Periarticular anesthetic infiltration as a method of postoperative analgesia for total hip arthroplasty reduced the rates of opioid intake between 24 and 48 hours. It provided no benefits regarding pain, mobility, length of stay, or complications.