Exparel for Total Shoulder Pain

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.