Comparison Between Perineural and Systemic Effect of Dexamethasone as an Adjuvant for Prolongation of Four Nerve Blocks With Bupivacaine in Total Knee Arthroplasty

The addition of dexamethasone (DxaM) to local anesthetic may significantly prolong the duration of a block in total knee arthroplasty. The aim of this study is to determine whether this is a systemic or local effect.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Pre-surgical total knee arthroplasty patients

Exclusion Criteria:

• Skin infection near block site
• Allergy to local anesthetics
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Proven opioid dependency
• Coagulopathy
• Dementia