Saphenous Nerve Block After Tibial Plateau ORIF

Saphenous Nerve Block for Post-Op Pain Control After Tibial Plateau ORIF

Fractures of the tibial plateau, while very painful, typically do not receive nerve blocks. This is because of a concern that the numbness from a nerve block would "mask" the typically painful symptoms of compartment syndrome, a condition that can lead to a permanent loss of function of the injured limb. Our study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of saphenous nerve block for pain management after surgical repair of a tibial plateau fracture. Based on cadaver studies and our clinical experience, we suspect that the saphenous nerve contributes to pain sensations of the tibial plateau and will not mask the pain from a compartment syndrome. In summary, while saphenous nerve block represents a safe option after tibial plateau open reduction internal fixation (ORIF), we aim to evaluate its effectiveness in this patient population.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Tibial plateau fracture presenting for ORIF
• Age greater than or equal to 18 years

Exclusion Criteria:

• Other concomitant life-threatening injuries
• History of chronic pain prior to tibial plateau ORIF
• Age <18 years old
• Pregnancy
• Any condition impairing patient's ability to consent to participation in study
• Existing condition contraindicating a nerve block
• Non-English Speaking