A comparison of analgesic techniques for total knee arthroplasty: A network meta-analysis

There is no established analgesic method for postoperative total knee arthroplasty. We comprehensively compared the analgesic methods for postoperative total knee arthroplasty.

A network meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials was used to compare 18 interventions, which were ranked by six outcome indices, to select the best modality.

Postoperative recovery room and inpatient ward.

98 randomised controlled trials involving 7452 patients (ASA I-III) were included in the final analysis.

Studies that included the use of at least one of the following 12 nerve block(fascia iliaca compartment block (FIB), FNB, cFNB, single femoral nerve block (sFNB), adductor canal block (ACB), sciatic nerve block (SNB), obturator nerve block (ONB), continuous posterior lumbar plexus block (PSOAS), FNB + SNB, ACB + LIA, FNB + LIA, PCA + FNB).

Pain intensity was compared using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Also, postoperative complications, function score, hospital length of stay, morphine consumption and patient satisfaction were measured.

For visual analogue scale scores, continuous femoral nerve block (FNB) and FNB + sciatic nerve block (SNB) were the the most effective interventions. For reducing postoperative complications, fascia iliaca compartment block, FNB, SNB, and obturator nerve block showed the best results. For reducing postoperative morphine consumption, adductor canal block (ACB) + local infiltration analgesia (LIA) and FNB + SNB were preferred. For function scores (range of motion, Timed-Up-and-Go test), ACB and LIA were optimal choices. For reducing hospital length of stay and patient satisfaction, ACB + LIA and FNB + LIA were best, respectively.

Peripheral nerve block, especially FNB and ACB, is a better option than other analgesic methods, and its combination with other methods can be beneficial. Peripheral nerve block is a safe and effective postoperative analgesia method. However, our findings can only provide objective evidence. Clinicians should choose the treatment course based on the individual patient's condition and clinical situation.