Ongoing Clinical Trials for Foot Deformity
There is currently 1 ongoing clinical trial for foot deformity, specifically focusing on patients undergoing hallux valgus (bunion) surgery. This trial investigates pain management techniques using different concentrations of ropivacaine, a local anesthetic, delivered through ankle nerve blocks.
Clinical trial locations
Study of different ropivacaine concentrations in ankle nerve block for hallux valgus (bunion) surgery patients
This clinical trial focuses on patients undergoing surgery for hallux valgus, commonly known as a bunion. This is a foot deformity where the big toe gradually shifts toward the other toes, creating a visible bump on the inside edge of the foot. The condition can cause pain, discomfort when walking, and difficulty wearing shoes.
Main focus: The study examines how different strengths of ropivacaine affect pain relief after bunion surgery. Ropivacaine is a local anesthetic medication that blocks pain signals by numbing the nerves. Researchers will compare three different concentrations: 0.25%, 0.5%, and 1%. The medication is administered through an ankle block procedure, where it is injected around the nerves of the ankle using ultrasound guidance to ensure accurate placement.
What the study measures: Over 48 hours after surgery, the medical team will monitor how long the pain-blocking effects last, how quickly the medication starts working, and how it affects leg movement. They will also track pain levels and the need for additional pain medication.
Investigational drug: Ropivacaine is the medication being tested in this trial. It belongs to the same family of medications as lidocaine but typically provides longer-lasting pain relief. It works by temporarily numbing the nerves around the ankle area, preventing pain signals from reaching the brain. Patients can remain awake during surgery while experiencing numbness in the targeted area.
Who can participate: To be eligible for this trial, you must:
- Be between 18 and 75 years old
- Be scheduled for planned foot surgery to correct hallux valgus
- Have a physical health status classified as ASA I, II, or III (a scale doctors use to assess health before surgery)
- Be able to walk independently without crutches or walkers
- Be able to perform study-related tests at home, including testing your response to pin pricks, cold sensations, and light touch during the first 2 days after surgery
- Provide written informed consent
Who cannot participate: You are not eligible if you:
- Are younger than 18 or older than 65 years
- Have a known allergy to ropivacaine
- Have an infection at the planned injection site
- Have a history of peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage in feet or ankles)
- Have blood clotting disorders or use blood thinning medications
- Have significant heart problems or uncontrolled diabetes
- Are currently pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have a history of chronic pain requiring regular pain medication
- Have had previous foot surgery on the same foot
- Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than 35
- Have active substance abuse or dependence
- Have participated in another clinical trial within the past 30 days
Summary
Currently, there is one active clinical trial investigating pain management for patients with foot deformity, specifically hallux valgus. This trial is being conducted in Belgium and focuses on optimizing pain relief through ankle nerve blocks using ropivacaine. The study compares three different concentrations of this local anesthetic to determine which provides the most effective and longest-lasting pain relief after bunion surgery. This research may help improve post-operative pain management for patients undergoing this common foot surgery.