Recruiting

Nerve block to reduce confusion after hip replacement surgery

Plain-English translation of NCT07449468 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated May 2026 · Translation generated June 2026 · How we translate trials

This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

This trial is testing whether a procedure called a PENG block — an ultrasound-guided injection that numbs nerves around the hip — can reduce the risk of confusion and delirium after hip replacement surgery in adults 75 and older. The PENG block is designed to provide better pain control while allowing you to move more easily during recovery, and researchers believe this may help prevent the confusion that sometimes follows major surgery.

Confusion after surgery (called postoperative delirium) happens in up to 30% of older adults having hip replacement and can lead to longer hospital stays, slower recovery, and other serious health problems. This trial aims to see whether adding the nerve block to standard anesthesia can reduce confusion by giving better pain relief and reducing the need for strong opioid medications.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are 75 years of age or older
you are scheduled for elective primary hip replacement surgery
you plan to receive spinal anesthesia for your surgery
you are in generally fair to good health (ASA physical status II or III)
you can understand and communicate about your pain level during recovery

You likely don't qualify if…

you have existing confusion, severe dementia, or serious psychiatric conditions
you are allergic to local anesthetic medications
you have bleeding disorders or an infection at the planned injection site
you have taken high-dose opioid medications regularly for more than 2 weeks before surgery
you have severe kidney or liver disease

What participation looks like

You would be randomly assigned to receive either the nerve block with medication or a nerve block with saline (salt water). Before surgery, you'll have spinal anesthesia as planned. For the nerve block, an ultrasound will guide the injection to the correct location. After surgery, you'll stay in the hospital for at least 3 days while researchers monitor you for confusion and track your pain, movement ability, and recovery. Staff will assess you using standard hospital tests during your stay.

Nerve block to reduce confusion after hip replacement surgery

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations(1 site)