Liposomal bupivacaine after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair moderately decreases early postoperative pain and demonstrates equivocal opioid consumption compared to traditional interscalene nerve blocks: A systematic review and meta-analysis of level 1 studies.

Background: Interscalene nerve blocks (ISNBs) reduce length of stay, postoperative pain, and opioid consumption following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR). ISNBs with anesthetic agents like bupivacaine are associated with intense rebound pain, while liposomal bupivacaine (LB) can potentially extend pain relief up to 72 h and reduce opioid consumption. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to compare the efficacy of LB versus traditional ISNB for postoperative pain management and opioid consumption following ARCR.