Single-Shot Versus Continuous Interscalene Block for Postoperative Pain Control After Shoulder Arthroplasty: A Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial.

Introduction: Continuous catheter infusion of local anesthetics extends the efficacy of regional anesthesia after prosthetic shoulder surgery. Our purpose was to compare continuous interscalene block (CIB) with single-shot interscalene block, and the hypothesis was these would offer similar safety and efficacy in patients with prosthetic shoulder arthroplasty.

Methods: Seventy-six patients were randomized to ropivacaine single-shot interscalene block or CIB after prosthetic shoulder arthroplasty.