NCT06577233 · Baylor College of Medicine
Superior Hypogastric Nerve Plexus Block With Bupivacaine After Robotic Resection of Endometriosis
What this study is about
Endometriosis is a condition that causes significant pelvic pain and affects 10-15% of reproductive age women. Treatment options area both medical and surgical for pain relief, however with surgical options, past studies have demonstrated a higher risk of surgical complications as well as higher postoperative pain scores in women with endometriosis.
View original scientific description
Endometriosis is a condition that causes significant pelvic pain and affects 10-15% of reproductive age women. Treatment options area both medical and surgical for pain relief, however with surgical options, past studies have demonstrated a higher risk of surgical complications as well as higher postoperative pain scores in women with endometriosis. Despite attempts to limit narcotic pain medications with enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols, persistent opioid use after surgery is a national crisis, and it is important to explore multimodal options for pain relief. Various studies have shown improvement in pain with use of superior hypogastric nerve blocks in gynecologic surgery, but these effects have not yet been examined in the setting of a minimally invasive endometriosis resection. The goal of this clinical trial is to determine if a superior hypogastric nerve plexus block with 0.25% bupivacaine hydrochloride can decrease postoperative pain and opioid requirements in patients undergoing robotic assisted resection of endometriosis for the first week after surgery. Researchers will perform a superior hypogastric nerve plexus block by either injecting 0.25% bupivacaine hydrochloride (investigative treatment) or normal saline (placebo) in subjects who are undergoing a robotic assisted resection of endometriosis. To determine if postoperative pain is reduced, the subject will be asked to rate their pain score on the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) at 0 hours, 2 hours and 4 hours postop while in the Post-anesthesia Care Unit (PACU). They will then document their pain score each day on a form provided to them for 7 days after surgery. To determine the effect of this research study on postoperative opioid requirements, the subject will be asked to fill out a form documenting how many tablets of an opioid medication they took each day for a total of 7 days after surgery.
Interventions
DRUG
Bupivacaine Hydrochloride
10cc of 0.25% Bupivacaine Hydrochloride will be injected into the peritoneum overlying the superior hypogastric nerve plexus with a laparoscopic needle during robotic surgery
DRUG
Normal saline
10cc of 0.9% normal saline will be injected into the peritoneum overlying the superior hypogastric nerve plexus with a laparoscopic needle during robotic surgery
Primary outcome measures
Postoperative pain
Time frame: Postoperative pain level documented at 0, 2 and 4 hours after surgery, then once a day for 7 days after surgery.
Postoperative pain levels as characterized by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS)
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- 18-65 years old
- Scheduled to undergo a robotic assisted resection of endometriosis
Exclusion criteria
- Subjects who are part of a vulnerable population will be excluded including those who are prisoners, younger than 18 years old, pregnant, individuals with mental disabilities or cognitive impairment.
Where
- Houston, Texas
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Aug 18, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations