NCT07348614 · Duke University
Flex Appeal: Evaluating the Efficacy of Anesthetic Techniques for Manipulation of Knees Under Anesthesia
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to determine if changing the type of anesthesia improves the outcomes of manipulation and pain control after the procedure. The study will compare a spinal anesthesia with a general anesthesia, to see if there is a better outcome from either anesthesia type.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to determine if changing the type of anesthesia improves the outcomes of manipulation and pain control after the procedure. The study will compare a spinal anesthesia with a general anesthesia, to see if there is a better outcome from either anesthesia type.
Interventions
PROCEDURE
Spinal Anesthesia
Administration of spinal anesthesia for knee manipulation.
PROCEDURE
General Anesthesia
Administration of general anesthesia for knee manipulation.
DRUG
Propofol
Patients undergoing general anesthesia will receive an induction dose of propofol that will be titrated to effect, and airway support as needed until the patient is appropriately anesthetized for the procedure as determined by the anesthesia and surgical care teams.
DRUG
Chloroprocaine
Patients undergoing spinal anesthesia will receive a spinal injection under standard aseptic technique, with 45mg chloroprocaine.
Primary outcome measures
Change in degrees of motion of the affected knee
Time frame: At time of procedure completion
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
- Patients ≥18 years presenting for a manipulation of knee joint under anesthesia.
- ASA Classification I - III.
- English speaking patients.
Exclusion criteria
- Daily chronic opioid use (over 3 months of continuous opioid use).
- Inability to communicate pain scores or need for analgesia.
- Infection at the site of block placement
- Age under 18 years old or greater than 75 years old
- Pregnant women (as determined by point-of-care serum bHCG)
- Intolerance/allergy to local anesthetics
- Weight \<50 kg
- Suspected, or known addiction to or abuse of illicit drug(s), prescription medicine(s), or alcohol within the past 2 years.
- Uncontrolled anxiety, schizophrenia, or other psychiatric disorder that, in the opinion of the investigator, may interfere with study assessments or compliance.
- Current or historical evidence of any clinically significant disease or condition that, in the opinion of the investigator, may increase the risk of surgery or complicate the subject's postoperative course.
- BMI \>50 kg/m2.
- Allergy or contraindication to local anesthetics or any component of the multimodal analgesic regimen (NSAIDs and acetaminophen)
- Contraindication to spinal injection
Where
- Durham, North Carolina
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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 Jun 3, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations