NCT06559215 · Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children
Evaluation of Pain Management After Surgery When Using Exparel in the Pediatric Population
What this study is about
The goal of this randomly assigned clinical trial is to determine if administration of Exparel via local infiltration for medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction procedures in pediatric orthopaedic sports medicine patients provides significant pain relief and decreased narcotic use.
View original scientific description
The goal of this randomized clinical trial is to determine if administration of Exparel via local infiltration for medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction procedures in pediatric orthopaedic sports medicine patients provides significant pain relief and decreased narcotic use. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Does Exparel significantly reduce Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain scores and pain levels up to one week postoperatively? * Does Exparel significantly decrease narcotic use (number of pills taken) up to one week postoperatively? Researchers will compare the pain outcomes and narcotic use of patients who receive Exparel and Marcaine via local infiltration to those of patients who receive only Marcaine via local infiltration for their MPFL reconstruction surgery. The goal is to understand if there is a significant difference in patient pain outcomes and narcotic use outside the first 24 hours postoperatively.
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
- Must be aged 13+ years at time of surgery
- Must present with injury requiring an isolated MPFL Reconstruction
- Ability to provide assent, legally appointed representative available to provide informed consent
Exclusion criteria
- Patient \<13 years old
- Requires fracture repair or another non-standardized surgery
- Any MPFL Reconstruction that requires the use of arthrotomy or a tibial tubercle osteotomy
- Any lower extremity procedure that is not an isolated MPFL Reconstruction
- Patient pregnancy
- Inability to provide assent or legally appointed representative to provide informed consent
- Prior history of hypersensitivity to Exparel or any local anesthesia
Where
- Frisco, Texas
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 Mar 9, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations