NCT06429501 · Washington University School of Medicine
Local Anesthesia for Facial Fractures
(LAFF)
What this study is about
The study is a where neither patients nor doctors know which treatment is given randomly assigned, placebo controlled trial examining the impact of perioperative bupivacaine nerve block on PACU recovery metrics. Patients with operative facial fractures are randomly assigned to receive either bupivacaine or saline injections prior to the anesthesia emergence.
View original scientific description
The study is a double-blind randomized, placebo controlled trial examining the impact of perioperative bupivacaine nerve block on PACU recovery metrics. Patients with operative facial fractures are randomized to receive either bupivacaine or saline injections prior to the anesthesia emergence.
Interventions
DRUG
Bupivacaine/Epinephrine
injection
DRUG
Saline
injection
Primary outcome measures
Impact of a perioperative bupivacaine nerve block on PACU opioid use as assessed by the amount of opioids received in morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs).
Time frame: day 1 or the day of surgery
To evaluate the impact of a perioperative bupivacaine nerve block on PACU opioid use in patients undergoing operative fixation of facial fractures compared to placebo nerve block assessment of the amount of opioids that patients receive in PACU in morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs) will be calculated.
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
- Adults age 18 and over
- Isolated facial fracture to the mandible and/or midface undergoing surgical repair
- No allergy to local anesthetic
- Ability to read, write, and understand English
Exclusion criteria
- Patients under the age of 18
- Isolated nasal bone fracture
- Polytrauma (I.e. injury pattern resulting in hospital admission for multiple bony fractures outside of the face)
- Allergy to local anesthetic
Where
- St Louis, Missouri
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 Feb 25, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations