Single-Shot Femoral Nerve Block Does Not Cause Long-Term Strength and Functional Deficits Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
PURPOSE: To determine if patients treated with a single-shot femoral nerve block have strength and functional deficits at 9-month follow-up.
METHODS: Forty-three patients who underwent primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions were randomized to receive either a preoperative single-shot femoral nerve block or local infiltration anesthesia for primary pain control. All patients underwent a standardized comprehensive rehabilitation program postoperatively. Isokinetic strength and function was tested using a Biodex machine at 9 months or more postoperatively comparing the operative and nonoperative extremity.
