Comparison of Different Analgesic Nerve Blocks in Total Knee Replacement Surgery

After adequate venous access is obtained, a light sedation with Midazolam 1-2 mg is administered. The patient will be monitored and a selective spinal anesthesia will be performed. After the neuraxial procedure the antalgic block of choice is performed with about 40 mL of long acting local anesthetic. Magnesium Solfate 1g and Dexametasone 4mg are administered after the block. If the patient wishes, a propofol continuos infusion may be administered for sedation during the surgery. Before the patient leaves the OR, Ketorolac 30mg will be administered. Pain control after surgery will be achieved with acetaminophen 1g t.i.d., Ketorolac 30mg on demand, and Morphine solfate if NRS \>5 after Ketorolac. Every 6 hours the patient will be monitored by the anesthesia team. After 24 hours the antalgic effect of the nerve block is reasonably thought to be over, so the follow up is interrupted.