Evaluation of the analgesic efficacy of ultrasound-guided genicular nerve blocks for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery

Aim: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is frequently encountered in young adults, and arthroscopic reconstruction has become the standard surgical approach. Effective postoperative pain control in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) plays a critical role in facilitating early rehabilitation and improving functional outcomes. We hypothesized that the genicular nerve block (GNB), which is generally used in the management of chronic pain, may provide effective early postoperative analgesia. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate visual analog scale (VAS) scores and tramadol consumption in the early postoperative period. Material and Method: This retrospective study was conducted at Bolu Abant İzzet Baysal Training and Research Hospital. Medical records of 46 patients aged 18–65 years, classified as ASA I–II, who underwent arthroscopic ACLR under general anesthesia with a laryngeal mask (LMA) between June 2, 2024, and December 1, 2024, were reviewed. Five patients were excluded. Patients who received an ultrasound-guided GNB with bupivacaine prior to surgery were classified as Group G, while those who did not receive the block constituted the control group (Group K). Postoperative tramadol consumption and preoperative and postoperative VAS scores were evaluated for all patients. Results: Data from 41 eligible patients were analyzed. Total tramadol consumption was significantly lower in Group G compared to Group K (p=0.0043). Additionally, the postoperative 4th-hour resting VAS score was significantly lower in Group G (p=0.0125). Conclusion: In conclusion, ultrasound-guided GNB in ACLR surgery reduces VAS scores and tramadol consumption in the early postoperative period.