Practical Considerations for Liposomal Bupivacaine Use in Orthopaedic Surgery

Abstract » Opioid-related dependence remains a major concern following surgery in the United States, driving increased interest in non-opioid, multimodal pain control strategies within orthopaedic surgery. » Liposomal bupivacaine is an extended-release anesthetic approved for specific nerve blocks and offers the potential to prolong analgesia without the need for post-operative catheters. » Liposomal bupivacaine is currently approved for use in interscalene brachial plexus blocks, sciatic nerve blocks in the popliteal fossa, and adductor canal blocks. » Despite mixed clinical trial results compared to unencapsulated bupivacaine, liposomal formulations may provide clinical and economic advantages in selected orthopaedic settings.