Continuous femoral versus epidural block for attainment of 120° knee flexion after total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial

66 patients were randomized to determine the effect of a continuous femoral nerve block (CFNB) compared to continuous epidural analgesia (CEA) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Participants of the trial were allocated to one of the two methods of perioperative pain management, with the primary objective of determining which one was better for early rehabilitation and recovery. In the days following surgery, results indicated that patients who received a CFNB attained 120 degree knee flexion and met early discharge criteria significantly earlier than CEA patients. Furthermore, pain during rehabilitation, daily measurements of knee flexion, and knee swelling were all significantly improved in the CFNB group.