Although local infiltration analgesia (LIA) is effective in relieving pain after total knee arthroplasty (TKA), its effect is short lasting and the optimal combination of drugs is unknown. Steroids being a potent and long-acting anti-inflammatory drug might extend LIA's effect. This study aims to evaluate the role of steroids in LIA. This is a paired-randomized controlled study involving one-stage bilateral TKA patients. LIA containing ropivacaine, ketorolac, and adrenaline with or without triamcinolone was given. One knee was randomized to receive LIA with steroids, while the other received LIA without steroids. The primary outcome was knee pain in terms of the visual analog scale (VAS). Secondary outcomes were rehabilitation progress, functional scores, and complications. Outcomes were compared between the knees of the same patient and documented up to 1 year. A total of 45 patients (90 TKAs) were included. LIA with steroid knees showed lower VAS score at rest and during activity from postoperation day 1 to 5 and at 6 weeks (p < 0.05). Passive and active range of movement was also greater in LIA with steroid group from day 1 to 7 and day 2 to 5, respectively (p < 0.05). Steroid-treated knees also achieved active straight leg raise earlier (1.2 vs. 2.0 days, p < 0.05). No differences in Knee Society Score and complication rates between both groups. Steroids in LIA offer additional and extended benefit in pain control and rehabilitation after TKA, while no adverse effects were found up to 1-year follow-up.
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