Impact of PerioperAtive LidocAine Infusions on Enhanced Recovery After Noncardiac Surgery (IMPALA-ERAS) in an inpatient setting: rationale, design and protocol for a sequential, repeated crossover trial.
BMJ OpenSep 8, 2026 (epub)
Gerald W Rouleau, Aden W Smith, Crystal G Parrish et al.
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In 30 seconds
The IMPALA-ERAS trial is a single-centre, pragmatic, cluster-randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study evaluating the effects of perioperative intravenous lidocaine infusions on postoperative recovery in 2290 patients undergoing various elective and emergency surgeries. The primary outcome is case mix index-adjusted resource length of stay, with total inpatient opioid consumption as a key secondary outcome.
Key findings
- Primary outcome measures include case mix index-adjusted resource length of stay.
- Total inpatient opioid consumption will be reported in oral morphine milligram equivalents within the first 72 hours.
- The study includes patients undergoing colorectal, general, urology, hernia repair, oncology, and spine surgeries.
Why it matters
Understanding the role of intravenous lidocaine in ERAS pathways could enhance postoperative recovery and reduce opioid consumption, addressing the ongoing challenge of opioid-related complications in surgical patients.