Comparing Two Ultrasound-Guided Nerve Blocks for Pain Relief After Open Kidney Surgery

What this Trial Is About

Renal cell carcinoma RCC is a common type of cancer affecting the genitourinary tract, making up 2-3% of all cancers. Open nephrectomy is a standard surgery for RCC but often causes significant postoperative pain, which can lead to breathing difficulties, lung problems, and longer hospital stays. While most patients experience pain relief during recovery, some develop chronic pain lasting at least two months after surgery. Traditional pain treatments like opioids and epidural analgesia have side effects and risks, prompting research into safer options such as ultrasound-guided nerve blocks. This study compares two ultrasound-guided pain relief techniques used during open nephrectomy the external oblique intercostal plane block EOIPB and the posterior transversus abdominis plane TAP block. EOIPB targets specific nerves in the front and side of the abdomen and can be performed while the patient lies on their back, potentially providing better midline pain relief. The posterior TAP block numbs nerve branches from the mid to lower abdomen. Both techniques are evaluated for their effectiveness in controlling post-surgical pain under general anesthesia. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either the EOIPB or posterior TAP block during surgery. Researchers will monitor pain levels by measuring the amount of morphine used in the first 24 hours after surgery. The study uses a triple-blinded design to ensure unbiased results. Conducted by Cairo University, this trial aims to find which block provides better pain control after open nephrectomy, helping improve recovery and reduce opioid use.

Analgesic Efficacy of Ultrasound-guided External Oblique Intercostal Plane Block Versus Posterior Transversus Abdominis Plane Block in Patients Undergoing Open Nephrectomy