Comparing Rhomboid Intercostal Block and Serratus Posterior Superior Intercostal Plane Block for Pain Relief After Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery in Adults

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to compare the pain relief effects of two nerve block techniques, the Rhomboid Intercostal Block RIB and the Serratus Posterior Superior Intercostal Plane Block SPSIPB, in adults undergoing video-assisted thoracic surgery VATS. VATS is a less invasive surgery for chest conditions but can still cause significant postoperative pain that affects breathing and recovery. The study evaluates which technique better manages pain after surgery. Participants will receive either the RIB or SPSIPB under ultrasound guidance before surgery. For RIB, the block needle is placed under the rhomboid muscle and 30 mL of 0.25% bupivacaine is injected. For SPSIPB, the needle is placed beneath the serratus posterior superior muscle with the same dosage and anesthetic type. Both methods use ultrasound to accurately target the injection site to manage pain. During the study, participants pain scores will be measured 24 hours after surgery, including surgical and shoulder pain. Researchers will also monitor opioid use during surgery. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of the two groups and followed through their recovery to assess pain control effectiveness. The study is expected to be completed by November 2026 and includes adults aged 18 to 75 who are undergoing elective VATS and meet health criteria.

Comparison of the Rhomboid Intercostal Block and Serratus Posterior Superior Intercostal Plane Block