Comparing Two Nerve Block Techniques for Pain Relief After Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to compare two nerve block techniques, rhomboid intercostal plane block RIB and serratus posterior superior intercostal plane block SPSIPB, to find the best method for managing pain after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgeries VATS. Forty adult patients undergoing elective wedge resection or biopsy with ASA physical status I-III participated in this randomized, quadruple-masked trial to assess postoperative pain relief. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either the RIB or SPSIPB block after surgery but before extubation. Both blocks involved ultrasound-guided injections of 30 mL of 0.25% bupivacaine in specific muscle planes near the ribs on one side of the chest. In addition, all patients received postoperative pain medications including intravenous paracetamol, dexketoprofen, and tramadol via patient-controlled analgesia. These treatments aimed to relieve pain in the surgical area. Participants were monitored closely for 24 hours after surgery. Pain levels were measured at rest and during movement using the Numerical Rating Score at multiple time points starting once patients reached a certain recovery state. Total tramadol use, side effects like nausea or itching, and the need for extra pain medication were also recorded. The main focus was on pain scores, with tramadol consumption as a secondary measure. This detailed follow-up helped evaluate which block provided better postoperative pain control.

Comprasion of SPSIP and Rhomboid Intercostal Plan Blocks on VATS