Effect of Ultrasound-guided External Oblique Intercostal Fascial Plane Block in Pediatric Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Gastrostomy: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the use of an ultrasound-guided external oblique intercostal fascial plane (EOI) block to reduce pain during and after laparoscopic gastrostomy surgery in children ages 3 to 18 years. This randomized controlled trial compares the effects of the EOI block using ropivacaine against a sham block using normal saline to understand its impact on heart rate changes and pain management during surgery. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either a bilateral EOI block with 0.25% ropivacaine or a sham block with normal saline, both performed under ultrasound guidance. The study measures include the percent change in heart rate at the time of surgical incision as the primary outcome, along with secondary outcomes such as fentanyl use during surgery, various pain scores, analgesia nociception index values, and any analgesia-related side effects. During the study, children's pain levels will be monitored at multiple time points after surgery using standardized pain scales. Researchers will also track the use of pain medications up to 24 hours post-operation and monitor for any adverse effects related to analgesia. The trial is conducted under general anesthesia, and heart rate and blood pressure changes will be recorded around the time of surgery to evaluate the intervention's effectiveness.

EOI Block for Laparoscopic Gastrostomy