Erector Spinae Blocks for Thoracic Surgery A Study Evaluating Pain and Opioid Use After Pulmonary Resection Surgery

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to evaluate whether erector spinae blocks (ESB) with bolus infusions of local anesthetic can reduce postsurgical pain and the need for opioid pain medications in patients undergoing pulmonary resection surgery. The study focuses on patients having surgery on the side of the chest, where nerve disruption often causes significant pain. ESB may be especially helpful for patients who need anticoagulation and cannot receive more invasive nerve blocks. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one group will receive the erector spinae block with bupivacaine alongside standard care, while the other group will receive only standard care without the block. The ESB involves a local anesthetic infusion targeting nerves in the thoracic area. This approach is being studied for its potential to improve pain control while minimizing opioid use after surgery. During the study, patients will be monitored for pain levels and opioid consumption at 6, 12, and 24 hours after surgery. Researchers will assess pain using visual analogue scores and track medication use to understand the impact of the block. The study will help determine if ESB offers a safer alternative to traditional nerve blocks, especially for those on blood thinners, with the total participation time covering the immediate postoperative period.

Erector Spinae Block for Thoracic Surgery