Ultrasound-Guided Erector Spinae Plane Block to Manage Pain and Diaphragm Function in Children Aged 6 to 16 Undergoing Thoracoscopic Sympathectomy

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to evaluate how ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane block influences postoperative pain and diaphragm function in children aged 6 to 16 years undergoing thoracoscopic sympathectomy. The study addresses pain management challenges after pediatric thoracic surgery, which can negatively affect recovery by reducing cough strength and increasing the risk of lung complications like atelectasis and pneumonia. Erector spinae plane block is a newer regional anesthesia technique being studied for its potential to improve postoperative pain control in this setting. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups the study group receives bilateral erector spinae plane block after general anesthesia is induced, while the control group receives general anesthesia without the block. Both groups undergo bilateral thoracoscopic sympathectomy under general anesthesia, and the study compares outcomes related to pain relief and diaphragmatic function. During the study, researchers will monitor pain levels, total analgesic and anesthetic use, diaphragm movement, timing of rescue pain medication, complication rates, and recovery profiles within 24 hours after surgery. The trial uses double-blinding to reduce bias. Participant involvement includes standard anesthesia and surgery procedures, with additional assessments to measure the effects of the erector spinae plane block on postoperative recovery and safety over the first day following surgery.

Erector Spinae Plane Block for Children Undergoing Thoracoscopic Sympathectomy