Study of Ultrasound-Guided Erector Spinae Plane Block for Pain and Morphine Use After Lumbar Spinal Fusion Surgery

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying whether an erector spinae plane block can reduce morphine use within 72 hours after lumbar spinal fusion surgery. This surgery is known to be quite painful due to its extensive exposure, and managing postoperative pain is a key goal to help patients recover faster. The study is a randomized, controlled, double-blind trial comparing the block with a placebo injection during surgery. The study involves 130 patients undergoing lumbar spinal fusion on one or two levels. They will be randomly assigned to receive either an injection of levobupivacaine as part of the erector spinae plane block or a placebo saline injection, both guided by ultrasound. The procedure is done under anesthesia during surgery, with the anesthetist injecting the solution near the spine muscles. Both groups will follow the same process so neither patients nor care teams know which treatment is given. Participants will be monitored closely with data collected at multiple times up to one month after surgery, including morphine consumption, pain levels, nausea, complications, and walking ability. The main focus is on morphine use during the first 72 hours post-operation. The study also includes safety checks and functional assessments to evaluate recovery and side effects. Total participation spans from the day of surgery through a 30-day follow-up period.

Erector Spinae Plane Block in Lumbar Spinal Fusion