Continuous Ultrasound-guided Erector Spinae Plane Block Versus Thoracic Paravertebral Block for Postoperative Analgesia in Patients Undergoing Thoracotomy.
Clin J PainSep 16, 2026 (epub)
Rabab M Habeeb, WesamEldin A Sultan, Mohamed E Basune et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial compared continuous ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane block (ESPB) with thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB) for postoperative analgesia in 40 patients undergoing thoracotomy. The ESPB group reported significantly lower dynamic visual analog scale scores at multiple time points and reduced morphine consumption compared to TPVB, indicating superior analgesic efficacy.
Key findings
- Dynamic VAS scores were significantly lower in the ESPB group at 6, 9, 12, and 24 hours (P = 0.008, 0.035, 0.001, 0.006).
- Morphine consumption was significantly reduced in the ESPB group (P < 0.001).
- Hypotension occurred more frequently in the TPVB group (40% vs. 10%, P = 0.028).
Why it matters
Effective postoperative pain management is crucial for recovery and patient satisfaction. This study suggests that ESPB may provide better analgesia and lower opioid requirements, potentially improving outcomes in thoracotomy patients.