Intermittent Bolus versus Continuous Infusion Erector Spinae Catheters for Median Sternotomy Incisions:A Randomized Controlled Trial.
J Cardiothorac Vasc AnesthJun 7, 2026 (epub)
Patrick B Forrest, Carlos E Guerra-Londono, Katherine Nowak et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial evaluated the analgesic efficacy of programmed intermittent boluses (PIB) versus continuous infusion of ropivacaine via erector spinae plane catheters in adults undergoing open heart surgery. The study found that the PIB group had an estimated 1.08-fold greater opioid consumption compared to the continuous infusion group, with no significant differences in secondary outcomes.
Key findings
- The PIB group had an estimated 1.08-fold greater opioid consumption than the continuous infusion group.
- The mean difference in opioid consumption was 4.1 OMME greater per day for the PIB group.
- No statistically significant differences were observed in secondary outcomes between the two groups.
Why it matters
Understanding the effectiveness of different analgesic techniques is crucial for optimizing postoperative pain management and minimizing opioid use, which is important for patient recovery and reducing potential complications.