A Cadaveric Study Investigating the Mechanism of Action of Erector Spinae Blockade

Abstract

There was no spread of dye anteriorly to the paravertebral space to involve origins of the ventral and dorsal branches of the thoracic spinal nerves. Dorsal ramus involvement was posterior to the costotransverse foramen.

Cadaveric study investigating the mechanism of action of erector spinae blockade

“…Recently, we have experienced very reassuring results with preoperative placement of ESP blocks in the settings described by the article by Ivanusic et al 1. We have also documented efficacy in several large gastrointestinal, obstetric, and cardiac cases.…”

“…As we work to integrate erector spinae plane (ESP) blocks into our own practice, we would like to thank Ivanusic et al 1 for their elegant study of the block’s mechanism of action. Our division continues to expand its application of ESP blocks, both single shots and catheters.…”

Spread of local anesthetic in erector spine plane block at thoracic and lumbar levels

“…We have read with great interest the cadaver study by Ivanusic et al 1 that shows the distribution of local anesthetic drugs in ESPB and also the anatomical study of ESPB by Adhikary et al 2…”

“…In the Ivanusic et al study,1 they performed ESPB and administered 20 mL methylene blue at the T5 vertebral level and evaluated the distribution of dye in the cadaver. They reported that there was no distribution within the paravertebral plane and no distribution was observed at anterior regions of the transverse process.…”

Erector spinae plane block and ‘A Cadaveric Conundrum’

“…I read with interest the cadaveric study by Ivanusic et al 1 on the mechanism of action of erector spinae plane (ESP) block, in which the injected methylene blue did not reach the paravertebral space. The authors suggest as an alternative mechanism for ESP block that the lateral cutaneous branches of the intercostal nerves may be blocked as they penetrate the chest wall.…”