A randomized trial of erector spinae plane block for analgesia after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery

Abstract

Background: Erector spinae plane block (ESPB) is a novel local nerve block technique. However, evidence regarding the impact of ESPB on postoperative pain management after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is lacking. This randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the effect of erector spinae plane block on postoperative analgesia and intra-operative opioid consumption for video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery patients. Methods: We randomly allocated 91 participants to block with 30ml ropivacaine 0.375% (n=45), or no block without placebo or sham procedure (n=46). We analyzed results from 41 participants in each group ultimately. The primary outcome was postoperative NRS pain score. The secondary outcome was intra-operative sufentanil consumption. Postoperative QoR-40 scores and postoperative complications were also recorded. Results: Erector spinae plane block reduced the median (IQR) pain scores during postoperative 0-1h, 1-6h, 6-12h and 12-24h: 3 (3-5) vs. 6 (5-7), p<0.0001; 5 (3-5) vs. 6 (5-7), p<0.0001; 4 (3-5) vs. 6 (5-7), p<0.0001 and 4 (3-5) vs. 5 (5-7), p<0.0001, respectively. Block also reduced the mean (SD) intra-operative total sufentanil consumption and per hour, per kilogram sufentanil consumption, as well as increased the median (IQR) global QoR-40 scores on POD1. Conclusions: Erector spinae plane block can be used to reduce postoperative pain and intra-operative opioid consumption for VATS patients.