Erector Spinae Plane Block for Scapulothoracic Arthrodesis for Facioscapulohumeral Dystrophy Patients: A Case Series

Abstract

Facioscapulohumeral dystrophy (FSHD) typically affects the periscapular muscles, resulting in scapular winging. Scapulothoracic arthrodesis (STA) stabilizes the scapula to provide better movement for these patients. Analgesia regimen for FSHD patients who received a single-shot erector spinae plane block (ESPB) and a catheter at the area were retrospectively analyzed in this study. Patients were asked to rate their pain postoperatively and only 5 of 10 patients needed rescue analgesic. No complications occurred. Our experience suggests that continuous ESPB may be helpful for providing analgesia in FSHD patients undergoing STA.

Selective Dorsal Scapular Nerve and Long Thoracic Nerve Blocks for Rescue Analgesia in Scapulothoracic Arthrodesis Surgery: A Case Report

“…A multifilament cable system was passed between the third-fourth-fifth-sixth ribs, providing stability, while a polyester tape cerclage system was passed from the second and seventh ribs, enhancing structural integrity. The surgical technique was done as described by Demirhan et al 6 For postoperative analgesia, the surgeon placed a catheter under the erector spinae, after the technique described by Gürkan et al 3 (Figure 1).…”

“…Erector spinae plane block (ESPB) block has been successfully used for providing analgesia for thoracic wall surgeries and has been used in STA as well. 3,4 Yet some patients may require rescue analgesics. We would like to share our experience with dorsal scapular nerve (DSN) and long thoracic nerve (LTN) blocks for rescue analgesia.…”