Evaluation of the Efficacy of Pectoral Nerve-2 Block (PECS 2) in Breast Cancer Surgery

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the pectoral nerves interfacial plane block (PECS II) in breast cancer surgery focusing on postoperative pain management and patient satisfaction. A prospective study was conducted, including 200 patients scheduled for breast cancer surgery. The participants were randomly assigned to the PECS II block and control groups. The PECS II block group received a preoperative interfascial plane block, while the control group received standard analgesia. Postoperative pain scores at 4 h intervals for the first 3 postoperative days, as well as opioid consumption and patient-reported satisfaction, were measured and compared between both groups. The PECS II block group demonstrated significantly lower postoperative pain scores at all measured time points (p < 0.001). Additionally, the PECS II block group showed reduced opioid consumption (p < 0.001), reported higher levels of patient satisfaction compared to the control group, and had a notably shorter stay in the postoperative care unit (p < 0.001). Integrating the PECS block with general anesthesia in breast cancer surgeries enhances pain management, reduces opioid use, and shorten postanesthesia care unit stay. The evident benefits suggest PECS as a potential standard in breast surgeries. Future research should further investigate its long-term impacts and broader applications.