Clinical Research Directory

Comparison of Serratus Posterior Superior Intercostal Plane Block and Paravertebral Block for Post-Thoracotomy Pain Management

Patients undergoing thoracic surgery via thoracotomy are required to remain in the lateral decubitus position for prolonged periods due to surgical access requirements. This positioning is considered one of the major contributors to postoperative shoulder pain, particularly because of the mechanical stress imposed on the dependent shoulder and scapulothoracic region. The resulting pain not only reduces patient comfort but may also delay early mobilization, thereby adversely affecting respiratory function and the recovery of postoperative pulmonary capacity . Therefore, in thoracic surgery, the ability of regional anesthesia techniques to provide sensory coverage extending beyond the incision site to include dermatomes associated with the shoulder girdle has emerged as a critical factor influencing analgesic efficacy. In this context, the present study aims to comprehensively compare Serratus Posterior Superior Intercostal Plane Block (SPSIPB) and Thoracic Paravertebral Block (PVB) with respect to both the management of post-thoracotomy postoperative shoulder pain and their overall analgesic effectiveness. Furthermore, the contribution of these two techniques to postoperative pain management will be thoroughly evaluated in terms of patient comfort and safety profiles.