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Continuous intercostal nerve block for pain relief after thoracotomy
S Sabanathan1, P J Smith, G N Pradhan
1Department of Thoracic Surgery, Bradford Royal Infirmary, England.
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery
|October 1, 1988
Summary
This study introduces a simplified intercostal analgesia technique using bupivacaine hydrochloride. The method proved safe and effective, significantly reducing the need for additional pain relief post-thoracotomy.
Area of Science:
- Thoracic Surgery
- Pain Management
- Anesthesiology
Background:
- Intercostal analgesia is crucial for managing postoperative pain after thoracotomy.
- Existing methods can be complex or associated with complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a simplified and safe technique for intercostal analgesia.
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of this novel technique in patients undergoing thoracotomy.
Main Methods:
- A simplified intercostal analgesia technique utilizing bupivacaine hydrochloride was developed.
- The technique was applied to 81 patients undergoing thoracotomy, relying on an intact pleura.
Main Results:
- 92.6% of patients required no additional analgesia in the first 24 hours post-operation.
- 81.5% of patients remained pain-free for the subsequent four days.
- Only 2 patients experienced postoperative pulmonary complications, with no procedure-related adverse events.
Conclusions:
- The simplified intercostal analgesia technique is a safe and reliable method.
- This approach effectively provides analgesia with minimal side effects after thoracotomy.