Modified Pectoral Nerve Block versus Serratus Block for Analgesia Following Modified Radical Mastectomy: A Randomized...

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Surgical Pain Management
• Regional Anesthesia

Background:

• Limited evidence compares the analgesic benefits of modified pectoral nerve block (PECSII) and serratus anterior plane block (SAPB) in breast surgery.
• Both blocks are increasingly utilized for postoperative analgesia following mastectomy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the analgesic efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided PECSII versus serratus blocks in patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy (MRM).

Main Methods:

• A prospective randomized controlled study involving 180 adult females undergoing MRM.
• Patients were allocated to PECSII block, SAPB, or general anesthesia alone (control).
• Outcomes assessed included morphine consumption, pain scores (VAS), time to first rescue analgesia, PONV, and sedation.

Main Results:

• Both PECSII and serratus blocks significantly reduced postoperative morphine consumption, intraoperative fentanyl needs, VAS pain scores, and PONV compared to the control group.
• Both blocks also prolonged the time to first rescue analgesia and improved sedation scores.
• No statistically significant differences were found between the PECSII and serratus blocks for any of the assessed outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Ultrasound-guided PECSII and serratus anterior plane blocks provide similarly effective analgesia following modified radical mastectomy.
• Both regional anesthesia techniques offer a viable alternative to general anesthesia alone for pain management in MRM patients.