Ultrasound versus thoracoscopic-guided paravertebral block during thoracotomy

Paravertebral block can be performed with the aid of surgical landmarks, ultrasound, or a thoracoscope. This study was designed to compare ultrasound-guided paravertebral block with the thoracoscopic technique.

This prospective randomized comparative study included 40 adults scheduled for elective thoracic surgery. Study participants were randomized to an ultrasound group or a thoracoscope group. A catheter for paravertebral block was inserted prior to thoracotomy with real-time ultrasound visualization in the ultrasound group, and under thoracoscopic guidance in the thoracoscope group. Total analgesic consumption, visual analogue pain score, technical difficulties, and complications were compared between the 2 groups.

Total analgesic consumption in the first 24 hours was less in the ultrasound group than in the thoracoscope group (rescue intravenous fentanyl 121.25 ± 64.01 µg in the ultrasound group vs. 178.75 ± 91.36 µg in the thoracoscope group; p = 0.027). Total paravertebral bupivacaine consumption was 376.00 ± 33.779 mg in the ultrasound group and 471.50 ± 64.341 mg in the thoracoscope group (p < 0.001). Technical difficulties and complications in terms of time consumed during the maneuver, more than one needle pass, and pleural puncture were significantly lower in the ultrasound group than in the thoracoscope group.

Ultrasound-guided paravertebral catheter insertion is more effective, technically easier, and safer than the thoracoscope-assisted technique.