Rhomboid Intercostal Block Combined With Interscalene Nerve Block for Sternoclavicular Joint Reconstruction
Chihiro Toda1, Rajnish K Gupta2, Hesham Elsharkawy3
1Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Management, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH.
Abstract:
Background: Rhomboid intercostal block is a newer technique for chest wall analgesia and can be an effective alternative to thoracic epidurals and paravertebral blocks. We performed a rhomboid intercostal block after sternoclavicular joint reconstruction surgery. Case Report: A healthy 26-year-old male who had chronic right sternoclavicular joint instability was scheduled for right medial clavicle resection with sternoclavicular joint allograft reconstruction. We performed a right interscalene single-shot nerve block followed by a rhomboid intercostal block with catheter placement under ultrasound guidance. The patient's pain was well controlled postoperatively with minimal use of opioids. Conclusion: Rhomboid intercostal block with brachial plexus block is a potential option for analgesia after sternoclavicular joint reconstruction surgery.


