Intertransverse process block: A narrative review

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Pain Management
• Thoracic Surgery

Background:

• Intertransverse process block (ITPB) encompasses novel thoracic paraspinal nerve block techniques.
• These techniques target the retro-superior costotransverse ligament space with variations in needle approach.
• ITPB is recognized for ease of performance and reliable analgesia with reduced complication risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the anatomical basis, mechanism, and clinical applications of ITPB.
• To discuss the shortcomings and future research directions for ITPB.
• To provide insights for multimodal analgesia strategies.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of existing literature on ITPB.
• Summary of anatomical landmarks and procedural variations.
• Analysis of clinical applications and safety profiles.

Main Results:

• ITPB techniques demonstrate ease of location, rapid execution, and effective pain relief.
• The technique shows potential in reducing risks such as pneumothorax and intraspinal injection.
• Current evidence is limited, necessitating further large-scale randomized controlled trials.

Conclusions:

• ITPB is a promising regional anesthesia technique for thoracic and abdominal surgeries, and trauma.
• Further validation through robust clinical trials is essential to confirm its safety and efficacy.
• ITPB has the potential to enhance multimodal analgesia protocols.