Fluoroscopy-Guided Erector Spinae Plane Block Reduces Early Postoperative Pain Following Lumbar Fusion: A Randomized...

DesignRandomized Controlled Trial.ObjectivePostoperative pain after lumbar spine surgery remains a clinical challenge. Fluoroscopy-guided erector spinae plane block (ESPB) has been proposed as a feasible technique for reducing pain and opioid use, particularly when ultrasound guidance is not available.MethodsIn this double-blind randomized controlled trial, 80 patients undergoing two to five levels of posterior lumbar fusion with single-level discectomy and interbody fusion were assigned to receive either fluoroscopy-guided ESPB with ropivacaine, dexamethasone, and saline or placebo. Pain intensity (Numerical Rating Scale), opioid consumption (Morphine Equivalent Dose), and other postoperative outcomes were assessed at 4, 24, 48, 72 h, and 6 months.ResultsThe ESPB group reported significantly lower axial pain scores at 4 and 24 h postoperatively (P = 0.017 and P = 0.0001, respectively). Opioid consumption was also significantly lower in the ESPB group during the first 48 h (P < 0.05). No significant differences were observed in radicular pain, patient satisfaction, time to ambulation, or hospital length of stay. At 6 months, both groups showed similar pain scores and rates of over-the-counter analgesic use. Infection rates were low and comparable between groups.ConclusionFluoroscopy-guided ESPB appears to be a safe and effective adjunct for reducing early postoperative pain and opioid requirements following posterior lumbar fusion. However, its benefits diminish beyond the immediate postoperative period, and it does not significantly impact long-term outcomes.