Continuous Erector Spinae Plane Block for Postoperative Analgesia After Intestinal Resection and Hernia Repair...

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Pain Management
• Regional Anesthesia

Background:

• Erector spinae plane (ESP) block is a versatile analgesic technique.
• It serves as an alternative to epidural anesthesia, especially when other methods fail.
• Managing postoperative pain in polymorbid patients presents significant clinical challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the effective use of continuous bilateral ESP block in a post-laparotomy patient.
• To address complexities of polymorbidity and postoperative anticoagulant management.
• To evaluate ESP block as a pain management strategy in extensive abdominal surgery.

Main Methods:

• A 64-year-old male patient underwent complex abdominal surgery (hernioplasty with intestinal resection).
• Continuous bilateral ESP block was initiated at the Th11 level using bupivacaine infusion.
• Catheters were placed bilaterally for prolonged analgesia.

Main Results:

• The patient experienced severe postoperative pain requiring intensive care.
• Bilateral ESP block provided effective pain relief post-surgery.
• No complications arose from the ESP block catheters despite the patient requiring immediate anticoagulants.

Conclusions:

• Prolonged ESP block with bilateral catheters is a reliable and effective approach for long-term pain relief.
• This technique is suitable for patients undergoing extensive abdominal surgery.
• ESP block offers a safe analgesic option even in patients with comorbidities requiring anticoagulation.