Combined transversus thoracic + serratus anterior plane blocks versus erector spinae plane block for pain after sternotomy

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This is a prospective, randomized, observer-blinded trial enrolling 50 adults (age 18–80, ASA I–III) undergoing elective median sternotomy for cardiac surgery. Participants are randomized 1:1 to receive either combined transversus thoracic plane block (TTPB) plus serratus anterior plane block (SAPB) or a single erector spinae plane block (ESPB), performed under ultrasound guidance after induction and before incision. Anesthesia and perioperative care are standardized and postoperative data collectors are blinded to the allocated block to reduce bias. Primary outcomes focus on postoperative pain control and opioid requirements, with monitoring for respiratory and other complications.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients aged between 18 and 80 years.
* Patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I, II, or III.
* Patients who provide written informed consent.
* Patients scheduled for cardiac surgery via elective sternotomy.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnancy or suspected pregnancy
* Body Mass Index (BMI) \> 35 kg/m²
* History of allergy to local anesthetics or opioids
* Suspected coagulopathy or infection at the injection site
* Severe neurological, psychiatric, hepatic, or renal failure

Where it's running

• Bursa Uludag University Hospital
  Bursa, Nilüfer, Turkey (Türkiye) Recruiting

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.