Comparing pain management techniques during video-assisted thoracic surgery

QORVATS Study. A Randomized Controlled, Triple Blinded to Compare the Quality of Recovery (QoR 40) Between Intercostal Block and a Combination of Intercostal Nerve Block With Serratus Plane Catheter for Patient's Undergoing VATS Procedures.

NA · London Health Sciences Centre Research Institute OR Lawson Research Institute of St. Joseph's · NCT04990713

This study is testing whether a local anesthetic can help reduce pain and improve recovery for patients having video-assisted thoracic surgery compared to a placebo.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorLondon Health Sciences Centre Research Institute OR Lawson Research Institute of St. Joseph's (other)
Locations1 site (London, Ontairo)
Trial IDNCT04990713 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of two pain management techniques for patients undergoing video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS). Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either a local anesthetic or a placebo in addition to standard care. The study aims to assess postoperative pain levels and the impact on recovery outcomes. It employs a triple-blind methodology to ensure unbiased results, with blinding for participants, clinical teams, and data collectors.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults over 18 years old undergoing elective VATS lung resections with an ASA score of 1 to 4.

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit include those with allergies to local anesthetics, emergency surgery needs, or chronic pain conditions.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved pain management strategies, enhancing recovery and reducing hospital readmissions for patients undergoing VATS.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown varying success with similar analgesic techniques, but this specific comparison is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients undergoing elective VATS lung resections including wedge resection, segmentectomy, bi-lobectomy, or lobectomy.
* Age \> 18 years.
* ASA (American Society of Anesthesiology) Score - 1 to 4.
* Gender - all genders
* Patients able to consent to participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patient refusal to participate in the study.
* Emergency surgery.
* Allergies to local anesthetics
* BMI\>40
* Presence of local (chest wall) or systemic infection.
* Previous lung resection on the same hemithorax.
* Patient suffering from chronic pain defined by persistent pain more than six month.
* Conversion to thoracotomy

Where this trial is running

London, Ontairo

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Video Assisted Thoracic Surgery, Pain Management, Intercostal Block, Fascial Plane Block

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.