Comparing pain relief methods after esophageal surgery

Paravertebral Block With Liposomal Bupivacaine and Epidural Block With Plane Bupivacaine for Postoperative Analgesia in Esophageal Surgery: A Randomized, Non-inferiority Study

Not applicable Interventional Zhejiang Cancer Hospital · NCT06704698

This study is testing whether a new pain relief method using liposomal bupivacaine works better than the standard epidural for patients recovering from esophageal surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment132 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorZhejiang Cancer Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hangzhou, Zhejiang)
Trial IDNCT06704698 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of a transversus paravertebral block using liposomal bupivacaine versus traditional epidural analgesia for managing postoperative pain in patients undergoing thoracoscopic esophagectomy. A total of 132 patients will be enrolled, and their pain relief will be assessed using the Overall Benefit of Analgesic Score (OBAS). The study aims to determine if the newer liposomal bupivacaine provides superior pain control while minimizing opioid use and enhancing patient satisfaction. Participants will receive either the liposomal bupivacaine or standard bupivacaine treatment, with postoperative pain managed through patient-controlled analgesia.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients with ASA physical status I-III scheduled for elective thoracoscopic esophagectomy.

Not a fit: Patients with contraindications for local nerve block, chronic pain, or those on anticoagulants or opioids may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved pain management and recovery for patients undergoing esophageal surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with ultrasound-guided regional nerve blocks, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* American Society of Anesthesiologist physical status I-III;
* Scheduled elective thoracoscopic esophagectomy(three-incision approach);
* Approved participation before study.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with contraindications for local nerve block such as spinal anatomic structure abnormality or local infection of puncture area;
* Anergic to medications used in this study;
* Patient have chronic pain;
* Patient receiving anticoagulants, opioids or have a history of narcotic abuse or alcohol abuse;
* Inability to complete postoperative pain assessments or questionnaires due to communication barriers or mental disorders;

Where this trial is running

Hangzhou, Zhejiang

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.
Conditions Pain SyndromeDizzinessVomitingItchingSweet SyndromeColdSatisfaction, Patient
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.