Comparing two anesthesia techniques for lumbar discectomy without opioids

Retrolaminar Block Versus Erector Spinae Plane Block as Opioid-Free Anesthesia for Enhanced Recovery After Posterior Lumbar Discectomy: A Randomized Trial

Not applicable Interventional Tanta University · NCT06725680

This study tests which of two opioid-free anesthesia techniques helps people recover better and manage pain after lumbar discectomy surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment90 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorTanta University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Tanta, El-Gharbia)
Trial IDNCT06725680 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of retrolaminar block and erector spinae plane block as opioid-free anesthesia methods for patients undergoing posterior lumbar discectomy. The focus is on enhancing recovery after surgery by minimizing opioid use, which is associated with various side effects. Both techniques involve the administration of local anesthetics to manage pain without entering the paravertebral space directly. The study will evaluate pain management outcomes and recovery times to determine which technique is more effective.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 to 65 who are scheduled for elective posterior lumbar discectomy and have an ASA physical status of I-II.

Not a fit: Patients with a BMI over 35, chronic opioid use, or significant comorbidities such as cardiac or renal insufficiency may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved pain management and faster recovery for patients undergoing lumbar discectomy without the use of opioids.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with opioid-free anesthesia techniques, suggesting that this approach may be effective, though the specific comparison of these two techniques is less commonly tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age from 18 to 65 years.
* Both sexes.
* American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) physical status I-II.
* Undergoing elective posterior lumbar discectomy under general anesthesia.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Body mass index (BMI) \>35 kg/m2.
* Patients with disturbed mental status.
* Allergies to the drugs used in the study.
* Local infection at the puncture site.
* Cardiac insufficiency.
* Renal insufficiency.
* Coagulopathy.
* Chronic opioid use.

Where this trial is running

Tanta, El-Gharbia

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 Retrolaminar BlockErector Spinae Plane BlockOpioid-Free AnesthesiaEnhanced RecoveryLumbar Discectomy
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.