Comparing two anesthesia techniques for upper abdominal surgery

Comparison Between Ultrasound Guided Rhomboid Intercostal Plane Block and Thoracic Erector Spinae Plane Block in Patients Undergoing Upper Abdominal Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional Tanta University · NCT06654635

This study tests which of two ultrasound-guided anesthesia techniques can provide better pain relief for patients having upper abdominal surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages21 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorTanta University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Tanta, El-Gharbia)
Trial IDNCT06654635 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of two ultrasound-guided anesthesia techniques, the rhomboid intercostal plane block and the thoracic erector spinae block, in providing pain relief for patients undergoing upper abdominal surgery. The research aims to determine which technique offers better analgesic efficacy, thereby improving postoperative outcomes. By utilizing ultrasound guidance, the study seeks to enhance the safety and effectiveness of regional anesthesia compared to traditional methods. The findings could lead to improved pain management strategies in surgical settings.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are patients aged 21-65 years, of any gender, classified as ASA I-II, and scheduled for elective upper abdominal surgery.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic pain, significant comorbidities, or those who are obese with a BMI over 35 may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to better pain management and recovery experiences for patients undergoing upper abdominal surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia techniques, indicating potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients aged 21-65 years.
* Both gender.
* American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification I-II.
* Presented for elective upper abdominal surgery.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients refused to participate.
* Patients with known or suspected allergy to the used medication.
* Patients with preoperative chronic pain.
* Patients with major cardiac, renal, respiratory, or hepatic disease.
* Patients with potential risk of coagulopathy.
* Obese patients with body mass index (BMI) \>35.

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 UltrasoundRhomboid Intercostal Plane BlockThoracic Erector Spinae Plane BlockUpper Abdominal Surgery
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.