Comparing two nerve blocks to reduce opioids after laparoscopic gallbladder removal
Perioperative Opioid-sparing Effect of Retrosuperior Costotransverse Ligament Block Versus Erector Spinae Block in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
This study tests whether a retrosuperior costotransverse ligament block or an erector spinae block better reduces opioid use and pain for adults having elective laparoscopic gallbladder removal.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 80 (estimated) |
| Ages | 21 Years to 64 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Zagazig University Government |
| Locations | 1 site (Zagazig) |
| Trial ID | NCT07276646 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This trial compares the analgesic effects of a retrosuperior costotransverse ligament (RCTL) block versus an erector spinae plane (ESP) block in adults undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Participants are assigned to receive one of the two ultrasound-guided nerve blocks and outcomes such as time to first analgesic request, total analgesic consumption, and pain scores are recorded. The protocol also records block performance time, intraoperative hemodynamics and fentanyl use, and collects patient and surgeon satisfaction and complication rates. Findings will determine whether one technique provides superior opioid-sparing, pain control, and hemodynamic stability.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults aged 21–64 with ASA physical status I–II, BMI 18.5–30 kg/m2, scheduled for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy lasting up to two hours who agree to participate.
Not a fit: Patients with allergy to local anesthetics, respiratory insufficiency, coagulation disorders, pre-existing neurological deficits, uncooperative or altered mental status, or advanced cardiovascular/respiratory disease are excluded and unlikely to benefit from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could reduce postoperative opioid needs and improve pain control and satisfaction after laparoscopic gallbladder surgery.
How similar studies have performed: Erector spinae plane blocks and other interfascial plane blocks have shown opioid-sparing and analgesic benefits in prior abdominal and thoracic surgery studies, while the retrosuperior costotransverse ligament block is a newer technique with more limited published evidence.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. patient acceptance 2. Age: 21-64 years old. 3. Sex: both sexes. 4. Physical status: ASA I \& II. 5. Body mass index (BMI): 18.5 - 30 kg/m2. 6. Type of operations: elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy. 7. Duration of surgery not more than 2 hours. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Known hypersensitivity to lidocaine or bupivacaine. 2. Patients with respiratory insufficiency. 3. Coagulation disorders or taking drugs affect surgical hemostasis. 7\. Patients with pre-existing neurological deficits. 8. Uncooperative patient or with altered mental status. 9. Patient with advanced cardiovascular or respiratory diseases
Where this trial is running
Zagazig
- Faculty of human medicine, Zagazig university, Zagazig — Zagazig, Egypt (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Dina Salem, MD
- Phone: 01099333513
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.