Comparing two pain management techniques after thoracotomy

External Oblique Intercostal Plane Block Versus Thoracic Paravertebral Block for Post Thoracotomy Pain: A Randomized Non-inferiority Trial

Not applicable Interventional Tanta University · NCT06431880

This study is testing two different pain relief methods after chest surgery to see which one works better for managing pain and has fewer side effects.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment90 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorTanta University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Tanta, El-Gharbia Governorate, Egypt)
Trial IDNCT06431880 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of two analgesic techniques, the external oblique intercostal plane block (EOIPB) and the thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB), for managing postoperative pain in patients undergoing open thoracotomy. It addresses the multifactorial nature of acute thoracotomy pain, which involves various nerve pathways. The study will evaluate pain relief outcomes and potential side effects associated with each technique in a controlled setting.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older scheduled for open thoracotomy with ASA physical status I-III.

Not a fit: Patients with neurological disabilities, infections at the injection site, or severe comorbidities may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved pain management strategies for patients recovering from thoracotomy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown varying success with similar analgesic techniques, indicating potential for effective pain management but also highlighting the need for further investigation.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age ≥ 18 years.
* Both sexes.
* American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) physical status I-III.
* Scheduled for open thoracotomy

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with neurological or intellectual disability.
* Infection at the injection site.
* Opioid addiction.
* Allergic reaction to local anesthetics.
* Coagulation abnormalities.
* Drug abuse.
* Pregnancy.
* Severe liver and/or renal failure.
* Uncontrolled hypertension.
* Severe cardiovascular problems.
* Diabetes mellitus.

Where this trial is running

Tanta, El-Gharbia Governorate, Egypt

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 External Oblique Intercostal Plane BlockThoracic Paravertebral BlockPost Thoracotomy Pain
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.