Comparing two pain management techniques for thoracic surgery

Erector Spinae Versus Intercostal Nerve Blocks With Liposomal Bupivacaine for Analgesia in Thoracic Surgery

Phase 3 Interventional George Washington University · NCT06810375

This study tests which pain management method works better for people having lung cancer surgery: an erector spinae block with liposomal bupivacaine or intercostal nerve blocks.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 3
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment120 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 90 Years
SexAll
SponsorGeorge Washington University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Washington D.C., District of Columbia)
Trial IDNCT06810375 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of two different pain management techniques in patients undergoing thoracic surgery for lung cancers. It compares the erector spinae block with liposomal bupivacaine injections against intercostal nerve blocks. The study aims to determine which method provides better postoperative analgesia. Participants will be monitored for pain levels and recovery outcomes following their surgical procedures.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients scheduled for video-assisted pulmonary resection, pleurodesis, or decortication.

Not a fit: Patients with allergies to local anesthetics or those undergoing bilateral surgery may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved pain management strategies for patients undergoing thoracic surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with similar nerve block techniques for pain management, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Video assisted pulmonary resection, pleurodesis or decortication

Exclusion Criteria:

* Allergy to local anesthetics
* Patient undergoing bilateral surgery
* Surgery is emergent as deemed by the principal investigator

Where this trial is running

Washington D.C., District of Columbia

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 Lung Cancers
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.