Comparing two types of nerve blocks for pain relief after abdominal surgery

Is Erector Spinae Plane Block More Effective Than Rectus Sheath Block for Postoperative Analgesia After Supraumbilical Surgery in Adult Patients

Not applicable Interventional Damanhour Teaching Hospital · NCT05179928

This study is testing which type of nerve block, the erector spinae plane block or the rectus sheath block, works better for pain relief after abdominal surgery to help adults recover with less need for opioids.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages21 Years to 60 Years
SexAll
SponsorDamanhour Teaching Hospital Government
Locations1 site (Damanhūr, El-Beheira)
Trial IDNCT05179928 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of the erector spinae plane block (ESPB) and the rectus sheath block (RSB) in providing postoperative pain relief for adult patients undergoing supraumbilical surgery. The focus is on reducing the need for opioids, which can have adverse side effects, by utilizing regional analgesic techniques. The study will evaluate patient outcomes related to pain management and overall recovery following surgery.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 21 to 60 years with an ASA physical status of II or less and a BMI under 35 kg/m².

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit from this study include those with severe comorbidities, altered mental status, or those outside the specified age and BMI criteria.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved pain management strategies that minimize opioid use after surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated that regional analgesic techniques like ESPB and RSB can effectively manage postoperative pain with fewer side effects, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status ≤ II
* Age from 21 to 60 years
* Body Mass Index (BMI) \< 35 kg/m²

Exclusion Criteria:

* American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status \> II
* Age \< 21 years or \> 60 years
* Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥ 35
* Local infection at the puncture site
* Altered mental status
* Pregnant women
* Allergy to study drugs
* Chronic pain
* Coagulation abnormalities or on anticoagulants
* Severe hepatic or kidney disease

Where this trial is running

Damanhūr, El-Beheira

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 Post Operative PainErector Spinae Plane BlockRectus Sheath BlockRegional Analgesia
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.