Continuous erector spinae versus edge of laminar block for pain relief and breathing after multiple rib fractures

The Effect of Continuous Erector Spinae Block Versus Continuous Edge of Laminar Block on The Quality of Analgesia and Diaphragmatic Excursion in Patients With Multiple Rib Fractures. A Prospective Randomized Trail.

NA · Tanta University · NCT07069101

This will test whether a continuous erector spinae block or a continuous edge of laminar block provides better pain relief and preserves diaphragmatic movement in adults with unilateral multiple rib fractures.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment70 (estimated)
Ages21 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorTanta University (other)
Locations1 site (Tanta, El-Gharbia)
Trial IDNCT07069101 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This is a prospective, randomized clinical comparison of two continuous regional anesthesia techniques for adults with unilateral traumatic multiple rib fractures. Patients are randomized to receive either a continuous erector spinae plane catheter or a continuous edge-of-lamina catheter placed under ultrasound guidance, with ongoing local anesthetic infusion. The trial measures quality of analgesia and diaphragmatic excursion as primary outcomes, alongside routine safety monitoring. Eligible participants are adults admitted to the surgical ICU within the first day after injury and without major extra-thoracic trauma or contraindications to regional blocks.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Adults aged 21–65 with unilateral traumatic multiple rib fractures (three or more) admitted to the surgical ICU within the first day after injury and without major extra-thoracic injuries or contraindications to regional anesthesia are ideal candidates.

Not a fit: Patients with bilateral or extensive multi-system trauma, BMI ≥ 35, bleeding/coagulation disorders, major organ dysfunction, local infection at the block site, or known drug hypersensitivity are unlikely to benefit or be eligible.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, the better-performing block could provide stronger, longer-lasting pain relief and help preserve breathing mechanics, potentially reducing pulmonary complications.

How similar studies have performed: Erector spinae plane blocks have growing evidence supporting analgesia for rib fractures, while the edge of laminar block is a newer technique with limited comparative data.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged between 21 and 65 years.
* Both sexes.
* With unilateral traumatic multiple fracture ribs (≥ 3), admitted to the surgical intensive care unit within the first day of trauma.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients' rejection.
* Body mass index ≥ 35 (kg/m2).
* Bleeding and Coagulation disorders.
* Known hypersensitivity to the study drugs.
* Vertebral deformity.
* Respiratory, cardiac, renal or hepatic dysfunction.
* Patients with major trauma involving extra-thoracic structures (e.g., head, spine, pelvis, and abdominal visceral injuries).
* Mental or cognitive dysfunction,
* History of chronic analgesic or drug abuse.
* Local infection at the site of the block.

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Erector Spinae Block, Edge of Laminar Block, Analgesia, Diaphragmatic Excursion, Multiple Rib Fractures

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.