Efficacy of continuous intercostal nerve block for patients with multiple rib fractures

The Efficacy of Continuous Intercostal Nerve Blocks in the Treatment of Patients With Multiple Rib Fractures

Phase 4 Interventional University of Kentucky · NCT05642026

This study is testing if a continuous intercostal nerve block can provide better pain relief for people with multiple rib fractures compared to standard pain management options.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment180 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Kentucky Academic / other
Locations1 site (Lexington, Kentucky)
Trial IDNCT05642026 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This interventional study evaluates the effectiveness of continuous intercostal nerve block (CINB) combined with medical therapy compared to standard medical care for patients with multiple rib fractures. It is a prospective, randomized, non-blinded trial that aims to assess pain management outcomes in patients admitted to the trauma service. Participants will receive either CINB with additional pain management or standard treatment involving nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and opioids. The goal is to determine if CINB provides superior pain relief and improves recovery.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with two or more rib fractures who consent to receive continuous nerve block therapy.

Not a fit: Patients with documented allergies to the study medication or those currently using an epidural catheter may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance pain management for patients with multiple rib fractures, potentially reducing reliance on opioids.

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

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Subjects will be at least 18 years old
* Subjects will have 2 or more identified rib fractures
* Subjects will be willing to provide informed consent for procedure
* Subjects will be identified as appropriate for initiation of continuous nerve block therapy for treatment of rib fracture associated pain.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Documented allergy to study medication
* Epidural catheter use
* Prisoners
* Refusal of CINB therapy

Where this trial is running

Lexington, Kentucky

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 Rib Fracturesintercostalnerve blockopioidnon steroidalinpatientoutpatientcatheter
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.