Erector spinae plane blocks to reduce pain after cervical or lumbar spinal fusion

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This is a prospective, randomized, double-blind study comparing two ESP block regimens in adults undergoing elective cervical or lumbar posterior fusion (up to 3 levels). Participants receive either 0.5% plain bupivacaine or 0.5% bupivacaine plus liposomal bupivacaine for postoperative analgesia. Primary outcomes include opioid consumption over 72 hours, with secondary measures such as pain scores, length of stay, and time to ambulation. The trial is conducted at Duke University and aims to clarify whether adding liposomal bupivacaine provides superior analgesia and recovery benefits. Eligible patients are English-speaking adults aged 18–75, ASA I–III, without contraindications to regional anesthesia or study drugs.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria

* English speaking
* Age 18-75
* ASA physical status 1-3
* Undergoing elective cervical or lumbar posterior spinal fusion (≤3 levels)

Exclusion Criteria

* Age \<18 or \>75
* ASA IV or V
* Non-English speaking
* BMI \>40
* Opioid dependence
* Chronic pain
* Anticoagulation or coagulopathy
* Injection site infection
* Hepatic or renal insufficiency
* Allergy to study drugs
* Pregnancy
* Inability to communicate with investigators

Where it's running

• Duke University
  Durham, North Carolina, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Stephen Davies — Duke University

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.