ESP Blocks to Help Pain After Breast Reconstruction with Autologous Flaps
Official title: Efficacy of Erector Spinae Plane (ESP) Blocks in Free Flap-Based Breast Reconstruction: A Randomized Controlled Study
Run by Carilion Clinic · NCT07891039 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether erector spinae plane blocks can improve pain control after autologous free flap breast reconstruction in adults.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 1 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 18 Years to 75 Years |
| Sex | Women only |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Carilion Clinic Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Roanoke, Virginia) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 1, 2026 |
| Main results expected | June 30, 2028 |
| Study ends | June 30, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | October 23, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07891039 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults 18–75 undergoing abdominally based autologous free flap breast reconstruction, with BMI <40 and no opioid dependence.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with contraindications to regional blocks or those unlikely to benefit from improved pain control may see limited or no improvement.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This phase 1 randomized trial investigates the use of erector spinae plane blocks with bupivacaine, epinephrine, and dexamethasone to manage postoperative pain in patients undergoing abdominally based autologous free flap breast reconstruction. Participants are adults 18 to 75 with BMI under 40 and no opioid dependence, randomized to receive the ESP block as part of perioperative care or standard care. The goal is to see if ESP blocks reduce pain artifact, promote ambulation, and shorten hospital stay by improving initial pain control after surgery. The study uses a prospective design to assess safety and preliminary efficacy in a single-center setting at Roanoke, VA. This approach leverages a regional anesthesia technique already used in multiple surgical specialties.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, ESP blocks could reduce postoperative pain and opioid needs, potentially enabling faster recovery and earlier discharge.
How similar studies have gone: Regional ESP blocks are used in various surgeries, with growing evidence of pain relief, though application in autologous breast reconstruction is less established.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of breast cancer * Undergoing abdominally based autologous free flap breast reconstruction * Age 18-75 * BMI \<40 * Must be able to consent for themself Exclusion Criteria: * Weight \<50 kg * Pre-existing opioid dependence * Infection at site of ESP block injection * Allergy to local anesthetic * Coagulopathy disorder * Pregnant * Significant liver impairment (Child-Pugh class 3)
Where it's running
-
Roanoke Memorial Hospital
Roanoke, Virginia, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Joowon Choi, MD
- Email: jmchoi@carilionclinic.org
- Phone: 540-682-6695
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.