ESPB versus PIFB for pain control after open-heart (sternotomy) surgery
Comparison of Erector Spiane Plan Block (ESPB) Versus Pecto-intercostal Fascial Block(PIFB) for Analgesia and Respiratory Function Recovery in Cardiac Surgery: a Randomized Control Trial
We will test whether an erector spinae plane block (ESPB) or a pecto‑intercostal fascial plane block (PIFB) gives better pain relief and recovery for adults having their first open‑heart (sternotomy) surgery.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 80 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Taichung Veterans General Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Taichung, Taiwan) |
| Trial ID | NCT06322810 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This randomized controlled trial enrolls adults undergoing their first elective conventional sternotomy for cardiac surgery and randomizes them to receive either an erector spinae plane block (ESPB) or a pecto‑intercostal fascial plane block (PIFB) for perioperative analgesia. The primary comparisons include postoperative opioid consumption over 48 hours and static and dynamic pain scores, with secondary outcomes including respiratory function measures, quality of life (QoL15), and other clinical recovery indicators. Blocks are performed perioperatively by anesthesiologists using standardized techniques and patients receive routine postoperative care. The single‑center design at Taichung Veterans General Hospital focuses on first‑time sternotomy patients to reduce confounding from prior operations.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults scheduled for elective, first‑time conventional sternotomy (for CABG, valve repair/replacement, septal defect repair, or similar open‑heart procedures) who are fit for regional anesthesia are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Patients undergoing emergency surgery, anticipated combined major aortic vascular procedures, those already admitted to ICU or mechanically ventilated preoperatively, or with contraindications to regional blocks are unlikely to benefit from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the preferred block could reduce postoperative pain and opioid use, speed respiratory recovery, and improve early recovery after open‑heart surgery.
How similar studies have performed: Previous small trials and case series have shown ESPB and PIFB can reduce postoperative thoracic pain and opioid use, but direct head‑to‑head randomized comparisons in open cardiac surgery are limited.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults patients, elective and first-time cardiac surgery patients undergoing traditional sternotomy. Procedures include coronary artery bypass surgery, valve repair or replacement surgery, atrial and ventricular septal defect repair surgery, and other open-heart surgeries. Exclusion Criteria: * 1\. Emergency surgery 2. Anticipated combined major aortic vascular surgery 3. Already admitted to the ICU or on a ventilator before surgery.
Where this trial is running
Taichung, Taiwan
- Taichung Veterans General Hospital — Taichung, Taiwan, Taiwan (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Yi-Ting Chang, Dr.
- Email: taco@vghtc.gov.tw
- Phone: (+886)4-23592525
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.