Evaluating recovery after mastectomy with and without PECS blocks

Patient Quality of Recovery From Mastectomy With and Without PECS Block With Liposomal Bupivacaine

Observational Endeavor Health · NCT05795413

This study is testing whether using a specific pain relief method called PECS blocks helps patients recover better after mastectomy compared to those who don’t receive it.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment800 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 90 Years
SexFemale
SponsorEndeavor Health Academic / other
Locations1 site (Evanston, Illinois)
Trial IDNCT05795413 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess the quality of recovery for patients undergoing mastectomy at NorthShore University HealthSystem. It will compare outcomes between patients who receive PECS blocks with Liposomal Bupivacaine and those who do not. A total of 800 patients will be enrolled, with recovery quality measured using the QoR 15 survey at 72 hours post-surgery, alongside pain scores and total morphine equivalents used. The goal is to determine if the use of PECS blocks enhances recovery and pain management.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are females aged 18 to 90 who are undergoing unilateral or bilateral mastectomy and can consent in English or Spanish.

Not a fit: Patients with allergies to narcotic or local anesthetic medications or those on chronic opioid therapy may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved pain control and recovery experiences for patients undergoing mastectomy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with PECS blocks in improving postoperative recovery, suggesting this approach may be beneficial.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Must be female Must be \>18 years old and \< 90 years old Must be able to consent in English or Spanish May or may not have breast cancer (prophylactic mastectomy) Must be undergoing unilateral or bilateral mastectomy of any type May choose to proceed with or without breast reconstruction

Exclusion Criteria:

* Allergy to all narcotic or local anesthetic medications Intake of any chronic opioids or pain medications preoperatively for a chronic condition or chronic use.

Subjects who received PECS blocks but whose block failed or is deemed not effective by an anesthesia provider as indicated by postoperative evaluation exam.

Vulnerable subjects (children, prisoners, pregnant women)

Where this trial is running

Evanston, Illinois

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 Post Operative PainQuality of Recovery After Mastectomy
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.