Interscalene block versus serratus posterior superior intercostal plane block for pain after arthroscopic shoulder surgery

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 interventional comparison examines two ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia techniques — the commonly used interscalene brachial plexus block (ISCB) and the newer serratus posterior superior intercostal plane block (SPSPB) — for managing postoperative pain after arthroscopic shoulder surgery. Adults with ASA I–II scheduled for arthroscopic shoulder procedures under general anesthesia will receive one of the blocks perioperatively, with postoperative analgesia management and monitoring. The SPSPB involves injection at the serratus posterior superior muscle around the 2nd–3rd ribs to block lower cervical and upper intercostal nerves, while ISCB targets the brachial plexus at the interscalene level; both are performed under ultrasound guidance. Outcomes include postoperative pain, opioid consumption, time to mobilization, adverse events, and length of hospital stay.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification I-II
* Scheduled for arthroscopic shoulder surgery under general anesthesia

Exclusion Criteria:

* history of bleeding diathesis,
* receiving anticoagulant treatment,
* known local anesthetics and opioid allergy,
* infection of the skin at the site of the needle puncture,
* pregnancy or lactation,
* patients who do not accept the procedure

Where it's running

• Istanbul Medipol University Hospital
  Istanbul, Bagcilar, Turkey (Türkiye) Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Bahadir Ciftci, Assoc Prof, MD
• Email: bciftci@medipol.edu.tr
• Phone: +905343736865

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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.