Investigating the effects of a specific pain relief technique on breathing after abdominal surgery

Respiratory Effects of Rectus Sheath Block in Patients Undergoing Major Upper Abdominal Surgery.

Not applicable Interventional Assiut University · NCT03725527

This study is testing if a special pain relief technique can help people breathe better and feel less pain after having abdominal surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 50 Years
SexAll
SponsorAssiut University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Asyut, Assiut Governorate)
Trial IDNCT03725527 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the respiratory and pain-relieving effects of ultrasound-guided rectus sheath block analgesia in patients undergoing elective abdominal surgery with midline incisions. The rectus sheath block targets specific sensory nerves to alleviate somatic pain from the abdominal wall, potentially improving postoperative recovery. The study will assess how this technique influences diaphragmatic function and overall respiratory outcomes following surgery. Participants will be monitored for pain levels and respiratory function postoperatively to determine the effectiveness of this intervention.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18-50 years undergoing elective abdominal surgery with midline incisions and having a BMI of less than 30.

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit from this study include those with coagulation disorders, infections at the injection site, or those requiring urgent abdominal surgery.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce postoperative pain and improve respiratory function in patients after abdominal surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with similar analgesic techniques, suggesting potential benefits in postoperative pain management.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age: 18-50 years.
* Sex: both males and females.
* BMI\< 30kg/m2.
* ASA physical status: 1, II and III.
* Elective abdominal surgery with midline incisions.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patient refusal.
* Infection at injection site
* Coagulation disorders.
* Allergy to study medications.
* Pregnancy.
* Respiratory tract infection within the last 2 weeks.
* Urgent abdominal surgery

Where this trial is running

Asyut, Assiut Governorate

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 Acute Pain
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.