Midpoint transverse process to pleura block vs erector spinae plane block for thoracic herpes zoster pain

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 study tests two ultrasound-guided blocks—midpoint transverse process to pleura and erector spinae plane—to manage acute thoracic herpes zoster pain. Eligible participants are adults 21–60 with acute thoracic herpes zoster and moderate to severe pain (NRS ≥4) who are ASA I–II. The primary aim is to compare analgesic efficacy and safety between the two approaches. The blocks target thoracic dermatomes to provide multidermatomal analgesia while minimizing pleural risk. The study is conducted at Tanta University with a lead sponsor and no listed collaborators.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 21-60 years.
* Both sexes.
* American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I-II.
* Acute thoracic herpes zoster within 30 days of rash onset.
* Moderate to severe pain \[numeric rating scale (NRS)≥4\].

Exclusion Criteria:

* Refusal to participate.
* Coagulopathy or anticoagulant therapy.
* Infection at puncture site.
* Allergy to study drugs.
* Severe psychiatric illness or inability to assess pain.
* Previous thoracic surgery deformity.
* Uncontrolled Diabetic patient.
* Chronic diseases as renal, hepatic, malignancy.
* Patients with chronic disease need analgesia.
* Patients are coming for more than 3 months (after healing of rash).

Where it's running

• Tanta University
  Tanta, El-Gharbia, Egypt Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Mohamed A Kazamel, MBBCH
• Email: mohamed198330_pg@med.tanta.edu.eg
• Phone: 00201205997183

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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.