New nerve blocks to reduce pain after heart and lung surgery

New Truncal Nerve Blocks for Thoracoscopic Surgery and Open Heart Surgery.

Phase 4 Interventional Tampere University Hospital · NCT03704753

This study is testing two new ways to block pain after heart and lung surgeries to see if they can help patients feel better and use less pain medication.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 85 Years
SexAll
SponsorTampere University Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Tampere)
Trial IDNCT03704753 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates two innovative nerve block techniques aimed at reducing postoperative pain in patients undergoing thoracoscopic lung surgery and open heart surgery. The first sub-study evaluates the effectiveness of the Serratus Anterior Plane block (SAPB) in minimizing opioid consumption, comparing different methods of administration. The second sub-study focuses on the Subpectoral Interfascial Plane block (SIP) to assess its impact on pain management after medial sternotomy. Patients will be randomly assigned to various treatment groups to determine the most effective approach.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals scheduled for elective thoracoscopic lung surgery or elective open heart valve surgery.

Not a fit: Patients with diabetes type 1 complications, chronic pain, or those currently using opioids or certain antidepressants may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly reduce opioid use and improve pain management for patients undergoing thoracic and cardiac surgeries.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar nerve block techniques, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Elective thoracoscopic lung surgery or elective open heart valve surgery

Exclusion Criteria:

* DM1 with complications, lack of co-operation, refusal, chronic pain, chronic intake of opioids or use of SNRI or tricyclic antidepressants.

Where this trial is running

Tampere

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 Postoperative PainCardiac SurgeryThoracic SurgeryNerve block
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.