Rectus Sheath Block technique comparison in adults
Official title: Transverse Versus Longitudinal Approaches for Rectus Sheath Block: a Randomized Controlled Trial in Healthy Volunteers
Run by Duke University · NCT07068243 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests two ultrasound-guided ways of delivering a rectus sheath block to see which method better spreads anesthetic and covers more nerves in adults having abdominal procedures.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 2 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 25 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Duke University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Durham, North Carolina) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 26, 2026 |
| Main results expected | February 2027 |
| Study ends | April 2027 |
| Registry record updated | November 6, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07068243 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 18 or older with ASA physical status 1 or 2, weighing more than 60 kg, without BMI over 40, and able to consent and comply with the protocol.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with contraindications to regional anesthesia, ultrasound visualization issues, or conditions that preclude block performance may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This Phase 2, randomized, blinded, cross-over style investigation compares transverse versus longitudinal ultrasound guidance for bilateral rectus sheath blocks using lidocaine with epinephrine in healthy-appearing adults. Each participant receives blocks on both sides at a supraumbilical level, with one side using the transverse approach and the other side using the longitudinal approach; the order is randomized. Real-time ultrasound assessment measures spread within the posterior rectus sheath, and dermatomal coverage is mapped at baseline and 60 minutes post-block. The study aims to characterize the distribution and sensory effect of each technique under standardized conditions to inform potential improvements in regional analgesia for midline abdominal wall procedures.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the study could identify a more reliable approach to achieve broader dermatomal coverage with rectus sheath blocks, potentially improving postoperative pain control for abdominal procedures.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work supports rectus sheath blocks as a viable regional technique, but direct head-to-head comparisons of transverse versus longitudinal approaches are limited, making this investigation novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria: 1. Ability to provide written informed consent 2. Ability and willingness to comply with the study procedures and duration requirements 3. ASA physical status 1 or 2 4. Age ≥ 18 years 5. Weight \> 60kg Exclusion criteria: 1. BMI \> 40kg.m-2 2. Use of analgesics within 24 hours before the procedure 3. History of abdominal trauma or surgery 4. Abdominal deformities or abnormalities that may prevent proper block performance 5. Abdominal tattoos in the supraumbilical area 6. Systemic neuromuscular disease 7. Contraindications to regional anesthesia (e.g., infection, allergy) 8. Structures are unable to be visualized by ultrasound 9. Pregnancy 10. Other known health conditions that would affect the participant's ability to successfully complete the study
Where it's running
-
Duke University Medical Center
Durham, North Carolina, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: David MacLeod, MBBS
- Email: david.macleod@duke.edu
- Phone: 9198123201
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
-
Postoperative Pain Control in Elderly Knee Replacement
This study tests two pain-management methods after knee replacement in adults 60 and older to see which one reduces delirium and improves recovery.
-
Anterior suprascapular nerve block vs interscalene block for shoulder surgery pain
This trial tests whether an anterior suprascapular nerve block can provide similar pain relief to the standard interscalene block after outpatient shoulder surgery in adults.
-
Predictors of severe pain within 24 hours after cesarean delivery with spinal anesthesia
This study will look at which pre-, intra-, and post-operative factors are linked to severe pain in the first 24 hours after an elective cesarean done with spinal anesthesia.
-
Compare TAP block vs ESP block for pain after laparoscopic kidney surgery
Adults undergoing laparoscopic renal surgery will try either a TAP block or an ESP block to see which one better controls pain after surgery.
-
Transverse vs Longitudinal Serratus Anterior Plane Block for Breast Surgery
This trial tests whether a longitudinal ultrasound view for serratus anterior plane block provides better pain relief after breast surgery than the standard transverse view.
-
Combined PECS II and PIP blocks vs TPVB for post-mastectomy pain relief
This trial tests whether a combination of PECS II and superficial PIP blocks can provide better or similar pain relief after mastectomy compared with the standard thoracic paravertebral block.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.