Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Phase 2 Interventional Ages 18 and up

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

PhasePhase 2
Study typeInterventional
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment25 (estimated)
SponsorDuke University
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Durham, North Carolina)
StatusRecruiting
StartedOctober 26, 2026
Main results expectedFebruary 2027
Study endsApril 2027
Registry record updatedNovember 6, 2026
Trial IDNCT07068243 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

Similar studies

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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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.