Serratus posterior superior intercostal block versus serratus anterior plane block for non‑intubated single‑port VATS
Comparison of Serratus Posterior Superior Intercostal Plane Block and Serratus Anterior Plane Block in Uniportal Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery Without Intubation
We will test whether the serratus posterior superior intercostal block or the serratus anterior plane block gives better pain control and reduces anesthetic use in adults having non‑intubated single‑port VATS.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 70 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Firat University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Elâzığ) |
| Trial ID | NCT07440199 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This single‑center interventional comparison enrolls adult patients scheduled for non‑intubated uniportal video‑assisted thoracoscopic surgery (NI‑UniVATS) and assigns them to receive either a serratus anterior plane block (SAPB) or a serratus posterior superior intercostal plane (SPSIP) block. Intraoperative anesthesia requirements, analgesic consumption, and pain scores will be recorded to compare the two fascial plane techniques. The trial excludes patients with prior thoracic surgery, major comorbidities that affect anesthesia or coagulation, and those unable to use the pain rating scale. Procedures and outcome measurement are performed at Fırat University Faculty of Medicine Hospital.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults aged 18–65 with ASA physical status I–III, BMI under 35 kg/m², able to consent and communicate in Turkish, and scheduled for non‑intubated uniportal VATS are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Patients with prior thoracic surgery or trauma, widespread pleural adhesions, neuromuscular disease, uncontrolled systemic illness, coagulation disorders, current anticoagulant use, pregnancy, or inability to use the pain scale are unlikely to benefit or be eligible.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the better block could lower intraoperative anesthetic and postoperative opioid needs, improving pain control and recovery after NI‑UniVATS.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown SAPB can reduce pain for thoracic procedures, while the serratus posterior superior intercostal plane block is a newer technique with more limited published evidence.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: The study included patients who: * were aged 18-65 years, * had an American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classification of I-III, * had a body mass index (BMI) \< 35 kg/m², * read and signed the informed consent form. Exclusion Criteria: Patients; * Unable to communicate in Turkish or refusing to participate in the study, * Unable to use the numerical pain rating scale (NRS), * History of allergy to local anaesthetics or analgesics used in the study, * Pregnant or breastfeeding, * History of uncontrolled anxiety disorder or substance dependence, * Previous thoracic surgery or history of thoracic trauma, * Widespread pleural adhesions detected during preoperative assessment, * Neuromuscular or peripheral nervous system disease, * Diabetes mellitus, hepatic or renal insufficiency, or coagulation disorder, * Chronic opioid or steroid use, * Widespread pain syndrome, * Receiving anticoagulant therapy, * Patients with infection detected in the area where the block will be applied were excluded.
Where this trial is running
Elâzığ
- Fırat University Faculty of Medicine Hospital — Elâzığ, Turkey (Türkiye) (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: AHMET AKSU, Assistant Professor
- Email: aaksu@firat.edu.tr
- Phone: +90-530-349-3896
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.