Using Erector Spinae Block to Reduce Opioid Use After Neck Surgery

Effect of Erector Spinae (ESP) Block on Opioid Reduction and Enhanced Recovery After Posterior Cervical Spine Surgery

Not applicable Interventional University Health Network, Toronto · NCT04646707

This study is testing whether a special pain relief technique called the Erector Spinae Block can help people who have neck surgery feel better and use fewer opioids.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment52 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Health Network, Toronto Academic / other
Locations1 site (Toronto, Ontario)
Trial IDNCT04646707 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness of the Erector Spinae Plane (ESP) block in managing postoperative pain for patients undergoing posterior cervical spine surgery. The ESP block aims to provide targeted pain relief while minimizing the reliance on opioids, which can lead to addiction and other side effects. By employing a multimodal analgesia approach, the study seeks to enhance recovery and improve overall patient outcomes. Participants will receive either the ESP block with local anesthetics or a placebo to assess the impact on pain management and opioid consumption.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-80 with ASA class I-III undergoing posterior cervical decompression and fusion for cervical stenosis.

Not a fit: Patients who are allergic to local anesthetics or have ASA class IV conditions will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce opioid use and improve recovery experiences for patients after cervical spine surgery.

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

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

All adult patients aged 18-80 years with ASA class I - III undergoing posterior cervical (C3-T2) decompression and instrumented fusion for cervical stenosis in prone position.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. In patients who are allergic to local anesthetics.
2. ASA IV patients
3. Lack of informed consent
4. Pregnant patient.
5. Fracture cervical spine
6. Extradural or intradural cervical tumors
7. Surgery of C1 and C2 spine

Where this trial is running

Toronto, Ontario

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 PostoperativePainOpioidReductionEnhancedRecovery
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.