Using Erector Spinae Block to Reduce Opioid Use After Neck Surgery
Official title: Effect of Erector Spinae (ESP) Block on Opioid Reduction and Enhanced Recovery After Posterior Cervical Spine Surgery
Run by University Health Network, Toronto · NCT04646707 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 52 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University Health Network, Toronto Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Toronto, Ontario) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 17, 2020 |
| Main results expected | December 17, 2025 |
| Study ends | December 30, 2025 |
| Registry record updated | January 30, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT04646707 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-80 with ASA class I-III undergoing posterior cervical decompression and fusion for cervical stenosis.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are allergic to local anesthetics or have ASA class IV conditions will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: Other studies have shown promising results with similar nerve block techniques in postoperative pain management, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
Toronto Western Hospital?UHN
Toronto, Ontario, Canada Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Michael Dinsmore, MD — University Health Network, Toronto
- Study coordinator: Michael Dinsmore, MD
- Email: michael.dinsmore@uhn.ca
- Phone: 416 603 5800
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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.