Ultrasound vs. Predetermined Distance Techniques for Paravertebral Nerve Block in Patients Having Breast Surgery

A Comparison Of Ultrasound and Predetermined Distance Techniques For Paravertebral Space Localization In Breast Surgery: A Randomized Prospective Trial

The purpose of this study is to compare ultrasound and predetermined distance techniques for finding the paravertebral space to inject the local anesthetic (numbing medicine) when you are given anesthesia for surgery. The paravertebral space is located on either side of the spinal cord and contains the nerves that provide sensation to the chest wall. The predetermined distance technique is a series of measurements taken to determine the location of the paravertebral space where the local anesthetic is injected. The ultrasound technique uses direct visualization of the local anesthetic being placed in the paravertebral space. This type of anesthesia has many benefits including decreasing your pain after breast surgery.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Females age 25 - 85
• ASA Physical status I-III
• Scheduled for primary mastectomy
• Ability to give informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Allergy to:

Local anesthetics Fentanyl Hydromorphone Propofol Midazolam

• Patient refusal
• Infection at the injection site
• Peripheral Neuropathy
• Bilateral breast surgery
• Prior thoracic surgery on surgical side
• Severe spinal deformity
• Coagulopathy