Comparison of Erector Spina Plane Block and Thoracic Epidural Block

Comparison of Erector Spina Plane Block and Thoracic Epidural Block in Breast Surgery

The aim of this randomised controlled and double-blind study, is to compare the effects of erector spinae plane (ESP) and thoracic epidural (TEA) blocks on peri-operative hemodynamics and analgesia in patients undergoing unilateral mastectomies due to malignancy.

Patients will be randomised into two groups as Group E (those who received general anesthesia after the erector spina plan block) and Group T (those who received general anesthesia after thoracic epidural block).

After the block skin conductivity (galvanic skin response - GSR), body temperature changes, sympathetic and sensory block levels, peri-operative hemodynamic data, postoperative pain scores and analgesic consumption will be recorded.

Inclusion Criteria:

• ASA(American Society of Anesthesiologist) physical classification I-III
• Patients undergoing unilateral mastectomies due to malignancy

Exclusion Criteria:

• Active infection at the intervention site
• History of coagulopathy or anticoagulant use (less time has passed before peripheral and central blocks)
• Major cardiac, pulmonary, renal and neurological diseases
• Autonomic neuropathy or use of drugs that affect autonomic function
• Patients with type 1 diabetes or insulin dependent type 2 diabetes over 10 years
• Allergic to local anesthetics;
• Patients who are uncooperative or have psychiatric problems
• Morbidly obese (body mass index > 35 kg/m2)