Rectus Sheath Block in Cardiac Surgery

Rectus Sheath Block in Cardiac Surgery

This is a prospective, randomized study. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of post-surgical pain control of a type of peripheral nerve block, Rectus Sheath Block.

1. Does the rectus sheath block decrease opioid consumption postoperatively after cardiac surgery?
2. Does the rectus sheath block decrease VAS pain scores postoperatively after cardiac surgery? Study participants will be assigned to receive either rectus sheath block or no block.

Inclusion Criteria:

• In order to be eligible to participate in this study, an individual must meet all of the following criteria:

  1. Adults 18-85 years old
  2. Scheduled to undergo cardiac procedures involving chest tubes
  3. Male or female

Exclusion Criteria:

• An individual who meets any of the following criteria will be excluded from participation in this study:

  1. ASA class V
  2. Urgent or emergent surgery
  3. Contraindications to administration of local anesthesia (e.g. local anesthetic allergy)
  4. History of substance abuse or chronic opioid use
  5. Patient refusal or inability to consent