RLB vs ERSP for Postoperative Analgesia in Lap Cholecystectomy

Retrolaminar Block Versus Erector Spinae Plane Block for Postoperative Analgesia in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Comparative Randomized Prospective Study

This prospective, randomized, double-blind clinical trial evaluates the comparative effectiveness of ultrasound-guided retrolaminar block (RLB) and erector spinae plane block (ESPB) for postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. A total of 100 ASA I-II patients, aged 20-60 years, will be randomly allocated into two equal groups to receive either RLB or ESPB bilaterally following induction of standardized general anesthesia. The primary outcome is the time to first request for rescue analgesia, while secondary outcomes include total morphine consumption within the first 24 hours, postoperative pain scores assessed using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), patient satisfaction, and the incidence of adverse events. Pain assessment will be performed at predefined intervals over the first 24 hours postoperatively. The study aims to determine which technique provides superior analgesia with reduced opioid requirements and improved patient outcomes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• • Age from 20 to 60 years.

  • Both sexes.
  • American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) grade I and II physical status.
  • Patients will undergo cholecystectomy under general anesthesia.

Exclusion Criteria:

• • Sensitivities or contraindications to the study medications.

  • Infection at the site of injection.
  • Emergency surgery.
  • Body mass index (BMI) > 35.
  • Organic comorbidities.
  • Histories of psychological conditions and/or chronic pain syndromes.
  • Contraindications to regional anesthesia.
  • Severe respiratory, cardiac, hepatic and renal disorders.
  • Pregnancy.
  • Coagulopathy.
  • Opioid addiction.