External Oblique Intercostal Fascial Plane Block Versus Rectus Sheath Block for Postoperative Analgesia

External Oblique Intercostal Fascial Plane Block Versus Rectus Sheath Block for Postoperative Analgesia After Paraumbilical Hernia Repair Surgery

This study aimed to compare the analgesic efficacy of the external oblique intercostal fascial plane block (EOIPB) versus the rectus sheath block (RSB) for managing postoperative pain following paraumbilical hernioplasty.

Background: Paraumbilical hernia repair is a frequently performed surgical procedure, often associated with significant postoperative pain and delayed recovery, which are major concerns for patients.

Objectives: This study aimed to compare the analgesic efficacy of the external oblique intercostal fascial plane block (EOIPB) versus the rectus sheath block (RSB) for managing postoperative pain following paraumbilical hernioplasty.

Methods: This prospective, randomized, single-blinded study enrolled 60 patients, divided into two groups (EOIPB and RSB), each comprising 30 participants. Blocks were administered after general anesthesia and prior to surgery. Patient demographics (age, weight), surgical duration, pain scores (measured by Numeric Rating Scale - NRS), total postoperative morphine consumption, intraoperative fentanyl consumption, and hemodynamic parameters (mean arterial pressure - MAP and heart rate - HR) were assessed.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients aged 18-65 years, classified as American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I or II [16], and scheduled for elective paraumbilical hernioplasty.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with a history of prolonged opioid medication, allergy to local anesthetics, pregnancy, infection at the injection site, and/or coagulopathy.