Subtransverse Process Interligamentary Plane Block Versus Rhomboid Intercostal Block Combined With Sub-Serratus Plane Block for Analgesia in Pediatric Thoracotomy

Ultrasound- Guided Subtransverse Process Interligamentary Plane Block Versus Rhomboid Intercostal Block Combined With Sub-Serratus Plane Block for Analgesia in Pediatric Thoracotomy: A Randomized Controlled Study

This study aims to compare ultrasound guided subtransverse process interligamentary plane block versus rhomboid intercostal block combined with sub-serratus plane block for postoperative analgesia in pediatric thoracotomy.

Post-thoracotomy pain is one of the most severe types of pain on the first day of the surgery. In pediatric patients, inadequate analgesia may lead to adverse circulatory and respiratory compromise.

The subtransverse process interligamentary (STIL) plane block is a recently introduced technique that offers a safer alternative by targeting thoracic nerves without entering the paravertebral space.

Recently, some studies have shown that the rhomboid intercostal block (RIB) and the RIB combined with the sub-serratus plane block (RISS) can provide good analgesia effects after video assisted thoracoscope.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Pediatric patients between 6 to 12 years.
• Both sexes.
• American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Physical Status I - II.
• Scheduled for thoracic surgery with thoracotomy incision under general anesthesia.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Parents who refused regional anesthesia.
• Patients were presented with advanced kidney, cardiac or liver diseases.
• Coagulation and bleeding disorders.
• Patients presented with skin or soft tissue infection at the proposed site of needle Insertion.
• Patients with cognitive impairment.