Postoperative Outcomes of Regional Blocks in Cervical Disc Surgery

Postoperative Outcomes of Regional Blocks Performed in Cervical Disc Surgery: A Prospective Observational Study

The aim of this study is to evaluate the postoperative analgesic efficacy of the Serratus Posterior Superior Intercostal Plane Block (SPSIP block) in patients undergoing Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) surgery and to compare the outcomes with those of patients who do not receive regional anesthesia.

Cervical disc disorders may lead to various signs and symptoms, including neck pain, radicular pain in the upper extremities, sensory disturbances, motor weakness, and functional impairment. Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a widely accepted surgical procedure for the treatment of cervical disc herniation and other degenerative cervical spine disorders. However, postoperative pain remains a significant concern and may adversely affect recovery and patient comfort.

A multimodal analgesic approach is commonly preferred for postoperative pain management following cervical spine surgery. The incorporation of regional anesthesia techniques may reduce opioid consumption and opioid-related adverse effects while facilitating earlier mobilization, shorter hospital stay, and improved patient satisfaction.

In patients undergoing ACDF surgery, the Serratus Posterior Superior Intercostal Plane Block (SPSIPB) has emerged as a promising regional anesthesia technique for postoperative pain control. This study aims to evaluate the postoperative analgesic efficacy of SPSIPB and compare postoperative outcomes between patients receiving SPSIPB and those managed without regional anesthesia.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients aged between 18 and 70 years.
• American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I, II, or III.
• Patients scheduled for elective anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) surgery under general anesthesia.
• Patients who provide written informed consent and agree to participate in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with a history of bleeding diathesis or those receiving anticoagulant therapy.
• Patients with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to local anesthetics or opioid medications.
• Patients with infection at the planned block site.
• Patients with a history of previous cervical spine surgery.
• Patients with a history of gabapentinoid or corticosteroid use within the last 3 weeks.