Ultrasound-Guided Serratus Posterior Superior Intercostal Plane Block for Cardiac Surgery

The Effect of Ultrasound-Guided Bilateral Single-Shot Serratus Posterior Superior Intercostal Plane Block on Recovery After Cardiac Surgery

This prospective, randomized, controlled study aims to evaluate the effects of ultrasound-guided bilateral single-shot serratus posterior superior intercostal plane (SPSIP) block on postoperative recovery and pain management in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. A total of 50 adult patients will be randomized into two groups: an SPSIP block group and a control group. The investigators will assess postoperative pain, opioid consumption, and quality of recovery during the postoperative period.

This prospective, randomized, controlled study will include 50 adult patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery. Patients will be randomly allocated to either the SPSIP block group or the control group.

In the block group, an ultrasound-guided bilateral single-shot serratus posterior superior intercostal plane (SPSIP) block will be performed in addition to the standard perioperative analgesic management. Patients in the control group will receive standard perioperative analgesic management without the SPSIP block.

Postoperative pain intensity will be evaluated using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). Postoperative opioid requirements will also be recorded. In addition, postoperative recovery will be assessed using the Quality of Recovery-15T (QoR-15T) questionnaire. Patients will be followed during the postoperative period, including assessments at predefined time points up to 48 hours after surgery.

The primary objective of the study is to determine whether bilateral SPSIP block improves postoperative recovery and provides effective postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Secondary evaluations will include postoperative pain scores and opioid consumption.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients aged 18-80 years
• Patients scheduled for elective cardiac surgery
• American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status III--IV
• Patients who provide written informed consent to participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patient refusal to participate in the study
• Known allergy to local anesthetics
• Infection at the site of block application
• Coagulopathy or contraindication to regional anesthesia
• Emergency surgery
• Patients unable to communicate adequately or complete the study assessments