A Double-Blind Prospective RCT Assessment of ESP Blocks for Analgesia Following Posterior Spinal Fusion
Duke University
Summary
This prospective randomized double-blind study evaluates the efficacy of erector spinae plane (ESP) blocks on postoperative pain in patients undergoing cervical or lumbar posterior spinal fusion. Patients will receive either 0.5% bupivacaine plus liposomal bupivacaine or 0.5% plain bupivacaine. Outcomes include opioid consumption over 72 hours, pain scores, length of stay, and time to ambulation.
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18–75 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria * English speaking * Age 18-75 * ASA physical status 1-3 * Undergoing elective cervical or lumbar posterior spinal fusion (≤3 levels) Exclusion Criteria * Age \<18 or \>75 * ASA IV or V * Non-English speaking * BMI \>40 * Opioid dependence * Chronic pain * Anticoagulation or coagulopathy * Injection site infection * Hepatic or renal insufficiency * Allergy to study drugs * Pregnancy * Inability to communicate with investigators
Interventions
- DrugESP Block with Bupivacaine
Cervical and lumbar ESP blocks performed under ultrasound guidance using plain bupivacaine.
- DrugESP Block with Bupivacaine + Liposomal Bupivacaine
Cervical and lumbar ESP blocks performed under ultrasound guidance using bupivacaine admixed with liposomal bupivacaine.
Location
- Duke UniversityDurham, North Carolina