Open liver surgery is a common approach for complex liver resections and transplantation, but postoperative pain management can be challenging. A new technique called ultrasound-guided external oblique intercostal (EOI) plane block shows promise in providing pain relief after upper abdominal surgeries. A study protocol was published on November 16, 2024, in Trials Volume 25, Article number: 776.
The study aims to investigate the effectiveness and safety of ultrasound-guided EOI plane block in managing postoperative pain after open liver surgery. Seventy-four participants scheduled for open liver surgery will be randomly assigned to receive either the EOI plane block with ropivacaine or no block. The primary outcome is the resting pain score at 3 hours postoperatively, with secondary outcomes including pain scores at different time points, opioid consumption, recovery milestones, length of hospital stay, and postoperative side effects.
Pain management is crucial for enhanced recovery after surgery, and regional anesthesia plays a key role in multimodal pain management strategies. The EOI plane block is a new technique that targets the anterior and lateral abdominal walls, potentially providing better pain relief compared to traditional methods. The study will also evaluate the safety of the EOI block by measuring ropivacaine plasma concentrations and assessing block-related complications.
Overall, the study protocol aims to fill the gap in knowledge regarding the efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided EOI plane block for postoperative analgesia in open liver surgery. If successful, this technique could offer a valuable option for pain management in these procedures, contributing to enhanced recovery and reduced opioid use. The study is ongoing, with recruitment expected to be completed by November 20, 2026.