Title: Assessing the Impact of Additional Serratus Anterior Block on Postoperative Pain After Rhomboid Intercostal Block in VATS Patients
Purpose: This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate whether the addition of a Serratus Anterior Plane Block (SAPB) to the standard Rhomboid Intercostal Block (RIB) improves postoperative pain management in patients undergoing Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS).
Study Design:
* Type: Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) * Participants: 50 patients aged 18 -70 requiring VATS, randomized into two groups: one receiving RIB alone, and the other receiving RIB + SAPB. * Duration: Pain and opioid consumption will be measured within 48 hours post-surgery. * Outcome Measures: Pain levels using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), opioid usage, and patient satisfaction.
Significance:
The study addresses the gap in research regarding the combined use of SAPB and RIB in pain control for VATS. It hypothesizes that the combination will lead to better pain relief and reduced opioid dependence compared to RIB alone.
Adults aged 18-70 years.
Patients undergoing Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS).
Classified as ASA physical status I-III (low to moderate surgical risk).
Ability to provide informed consent and follow study protocols.
Known allergy or hypersensitivity to local anesthetics.
Presence of bleeding disorders or anticoagulant use.
History of chronic opioid use or opioid dependence.
Anatomical abnormalities or conditions preventing the application of regional anesthesia (e.g., chest wall deformities).