Comparison of Sensory Analysis After Superficial and Deep Parasternal Intercostal Plane Blocks

Phase

N/A

Condition

N/A

Treatment

Sensory Assessment

Clinical Study ID

NCT06559683

SensoryParasternal

Ages 18-85
All Genders

Study Summary

Postoperative pain following cardiac surgery is a common issue that can negatively impact patients' quality of life. Effective perioperative pain management is crucial to improving patient outcomes. Pain is typically most intense during the first two postoperative days, and inadequate management can lead to chronic pain, further diminishing quality of life. Recent advances in ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia, including superficial and deep parasternal intercostal plane blocks, have enhanced acute pain control. These blocks aim to provide analgesia by targeting the anterior cutaneous branches of the T2-6 thoracic nerves. While their efficacy is recognized, sensory evaluation and dermatomal analysis remain unexplored. Cadaver studies suggest that the deep block may cover more parasternal space than the superficial block.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion

Inclusion Criteria:

Patients who will undergo effective open heart surgery with median sternotomy
Patients who have undergone superficial or deep parasternal intercostal plane block

Exclusion

Exclusion Criteria:

Patients with severe psychiatric illnesses such as psychosis or dementia that wouldprevent communication with the patient
Patients who do not want to participate in the study
Redo surgeries
Patients whose block is considered unsuccessful with the cold application test atthe 30th minute
Patients who cannot be extubated 12 hours post-block.

Study Design

Sensory Assessment

September 14, 2024

February 27, 2025

Study Description

This observational study evaluates sensory blocks in patients undergoing open-heart surgery who receive superficial or deep parasternal intercostal plane blocks. Sensory assessment, conducted by a blinded researcher 30 minutes post-block, involves applying small ice tubes with cold sensations categorized as Normal, Reduced, or No cold. A successful block is defined as the loss or reduction of cold sensitivity, while normal cold sensation indicates block failure. Assessments start at the midline, moving laterally to the anterior axillary line. Marked areas are digitally analyzed. Block regression is evaluated at 12 and 24 hours post-procedure using the same cold assessment criteria.

Connect with a study center

Ondokuz Mayis University
Samsun,
Turkey
Site Not Available

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