External Oblique and Rectus Abdominis Plane (EXORA) Block for Postoperative Analgesia in Patients Undergoing Umbilical Hernia Repair

Last updated: February 11, 2026
Sponsor: Tanta University
Overall Status: Completed

Phase

N/A

Condition

Hernia

Treatment

Sham block

External oblique and rectus abdominis plane (EXORA) block

Clinical Study ID

NCT07012603
36264PR1207/5/25
  • Ages 18-65
  • All Genders

Study Summary

This study aims to evaluate the effect of the external oblique and rectus abdominis plane (EXORA) block for postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing umbilical hernia repair.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Age from 18 to 65 years.

  • Both sexes.

  • American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) physical status I-II.

  • Undergoing umbilical hernia repair.

Exclusion

Exclusion Criteria:

  • History of allergies to local anesthetics.

  • Bleeding or coagulation disorders.

  • Anatomical abnormalities.

  • Psychiatric and neurological disorders.

  • Local infection at the site of injection.

  • Complicated hernial defects [strangulated, incarcerated, or obstructed cases].

Study Design

Total Participants: 50
Treatment Group(s): 2
Primary Treatment: Sham block
Phase:
Study Start date:
June 10, 2025
Estimated Completion Date:
February 03, 2026

Study Description

Umbilical hernias account for approximately 6-14% of adult abdominal wall hernias. These hernias are typically acquired and are mainly caused by increased abdominal pressure. Umbilical hernias do not heal on their own and usually require surgical intervention.

The external oblique and rectus abdominis plane (EXORA) block is an emerging technique providing a sensory block to the anterolateral abdominal wall. The EXORA block involves local anaesthetic injection into the fascial plane between the external oblique and rectus abdominis muscles. This method provides better dermatomal coverage, making the EXORA block particularly effective in the treatment of somatic pain in the anterolateral area of the upper and middle abdomen.

Connect with a study center

  • Tanta University

    Tanta, El-Gharbia 31527
    Egypt

    Site Not Available

  • Tanta University

    Tanta 347497, El-Gharbia 31527
    Egypt

    Site Not Available

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