Effect of Ultrasound Guided Erector Spinae Plane Block on Postoperative Pain in Patients Undergoing Lumbar Spine Surgery

Abstract

Background: Spine surgeries are associated with moderate to severe pain and its management is critical for early recovery and reduced complications following lumbar spine surgery.

Aim: This research aimed to evaluate the effect of ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane (ESP) block on postoperative 24-hr morphine consumption in patients undergoing lumbar spine surgeries.

Patients and methods: This was a randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trial performed on 30 cases undergoing elective lumbar spine surgery at Suez Canal University Hospitals. Patients have been randomized into 2 equal groups: Group C; Control group: they received a sham block with normal saline combined with general anesthesia and Group E; erector spinae plane: they received ESP block with local anesthetic combined with general anesthesia.

Results: Patients in Group E had lower 24-hr morphine consumption after surgery, enhanced hemodynamic stability, earlier mobilization, and higher patient satisfaction compared to Group C (p-value less than 0.05). Additionally, Group E reported significantly reduced VAS scores at all postoperative time points except at 48 hours (p<0.05) and delayed 1st analgesic request.

Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided ESP blocks significantly reduce postoperative pain, morphine requirements, and hemodynamic fluctuations while enhancing early mobilization and patient satisfaction in lumbar spine surgery cases. It presents a promising analgesic option for improving postoperative outcomes.