Erector Spinae Block for thoracic Trauma

Abstract

Introduction: Anesthesiologists face a difficult task in managing pain in trauma patients with acute rib and spine fractures, and attaining appropriate analgesia is critical in minimizing pulmonary consequences. Erector spinae plane (ESP) blocks are a type of localized anaesthetic that can be used to treat pain. Case Report: After falling off his bike, a 42-year-old man suffered several rib and spine fractures. His injuries included fractures of the D4, D5, D8, D11, and D12 vertebral bodies, as well as fractures of the pedicle and spinous process of the D7 and D9 vertebrae, as well as comminuted fractures of the D7 and D10 vertebral bodies. The decision to proceed with bilateral ESP block was made. A right-sided ESP block was conducted. On presentation, the patient was in excruciating pain due to multiple rib and spine fractures, and was experiencing pain-related decreased respiratory effort. After receiving an ESP block, the patient's pain gradually subsided, and his respiratory effort improved, and he was managed conservatively in the hospital until he was taken for surgical intervention. Conclusion: A novel myofascial plane block for thoracic analgesia is the ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane block (ESP). It allows patients to cough and breathe deeply while also reducing the length of time they are on mechanical ventilation.