Analgesic Techniques for Rib Fractures

Launched by THOMAS JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY · Jul 19, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying different ways to relieve pain for adults who have suffered three or more rib fractures. The researchers want to find out which method works best in helping patients manage their pain and recover more effectively. They will compare three techniques: one involves a special nerve block with a medication called ropivacaine, another uses lidocaine (a common numbing medication), and the third is standard care that includes various pain relief medications, including opioids.

To be eligible for this trial, participants need to be at least 55 years old and have sustained three or more rib fractures on one side of their body. The trial is currently recruiting, and each participant can expect to be randomly assigned to one of the three pain relief methods. The study will measure things like how much pain relief they get, how their breathing improves, and whether they need less medication over time. This trial aims to improve how patients recover from rib fractures and reduce the risk of long-term pain after their hospital stay.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • ≥ 55 years old
• • Sustained 3 or more unilateral rib fractures and are admitted to the hospital
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Allergy to amide local anesthetics or any study medications
• • Pregnancy
• • Bilateral rib fractures
• • Coagulopathy (INR \> 1.5; platelets \< 100,000)
• • Conduction block on EKG
• • Spine fracture at the level of intended ESP block
• • Infection near the ESP insertion site or active bacteremia or sepsis
• • Any patient deemed a poor candidate for ESP block and/or lidocaine infusion will also be excluded