Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to assess the efficacy of intraoperative serratus anterior plane block in controlling postoperative pain in female patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy.
Background: Postoperative pain control poses a common challenge for patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy, often managed through opioid administration. However, muscle block techniques have gained traction to reduce opioid use. The serratus anterior plane block is a thoracic regional anesthetic technique that improves postoperative analgesia.
Patients and Methods: This prospective randomized study involved 50 breast cancer patients who underwent modified radical mastectomy. They were randomly divided into two equal groups: group A received intraoperative serratus anterior plane block, and group B served as the control. Primary outcome was postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS); secondary outcomes included opioid and paracetamol consumption, and postoperative complications.
Results: Group A exhibited significantly lower VAS values within the first 12 hours after surgery (P < 0.005), significantly delayed first postoperative analgesic dose, a significant decrease in total postoperative paracetamol and nalbuphine consumption, and a significant decrease in the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting compared to group B. Group A showed a non-significant decrease in respiratory depression and neurapraxia incidence and had a shorter hospital stay than group B.
Conclusion: Serratus anterior plane block is a safe and effective technique that provides substantial pain relief after breast surgery, reducing analgesic consumption, shortening hospital stays, and enhancing patient satisfaction.
Subject Area
Surgery
Article Type
Original Study
Recommended Citation
Elfeky, Amira M.; Bahram, Mahmoud A.; Shamakh, Mahmoud A.; and Balbaa, Mohamed A.
(2024)
"Efficacy of Intraoperative Serratus Anterior Plane Block on Postoperative Pain Relief Following Modified Radical Mastectomy,"
Menoufia Medical Journal: Vol. 37:
Iss.
3, Article 8.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.59204/2314-6788.3269