In this 163rd episode I welcome Dr. Barbara Versyck to the show to discuss thoracic wall blocks. We discuss the types of blocks, what they are used for, and what the evidence is for their efficacy.
CME: https://earnc.me/4hNt3X
References:
Videos:
Pecs II: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YFWneF4pwOA
Serratus Anterior block: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K2w46jjMgfMErector
Spinae plane block: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVowRjEFUfk
Literature:
Chin, Ki Jinn. “Thoracic wall blocks: from paravertebral to retrolaminar to serratus to erector spinae and back again–a review of the evidence.” Best Practice & Research Clinical Anaesthesiology (2019).
Versyck, B., G‐J. van Geffen, and K‐J. Chin. “Analgesic efficacy of the Pecs II block: a systematic review and meta‐analysis.” Anaesthesia 74.5 (2019): 663-673.
Poster:
Such an excellent and articulate podcast! To be honest, I had been a little dismissive of some the thoracic wall blocks, preferring to rely on what I believed to be more efficacious neuraxial blocks. But Dr. Versyk’s point that our analgesic techniques should evolve in tandem with less invasive surgical techniques really resonated with me. Thank you for offering a great new perspective!