New pain block for broken ribs shows promise in small trial
NCT ID NCT07494851
First seen Apr 01, 2026 · Last updated Jun 20, 2026 · Updated 18 times
Summary
This study tested whether a nerve block called an erector spinae plane (ESP) block is feasible for treating early rib fracture pain in trauma patients. Twenty-seven adults with rib fractures received the block alongside standard pain relief. The goal was to see if a larger trial is possible, focusing on recruitment rates and patient feedback. Results will help design future studies to determine if this block improves pain and recovery.
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This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Barts Health NHS Trust
London, United Kingdom
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Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
Manchester, United Kingdom
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Queens Medical Centre
Nottingham, United Kingdom
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Erector spinae plane (ESP) block (a nerve block procedure)
What this could lead to
If successful, this could lead to a larger trial confirming that ESP blocks improve pain control for rib fractures, reducing the need for strong painkillers.
What could go wrong
This is a small feasibility study with only 27 participants, so results may not apply broadly. The procedure carries risks like bleeding or infection, and its benefit over standard care is not yet proven.
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.