Can a new nerve block ease pain after lung surgery?

NCT ID NCT03176667

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: McMaster University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Aug 10, 2026 · Last updated Aug 11, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot trial is testing whether an ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane (ESP) block can control pain after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) for lung procedures. It compares the ESP block to the standard intercostal nerve block, both combined with patient-controlled analgesia. The study includes 20 adults undergoing elective VATS lobectomy or wedge resection. The main goal is to see if the ESP block is feasible and safe, while also measuring pain scores and nerve blockage coverage.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane (ESP) block, a nerve block procedure
What this could lead to: If successful, this could lead to a better, less painful recovery option for people undergoing lung surgery.
What could go wrong: This is a small pilot study, so results may not be definitive. The ESP block may not provide better pain relief than the standard approach, and there are risks like bleeding or nerve damage.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Pain, Postoperative

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

POST-OPERATIVE PAIN

Contacts and locations

Locations

St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton

Hamilton, Ontario, L8N 4A6, Canada

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