Which nerve block eases rib fracture pain better?
NCT ID NCT07756047
First seen Aug 10, 2026 · Last updated Aug 11, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This trial compares two types of continuous nerve block catheters—erector spinae plane (ESP) and serratus anterior plane (SAP)—for managing pain in people with traumatic rib fractures. The goal is to see which provides better pain relief, reduces opioid use, and improves breathing. Adults with at least three rib fractures and significant pain are eligible. Participants are randomly assigned to receive one of the two catheter infusions, and their pain, opioid consumption, and respiratory function are measured over 72 hours.
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) catheter infusion or serratus anterior plane (SAP) catheter infusion
- What this could lead to
- If one technique proves better, it could become the standard for managing rib fracture pain, reducing opioid reliance and improving recovery.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, single-center trial, and results may not apply broadly. Both techniques carry risks like infection or block failure, and the better option may not be clear.
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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.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
Toronto, Ontario, M4N 3M5, Canada