Nerve blocks may speed breathing tube removal after heart surgery

This study tested whether special nerve blocks (fascial plane blocks) can improve pain control and reduce time on a breathing machine after open-heart surgery. 206 adults having heart surgery were divided into two groups: one received the nerve blocks plus standard pain care, the other received standard care alone. The goal was to see if the blocks led to shorter time on the ventilator, better oxygen levels, and less need for strong painkillers.