Nerve block could cut opioid use after heart surgery

NCT ID NCT06233318

First seen Jul 09, 2026 · Last updated Jul 10, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether a nerve block with the anesthetic ropivacaine can reduce pain and the need for opioids after open heart surgery. Adults undergoing primary heart surgery with a sternotomy are randomly assigned to receive either the nerve block or a placebo, in addition to standard pain medication. The trial measures pain scores, opioid use, nausea, and patient satisfaction up to 90 days after surgery.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
ropivacaine
What this could lead to
If effective, this nerve block could become a standard part of pain management after open heart surgery, reducing opioid use and improving recovery.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-stage trial, so results may not apply to all patients. The nerve block may not significantly reduce pain or opioid use, and there are risks like infection or bleeding at the injection site.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for AUTONOMIC NERVE BLOCK are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center

    RECRUITING

    Columbus, Ohio, 43210, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.