New nerve block could slash opioid use after heart surgery

This study tests whether a specific nerve block, called the serratus posterior superior intercostal plane block, can reduce pain and opioid use after minimally invasive heart bypass surgery. Sixty adults undergoing this surgery will be randomly assigned to receive either the nerve block with bupivacaine or standard anesthesia alone. The main goal is to see if the block improves overall recovery quality and reduces the need for painkillers.