Ultrasound vs. Surgeon's touch: which pain block works better?

This study tested two methods of giving a nerve block to control pain after a type of back surgery called unilateral biportal endoscopic discectomy. One method used ultrasound to guide the injection, and the other was done by the surgeon during the operation without ultrasound. The goal was to see which approach provided better pain relief. 102 adults scheduled for surgery took part, and the researchers measured pain scores and the need for extra pain medication.