New nerve block could cut opioid use for liver donors

NCT ID NCT07233096

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Istinye University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether a special nerve block, called a rectus-intercostal fascial plane block, can reduce pain and the need for morphine in people who donate part of their liver. Sixty-four donors were randomly assigned to receive either the nerve block plus standard painkillers or standard painkillers alone. The goal was to see if the block leads to less morphine use and better pain scores in the first 24 hours 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: bupivacaine (a numbing medicine) given as a nerve block
What this could lead to: If it works, this nerve block could become a standard way to reduce pain and the need for strong painkillers after liver donation surgery.
What could go wrong: This is a small, single-center study with only 64 participants. The block may not provide meaningful pain relief for everyone, and there is a small risk of side effects like bruising or infection at the injection site.

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

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Pain, Postoperative

As listed by the trial registrant

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

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION LIVING DONOR POSTOPERATIVE PAIN

Contacts and locations

Locations

istinye University

Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye)

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