New pain block could reduce opioid use after lung surgery

NCT ID NCT04864210

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Nada Sadek Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study compared two ways to manage pain after video-assisted lung surgery: an intercostal nerve block using liposomal bupivacaine and a paravertebral block using plain bupivacaine. 176 adults undergoing VATS were enrolled. The main goal was to see how many patients needed opioid painkillers in the first 48 hours after surgery. The results could help doctors choose the best pain relief method to reduce opioid use and improve recovery.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: liposomal bupivacaine and plain bupivacaine
What this could lead to: If one method works better, it could lead to better pain control and less opioid use after lung surgery.
What could go wrong: This is a small, completed Phase 2 trial, so results may not apply to all patients. The liposomal bupivacaine is not FDA-approved for this use, and individual responses vary.

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.

PAIN, POSTOPERATIVE

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Iowa

Iowa City, Iowa, 52242, United States

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