New pain relief method for broken ribs shows promise in small study

NCT ID NCT05288985

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

Summary

This study tested whether adding a nerve block catheter (erector spinae plane) to standard painkillers helps people with chest trauma breathe better and have less pain. Forty adults with broken ribs and poor lung function were randomly assigned to get the catheter plus usual care or just usual care. The main goal was to see if lung capacity improved within 24 hours.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
Ropivacaine (local anesthetic) delivered via erector spinae plane catheter
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a simpler, safer pain relief option for chest trauma patients, potentially reducing breathing problems.
What could go wrong
This is a small pilot study with only 40 participants, so results may not apply broadly. The catheter procedure carries risks like infection or nerve damage.

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.

Abdominal Injuries injury

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Centre Hospitalier Départemental Vendée

    La Roche-sur-Yon, France

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