Chest nerve block may help heart surgery patients breathe easier

NCT ID NCT05999721

First seen Jul 09, 2026 · Last updated Jul 10, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial investigates whether a superficial parasternal intercostal plane block—a numbing injection near the breastbone—can reduce the decline in lung function that often follows cardiac surgery. One hundred adults scheduled for elective heart surgery will receive either the nerve block plus standard care or standard care alone. Researchers will measure changes in breathing tests and pain levels to see if the block helps preserve lung capacity and reduce opioid use.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
bupivacaine and epinephrine injection
What this could lead to
If effective, this nerve block could become a standard way to help patients breathe better and use less pain medication after heart surgery.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-stage trial, so results may not apply to all patients. The nerve block itself carries rare risks like infection or bleeding.

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.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Rabin Medical Center

    NOT_YET_RECRUITING

    Petah Tikva, Israel

    Contact

  • Rabin Medical Center, Beilinson Hospital

    RECRUITING

    Petah Tikva, Israel

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