Pain relief showdown for broken ribs: IV lidocaine vs nerve block

NCT ID NCT04707183

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

Summary

This study aimed to compare two ways to manage pain from broken ribs: a continuous IV drip of lidocaine versus a nerve block called an erector spinae plane (ESP) block. The goal was to see which method reduces pain and improves breathing better. However, the study was withdrawn before any patients were enrolled, so no results were obtained.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
lidocaine
What this could lead to
If successful, this could show that an ESP nerve block provides better pain relief for rib fractures than IV lidocaine, potentially improving recovery.
What could go wrong
The study was withdrawn before starting, so no results are available. Even if conducted, it was a small Phase 2 trial, so findings would be preliminary.

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.

bone fracture Rib Fractures

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Stanford Health Care

    Stanford, California, 94305, United States

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