New pain block could cut opioid use after heart surgery

NCT ID NCT04648774

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Nova Scotia Health Authority Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot study tests whether a nerve block called the serratus anterior plane (SAP) block can reduce pain and opioid use after heart surgery. Fifty adults having valve or bypass surgery through a chest incision will receive either the numbing drug ropivacaine or a placebo through small catheters for 72 hours. The study focuses on whether a larger trial is feasible and measures pain, recovery quality, and side effects.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: ropivacaine 0.2%
What this could lead to: If it works, this nerve block could reduce the need for strong painkillers after heart surgery, leading to faster recovery and fewer side effects.
What could go wrong: This is a small pilot study with only 50 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The block itself carries small risks like pneumothorax or allergic reaction.

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.

opioid abuse Pain, Postoperative

As listed by the trial registrant

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

OPIOID USE POSTOPERATIVE PAIN QUALITY OF LIFE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Nova Scotia Health Authority

Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3S 0H6, Canada

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