Nerve block may help rib fracture patients breathe easier

NCT ID NCT05105399

Not yet recruiting Symptom relief Sponsor: Niguarda Hospital Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study looks at whether a nerve block called a serratus plane block can help people with multiple broken ribs breathe better and feel less pain. 72 adults with at least two broken ribs on one side will be split into three groups: standard painkillers alone, standard painkillers plus a continuous nerve block, or standard painkillers plus a single-shot nerve block. The main goal is to see if the continuous nerve block improves lung function compared to the other options.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: serratus plane block (a nerve block injection near the ribs)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a better way to manage pain from rib fractures, helping patients breathe easier and possibly reducing complications like pneumonia.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study with only 72 people, so results may not apply to everyone. The nerve block carries rare risks like bleeding or infection, and it may not improve breathing more than standard care.

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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.

RIB FRACTURES SPIROMETRY

Contacts and locations

Locations

ASST GOM Niguarda

Milan, 20162, Italy

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