Abstract

Modified radical mastectomy (MRM) is associated with significant postoperative pain for which many blocks are given. Erector spinae plane (ESP) block is a recently described technique. We planned to use dexmedetomidine in erector spinae block to determine its efficacy and safety in ultrasound‑guided ESP block for postoperative analgaesia following MRM. Methodology- 30 patients belonging to ASA physical status I and II, aged 25–60 years, undergoing MRM were included in the study. Ipsilateral block was given preoperatively at T3 or T4 level with 20 ml of 0.5% bupivacaine and 20 µg dexmedetomidine. Pain was assessed using visual analogue scale (VAS) till 24hours. Data collected from the patients and analysed. Result: All 30 patients who were given the block did not complain of pain in 12 hrs post operatively. Only 2 patients ( ie. 6.66% of total ) complained of pain between the period of 12-18 hrs and 6 patients ( ie. 20 of total ) complained of pain between 18-24 hrs. Conclusion: Erector spinae plane block is an effective measure to tackle post- operative pain in patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy ( MRM ). Addition of dexmeditomidine potentiates the block and prolongs post-operative analgesia.

Description