Efficacy of Erector Spinae Plane Block for Pain Management after Hip Surgery: A Narrative Review.

Purpose of review: Managing pain after hip surgery can be challenging, especially with the need to balance effective relief and early movement. Traditional pain management methods, such as opioids and nerve blocks, have been demonstrated to be efficacious but come with risks, including side effects, potential for opioid dependency, and the possibility of delays in mobility.

Recent findings: The erector spinae plane block (ESPB) has recently gained attention as a newer option that may offer unique benefits. ESPB is an ultrasound-guided technique targeting nerves along the spine, providing broad and long-lasting pain relief without significant muscle weakness. This allows patients to start moving sooner, which is critical to recovery. Studies suggest ESPB can reduce opioid use and maintain motor strength better than other approaches, although more research is needed to confirm these findings across larger groups.

Conclusion: ESPB's technique, however, still needs standardization to ensure consistent results, as variations in dosage and application can impact its effectiveness. Further research focusing on larger, controlled studies could better clarify ESPB's role compared to traditional methods, especially regarding long-term recovery and quality of life. As more evidence accumulates, ESPB may become a valuable addition to pain management plans for hip surgery, especially for patients needing effective, low-risk analgesia.