Comparison of the analgesic effects of the erector spinae plane block and thoracic paravertebral block in patients undergoing video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery.

Objectives: To compare the effects of paravertebral block (PVB) and erector spinae plane block (ESPB) on intraoperative and postoperative analgesia and pulmonary function in patients undergoing video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS).

Methods: A total of 49 patients aged 18-70 years with ASA scores of 2-3 who underwent elective VATS were included in the study. Patients were randomized into two groups using a web-based system. Those who received thoracic PVB were assigned to Group I, and those who received ESPB to Group II. Patients were monitored using the surgical plethysmographic index and bispectral index during the intraoperative period. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative blood gas samples were analyzed to assess the impact on pulmonary function. Block application time, intraoperative and postoperative analgesic consumption, the presence of block-related complications, and length of hospital stay were recorded.

Results: There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of intraoperative and postoperative analgesic consumption, operation time, or length of hospital stay (p>0.05). Postoperative VAS scores were similar, and there was no significant difference in preoperative, intraoperative, or postoperative arterial blood gas values between the two groups (p>0.05).

Conclusion: ESPB is as effective as PVB in controlling acute postoperative pain and is easier to perform.