Continuous Erector Spinae Block Versus Thoracic Epidural Analgesia for the Prevention of Chronic Pain Following Thoracotomy: a Retrospective Study

Post-thoracotomy pain syndrome (PTPS) is a prevalent complication that significantly impacts patients' quality of life, with reported incidence ranging from 25% to 90%. This study evaluated the effectiveness of continuous erector spinae plane (ESP) block compared to thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA), the current gold standard, in preventing PTPS. Our goal was to compare the incidence of PTPS between patients who received ESP block and those who underwent TEA. Additional goals included assessing postoperative pain levels, analgesic consumption, and complications related to the anesthesia techniques.