Erector Spinae Plane Block Versus Thoracic Epidural Block for Chest Trauma

Rib fractures are very common as a consequence of blunt chest trauma which is associated with severe pain, morbidity and mortality. The key to managing these patients is prompt and effective analgesia, early mobilization, respiratory support, with chest physiotherapy. The aim of this study is to compare and evaluate the differences between either continuous erector spinae plane (ESP) block, or thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA) as analgesic modalities in patients with chest trauma. It is hypothesized that ESP block will be comparable to TEA as a promising effective analgesic alternative with fewer side effects.