Erector spinae plane block for multiple rib fracture done by an Emergency Physician: A case series

Abstract

The erector spinae plane block is a novel ultrasound-guided technique that has recently been described for the management of rib fracture pain in the emergency department. This block has been used in the post-operative period and chronic thoracic pain and is usually done by experts of anaesthesia or critical care. Erector spinae plane block is an unexplored domain for rib fracture pain management in emergency department. We highlight the use of this block is a safe and effective block that can be performed by emergency physician in the emergency department settings with point of care ultrasound.

Keywords: erector spinae plane block; pain; regional anaesthesia; rib fracture; ultrasound.

Figure 1

Body Ergonomics for ESPB.

Figure 2

Sonoanatomy of T5 transverse process.

Figure 3

Linear USG probe in right parasagittal plane with needle at T5 transverse spinous process level.

Figure 4

Needle track and needle at T5 transverse process with hydro‐dissection.