ABSTRACT
ABSTRACTBackground: This study aimed to compare paravertebral block and continuous intercostal nerve block after thoracotomy.Methods: Forty-six adult patients undergoing elective posterolateral thoracotomy were randomised to receive either acontinuous intercostal nerve blockade or a paravertebral block. Opioid consumption and postoperative pain were assessedfor 48 hours .Pulmonary function was assessed by forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) recorded at 4 hours intervals.Results: With respect to the objective visual assessment (VAS), both techniques were effective for post thoracotomy pain.The average VAS score at rest was 29±10mm for paravertebral block and 31.5±11mm for continuous intercostal nerve block.The average VAS score on coughing was 36±14mm for the first one and 4 ±14mm for the second group.Pain at rest was similar in both groups. Pain scores on coughing were lower in paravertebral block group at 42 and 48hours. Post-thoracotomy function was better preserved with paravertebral block. No difference was found among the twogroups for side effects related to technique, major morbidity or duration of hospitalisation.Conclusion: We found that continuous intercostal nerve block and paravertebral block were effective and safe methods forpost-thoracotomy pain