Continuous erector spinae plane block for postoperative analgesia in robotic lung lobectomy: a case report

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Erector spinae plane block (ESPB) has been described as an effective regional anesthesia technique in thoracic parenchymal surgery. Evidence highlighting the use of this technique continuously via perifascial catheter is lacking. CASE PRESENTATION: In this case report, we present the case of a patient scheduled for robotic-assisted thoracic surgery for a pulmonary neoformation in the lower right lobe. We decided to manage this patient with a multimodal approach in order to have an opioid-sparing effect. This is the first reported case of continuous ESPB in robot-assisted thoracic surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Anesthesiologists should consider this method in surgery that is slower than conventional surgery, such as robot-assisted, and less invasive than thoracotomy, which does not warrant the use of neuroaxial or paravertebral techniques that increase the risk of iatrogenic complications.