Comparison of high thoracic erector spinae plane block with suprascapular nerve block for postoperative analgesia in arthroscopic shoulder surgeries under general anaesthesia

Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is commonly associated with significant postoperative pain, which can delay early mobilization and recovery. Various regional anaesthesia techniques have been employed to improve postoperative analgesia and reduce opioid consumption. Suprascapular nerve block is a commonly used regional technique for shoulder surgeries, whereas high thoracic erector spinae plane block has recently emerged as an effective alternative providing wide dermatomal analgesia.

Ultrasound guidance has improved the accuracy and safety of peripheral nerve blocks, allowing precise deposition of local anaesthetic and reducing complications. The erector spinae plane block, performed at the second thoracic vertebral level, may provide effective analgesia to the shoulder region by spread to the dorsal and ventral rami.

This randomized, double-blinded clinical study aims to compare the analgesic efficacy of ultrasound-guided high thoracic erector spinae plane block with suprascapular nerve block in patients undergoing arthroscopic shoulder surgery, with respect to postoperative pain scores, duration of analgesia, and rescue analgesic requirements.