The Efficacy of Serratus Anterior Plane Block (ESAPB) for Thoracotomy: a Prospective Study

Serratus anterior plane block was applied in Group S. It was performed at the end of the operation following the skin closure, while the patient lay on his side with his arm above the head. After proper site cleaning, the first and second ribs were identified with a linear probe in the midclavicular line. The USG probe was advanced caudally in the sagittal plane, and the fourth and fifth ribs were visualized. The USG probe was then directed posteriorly and the serratus, latissimus dorsi and intercostal muscles were visualized. Bupivacaine 0.25% 30 mL was administered to the lower plane of the serratus muscle through an inserted catheter under the guidance of USG through the in-line technique. Afterwards, 0.12% bupivacaine hydrochloride was maintained at the rate of 0.1ml/kg/hr.

Morphine solution was prepared at a concentration of 0.5 mg/mL with the device programmed to 2 mg of bolus dose and 10 min of locking time.