Ultrasound-Guided Erector Spinae Plane Block for Postoperative Pain Control in Lumbar Spondylolisthesis Surgery

This study is designed as a quasi-experimental trial to investigate the efficacy of the ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane (ESP) block in combination with general anesthesia for postoperative pain management in patients undergoing lumbar spondylolisthesis surgery. This clinical trial will recruit 50 adult patients scheduled for elective lumbar spine surgery, who are assigned to either the intervention or control group. Intervention Group (Group B): Patients will receive ultrasound-guided ESP block as an adjunct to standard general anesthesia. Control Group (Group A): Patients will receive general anesthesia without the erector spinae plane (ESP) block. The trial will evaluate pain control (measured by Visual Analogue Scale \[VAS\] scores), opioid consumption, and hemodynamic parameters (such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation). Additionally, postoperative recovery quality, the incidence of adverse events, and any potential complications associated with the erector spinae plane (ESP) block will be monitored and compared between groups. This trial also aims to assess whether the use of the erector spinae plane (ESP) block can reduce opioid consumption, improve hemodynamic stability, and enhance recovery quality in the postoperative period. The study will be conducted at Bangladesh Medical University (BMU), Dhaka, with all ethical considerations adhered to, and informed consent will be obtained from all participants before enrollment. Participants will be followed for 24 hours post-surgery, with monitoring at several time points to assess the primary and secondary outcomes. The results of this study are expected to provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of the erector spinae plane (ESP block) in improving surgical outcomes, reducing opioid use, and enhancing recovery after lumbar spine surgery.