Ultrasound-guided fascial plane blocks for post-breast surgery pain syndrome

Pain Pract. 2024 Apr;24(4):677-685. doi: 10.1111/papr.13341. Epub 2024 Jan 3.

Abstract

Introduction: Persistent pain following breast surgery is common and may be challenging to treat. In patients refractory to conservative treatments, ultrasound-guided fascial plane blocks of thoracic nerves can be a useful option.

Results: This type of neuro blockade technique provides advantages in terms of safety and efficacy that are convenient for physicians managing refractory and complex cases of post-breast surgery syndrome.

Conclusion: This technical review aims to present an up-to-date summary of the most common ultrasound-guided fascial plane blocks for chronic pain in post-breast surgery patients, provide a detailed technical description of each intervention, and propose preferred injections based on the anatomical location of the pain.

Keywords: Chest Pain; Nerve Block; Nerve Pain; Refractory Pain.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Breast Neoplasms*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Nerve Block* / methods
  • Pain, Postoperative / etiology
  • Pain, Postoperative / therapy
  • Thoracic Nerves*
  • Ultrasonography, Interventional / methods