Serratus anterior plane block has been used for pain management during the acute period of conditions affecting the thorax, such as postthoracotomy recovery, rib fracture, and breast surgery recovery. Here, we report the use of serratus anterior plane block in posttraumatic chronic pain treatment. We describe a case of posttraumatic chronic intercostal neuralgia, in which successful pain relief was achieved via repeated injections of local anesthetic and steroid combinations in the serratus anterior plane under ultrasonographic guidance. This novel technique is easy to administer, reliable, and warrants further investigation with regard to its use for rehabilitation of patients who are experiencing posttraumatic chronic neuropathies of the chest wall.
From the Algology and Pain Medicine Department, Gulhane Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey (ES); and Anesthesia and Reanimation Department, Gulhane Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey (SE, MEI, FS, GO, MBE).
All correspondence should be addressed to: Ender Sir, MD, Department of Algology and Pain Medicine, Gulhane Training and Research Hospital, General Dr. Tevfik Sağlam Caddesi, No 1, PK 06010, Etlik, Kecioren, Ankara, Turkey.
Financial disclosure statements have been obtained, and no conflicts of interest have been reported by the authors or by any individuals in control of the content of this article.
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Online date: December 29, 2018
