Sathyasuba MEENAKSHISUNDARAM, Srinidhi NARAYANAN, Raghuraman M. SETHURAMAN
Eurasian Journal of Emergency Medicine - 2026;25(1):329-331
The erector spinae plane block (ESPB) is a simple regional anesthetic technique that is applied in various surgical procedures and has an excellent safety profile. Although primarily used for perioperative pain relief, it has also emerged as a useful opioid-sparing analgesic technique in emergency settings. Nevertheless, its application as the primary anesthetic technique for emergency surgical procedures is limited. We report a case of a penetrating lateral chest wall injury, which was successfully managed with an ultrasound-guided ESPB as the principal anesthetic technique for wound exploration and repair, obviating the need for general anesthesia or systemic opioids. The hemodynamics were stable overall, except for mild hypotension and tachycardia at initial presentation. This case highlights the potential use of ESPB as a safe alternative technique in emergency thoracic trauma surgery where neuraxial techniques or general anesthesia are contraindicated or unsafe.
