Efficacy and Safety of Serratus Anterior Plane Block for Pain Management in Patients with Rib Fractures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Rib fractures cause intense pain, leading to respiratory complications. Standard care relies on systemic opioids, which carry significant adverse effects. The serratus anterior plane block (SAPB) has emerged as a promising regional anesthetic technique, but its efficacy remains unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of SAPB versus standard care in patients with rib fractures. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, CENTRAL, and Web of Science was conducted for RCTs comparing SAPB to standard care in adults with rib fractures. The primary outcome was the pain score. Secondary outcomes included 24 h opioid consumption, need for rescue analgesia, and complications. Standardized mean differences (SMD) and risk ratios (RR) were pooled, using STATA SE 19.5. Results: Three RCTs involving 310 patients were included. SAPB significantly decreased pain scores at 2 h (SMD: -1.30, 95% CI [-2.39, -0.20]; p = 0.02), 6 h (SMD: -0.75, 95% CI [-1.41, -0.09]; p = 0.03), 12 h (SMD: -0.37, 95% CI [-0.68, -0.07]; p = 0.02), and 24 h (SMD: -5.67, 95% CI [-9.90, -1.43]; p = 0.01). This was associated with a significant reduction in 24 h opioid consumption (SMD: -0.45, 95% CI [-0.69, -0.21]; p p = 0.18). Conclusions: SAPB provides significant short-term analgesic benefits and reduces opioid consumption in patients with acute rib fractures. While it appears…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 310 participants or records.
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