Insights
Plot twist: when a nerve block did not beat placebo
We like our evidence honest. One block did not outperform saline.
Pain & comfort · 2 min read
Science is full of ideas that sounded great. A Canadian randomized, double-blind trial tested the PECS I block in subpectoral breast augmentation, using bupivacaine on one side and saline on the other in each patient.
The result: pain scores were nearly identical. The authors concluded that PECS I did not provide better pain relief than placebo and that its indications for breast augmentation should be reconsidered.
Why we are telling you: it is a reminder that not every technique helps, and that sample sizes were small (14 patients). It is also why we do not promise a particular block. Your anesthesiologist selects methods based on the evidence and your operation, and will tell you when the evidence is mixed.
Trust is built by saying the unglamorous part out loud.
Explore your options at a consultation Take the Comfort Compass
References
- Desroches J, Roy M, Belliveau M, et al. PECS I block for postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing breast augmentation surgery: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study. Braz J Anesthesiol. 2020;333-342. PMID 32792131