J Emerg Med
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study Clinical Trial
Interpleural block for patients with multiple rib fractures: comparison with epidural block.
Interpleural block (IPB) was compared with epidural block (EB) in 17 adults with unilateral multiple rib fractures and hemopneumothorax. The study was a randomized, crossover, before-after trial on the first and second hospital days. An IPB catheter was inserted along with a chest tube, and an upper thoracic EB was also established in the same patient. ⋯ Serum levels of lidocaine were similar and in the safe range. The technique of IPB seemed to be easier than EB. In conclusion, IPB with lidocaine is as effective for pain relief as EB.