From the Research
The duration of an erector spinae plane (ESP) block can last up to 48 hours when using liposomal bupivacaine, as seen in a study published in 2025 1. The ESP block is a regional anesthesia technique that has gained popularity in recent years due to its ease of placement, excellent safety profile, and opioid-sparing qualities. The block's effectiveness stems from the spread of local anesthetic to the dorsal and ventral rami of spinal nerves, providing analgesia to both the posterior and anterolateral thoracic or abdominal wall depending on the level of injection. Some key points to consider when performing an ESP block include:
- The use of long-acting local anesthetics such as bupivacaine, ropivacaine, or levobupivacaine, which can provide analgesia for 12-24 hours 2, 3.
- The addition of adjuvants such as dexamethasone or dexmedetomidine, which can extend the duration of analgesia by 6-8 hours or 4-6 hours, respectively 4.
- The use of a catheter-based technique, which can allow for continuous infusion of local anesthetic for several days, providing longer analgesia for patients who require it 5. It's worth noting that the duration of the block can vary based on patient factors, including age, body mass, and individual metabolism of local anesthetics. Overall, the ESP block is a valuable tool in the management of postoperative pain, and its duration can be tailored to meet the individual needs of each patient.