Erector Spinae Plane block with fascial plane catheter for the Early Analgesia of Rib fractures in trauma (ESPEAR): a multicentre feasibility randomised trial
Authors' conclusion
Based on pre-specified criteria, a definitive examination of the clinical effectiveness of ESP block in the analgesic management of adults after blunt force chest wall injury is only feasible if substantial amendments to trial processes piloted in this study are undertaken.
Study context
- Population
- Adults with rib fractures, 3 UK major trauma centres
- Participants
- 25 adults · 3 UK centres
- Comparison
- Erector spinae plane (ESP) vs Placebo
- Primary endpoint
- Feasibility: recruitment rate (target ≥1.11 participants/site/month), retention rate (target ≥80%), trial acceptability (staff interview)
Methodological detailsmulticentre, pilot, feasibility, placebo-controlled, blinded participants and outcome assessors
- Multicentre
- Pilot
- Feasibility
- Placebo-controlled
- Blinded participants and outcome assessors
Primary result
As reported in the abstract
Feasibility
Recruitment rate (participants per site per month)
0.69
Retention to 6-week follow-up
80%
Original publication
Erector Spinae Plane block with fascial plane catheter for the Early Analgesia of Rib fractures in trauma (ESPEAR): a multicentre feasibility randomised trial. BJA Open. Published 13 October 2025. doi:10.
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