Safety and efficacy of ultrasound guided pectoral nerve block in patient undergoing breast conservation surgery: A prospective randomized single blinded Study

Abstract

Background: Effective postoperative analgesia following breast conservation surgery (BCS) is essential for early recovery and patient satisfaction. Ultrasound-guided pectoral nerve (PECS) block has emerged as a regional anesthesia technique providing targeted analgesia with minimal systemic side effects.Aim: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of ultrasound-guided PECS block in patients undergoing breast conservation surgery.Materials and Methods: A prospective randomized single-blinded study was conducted on 60 female patients (ASA I–II) undergoing BCS. Patients were randomized into two groups: Group P (PECS block with general anesthesia) and Group C (general anesthesia alone). Postoperative pain scores (VAS), analgesic consumption, time to first rescue analgesia, and complications were recorded and analyzed.Results: Group P demonstrated significantly lower VAS scores at all postoperative intervals (p < 0.001), prolonged time to first rescue analgesia, and reduced total analgesic consumption. No major complications were observed.Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided PECS block is a safe and effective modality for postoperative analgesia in breast conservation surgery.