Ultrasound-guided fascial plane blocks in chronic pain: a narrative review

Recent studies have unveiled the intricate and distinctive nature of fascia, no longer regarding it solely as a muscle container. Recent research highlights its complex innervation and structure, signifying its significance in chronic pain pathways. We conducted a systematic literature search (updat...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of Anesthesia, Analgesia and Critical Care (Online) Analgesia and Critical Care (Online), 2024-10, Vol.4 (1), p.71-23, Article 71
Main Authors: Marrone, Francesco, Pullano, Carmine, De Cassai, Alessandro, Fusco, Pierfrancesco
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Analgesics
Cancer therapies
Chronic pain
Drug dosages
Erector spinae plane
Evidence-based medicine
Fascia
Narcotics
Nerve blocks
Pain management
Review
Systematic review
Ultrasonic imaging
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Summary:Recent studies have unveiled the intricate and distinctive nature of fascia, no longer regarding it solely as a muscle container. Recent research highlights its complex innervation and structure, signifying its significance in chronic pain pathways. We conducted a systematic literature search (updated on February 2024) to evaluate the role of fascial plane blocks in chronic pain treatment. All article types (randomized clinical trials, prospective and retrospective observational studies along with case reports and case series) were deemed eligible for inclusion if they referenced "fascial plane blocks" for the control of chronic pain conditions (persistent post-surgical, neuropathic, musculoskeletal-myofascial and cancer-related) and were published between 2010 and February 2024. The search revealed an increasing evidence in the literature for the implementation of fascial blocks in chronic pain management, although still heavily limited to case reports or series. With the integration of ultrasound technology and a deeper understanding of their mechanisms of action, the fascial plane blocks continue to broaden their application also in chronic pain management, as a part of a multimodal strategy or as an alternative to conventional drugs or opioids.
ISSN:2731-3786
2731-3786
DOI:10.1186/s44158-024-00205-y