Ultrasonography‑guided serratus anterior plane block for intercostal drain tube insertion pain

Abstract

Intercostal drainage (ICD) tube insertion is a life saving procedure through which blood, fluid, or air is drained out of the pleural space surrounding the lungs. This treatment is essential to manage conditions such as hemothorax, pleural effusion, and pneumothorax. In addressing the severe pain accompanying these conditions and pain caused by ICD tube insertion, emergency physicians are increasingly turning to newer techniques for pain management. We are presenting one such technique, which is the serratus anterior plane block (SAPB) guided by ultrasonography. This emerging approach holds promise in improving pain management and patient comfort, making it a crucial consideration in individuals requiring an ICD. In this case series, we present cases that required an ICD tube insertion for which SAPB was administered to manage the pain caused by the ICD tube. The pain reduced significantly in all patients following SAPB administration, and they did not require any additional analgesics for an average of 6–8 h after the block. This case series shows a more efficient way of managing pain in patients requiring ICD tube insertion.

How to cite this article: Birru JD, Shinde V. Ultrasonography‑guided serratus anterior plane block for intercostal drain tube insertion pain. Turk J Emerg Med 2026;26:78-81.