Effectiveness of erector spinae plane block in reducing opioid consumption after colorectal surgery: A comprehensive meta-analysis

Despite the life-saving nature of colorectal surgeries, patients often experience intra and post-operative problems, especially pain and discomfort. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of erector spinae plane block (ESP block) in postoperative pain management for patients undergoing colorectal surgeries. A comprehensive systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed and Cochrane Library databases from inception until December 2023. Eight studies were deemed appropriate for inclusion. The pooled analysis demonstrated a significant decrease with the ESP block compared to the control group in postoperative opioid consumption [MD = -15.96 mg; 95 % CI (-28.74 to -3.18); p = 0.014, I-2 = 87 %], intraoperative opioid consumption [MD = -35.51 mg; 95 % CI (-62.63 to -8.40); p = 0.010, I-2 = 87 %], pain scores [MD = -0.94; 95 % CI (-1.27 to -0.60); p < 0.000001, I-2 = 86 %], with a significantly shorter duration of hospital stay [MD = -1.25 days; 95 % CI (-2.02 to -0.48); p = 0.002, I-2 = 23 %]. This meta-analysis support the use of erector spinae plane block (ESP) for postoperative pain management in colorectal surgeries. ESP shows significant reductions in opioid consumption, pain scores and hospital stay.