Paravertebral block for enhanced recovery after nonintubated video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery wedge resection in a patient with breast cancer and bronchiectasis.
- Author:
Danya P. CHAN
1
;
Peñafrancia C. CANO
1
;
Joselle C. PUA
1
Author Information
- Publication Type:Case Report
- Keywords: Nonintubated Video-assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery; Paravertebral Block
- MeSH: Human; Female; Middle Aged: 45-64 Yrs Old; Bronchiectasis; Enhanced Recovery After Surgery; Anesthesia, Conduction; Anesthesia, Regional; Thoracoscopy; Thoracoscopic Surgery
- From: Philippine Journal of Anesthesiology 2025;30(1):41-44
- CountryPhilippines
-
Abstract:
The implementation of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols has led to increased interest in nonintubated video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (NIVATS), especially in patients with compromised pulmonary function. We present a case of a 62-year-old female with stage IIIA breast cancer and pulmonary bronchiectasis who underwent right-sided wedge resection via NIVATS. A two-level thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB) at T4 and T6 using 0.4% isobaric bupivacaine with epinephrine was performed, resulting in sensory block from T2 to T7. An intrathoracic vagal block with 0.5% bupivacaine was administered to prevent cough. Sedation was maintained with dexmedetomidine and remifentanil. Surgery lasted 83 minutes with no complications. Postoperatively, pain was minimal (NRS 0–2), the patient mobilized within 6 hours and was discharged the next day. This case highlights the feasibility and safety of TPVB-based NIVATS in a high-risk patient, aligning with ERAS goals of enabling early recovery, avoiding airway instrumentation and minimizing opioid use.
