Postoperative pain management for tracheoesophageal fistula repair using transverse, in-plane, ultrasound guided paravertebral technique in a 2  kg neonate

We read with interest the recent paper discussing an ultrasound guided oblique intercostal approach for paravertebral catheters placement in 2 neonates scheduled for tracheoesophageal fistula repair [1]. While we applaud the author's choice of using for paravertebral catheters (PVBCs) in such small neonates, we question the technique used; an ultrasound image was not presented, and the figure and block details do not seem to be in concordance with the approach used. The depth of paravertebral space with intercostal approach is only few millimiters, making this approach extremely challenging, with a high risk of pneumothorax and intrapleural catheter placement.
Source: Journal of Clinical Anesthesia - Category: Anesthesiology Authors: Tags: Correspondence Source Type: research