# Erector spinae plane block for acute pain management of pancreatic cancer at the emergency department

## TL;DR

This paper explores using erector spinae plane blocks to manage acute pain in pancreatic cancer patients at emergency departments.

## Contribution

The paper introduces erector spinae plane block as a potential adjunct for acute pain management in pancreatic cancer.

## Key findings

- Erector spinae plane block is a simple and effective technique for managing abdominal pain.
- It provides coverage for visceral, somatic, and neuropathic pain.
- The block can be used as an adjunct in emergency settings for pancreatic cancer pain.

## Abstract

Pancreatic cancer is often associated with intractable pain due to tumor invasion of surrounding neural structures and visceral organs. Conventional pain management strategies, including opioids, are often insufficient and associated with significant side effects. The erector spinae plane block (ESPB) is an inter-fascial regional anesthesia technique that can be considered in managing abdominal pain. Besides being a simple block performed, ESPB is also very effective because it provides visceral, somatic and neuropathic pain coverage. This case series highlights the potential role of ESPB as an adjunctive therapy for acute pain management of pancreatic cancer patients at the emergency department, with discussion on its technical aspect, advantages and limitations.