INTRAPEC Technique Controls Pectoralis Spasm and Pain for Subpectoral Breast Implantation: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Background: In 2018, a novel approach to reduce pectoralis spasm from sub- pectoral breast implant surgery was published called the INTRAPEC.1 In this study, we more formally examine the effectiveness of the ultrasound-guided INTRAPEC injection to control postoperative pectoralis major spasm and pain following breast surgery with sub-pectoral implantation. Methods: We employed a simple postoperative spasm and pain record to collect data on 17 patients, all of whom received INTRAPEC and erector spinae plane blocks as a part of an opioid- free anesthetic. All breast surgeries were completed with LMA general anesthesia, preserving spontaneous ventilation. Results: Of the 17 study participants, 13 (76.4%) reported spasm scores less than 3 for the entire 2-day study period and, at most time points, patients reported a median score for pain of 2, with IQRs ranging from 1 to 7. Conclusions: The study results suggest that the INTRAPEC injection is a simple, low-cost, low-risk, and effective technique that controls post- operative spasm following breast surgery involving sub-pectoral implantation.