Insertion of paravertebral block catheters intraoperatively to reduce incidence of block failure

Abstract

Paravertebral block catheters are a recognized method of regional pain control after a thoractomy. We describe a technique of insertion with the belief that it provides a superior positioning of the paravertebral (extra-pleural) catheter resulting in a better distribution of the local anaesthetic and better pain control. © The Author 2012. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.