The efficacy of pectoral nerve block for pain control after breast augmentation: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled studies.

[BACKGROUND] The efficacy of pectoral nerve block for pain control remains unknown in patients undergoing breast augmentation. This meta-analysis aims to explore the analgesic efficacy of pectoral nerve block for breast augmentation.

[METHODS] We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, EBSCO, and Cochrane library databases, and included randomized controlled trials reporting pectoral nerve block versus no block for breast augmentation.

[RESULTS] Five randomized controlled trials were included in this meta-analysis. Compared with control group after breast augmentation, pectoral nerve block was associated with substantially reduced pain scores at 1 hour (standard mean difference [SMD] = -1.63; 95% confidence interval [CI] = -2.81 to -0.44; P = .007), maximal pain scores at 1 to 6 hours (SMD = -1.72; 95% CI = -2.75 to -0.69; P = .001) and 6 to 24 hours (SMD = -2.06; 95% CI = -3.40 to -0.72; P = .003), rescue analgesic (odd ratio = 0.17; 95% CI = 0.05-0.57; P = .004), nausea (SMD = 0.21; 95% CI = 0.08-0.54; P = .001), and vomiting (odd ratio = 0.15; 95% CI = 0.05-0.39; P = .0001).

[CONCLUSIONS] Pectoral nerve block benefits to alleviate pain intensity after breast augmentation.