Serratus anterior plane block in modified radical mastectomy surgery: a case series

BACKGROUND: Postoperative breast pain may lead to poorer outcome if left untreated. Common analgesia modalities for postoperative breast pain include opioids and regional anesthesia. However, both of these modalities can cause significant side effects or complications. Serratus anterior plane (SAP) block is a new procedure that is relatively easier to perform and safer, compared with other modalities. Previous studies have reported its usefulness in reducing the need for both intraoperative and postoperative opioids. CASE: We reported 2 patients that underwent SAP block combined with general anesthesia in modified radical mastectomy (MRM). Patient 2 was given rescue analgesia during the intraoperative period. The administration of postoperative opioids did not exceed 24 h in both patients. Pain assessment using numeric rating scale (NRS) showed minimal postoperative pain. No side effects were found during 24-h monitoring period. CONCLUSION: SAP block can be used as one of the modalities in managing the pain of MRM surgery.