ESP Catheter-University of Minnesota

ESP Catheter-University of Minnesota refers to a specific regional anesthesia protocol and delivery system evaluated by the University of Minnesota for the management of pain in patients with multiple rib fractures. The intervention involves the ultrasound-guided placement of a catheter into the erector spinae plane (ESP), a fascial space deep to the erector spinae muscle. The protocol utilizes a combination of amide-type local anesthetics: an initial loading bolus of bupivacaine (0.25%) followed by a continuous or programmed intermittent bolus infusion of ropivacaine (0.2%). These agents function by blocking voltage-gated sodium channels on neuronal membranes, thereby inhibiting the initiation and conduction of action potentials in the dorsal and ventral rami of the spinal nerves. This results in multi-dermatomal sensory blockade and effective analgesia, serving as an alternative to systemic opioids or other regional techniques like thoracic epidurals or cryoablation.

Other names

Erector Spinae Plane CatheterESP block catheter