Overview
This is a prospective observational study. Investigators want to understand post-operative recovery for patients undergoing mastectomy at NorthShore University HealthSystem. Some of these patients receive PECS blocks with Liposomal Bupivacaine and some do not receive a block. Investigators want to know whether patients who receive a block have better post operative recovery and pain control than patients who do not receive one. Investigators also want to understand whether PECS blocks with Liposomal Bupivacaine improves quality of recovery at 72 hours post operatively.
Description
Investigators plan to approach and consent 800 patients undergoing mastectomy, 400 with PECS blocks and 400 without. Investigators will assess their quality of recovery using the QoR 15 survey at 72 hours post operatively. In addition, investigators will also record VAS scores immediately postoperatively and at 24, 48, and 72 hours postoperatively. The study team will also calculate the total morphine equivalents (MMEs) required for each patient after 72 hours.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
Must be female Must be >18 years old and < 90 years old Must be able to consent in English
or Spanish May or may not have breast cancer (prophylactic mastectomy) Must be undergoing
unilateral or bilateral mastectomy of any type May choose to proceed with or without breast
reconstruction
Exclusion Criteria:
- Allergy to all narcotic or local anesthetic medications Intake of any chronic opioids
or pain medications preoperatively for a chronic condition or chronic use.
Subjects who received PECS blocks but whose block failed or is deemed not effective by an
anesthesia provider as indicated by postoperative evaluation exam.
Vulnerable subjects (children, prisoners, pregnant women)


