Overview
This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effect of ultrasound-guided external oblique intercostal (EOI) fascial plane block on postoperative pain control and recovery in pediatric patients undergoing otoplasty with rib cartilage graft under general anesthesia. Participants aged 13 to 18 years will be randomly assigned to receive either EOI block with 0.2% ropivacaine or no block. Primary outcome is total opioid consumption within 24 hours after surgery. Secondary outcomes include NRS pain scores, incentive spirometry performance, incidence of atelectasis, and patient satisfaction.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- \- Pediatric patients aged 13 to 18 years undergoing otoplasty with rib cartilage graft under general anesthesia at Seoul National University Children's Hospital
- Written informed consent obtained from parent or legal guardian, and assent from the patient
Exclusion Criteria:
- Unstable vital signs before surgery (heart rate \<50 or \>150 beats/min, systolic blood pressure \<80 mmHg or \>160 mmHg)
- Known hypersensitivity to ropivacaine or other amide-type local anesthetics
- Massive bleeding or shock
- Local infection at the injection site
- Sepsis
- History of allergy to opioid medications
- Severe renal dysfunction (creatinine \>3.0 mg/dL)
- Severe hepatic dysfunction (AST or ALT \>120 U/L)
- Any condition that, in the investigator's opinion, makes the subject unsuitable for study participation