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.