Continuous intercostal nerve block for postoperative analgesia after surgical treatment of the upper part of the abdomen.

Continuous intercostal nerve block can be used effectively for pain relief after abdominal operations. We have developed a greatly simplified technique instituted by the surgeon at operation using bupivacaine hydrochloride (Marcain, ASTRA). Our method proved to be effective in providing postoperative analgesia in 93.4 per cent of the patients undergoing cholecystectomy through a transverse abdominal incision. No additional analgesia was required in the first four days postoperatively while the system was in use. In addition, no postoperative pulmonary complications or adverse reactions to bupivacaine hydrochloride or the procedure were encountered. This method proved to be a success in postoperative pain relief and we highly recommend that it be used routinely.