Paravertebral block restore diaphragmatic motility measured by ultrasonography in patients with multiple rib fractures

Multiple rib fractures are associated with severe pain, leading to alteration of pulmonary function. Paravertebral block (PVB) rather than systemic opioids have been recommended for prevention of critical pneumonia due to sufficient pain relief to facilitate coughing up [1]. Sonographic evaluation of the diaphragm is an accepted qualitative method of assessing the diaphragmatic motion in normal and pathological situations [2]. The norm of mean diaphragmatic excursion is 18±3mm during quiet breathing and 66±13mm during deep breathing [2].

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