Randomized Trialhigh evidence
Intercostal nerve cryoablation versus thoracic epidural analgesia for minimal invasive repair of pectus excavatum: a randomized clinical trial (ICE-trial).
European journal of cardio-thoracic surgery : official journal of the European Association for Cardio-thoracic Surgery·July 29, 2026·PMID 42528259
Why it mattersPostoperative pain management after the Nuss procedure is challenging, and TEA has been standard but is associated with longer hospitalization and high opioid use. INC offers a dramatic reduction in length of stay and opioid needs, which could transform recovery protocols, but the high rate of persistent sensory loss requires careful patient counseling and further study.
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