A research study conducted by Hadi UfukYörükoğlu et al. and published in the 'Journal of Anesthesia' says that the Erector spinae plane (ESP) block, effectively reduced postoperative pain  in patients who have undergone elective lumbar disc herniation repair surgery. It is considered one of the most accessible methods that lower the risk of complications for patients undergoing discectomy.

In total, 54 ASA I-II (American Society of Anesthesiologist I-II) patients aged 18-65 years were enrolled in the study. The patients randomised into two groups. The sham block with 20 mL of normal saline was performed in the control group whereas a 20 mL 0.25% bupivacaine was used with ultrasound-guided ESP block.

Two methodologies, namely numeric rating scale (NRS) scores and intravenous morphine consumption, were recorded at 1, 6, 12, and 24 h after surgery. It was observed that there had been lower consumption of morphine at different time intervals 6, 12, and 24 hours.

The study authors observed, that the total morphine used was decreased by 57% in the treatment group as compared to the control group. Ultrasound-guided ESP block provided clinically significant analgesia in patients who underwent surgery for the lumbar disc herniation.