Parasternal intercostal block catheterization provides successful analgesia and facilitates respiratory recovery in flail chest after cardiopulmonary resuscitation: a case report

Abstract

Flail chest resulting from multiple rib fractures after cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can cause pain and respiratory distress. In this case report, we describe the use of bilateral parasternal intercostal block catheters in a patient who was unable to breathe adequately and could not be extubated due to rib fractures after CPR. The patient received analgesia via the parasternal catheter for 11 days and was discharged on the 17th day. This report highlights the importance of successful pain management through continuous analgesia via a continuous parasternal intercostal block catheter, thereby reducing the time to extubation and decreasing respiratory complications. Copyright © 2026 International Anesthesia Research Society.