The Novel Use of an External Oblique Nerve Catheter After Open Cholecystectomy

Open cholecystectomy is a painful procedure and requires a well-rounded multimodal approach for successful postoperative analgesia. A thoracic epidural is known to provide reliable pain relief for upper abdominal surgical procedures. However, in patients for whom an epidural is contraindicated, an alternative regional technique may be sought. This case discusses the novel use of an external oblique catheter after open cholecystectomy.