A case series of thoracic paravertebral blocks using a combination of ropivacaine, clonidine, epinephrine, and dexamethasone.

Five patients who underwent surgery for breast cancer were followed for 6 days after placement of a multiple-injection, one-time paravertebral block. Data were collected on patient satisfaction, analgesic consumption, side effects, and complications. Ropivacaine as a sole agent in paravertebral blocks has a clinical duration of up to 6 hours. The addition of epinephrine, clonidine, and dexamethasone prolonged the clinical duration considerably.