Two nerve block techniques for pain relief after children's genital surgery

This trial is testing whether a newer nerve block technique called a sacral erector spinae plane block works as well as—or better than—the more traditional caudal block for managing pain after hypospadias surgery in young boys. Both techniques use ultrasound to guide placement of a local numbing medication (bupivacaine) to block pain signals from the surgical area. The trial will compare how well each method relieves pain, how much additional pain medication is needed, and whether either causes unwanted side effects.

Hypospadias repair is a common surgery in young children, and managing postoperative pain safely is important for recovery. While caudal blocks are widely used and proven effective, newer techniques like the sacral erector spinae plane block may offer comparable pain relief with fewer potential complications, but this needs to be tested directly.