Analgesic efficacy of locoregional anesthesia techniques in cardiac surgery: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized trials.

IT demonstrated the largest reductions in opioid consumption and pain scores in the first 24 hours.

erector spinae plane block and parasternal intercostal plane block represent promising alternatives when neuraxial techniques are contraindicated, though effect sizes were smaller, often below thresholds of clinical relevance.

Substantial interstudy heterogeneity emphasizes the need for rigorous, high-quality trials to standardize locoregional analgesic strategies in cardiac surgery and to better define their impact on recovery and safety endpoints.