Randomization and masking
ESPB
Participants were randomly assigned in a 1:1:1 ratio to the ESPB group, SAPB group, or control group utilizing block randomization with block sizes of 6. Random numbers generated by Stata 15.0 (StataCorp LLC, 4905 Lakeway Drive) were used for allocation. Sealed, opaque, sequentially numbered envelopes were used to ensure allocation concealment. While it was not feasible to mask the anesthesiologist performing the ultrasound-guided regional nerve blocks and participants themselves, efforts were made to minimize potential bias in postoperative care by not informing other care providers involved in the study about the allocated intervention. Outcome assessors and data analysts remained masked to treatment allocations.