Ultrasound-guided versus laparoscopic-guided subcostal transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block versus No TAP block in laparoscopic cholecystectomy; a randomized double-blind controlled trial

Effect of dexmedetomidine on the median effective concentration of ropivacaine for postoperative analgesia in transversus abdominis plane block: an up-down sequential allocation study

Background

This study aimed to observe the effect of dexmedetomidine on the median effective concentration (EC50) of ropivacaine for postoperative analgesia in ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane block.

Methods

Patients undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomly divided into the RD group and the R group. In the RD group, 40 mL of ropivacaine with 1 μg/kg dexmedetomidine was injected into the transverse abdominis plane, while subjects in the R group received equal volumes of ropivacaine with normal saline. When the visual analogue scale (VAS) ≤ 3 within 6 h after surgery, postoperative analgesia was assessed as effective. The probit regression was used to calculate the EC50 and effective concentration in 95% of patients (EC95) of ropivacaine for ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane block. The Quality of Recovery-40 (QoR-40) Score on 24 h after surgery and the incidence of adverse reactions were recorded.

Results

The EC50 of ropivacaine calculated by the probit regression was 0.207% (95% CI, 0.188% ~ 0.228%) in the R group and 0.165% (95% CI, 0.146% ~ 0.182%) in the RD group. The EC95 of ropivacaine was 0.255% (95% CI, 0.230% ~ 0.499%) in the R group and 0.209% (95% CI, 0.187% ~ 0.430%) in the RD group. The score of physical comfort, emotional state, pain, and global score of QoR-40 on 24h after the operation in the RD group was higher than the R group (p=0.036, 0.035, 0.027 and 0.020, respectively). There were no significant differences in the incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups.

Conclusion

Dexmedetomidine as a local anesthetic adjuvant can reduce the EC50 and EC95 of ropivacaine and improve the quality of postoperative recovery of patients with transversus abdominis plane block.

Analgesic efficacy of a laparoscopic-guided transversus abdominis plane block versus no transversus abdominis plane block in bariatric gastric bypass surgery a retrospective analysis among 332 individuals

BACKGROUND

To reduce opioid consumption and improve early mobility, the administration of a transversus abdominis plane block (TAP) was introduced in abdominal surgery decades ago. But the usefulness of this nerve block prior to laparoscopic Roux-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) in patients with obesity is still under debate. Hence, the study at hand was conducted.

METHODS

In 2023 a retrospective single-centre analysis among patients who did or did not receive a laparoscopic (L) TAP block prior to LRYGB was performed. The primary objective was the early postoperative pain level (1 h) using the visual analog scale (VAS) after LRYGB. Main secondary objectives were the determination of the pain level from 1 to 80 h after surgery and the cumulative postoperative painkiller use.

RESULTS

A total of 111 individuals received and 202 did not receive a L-TAP block prior to LRYGB. The groups were homogeneous with respect to age, gender distribution and Body Mass Index. No L-TAP related complications occurred. After multivariate analysis the administration of the nerve block had no effect on relevant pain (VAS ≥ 6) from one to 80 h after LRYGB. One hour after surgery, the individuals who received the L-TAP suffered, with significance, from less pain (VAS score 2.77 vs. 3.84: p < 0.001) in comparison to those who did not receive the nerve block. No difference was revealed in terms of cumulative postoperative opioid painkiller use.

CONCLUSION

The L-TAP block is a safe procedure and sufficiently reduces post-operative pain one hour after gastric bypass surgery, but does not bring any benefits in the further course.

Efficacy of Ultrasound-Guided Transverse Abdominal Plane Block for Residual Pain After Pulsed Radiofrequency in Abdominal Acute/Subacute Herpes Zoster-Related Pain

BACKGROUND

Pulse radiofrequency (PRF) can reduce the persistent pain of herpes zoster (HZ), but some patients still have residual pain and do not achieve satisfactory results. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of PRF combined with transverse abdominal plane (TAP) block for abdominal acute/subacute HZ-related pain.

METHODS

A total of 137 acute/sub-acute HZ patients with successful PRF treatment were recruited from the Pain Department of Wuhan No. 1 Hospital between January 2018 and January 2020. There were two groups: the transversus abdominis plane group (TAP group, n = 64) and the normal saline group (NS group, n = 60). Pain intensity, sleep quality, and quality of life were quantified using the visual analogue scale (VAS), the five-item questionnaire and scoring system, and the 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) questionnaire, respectively. Follow-up assessments were conducted at baseline, 1 day, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months after the block therapy.

RESULTS

Compared to the NS group, the TAP group showed significantly decreased pain scores 1 day, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months after block therapy (P < .05). The sleep quality scores were lower in the TAP group than that in the NS group at 6 months (5.0 ± 2.4 vs 6.3 ± 3.7, p = .042), and 12 months after therapy (3.1 ± 1.8 vs 4.1 ± 2.4, p = .031). For quality of life, in comparison to NS group participants, those in the TAP group exhibited significantly higher scores (p < .05) for quality of life at 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months follow-up. There was a significant decrease in the proportion of pregabalin and analgesic medications in the TAP group and NS group at 6 and 12 months after treatment compared to Baseline (p < .001). Furthermore, the results showed that there was a significant difference in VAS, sleep quality scores (SQS), and quality of life between the PRF + TAP group and pharmacological therapies group before and 12 months after treatment (p < .05).

CONCLUSION

The TAP block is a promising complementary treatment for acute/subacute HZ patients who have undergone PRF treatment. Combining PRF with the TAP block has the potential to alleviate HZ-related pain, enhance the patients' quality of life, and improve their sleep quality.

Laparoscopy-guided transverse abdominis plane block versus port site infiltration for post-operative pain relief after laparoscopic cholecystectomy

INTRODUCTION

Post-operative analgesia is an important component of patient satisfaction and early discharge from the hospital. A variety of modalities have been tested and are still evolving. The present study is one such evaluation of a novel technique of laparoscopy-guided transverse abdominis plane (LTAP) block for post-operative analgesia in laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A prospective randomised control trial was conducted to verify the effectiveness of LTAP block over port site local anaesthesia infiltration (PSLAI) for post-operative analgesia in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. This study was done over a period of 18 months in a tertiary hospital. A total of 84 patients were recruited and were divided equally into two groups (LTAP and PSLAI).

RESULTS

There was no statistical difference between the two groups with respect to gender distribution, comorbidities, number of gallstones, duration of symptoms and surgery time. The rescue dose of diclofenac requirement was less for the LTAP group in comparison to the PSLAI group. No difference was observed in the pain score at 1 st h. However, LTAP proved efficient later in the post-operative course (6 h, 24 h and at discharge). There was significant a difference in the pain scores between the two groups, favouring the LTAP group. Hospital stay in the LTAP group was less in comparison to the PSLAI group.

CONCLUSION

LTAP block is an effective method of post-operative analgesia. It impacts analgesia to the whole anterior abdominal wall for a prolonged period when compared to the PSLAI without adding any extra procedural time.

Outcomes of quadratus lumborum blocks for pain control after open abdominal wall reconstruction: a single institution retrospective analysis

INTRODUCTION

Abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) is associated with significant post-operative pain for which there is no standardized treatment regimen. Quadratus lumborum (QL) blocks have not been studied in open ventral hernia repair. This study reviews our institution's experience with QL blocks in open AWR.

METHODS

A retrospective review from October 2022 to October 2024 was completed. Patients undergoing elective, open abdominal wall reconstruction who received pre-operative QL blocks were included. Variables analyzed included patient demographics, comorbidities, operative technique, mesh type, daily opioid consumption reported as morphine milliequivalents (MMEs), and length of stay. The primary outcome was MMEs consumed in the first 24 h after surgery.

RESULTS

There were 102 patients included in the study. The first 24-hour median opioid MME consumption was 8 (IQR 0-67.5). The median MMEs peaked on day 2 at 47 (IQR 30-114) and then trended down each day. The median length of stay was 4.3 days (IQR 4.1-5.9). There were no complications related to the QL block procedure.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study to report on post-operative opioid consumption in patients receiving a quadratus lumborum block prior to open ventral hernia repair. We found patients consumed minimal MMEs in the first 24 h after surgery suggesting that QL blocks may provide analgesic benefit in abdominal wall reconstruction.

Ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane block as an adjunctive anesthesia technique in elderly patients with combined massive ascites: a case report and literature review

The ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block has emerged as an effective adjunctive analgesic technique for abdominal surgery. However, its use in older patients with significant ascites has been rarely documented. This report presents the anesthetic management of an older patient with massive ascites undergoing open laparotomy for an ovarian tumor. Preoperatively, 30 mL of 0.2% levobupivacaine was injected into the TAP under ultrasound guidance. The procedure was uneventful, with approximately 9,000 mL of ascitic fluid drained, along with the removal of a 13 × 13 × 7-cm left ovarian mass, an 8 × 5.5 × 4-cm uterus, and a 3.5 × 1 × 0.5-cm right ovary. Throughout the surgery, the patient maintained hemodynamic stability, with no significant fluctuations in blood pressure or heart rate. Postoperatively, the patient reported minimal pain and experienced no adverse effects. These findings highlight the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided TAP block as an auxiliary anesthesia technique, providing enhanced analgesia, promoting hemodynamic stability, and improving overall anesthetic outcomes in older patients with substantial ascites.

Ultrasound-guided vs. laparoscopic-guided transversus abdominis plane block for postoperative pain following laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Postoperative pain following laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is a major concern. The transversus abdominis plane block (TAPB) is one of the anesthetic techniques that has been developed to address this issue. The TAPB can be delivered by the guidance of either ultrasound (UTAPB) or laparoscopic (LTAPB). Our aim is to compare the efficacy of these guidance methods in reducing postoperative pain after LC.

METHODS

A systematic search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases from inception to June 2024 for randomized studies comparing the delivery of TAPB under ultrasound and laparoscopic guidance. Data analysis was conducted using Review Manager V5.4.

RESULTS

Five randomized studies were included in our study. UTAPB was significantly more effective in reducing postoperative pain after 6 h compared to LTAPB (MD =  - 0.38, 95% CI, - 0.67 to 0.09, p = 0.01). However, UTAPB was insignificantly more effective than LTAPB in reducing postoperative pain after 12 h (MD =  - 0.14, 95% CI, - 0.44 to 0.17, p = 0.39), 24 h (MD =  - 0.09, 95% CI, - 0.41 to 0.23, p = 0.60), and 48 h (MD =  - 0.12, 95% CI, - 0.44 to 0.19, p = 0.44). UTAPB insignificantly resulted in decreased opioid consumption (SMD: - 0.09; 95% CI: - 0.42, 0.25; p = 0.62) and less postoperative nausea and vomiting (OR = 0.73, 95% CI, 0.21 to 2.51, p = 0.62) in comparison with LTAPB.

CONCLUSION

Ultrasound guidance of TAPB offers superior pain relief in the setting of LC, especially in the early postoperative period. Further trials are needed to prove and support the results.

Anterior Transversus Abdominis Plane Block for Lower Extremity Revascularization

INTRODUCTION

Regional anesthesia remains underutilized in vascular surgery; therefore, we retrospectively reviewed and compared the usage of perioperative opioids in patients undergoing lower extremity revascularization surgery, who received the anterior transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block along with local anesthesia at the incision site versus who did not receive any regional anesthesia.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of 107 patients undergoing open or hybrid lower extremity revascularization under general anesthesia at a single institution between 2017 and 2022. Patients were divided into two groups. Regional block group (n = 41 [38%]) (femoral endarterectomy 27%; femoral endarterectomy + endovascular intervention 51%; infrainguinal bypass 22%) received both an intraoperative anterior TAP block and local anesthesia at the incision site; No regional block group (n = 66 [62%]) (femoral endarterectomy 29%; femoral endarterectomy + endovascular intervention 13%; infrainguinal bypass 58%) did not receive either regional or local anesthesia.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in either the procedural metrics or intraprocedural complications between the two groups. The in-hospital stay was shorter in the Regional group, 1 (1, 3) versus the No regional group, 3 (2, 7), P < 0.001. The median intraoperative morphine milliequivalents use was 20 (15, 25) in the Regional block group and 25 (20, 35) in the No regional block group, P = 0.008. The median postoperative opioids use at 24h was 75 (60, 98) in the Regional block group and 113 (83, 151) in the No regional block group, P < 0.001; at 48h was 103 (70, 118) in the Regional block group and 148 (90, 210) in the No regional block group, P = 0.027; at 72h was 105 (70, 138) in the Regional block group and 196 (113, 263) in the No regional block group, P = 0.010.

CONCLUSIONS

Anterior TAP block combined with local anesthesia at the incision site seems to be a safe postoperative analgesia option for patients undergoing lower extremity revascularization surgery that could potentially help reducing both intra and postoperative opioids requirement.

The Efficacy of Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) Blocks When Completed by Anesthesiologists Versus by Surgeons: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background/Objectives: Current literature has demonstrated the benefits of transversus abdominis plane (TAP) blocks for reducing postoperative pain and opioid consumption for an array of surgical procedures. Some randomized controlled trials and retrospective studies have compared ultrasound guidance TAP blocks completed by anesthesiologists (US-TAP) to laparoscopic guidance TAP blocks completed by surgeons (LAP-TAP). However, the findings of these studies have not been consolidated to improve recommendations and patient outcomes. Our objective is to consolidate and summarize current literature regarding the efficacy of TAP blocks for postoperative pain control and opioid consumption when performed with ultrasound guidance (US-TAP, compared to laparoscopic guidance (LAP-TAP). Methods: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs and retrospective studies to evaluate US-TAP versus LAP-TAP blocks for postoperative pain control and opioid consumption. We searched PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases for all articles meeting the search criteria until the time of article extraction in February 2024. The primary outcome variables were postoperative pain scores and opioid consumption. The secondary outcome variables were complications, time taken to perform the block, length of stay (LOS) in the hospital, and cost of performing the block. Results: Of the 1673 articles initially identified, 18 studies met the inclusion criteria for evaluation. Of the included studies, 88.9% and 77.8% found no significant difference in postoperative pain scores or opioid consumption, respectively, between US-TAP and LAP-TAP groups. Six studies (33.3%) found that LAP-TAP was faster to perform than US-TAP. Meta-analysis demonstrated no statistically significant differences in postoperative pain scores or opioid consumption between groups but showed that block times were significantly longer in the US-TAP group. Conclusions: US-TAP and LAP-TAP blocks may be equivocal in terms of reducing postoperative pain and opioid consumption. LAP-TAPs may be less time-consuming and more cost-effective and viable alternatives to US-TAP blocks in the perioperative setting.

Laparoscopic-assisted versus ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane block for laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic-assisted (LTAP) and ultrasound-guided (UTAP) transversus abdominis plane (TAP) blocks are widely used for postoperative analgesia in laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), yet their comparative effectiveness remains unclear. The aim of this meta-analysis was to systematically evaluate and compare postoperative outcomes of LTAP and UTAP in LC.

MATERIALS AND METHODOLOGY

A comprehensive literature search of five electronic databases was conducted from the inception of the paper till 2 June 2024 following PRISMA guidelines. Eligibility criteria included: (a) randomized controlled trials (RCTs); (b) adult patients (≥ 18 years) undergoing elective LC; (c) intervention group undergoing LTAP; (d) control group receiving UTAP; (e) outcomes: postoperative pain intensity using VAS score; time to first analgesic need; postoperative morphine consumption; postoperative nausea vomiting (PONV); time to first bowel evacuation; time to first flatus. Mendeley Desktop 1.19.8 was used for article retrieval and for the removal of duplicates. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool, and statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager, applying a random-effects model. Forest plots represented combined effects of Risk Ratios (RRs) for dichotomous outcomes and weighted mean differences (WMDs) for continuous outcomes with a 95% confidence interval (CI). P-value ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant and Higgin's I² test was employed to assess heterogeneity.

RESULTS

Seven RCTs in total involving 603 patients were included in the analysis, with 236 patients in the LTAP group and 232 in the UTAP group. No statistically significant differences observed between LTAP and UTAP in postoperative pain intensity at 6, 12, and 24 h, time to first analgesic need, postoperative morphine consumption, PONV, time to first stools, and time to first flatus, initially. Sensitivity analysis revealed a significant reduction in 6-hour postoperative pain in the LTAP group (WMD = 0.39; 95% CI = 0.10,0.67; P = 0.008; I² = 0%), but no significant differences were found in later time points (12 h: WMD = 0.12; 95% CI = -0.17,0.40; P = 0.42; I² = 0%; 24 h: WMD = -0.04; 95% CI = -0.26, 0.18; P = 0.73; I² = 5%) or in other outcomes. Moderate levels of heterogeneity and an overall low risk of bias in quality assessment were observed among the studies.

CONCLUSION

Our meta-analysis indicated no clear advantage of LTAP over UTAP in managing postoperative pain and related outcomes in LC. Although LTAP may offer logistical benefits by reducing the need for equipment and personnel, further large-scale RCTs focusing on procedure-specific outcomes are needed to establish definitive conclusions.

Pain management after laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A systematic review and procedure-specific postoperative pain management (PROSPECT) recommendations

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy can be associated with significant postoperative pain that is difficult to treat. We aimed to evaluate the available literature and develop updated recommendations for optimal pain management after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. A systematic review was performed using the procedure-specific postoperative pain management (PROSPECT) methodology. Randomised controlled trials and systematic reviews published in the English language from August 2017 to December 2022 assessing postoperative pain after laparoscopic cholecystectomy using analgesic, anaesthetic or surgical interventions were identified from MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Databases. From 589 full text articles, 157 randomised controlled trials and 31 systematic reviews met the inclusion criteria. Paracetamol combined with NSAIDs or cyclo-oxygenase-2 inhibitors should be given either pre-operatively or intra-operatively, unless contraindicated. In addition, intra-operative intravenous (i.v.) dexamethasone, port-site wound infiltration or intraperitoneal local anaesthetic instillation are recommended, with opioids used for rescue analgesia. As a second-line regional technique, the erector spinae plane block or transversus abdominis plane block may be reserved for patients with a heightened risk of postoperative pain. Three-port laparoscopy, a low-pressure pneumoperitoneum, umbilical port extraction, active aspiration of the pneumoperitoneum and saline irrigation are recommended technical aspects of the operative procedure. The following interventions are not recommended due to limited or no evidence on improved pain scores: single port or mini-port techniques, routine drainage, low flow insufflation, natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES), infra-umbilical incision, i.v. clonidine, nefopam and regional techniques such as quadratus lumborum block or rectus sheath block. Several interventions provided better pain scores but are not recommended due to risk of side effects: spinal or epidural anaesthesia, gabapentinoids, i.v. lidocaine, i.v. ketamine and i.v. dexmedetomidine.

The Effect of Postoperative Analgesia on the Day-Case Rate of Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Randomised Pilot Study of the Laparoscopic-Assisted Right Subcostal Transversus Abdominis Plane Block plus Local Anaesthetic Wound Infiltration versus Local Anaesthetic Wound Infiltration only

OBJECTIVE

The transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block and local anaesthetic infiltration (LAI) of port sites provide adequate analgesia after laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). Little is known if the two techniques affect the day-case (DC) rate of LC. We tested the appropriateness of the research design in view of a larger randomised controlled trial (RCT) - laparoscopic-assisted right subcostal TAP block plus local anaesthetic wound infiltration (STALA) versus LAI.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Sixty patients having DC LC were randomised into STALA and LAI. Participants received bupivacaine 0.5% 30 mL. Pain scores were evaluated with the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score, at 1 h post-surgery and at discharge. Need of postoperative intravenous (IV) opioids, DC rate, and Quality of Recovery-15 questionnaires were compared between groups and were considered as measures of efficacy of the interventions and follow-up in a definitive trial.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine participants were randomised to STALA, and 31 to LAI. Subjects in LAI group were all women (p = 0.0007) and younger (43.8 vs. 37.7 years, p = 0.023). Median VAS scores were 0 versus 1 at 1 h (p = 0.60), 0 versus 1.5 at discharge (p = 0.55). The need of IV opioids was 15/29 (51.7%) versus 13/31 (41.9%; p = 0.60). The DC rate was 93.1% versus 93.5% (p = 0.39). Fifty (83.3%) participants responded the questionnaires.

CONCLUSIONS

The laparoscopically guided right subcostal TAP block provided no additional benefit to LAI on pain control after LC and DC rate. Despite the appropriate design, our findings do not support a larger RCT.

Enhanced recovery programs following adhesive small bowel obstruction surgery are feasible and reduce the rate of postoperative ileus: a preliminary study

PURPOSE

The recovery of gastrointestinal function and postoperative ileus are the leading goals for clinicians following surgery for adhesive small bowel obstruction. While enhanced recovery programs may improve recovery, their feasibility in emergency surgery has not yet been proven. We sought to assess the incidence of postoperative ileus in patients following surgery for ASBO and the feasibility of enhanced recovery programs, including their benefits in the recovery of gastrointestinal functions and reducing the length of hospitalization.

METHODS

This prospective study includes the first 50 patients surgically treated for ASBO between June 2021 and November 2022. Their surgery was performed either as an emergency procedure or after a short course of medical treatment. The main aim was to compare the observed rate of postoperative ileus with a theoretical rate, set at 40%. The study protocol was registered in clinicaltrials.gov under the number NCT04929275.

RESULTS

Among the 50 patients included in this study, it reported postoperative ileus in 16%, which is significantly lower than the hypothetical rate of 40% (p = 0.0004). The median compliance with enhanced recovery programs was 75% (95%CI: 70.1-79.9). The lowest item observed was the TAP block (26%) and the highest observed items were preoperative counselling and compliance with analgesic protocols (100%). The overall morbidity was 26.5%, but severe morbidity (Dindo-Clavien > 3) was observed in only 3 patients (6%). Severe morbidity was not related with the ERP.

CONCLUSION

Enhanced recovery programs are feasible and safe in adhesive small bowel obstruction surgery patients and could improve the recovery of gastrointestinal functions.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY

NCT04929275. WHAT DOES THE STUDY CONTRIBUTE TO THE FIELD?: Perioperative management of adhesive small bowel obstruction (ASBO) surgery needs to be improved in order to reduce morbidity. Enhanced recovery programs (ERP) are both feasible and safe following urgent surgery for ASBO. ERPs may improve the recovery of gastrointestinal (GI) functions.

The Effect of Combined Spinal Epidural Anesthesia on Shoulder Pain in Laparoscopic Extraperitoneal Hernia Surgery

BACKGROUND

Shoulder pain is a condition that seriously discomforts patients and develops caused by a peritoneal tear in laparoscopic extraperitoneal hernia repair (TEP) surgeries. Although surgeons generally prefer general anesthesia for the TEP technique, many studies have been carried out on the use of regional anesthesia in recent years. In our study, we aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of the combined spinal/epidural anesthesia (CSEA) method to prevent shoulder pain in the TEP technique.

METHODS

The patients who operated with the TEP procedure were divided into 2 groups; SA (group 1) and CSEA (group 2). The 2 patient groups were compared in terms of sex, age, body mass index, duration of surgery, total operation time, patient satisfaction, pain scores, length of hospital stay, adverse effects, intraoperative, and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

The number of patients in group 1 was 42 and group 2 was 40. The mean operation time was recorded as 55.9 and 80.2 minutes in groups 1 and 2, respectively, which was statistically significantly shorter in group 1 ( P <0.001). Postoperative pain was significantly less in group 2 for the 4th hour ( P <0.0001) and the 12th hour ( P =0.047). There was no difference between the 2 groups in terms of peritoneal tear ( P =0.860). Intraoperative and postoperative shoulder pain was significantly less in group 2 ( P =0.038, P =0015, respectively).

CONCLUSION

CSEA is an effective and safe anesthesia method for preventing shoulder pain that develops after TEP surgeries.

Optimal approach for ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane (TAP) blocks for abdominal surgeries: a protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) blocks are commonly used for postoperative analgesia after various abdominal surgeries. There are several different approaches for performing TAP blocks, mainly including posterior, lateral and subcostal approaches. An increasing number of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) have compared the analgesic effects of different TAP block approaches, but the results have not been consistent. This protocol aims to determine the optimal approach of ultrasound-guided TAP blocks for postoperative analgesia after abdominal surgery.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Four databases, including Web of Science, PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library will be systematically searched to identify RCTs that compared the analgesic effects of different ultrasound-guided TAP block approaches. The search interval will range from the inception of the databases to 30 July 2024. The postoperative opioid consumption over 24 hours will be defined as the primary outcome. The secondary outcomes will include the analgesia duration, postoperative pain scores at rest and during movement at different timepoints and the incidence of adverse effects. All the statistical analyses will be conducted using RevMan V.5.4. The quality of evidence will be evaluated by the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethical approval will not be needed. The results will be submitted to one peer-reviewed journal when completed.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42024510141.

Laparoscopic transverse abdominis plane block: how I do it and a cost efficiency analysis

PURPOSE

To determine the efficacy and efficiency of laparoscopic transverse abdominis plane block (Lap-TAP) in patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy and gastrectomy compared to those of ultrasound-guided TAP (US-TAP).

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the records of patients who underwent open or minimally invasive (MIS) pancreatoduodenectomy and major gastrectomy with the use of Lap-TAP or US-TAP at our institution between November 1, 2018, and September 30, 2021. We compared the estimated time and cost associated with Lap-TAP and US-TAP. We also compared postoperative opioid use and pain scores between patients who underwent open laparotomy with these TAPs.

RESULTS

A total of 194 patients were included. Overall, 114 patients (59%) underwent pancreatectomy, and 80 patients (41%) underwent gastrectomy. Additionally, 138 patients (71%) underwent an open procedure, and 56 patients (29%) underwent MIS. A total of 102 patients (53%) underwent US-TAP, and 92 (47%) underwent Lap-TAP. The median time to skin incision was significantly shorter in the Lap-TAP group (US-TAP, 59 min vs. Lap-TAP, 45 min; P < 0.001), resulting in an estimated reduction in operation cost by $602. Pain scores and postoperative opioid use were similar between Lap-TAP and US-TAP among open surgery patients, indicating equivalent pain control between Lap-TAP and US-TAP.

CONCLUSION

Lap-TAP was equally effective in pain control as US-TAP after pancreatectomy and gastrectomy, and Lap-TAP can reduce operation time and cost. Lap-TAP is considered the preferred approach for MIS pancreatectomy and gastrectomy, which occasionally needs conversion to laparotomy.

Application of remimazolam transversus abdominis plane block in gastrointestinal tumor surgery

BACKGROUND

Transversus abdominis plane block (TAPB) is a block of the abdominal afferent nerve fibers between the internal oblique muscle and the transverse abdominal muscle achieved with local anesthetics. It can effectively block the conduction of the anterior nerve of the abdominal wall and exert a good analgesic effect. However, the effect of combining the block with remimazolam on anesthesia in patients undergoing gastrointestinal tumor surgery is still unclear.

AIM

To examine the effects of combining TAPB with remimazolam on the stress response and postoperative recovery of gastrointestinal tumor surgery patients.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 102 individuals diagnosed with gastrointestinal malignancies who underwent laparoscopic surgery under general anesthesia between April 2020 and June 2023. The patients were categorized into a control group (n = 51), receiving remimazolam for general anesthesia, and an observation group (n = 51), receiving TAPB combined with remimazolam for general anesthesia. A comparison was made between both groups in terms of hemodynamic parameters, stress markers, pain levels, recovery quality, analgesic effects, and adverse reactions during the perioperative period.

RESULTS

The observation group had significantly higher heart rates at time points 1 min after induction and upon leaving the operating room than the control group (P < 0.05). The mean arterial pressure at time point T1 in the observation group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05). Five minutes after extubation, the levels of the hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline in the observation group were considerably lower than those in the control group (P < 0.05). At 12 h, 24 h, and 48 h following surgery, the visual analog scale scores of the observation group were considerably lower than those of the control group (P < 0.05). The observation group had shorter awakening and extubation times and lower Riker sedation-agitation scale scores than the control group (P < 0.05). The observation group exhibited considerably fewer effective pump presses, lower fentanyl dosages, and lower incidences of rescue analgesia within 24 h following surgery than the control group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The application effect of TAPB combined with remimazolam general anesthesia in anesthesia of patients undergoing gastrointestinal tumor surgery is good, which is helpful to promote faster recovery after operation.

Analgesic benefits of pre-operative versus postoperative transversus abdominis plane block for laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a frequentist network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block has been utilized to alleviate pain following laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). However, the optimal timing of administration remains uncertain. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of pre-operative and postoperative TAP blocks as analgesic options after LC.

METHODS

A frequentist network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted. We systematically searched PubMed (via the National Library of Medicine), EMBASE, Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Web of Science up to March 2023. The study included RCTs that enrolled adult patients (≥ 18 years) who underwent LC and received either pre-operative or postoperative TAP blocks. The primary outcome assessed was 24-hour postoperative morphine consumption (mg). Additionally, pain rest scores within 3 hours, 12 hours, and 24 hours, as well as postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), were considered as pre-specified secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 34 trials with 2317 patients were included in the analysis. Postoperative TAP block demonstrated superiority over the pre-operative TAP block in reducing opioid consumption (MD 2.02, 95% CI 0.87 to 3.18, I2 98.6%, p < 0.001). However, with regards to postoperative pain, neither pre-operative nor postoperative TAP blocks exhibited superiority over each other at any of the assessed time points. The postoperative TAP block consistently ranked as the best intervention using SUCRA analysis. Moreover, the postoperative TAP block led to the most significant reduction in PONV.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest that the postoperative TAP block may be slightly more effective in reducing 24-hour postoperative opioid consumption and PONV when compared to the pre-operative TAP block.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO, CRD42023396880 .

The Effect of Various Combinations of Peripheral Nerve Blocks on Postoperative Pain in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Comparative Prospective Study

Objectives

Most patients who undergo laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) experience moderate to severe pain in the first 24 hours after surgery. The transversus abdominal plane (TAP) is currently used for post-LC analgesia. Posterior, subcostal, or rectus sheath TAP blocks are the conventional approaches used. The aim of the current study was to compare the efficacy of combinations of various peripheral blocks on pain intensity and the use of pain killers, shortly after LC.

Methods

This was a prospective, double-blind study, in which 200 patients who were about to undergo a LC procedure were recruited and randomized into 4 groups: patients receiving one of the following: TAP block alone, subcostal Tap block alone, subcostal TAP block with a TAP block, or subcostal TAP with a rectus sheath block. The intensity of pain (VAS score) and the use of painkillers were monitored in the recovery unit and in the department for up to 24 hours after surgery.

Results

Pain levels decreased with time from 3.6 ± 3.2 at 30 minutes to 0.9 ± 2.0 at 24 hours after the surgery. Nevertheless, no difference between the various block types groups was noted. The percentage of patients who consumed analgesic medications decreased over time, from 83% at 30 to 21% at 24 hours after surgery. The mean/median number of medications consumed by each of the patients was lower among the patients who received a combination of 2 blocks compared to those who received a single one (mean/median of 2.7/3 and 2.8/3 for the TAP or subcostal TAP blocks, respectively; 2.5/2 and 2.3/2 for the subcostal TAP + TAP or subcostal TAP + rectus sheath blocks, respectively).

Conclusion

A combination of peripheral nerve blocks reduced the use of analgesic consumption during the 24 hours after LC surgery, compared to standalone blocks.

Laparoscopic transversus abdominis plane block reduces postoperative opioid requirements after laparoscopic cholecystectomy

BACKGROUND

Surgeons directly contribute to the over-prescription of opioids. Alternative postoperative pain management strategies are necessary to reduce opioid dispensation and combat the opioid epidemic. We set out to examine the effectiveness of a laparoscopic transversus abdominis plane block on reducing opioid requirements after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

METHODS

In a retrospective cohort analysis, we compared opioid naïve patients who underwent an elective, outpatient laparoscopic cholecystectomy with a transversus abdominis plane block with patients who underwent a laparoscopic cholecystectomy alone between January 2018 and June 2021 at a single institution. Patient characteristics, perioperative pain scores, and postoperative analgesic requirements were compared between cohorts.

RESULTS

There were 200 patients included in the study (laparoscopic cholecystectomy with a transversus abdominis plane block, n = 100; laparoscopic cholecystectomy alone, n = 100). The average postoperative pain scores in the postanesthesia care unit were equivalent between the groups (laparoscopic cholecystectomy with a transversus abdominis plane block = 3.39 versus laparoscopic cholecystectomy alone = 4.17, P = .12), with the mean postanesthesia care unit opioid requirements significantly lower in patients receiving laparoscopic cholecystectomy with a transversus abdominis plane block (12.1 vs 20.4 oral morphine equivalents, P < .001). Patients receiving laparoscopic cholecystectomy with a transversus abdominis plane block were prescribed fewer opioids on discharge (mean 77.5 vs 92.9 oral morphine equivalents, P < .05) and reported using a lower proportion of their opioid prescription at follow-up (83.2% vs 100%, P < .001). Of the patients receiving laparoscopic cholecystectomy with a transversus abdominis plane block, 65% reported using over-the-counter pain medications compared with 82% of patients receiving laparoscopic cholecystectomy alone (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Performing a laparoscopic transversus abdominis plane block during elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a safe and effective strategy to reduce postoperative opioid requirements for the treatment of acute postoperative pain.

Transversus Abdominis Plane Block as a Strategy for Effective Pain Management in Patients with Pain during Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Systematic Review

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), unlike laparotomy, is an invasive surgical procedure, and some patients report mild to moderate pain after surgery. Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block has been shown to be an appropriate method for postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing abdominal surgery. However, there have been few studies on the efficacy of TAP block after LC surgery, with unclear information on the optimal dose, long-term effects, and clinical significance, and the analgesic efficacy of various procedures, hence the need for this review. Five electronic databases (PubMed, Academic Search Premier, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library) were searched for eligible studies published from inception to the present. Post-mean and standard deviation values for pain assessed were extracted, and mean changes per group were calculated. Clinical significance was determined using the distribution-based approach. Four different local anesthetics (Bupivacaine, Ropivacaine, Lidocaine, and Levobupivacaine) were used at varying concentrations from 0.2% to 0.375%. Ten different drug solutions (i.e., esmolol, Dexamethasone, Magnesium Sulfate, Ketorolac, Oxycodone, Epinephrine, Sufentanil, Tropisetron, normal saline, and Dexmedetomidine) were used as adjuvants. The optimal dose of local anesthetics for LC could be 20 mL with 0.4 mL/kg for port infiltration. Various TAP procedures such as ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane (US-TAP) block and other strategies have been shown to be used for pain management in LC; however, TAP blockade procedures were reported to be the most effective method for analgesia compared with general anesthesia and port infiltration. Instead of 0.25% Bupivacaine, 1% Pethidine could be used for the TAP block procedures. Multimodal analgesia could be another strategy for pain management. Analgesia with TAP blockade decreases opioid consumption significantly and provides effective analgesia. Further studies should identify the long-term effects of different TAP block procedures.