Ultrasound-guided vs Laparoscopic-asisted Transversus Abdominis Plane Block for Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Randomized Prospective Study

Abstract

Objective: To compare the postoperative analgesic efficacy and side effects of ultrasound guided-Transversus Abdominis Plane block (USG-TAP) versus laparoscopic-guided Transversus Abdominis Plane block (LAP-TAP) in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Methods: This randomised, prospective, controlled study included 63 patients aged 18-65 years, classified as ASA I-III, and divided into three groups: Group USG-TAP (n=21) received postoperative TAP block under USG guidance, Group LAP-TAP (n=21) received postoperative laparoscopic-guided TAP block, and Group Control (n=21) received no additional procedure. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores and tramadol consumption were used to evalute postoperative pain. Results: The changes in Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores over time were statistically different in the groups (p=0.002). The change over time was similar in the USG and LAP groups (p=0.221), and the change in the control group was statistically different from that of the other two groups (p<0.05). Conclusion: The analgesic efficacy of USG-guided and laparosopic-guided TAP blocks was found to be similar.