Ultrasound-assisted Transversus Abdominis Plane Block Vs Wound Infiltration in Pediatric Patient with Inguinal Hernia: Randomized Controlled Trial

Study Objective: To compare the analgesic efficacy of ultrasound-assisted transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block and wound infiltration during the first postoperative 24hours.

Design: A prospective, observer-blinded, randomized, and controlled study

Setting: Operating room of a university hospital.

Patients: Forty patients received a TAP block (TAP group) and 40 patients received wound infiltration (INF group) at the end of the surgery.

Interventions: Patients were randomized to receive a TAP block or wound infiltration. Postoperative analgesics were administered on request and selected based on pain severity.

Measurements: Pain scores, analgesic drug requirement, and side effects were observed for 24hours.

Main Results: Postoperative pain scores were lower in TAP group compared to INF group (P<.001). Analgesic consumption was significantly higher at the 5th minute and 1st, 6th, and 12th hours in the INF group (P<.001). The frequency of additional analgesic use in home and the total analgesic used during the postoperative 24hours were significantly higher in INF group (P<.001). Side effects were lower in the TAP group. Parent's satisfaction scores were higher in TAP group.

Conclusion: Transversus abdominis plane block is effective method with convenient technique, drug dosage, and volume in pediatric patients undergoing inguinal hernia surgery.