Continuous transverse abdominis plane catheter for postoperative analgesia in pediatric abdominal surgery

Abstract

Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is relatively newer method for the management of postoperative pain after abdominal surgery in pediatric patients. Although there is emerging evidence proving the safety and efficacy of TAP blocks, there is limited literature on use of TAP catheters in pediatric patients. This technique involves the injection of local anesthetics into the plane between the internal oblique and transversus abdominis muscle and thus giving pain relief. The technique when performed under ultrasound guidance or under vision after dissection of the plane between two muscles is most effective and safe. This helps in significant reduction in the analgesic requirement postoperatively and hence the side effects with their use. We report successful pain management postoperatively in three pediatric patients, in whom neuraxial block was contraindicated.

Keywords

• Abdominal surgery
• continuous transversus abdominis plane catheter
• pediatric patient