Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block: Review article

Abstract

Background: The transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is a localized analgesic method for the abdomen wall on the anterolateral side. Ultrasound (US) guided TAP blocks are currently regarded as the gold standard. It is simple to obtain US images; it could be utilized in several surgical procedures including the abdominal wall on the anterolateral side. Though, US-guided TAP blocks’ effectiveness varies, that may be owing to the variety of techniques used. The approach chosen has an effect on the area included and the duration of the block. To examine the true analgesic consequences of TAP blocks, we standardized the nomenclature system and defined all methods. While a single-shot TAP block has a restricted period, it remains an applicant for the analgesia threshold for abdominal wall operation due to the possibility of overcoming this restriction using the catheter method and liposomal bupivacaine. TAP blocks could be used more effectively to attain improvement of pain control with an integrated nomenclature and the advance of catheter method and/or local liposomal analgesics. Objective: This review discusses the nomenclature system and current improvements in TAP block approaches. Methods: The databases were searched for articles published in English in 4 data bases [PubMed – Google scholar- Egyptian bank of knowledge -Science direct] and Boolean operators (and, or, not) had been used such as [Transversus abdominis plane block AND Internal Oblique Muscle OR Ultrasound guided] and in peer-reviewed articles between January 2000 and August 2021.
Conclusion: With the improvement in US method, the successful rate and protection of TAP blocks have clearly enhanced.