Effect of Preoperative Ultrasound-Guided Transversus Abdominis Plane (Tap) Block on Postoperative Pain in Cesarean Section

Abstract

Background: Postoperative pain following cesarean section remains a significant clinical concern, affecting maternal recovery, early mobilization, and bonding with the newborn. The Ultrasound-Guided Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) Block has emerged as an effective regional anesthesia technique for postoperative analgesia, but its preoperative use requires further evaluation. Objective: To assess the effect of preoperative ultrasound-guided TAP block on postoperative pain in patients undergoing cesarean section. Methodology: A comparative study was conducted on 170 patients undergoing cesarean section, divided equally into two groups: TAP block group (n=85) and control group (n=85). Postoperative pain was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) at different time intervals. Additional variables included time to first analgesic request, total analgesic consumption within 24 hours, and patient satisfaction. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression, with adjusted odds ratios (AOR) reported. Results:
Patients in the TAP block group demonstrated significantly lower postoperative pain scores at all time intervals compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The proportion of severe pain was markedly reduced in the TAP group (8.2%) compared to the control group (31.8%). The TAP block group also showed delayed time to first analgesic request and reduced overall analgesic consumption. Multivariable analysis revealed that TAP block significantly decreased the odds of severe postoperative pain (AOR = 0.21, 95% CI: 0.08–0.52, p = 0.001). Patient satisfaction was higher among those receiving TAP block. Conclusion: Preoperative ultrasound-guided TAP block is an effective strategy for reducing postoperative pain, minimizing analgesic requirements, and improving patient satisfaction following cesarean section. Its routine use may enhance postoperative recovery and overall maternal outcomes.

Keywords: Ultrasound-guided TAP block; Cesarean section; Postoperative pain; Regional anesthesia; Visual Analogue Scale; Analgesic consumption; Patient satisfaction; Logistic regression.