gynecology and obstetrics medical project, gynecology journal, obstetrics, gynecologic oncology, reproductive medicine, gynecological endoscopy, ultrasonography, gynecology articles

Ginekologia i Poloznictwo
ISSN 1896-3315 e-ISSN 1898-0759

Quadratus lumborum nerve block versus transversus abdominis nerve block in pain control after caesarean section: Randomized controlled trial


Abstract

Author(s): Marawan Elkady, Mohamed Abdelhameed AbdelHafeez, Ahmed Mohamed Nour El-Din Hashad, Amr Gaber Sayed, Mohamed Fekry Mohamed* and Mohamed Saeed Khallaf

Objectives: Cesarean section (CS) rate has increased, which much more highlighted the importance of post-CS pain control. Among various post-CS-pain controls, we here attempted to determine which is better, the ultrasound-guided trans-muscular quadratus lumborum nerve block (QLB) vs. transversus abdominis nerve block (TAP) during CS and in the early postoperative period regarding pain relief, comfort, and respiratory functions.

Patients and Methods: This prospective study was conducted at Ain Shams University hospitals for 6 months from June to December 2020. Participants were total 50 patients undergoing elective CS, who were divided into two groups (n=25; each); group QLB and TAP. Group QLB: bilateral ultrasound-guided QLB; Group TAP: bilateral ultrasound- guided TAP; with both groups having received each (QLB or TAP) after induction of regional anesthesia (0.25% bupivacaine (25ml) + normal saline (1ml)).

Results: QLB, compared with TAP, showed the followings: significantly lower total NSAID dose, non-significantly less frequent opioid consumption, significantly shorter onset of mobilisation, and non- significantly less frequent nausea and vomiting. Postoperative allergic, psychogenic and local complications were not observed.

Conclusion: QLB might be effective than TAP at CS.