Study Comparing Two Nerve Block Methods for Pain Relief After Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the postoperative pain relief effectiveness of two nerve block methods, the Transversus Abdominis Plane TAP Block and the Modified Thoracoabdominal Nerve Block with a Pericostal Approach M-TAPA, in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. This surgery is commonly used to treat gallstone disease but can cause moderate to severe pain afterward. The study aims to compare these two nerve blocks to standard pain management, as nerve blocks may reduce opioid use and related side effects like nausea, vomiting, and respiratory issues. Participants receive either the TAP Block or the M-TAPA nerve block before surgery under ultrasound guidance while lying on their backs. Both blocks involve injecting bupivacaine near abdominal nerves on both sides using specific ultrasound techniques to guide needle placement. Patients who do not agree to nerve blocks receive the usual intravenous pain treatments. The study randomizes patients to one of the two nerve block groups and uses a triple-blind design. During the study, patients pain levels are measured over the first 24 hours after surgery. Researchers also monitor the amount of remifentanil a pain medication used during surgery. Participants are evaluated for pain control effectiveness and any side effects. The study includes adult patients aged 18 to 65 years undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy, with follow-up through the immediate postoperative period to assess pain outcomes and medication use.

Comparison of Postoperative Analgesic Efficacy of Transversus Abdominis Plane Block (TAP) and Modified Thoracoabdominal Nerve Block (M-TAPA)