OBJECTIVE

To estimate the efficacy of transversus abdominis plane block (TAP block) for laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LCE) in short-term acute care hospital.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

There were 443 LCEs under interfascial blockade in short-term acute care hospital between 2018 and 2021. For retrospective assessment of benefits of this analgesia, we distinguished the control group consisting of 384 patients who underwent LCE in a 24h-hospital without TAP block. Both groups were statistically homogeneous and comparable. We compared surgery time and incidence of intra- and postoperative complications. VAS scores of pain syndrome were assessed in 2 hours, 1, 2 and 8—9 days after surgery. SF-36 scores of the quality of life were evaluated before surgery, after 8—9 days and one month.

RESULTS

Surgery time was similar in both groups (p>0.05). There was lower need for fentanyl (p<0.05) and muscle relaxants (p<0.05) after LCE under TAP block. There were no perioperative complications in both groups. TAP block was followed by lower pain syndrome and higher quality of life in early postoperative period.

CONCLUSION

TAP blockade in laparoscopic cholecystectomy significantly reduces pain syndrome and improves the quality of life in early postoperative period, as well as contributes to earlier rehabilitation and discharge of patients. This suggests benefits of this blockade among patients scheduled for LCE in short-term acute care hospital.