Ultrasound guided TAP block versus ultrasound guided caudal block for pain relief in children undergoing lower abdominal surgeries

Objective
Ultrasound guided transversus abdominis plane (TAP) nerve block and caudal analgesia are safe and effective methods in children. The aim of the study was to compare the effectiveness and safety of both methods.
Methods
60 patients were randomly allocated into 3 groups: group A: ( = 20) received ultrasound guided transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block; group B: ( = 20) received ultrasound guided caudal block and group C: ( = 20) received conventional analgesia to be considered as controlled group. Hemodynamics, pain scores of Children’s Hospital Eastern Ontario Pain Scale (CHEOPS) and objective pain score (OPS), postoperative complication, satisfaction of the patients and parents and postoperative analgesic requirements were recorded.
Results
There was no significant difference between the three groups in mean arterial blood pressure and heart rate. Postoperative analgesia requirements were significantly higher in group B compared to group A, meanwhile it was significantly higher in group C compared to both groups A and group B. There was significant difference between group A and group C in pain scores assessment but no significant difference between group A and group B. Patient and parent satisfaction was markedly observed in groups A & B more than group C (the control group) and more satisfaction in group A than group B.
Conclusion
TAP block and caudal block under ultrasound guidance proved to be safe with no recorded complications either intra or postoperatively. Patient and parent satisfaction was markedly observed in case of TAP block.