Transversus abdominis plane block for postoperative analgesia in a symptomatic bronchial asthma patient-a case report

Abstract

An emergency appendectomy for acute appendicitis with severe acute bronchial asthma was in a 15 years girl under subarachnoid block. Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block using landmark technique was administered for postoperative analgesia on completion of surgical dressing. After recovery from anaesthesia paracetamol 500 mg suppositories six hourly was given for analgesia but was not enough effective. Then in ICU Transversus Abdominis Plane block continued again and her pain subsided significantly (4/10 at rest and 6/10 on coughing). Thereafter she could cough effectively and respiration smoothly.After 48 hours patient was shifted to ward and discharged on 7th post operative day uneventfully. Because of simplicity, safety and low cost TAP block may offer an effective alternative for postoperative analgesia. Use of ultrasound-guided technique as in other regional technique will increase its safety profile.

JBSA 2012; 25(2): 75-77