Ethiopian Medical Journal
Enhanced Post-Cesarean Pain Control in a Low-Resource Setting: A Prospective Open-Label NonRandomized Controlled Trial on Ultrasound-Guided TAP Block with Intrathecal Morphine
By Sisay Ebistu, Amanuel Y. Negash, Blen Lemma and 1 others.
Abstract
Background
Effective post-cesarean pain management is critical for maternal recovery. The transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is an emerging regional anesthesia technique that may enhance pain control when combined with intrathecal morphine (ITM). This study evaluated the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided TAP block with ITM versus ITM alone for post-cesarean pain management.
Objectives
To assess the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided TAP block with ITM versus ITM alone for post caesarian pain control among elective patients done under spinal anesthesia.
Methods
A prospective open-label non-randomized controlled trial was conducted at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital (TASH), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The study enrolled 48 women undergoing elective cesarean section under spinal anesthesia. Patients were divided into two groups: one receiving TAP block with ITM and the other receiving ITM alone. Postoperative pain scores were assessed using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) at 2, 6, 12, and 24 hours postoperatively.