Evaluating the efficacy of lower-level transversus abdominis plane block for postoperative analgesia following lower-uterine-segment caesarean delivery: study protocol for an observer-blinded, randomised controlled trial at a tertiary hospital in China
Abstract
Introduction: Both transversus abdominis plane block (TAPB) and transversalis fascia plane block (TFPB) have been shown to provide effective analgesia for caesarean section (CS) pain. However, the targeting of distinct spinal nerve branches by each technique suggests that neither approach offers complete analgesia. Moreover, the targeting of these branches by TAPB is influenced by puncture level, which has seldom been clearly defined in previous studies. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of lower-level TAPB (L-TAPB), performed at the midpoint between the umbilicus and the anterior superior iliac spine along the anterior axillary line, by comparing it with those of classic umbilical-level TAPB (U-TAPB) and TFPB for postoperative analgesia following lower-uterine-segment (LUS) CS.
Methods and analysis: This single-centre, observer-blinded, randomised controlled trial will include 99 full-term parturients scheduled for elective LUS CS with a transverse incision under morphine-free spinal anaesthesia administered via a 'needle-through-needle' technique. Participant recruitment commenced on 3 March 2025 at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University (WMU; Wenzhou, China). The anticipated trial completion date is October 2025. Participants will be randomised at a 1:1:1 ratio to receive L-TAPB, U-TAPB or TFPB postoperatively. Intrathecal morphine will not be used in this trial. The primary outcome of this trial will be hydromorphone consumption within the…
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Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 2 of 5 (High · randomized trial). Randomized trials of a reasonable size are the strongest single-study design.
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