Comparison of 0.5% Ropivacaine and 0.2% Ropivacaine in Bilateral Transversus Abdominis Plane Block in Laparoscopic Abdominal Surgeries

Background and Aims: Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is a popular regional anaesthesia technique for postoperative analgesia after abdominal surgeries. The aim of the study was to evaluate the relative efficacy of 2 concentrations of ropivacaine for post-operative analgesia using ultrasound-guided TAP block in laparoscopic abdominal surgeries. Methods: Sixty adults undergoing elective laparoscopic abdominal surgeries were randomised to receive ultrasound-guided TAP block at the end of the surgical procedure before extubation with either 0.5% ropivacaine (Group A, n = 30) or 0.2% ropivacaine (Group B, n = 30). All patients were assessed for post-operative pain and rescue analgesic consumption at 0, 2 h, 4 h, 8 h, 12 h and 24 h time points. Means for normally distributed data were compared using unpaired t-test, and proportions were compared using Chi-square or Fisher's exact test whichever was applicable. Results: Patients receiving ultrasound-guided TAP block with 0.5% ropivacaine (Group A) had significantly lower pain scores when compared to patients who received the block with 0.2%ropivacaine (Group B) at 2h,4h,8h,12h and 24 h.The mean time required for the first rescue analgesia (after administration of block) in hours was significantly higher in Group A as compare to Group B The mean 24 hours Opioid requirement (No. of doses of inj. Tramadol 50 mg IV) was significantly lower in group A as compare to Group B. Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided TAP block with 0.5% ropivacaine provides effective and longer analgesia in the post-operative period as compared to 0.2% ropivacaine. And lesser 24 hour opiod requirement.