The Efficacy of Transversus Abdominis Plane Blocks in Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass – a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Control Trials - Summary - MDSpire

The Efficacy of Transversus Abdominis Plane Blocks in Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass – a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Control Trials

  • By

  • Caroline Drumm

  • Matthew G. Davey

  • Shane Moore

  • Taya Keating

  • Noel E. Donlon

  • May 6, 2026

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Objective:

To evaluate the effectiveness of TAP blocks in patients undergoing RYGB surgery, focusing on postoperative pain scores at recovery, 6, 12, and 24 hours, and opioid requirements.

Key Findings:
  • TAP blocks significantly reduced postoperative pain scores compared to control (p-value).
  • Patients receiving TAP blocks required fewer opioids postoperatively (p-value).
  • No significant differences were found in PONV, time to ambulation, or length of hospital stay.
Interpretation:

TAP blocks are effective in managing postoperative pain and reducing opioid consumption in RYGB patients, supporting their use in enhanced recovery protocols, which is crucial in the current context of opioid management.

Limitations:
  • Heterogeneity among included studies may affect the generalizability of results; further research is needed to standardize protocols.
  • Potential publication bias due to the exclusion of non-English studies.
Conclusion:

TAP blocks are a beneficial adjunct for pain management in RYGB, aligning with the goals of opioid-sparing strategies in perioperative care, especially in light of the opioid crisis.

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