Comparative Study between Ultrasound Guided Erector Spine Block versus Transversus Abdominis Plane Block for Post-Operative Analgesia in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Cholelithiasis is a common condition, and laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is the preferred minimally invasive procedure for symptomatic gallstones. Postoperative pain management is crucial for enhancing recovery. Ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane block (US-ESP) and transversus abdominis plane block (TAP) are two regional anesthesia techniques used for postoperative analgesia. Objective: To compare the mean postoperative numeric rating scale (NRS) scores in patients undergoing LC with US-ESP and TAP blocks. Methods: This observational prospective study was approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) of RMI, Peshawar. This observational prospective study included 138 patients (69 in each group) who underwent LC at the Department of Anesthesia, RMI, Peshawar, from October 1, 2021, to April 1, 2023. Group A received US-ESP, and Group B received TAP. Postoperative NRS scores were recorded at 12 hours. All patients provided informed consent before participation. The study adhered to ethical guidelines and was approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) of Rehman Medical Institute. Results: The mean postoperative NRS score was significantly lower in Group A (1.521 ± 0.63) compared to Group B (2.304 ± 0.69) (p=0.000). Both groups had similar demographic and procedural characteristics. Conclusions: It was concluded that US-ESP is more effective than TAP in providing postoperative analgesia in LC patients, as evidenced by lower NRS scores.