Ultrasound-guided quadratus lumborum and subcostal transversus abdominis plane blocks

Abstract

Abdominal field blocks are commonly used for postoperative analgesia in major abdominal surgeries. The original transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is limited in its dermatomal coverage to T10-L1. However, modifications made to the classic TAP block technique can enhance the spread of local anesthetic and provide more effective analgesia. In this article, we describe 2 of such modifications of the classic TAP block, namely quadratus lumborum and subcostal TAP blocks.