Modified thoracoabdominal nerves block through perichondrial approach is effective in reducing postoperative opioids requirements in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis

Abstract

Introduction: The modified thoracoabdominal nerves block through perichondrial approach (M-TAPA) has been proposed as an effective regional anesthesia technique for reducing postoperative opioid consumption in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). We conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis to assess the analgesic efficacy of M-TAPA block in LC.

Evidence acquisition: We searched Pubmed Central, Scopus and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (from inception to until 1 July 2024). The effects of the M-TAPA were compared with those of sham block, placebo and no intervention. Randomized controlled trials, observational and retrospective studies were included. The primary outcome was postoperative opioid consumption at 24 hours, while secondary outcomes included pain scores at 12 and 24 hours, postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), and rescue analgesic requirements.

Evidence synthesis: This meta-analysis included six studies encompassing four randomized controlled trials, one retrospective study, and one prospective observational study, with a total of 350 patients. The analysis demonstrated a significant reduction in postoperative opioid consumption (MD -9.06; 95% CI -11.6 to -6.48, P=0.001) in the M-TAPA group. Additionally, patients receiving M-TAPA reported lower pain scores at 12 and 24 hours postoperatively. The risk of PONV was significantly reduced (OR 0.19; 95% CI 0.10 to 0.39, P=0.001), and fewer patients required rescue analgesics (OR 0.24; 95% CI 0.09 to 0.65, P=0.05).

Conclusions: M-TAPA block provides superior analgesia when compared with control group in LC.