The efficacy of the semi-blind approach of transversus abdominis plane block on postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing inguinal hernia repair: a prospective randomized double-blind study

Figures & data

Figure 1 Flow chart of study.

Abbreviations: BMI, body mass index; IV, intravenous; TAP, transversus abdominis plane; VAS, verbal analog scale.

Figure 2 Insertion of a blunt needle penetrating the fascia of the external and internal oblique muscles before entering the transversus abdominis fascial plane.

Abbreviations: ASIS, anterior superior iliac spine; EO, external oblique muscle; IO, internal oblique muscle; ST, subcutaneous tissue; TA, transversus abdominis muscle.

Table 1 Demographic and clinical characteristics

Variable	Group I	Group II	P-value
Age, years	54.4 ± 15.7	54.0 ± 11.8	0.930
Sex (F/M), n	4/28	2/30	1.000
ASA (I/II/III), n	16/15/1	16/10/6	0.669
BMI	25.5 ± 5.4	25.9 ± 5.1	0.978

Abbreviations: F, female; M, male; ASA, American Society of Anesthesiologists; BMI, body mass index.

Figure 3 VAS levels by postoperative measurement time.

Abbreviations: VAS, verbal analog scale; hr, hour.

Figure 4 Demand for IV paracetamol by postoperative measurement time.

Abbreviations: IV, intravenous; hr, hour.

Figure 5 The frequency of total morphine required 24 hours postoperatively.

Abbreviation: IV, intravenous.