[Ultrasound guided transversus abdominis plane block in early infancy].

We retrospectively examined the transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block performed in 8 infants (range, 1-115 days) from July 2010 to March 2011. Ultrasound images clearly visualized the fascial plane between the transversus abdominis and the internal oblique muscle and it was possible to confirm proper administration of local anesthetics into the plane in all patients. Complications resulting from opioid overdose were noted in two cases. One infant required reintubation. Another infant developed delayed emergence from anesthesia. We should tailor the dose of systemic opioid, considering the fact that the simultaneous administration of nerve block and systemic opioids may cause sedation and respiratory depression in young infants.