Erector spinae plane block versus transversus abdominis plane block in laparoscopic hysterectomy.

The objective was to determine whether an erector spinae plane (ESP) block could provide additional postoperative analgesic benefits compared with a transversus abdominis plane block. 78 patients were separated into two groups (n = 39 per group). Both groups received bilateral injections of 266 mg Exparel (20 ml) and 60 ml of 0.125% bupivacaine. Patients undergoing a transversus abdominis plane block received these injections intraoperatively, while patients undergoing an ESP block received these preoperatively. Outcomes were measured based on scores in opioid usage; pain (visual analog scale) at rest and with movement; nausea; sedation and patient satisfaction. There were no significant intergroup differences in any category (all scores had p > 0.05). No additional analgesic benefits were found using the ESP block procedure.