ABSTRACT
Background : Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) block is recently being used for effective pain relief following Total Abdominal Hysterectomy (TAH). Ultrasound guided block helps in correct localization of the plane and proper deposition of drugs. This study was done to compare the efficacy of Levobupivacaine and Bupivacaine in TAP block in TAH. Materials and Method : Seventy patients (ASA 1 and 2) prepared for TAH under General Anesthesia were randomly allocated into two groups. Ultrasound guided TAP block was performed bilaterally with 20ml of Levobupivacaine (0.25%) in Group A (n=35) and Bupivacaine (0.25%) in Group B (n=35) on each side of abdomen after skin closure at the end of operation. Intensity of pain was evaluated by 10cm Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score at 0, 2, 6, 12,24 hours. If VAS >3, 1gram paracetamol infusion was given as rescue analgesic. Duration of analgesia, total rescue analgesic requirement and hemodynamic changes by measuring MAP and PR were noted. Results : VAS at 12 hours was significantly lower in Group A (mean 3.2±1) than Group B (mean 4.1±0.7, p<0.0001). Time of first rescue analgesic requirement was longer in Group A (mean 12.0±1.1h) compared to Group B (mean 11.2±1.1h, p=0.0059). Total analgesic requirement( paracetamol) in 24 hours was lower in Group A (mean 1.7±0.7g) compared to Group B (mean 2.2±0.7g, p=0.007). Hemodynamic changes were comparable in both groups. Conclusion : Levobupivacaine provided better postoperative analgesia than Bupivacaine with stable hemodynamic condition in TAP block.