Transversus abdominis plane block in ponies: a preliminary anatomical study

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Anatomy
• Surgical Techniques
• Pain Management

Background:

• The transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is a regional anesthesia technique used to provide analgesia to the abdominal wall.
• Limited information exists on the application of TAP blocks in equine medicine.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel, single-site ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block technique in horses.
• To evaluate the anatomical feasibility and potential efficacy of this technique for equine abdominal analgesia.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, descriptive, experimental anatomical study was conducted on four adult pony cadavers.
• Ultrasound guidance was used to identify the TAP in the equine abdominal wall.
• A methylene blue and bupivacaine solution was injected, followed by dissection to identify stained nerves.

Main Results:

• The ultrasound-guided TAP block technique successfully visualized the target plane in equine cadavers.
• Staining of nerves was evident from the 14th thoracic (T14) to the 3rd lumbar (L3) nerves.
• A high success rate (>75%) was observed for staining nerves T16-L2.

Conclusions:

• The described ultrasound-guided TAP block technique is feasible in horses and shows potential for blocking nerve transmission from T16 to L2.
• Further research is warranted to optimize injectate volume, concentration, and application to the cranial abdomen.
• This technique may offer a valuable option for equine abdominal pain management.