Comparing two methods of pain relief in pediatric laparoscopic surgery

Laparoscopy-guided Versus Ultrasound-guided Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) Block in Pediatric Laparoscopy: a Randomized, Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional Vittore Buzzi Children's Hospital · NCT05737394

This study is testing which of two ways to give a pain relief shot works better for kids after laparoscopic surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment52 (estimated)
Ages0 Years to 18 Years
SexAll
SponsorVittore Buzzi Children's Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Milan)
Trial IDNCT05737394 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of laparoscopic-guided Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) block versus ultrasound-guided TAP block in managing postoperative pain in children undergoing laparoscopic surgery. The research will assess pain control immediately after surgery and at 1 and 6 hours post-operation. By utilizing two different techniques for administering the TAP block, the study seeks to determine which method provides superior analgesia. The TAP block is a regional anesthesia technique that targets specific nerves to alleviate pain in the abdominal area.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 18 years or younger who are scheduled for elective or urgent laparoscopic surgeries.

Not a fit: Patients with significant comorbidities (ASA Status III-VI) or those requiring prolonged surgical procedures may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved pain management strategies for pediatric patients undergoing laparoscopic procedures.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with TAP blocks in various surgical settings, indicating that this approach is supported by existing evidence.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age\<= 18 yrs
* Elective or urgent laparoscopic surgical procedures including hernia repair, appendectomy, cholecystectomy, piloromyotomy, Nissen fundoplication, varicocelectomy
* ASA Status I and II

Exclusion Criteria:

* absence of parental consent
* ASA Status III-VI
* Presence of neurological disability affecting spontaneous mobility
* Previous surgical procedures on the abdominal wall (e.g. gastroschisis repair)
* Foreseen surgical duration bigger than 4 hours
* Conversion to laparotomy
* Use of concomitant other regional anesthesia technique (e.g. neuraxial or peripheral)

Where this trial is running

Milan

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Postoperative Paintap blocklaparoscopypediatric surgery
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.