Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) Block
(Ultrasound-Guided Pain Relief for Abdominal Wall and Post-Surgical Pain)
Overview
The Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) block is an ultrasound-guided nerve block used to provide relief from abdominal wall pain, typically after surgery or trauma. This minimally invasive procedure targets the nerves between the internal oblique and transversus abdominis muscles that transmit pain from the anterior abdominal wall.
At Restore Spine and Pain, the TAP block is performed with real-time ultrasound guidance to enhance precision and patient safety
Conditions Treated
- Abdominal wall pain
- Chronic post-surgical abdominal pain (e.g., hernia repair, C-section, laparoscopic surgery)
- Neuropathic pain from abdominal trauma or incision
What are the risks and side effects?
Risks and side effects are minimal, and serious complications are rare. We take every precaution to ensure your safety. Potential risks may include but are not limited to:
- Bleeding or infection (rare)
- Temporary numbness or tingling
- Injury to abdominal organs or blood vessels (very rare)
- Vasovagal reaction (dizziness or fainting)
- Allergic reaction to medication
- Elevated blood sugar in diabetic patients (if steroid is used)
Ask your provider if you have any concerns. Your physician will review the risks in detail before the procedure to ensure you are fully informed.
Pre-Procedure Information
How Should I Prepare?
- Driver Required: We ask that you arrange for a driver to take you home after the procedure.
- Food: You may eat a light meal 1–2 hours prior to the procedure. If sedation is planned, please follow the specific sedation protocol provided by our team.
Medications:
- Continue routine medications unless directed otherwise.
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Blood thinners, Aspirin, NSAIDs, and supplements:
- Inform us in advance if you take blood thinners (e.g., Plavix, Eliquis, Xarelto, Coumadin), NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen), Aspirin, or supplements that increase bleeding risk.
- Certain medications may need to be stopped for a short period of time before the injection.
- Speak with your prescribing provider to ensure it’s safe to temporarily stop these medications
- Our team will review your medication list and coordinate with your other providers if needed.
Notify us if:
- You have a fever, infection, or recent illness
- You have started antibiotics or had changes to your medications.
Sedation
Most procedures can be performed comfortably without sedation. However, if you have anxiety or difficulty lying flat, mild sedation may be offered at the discretion of the physician. Please discuss this with your provider in advance.
Special Instructions for Diabetic Patients:
Steroid injections may raise blood sugar levels for several days.
- Please contact your primary care physician or endocrinologist prior to the procedure for management recommendations.
- Monitor your glucose closely after the injection.
- Report sustained elevations to your managing provider.
What if I am pregnant?
If there is any chance you may be pregnant, please notify our team immediately and postpone the injection until pregnancy is ruled out
Procedure Information
The procedure is performed using sterile technique under real-time ultrasound guidance.
What to Expect:
1. Preparation:
- You will lie on your back on the procedure table.
- The skin will be cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic
2. Injection Process:
- The targeted region will be examined with ultrasound.
- A needle is advanced with ultrasound guidance to the transversus abdominus plane.
- A combination of local anesthetic and sometimes steroid is injected to block sensory nerves
Monitoring:
- You will be monitored during the procedure to ensure comfort and safety.
- Most procedures last 10-15 minutes, followed by a brief recovery period on-site.
Post-Procedure Information
What to Expect After the Procedure
- Relief Timeline: Steroids typically begin to work within 2 to 5 days, but in some cases may take up to 2 weeks.
- Activity:You may resume light activities the next day; avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours. We recommend you return to work the following day.
- Soreness: Temporary soreness at the injection site is common.
- Pain tracking:Keep a log of symptoms over the next 1–2 weeks
If successful, additional injections may be spaced out over time.
Additional Instructions:
- Contact the office for any signs of infection, fever, or worsening pain.
- Attend follow-up as scheduled.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are suffering from persistent abdominal pain following surgery or injury, a TAP block may be the right solution. Contact Restore Spine and Pain today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you find lasting relief.