Children with spinal dysraphism: transversus abdominis plane (TAP) catheters to the rescue!

Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block catheters may offer an alternative to a central neuraxial blockade for patients undergoing major abdominal surgery (Paediatr Anaesth 19: 2009; 296). This case series consists of two children with spinal dysraphism in whom bilateral TAP block catheters were placed for postoperative pain relief. Administration of low dose, low concentration local anesthetic provided both children with excellent postoperative analgesia.