Effect of TAP Block on GI Function After Sleeve Gastrectomy Using PRO-diGI Scale and Perlas Score

This prospective clinical study aims to evaluate the effect of Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) block on postoperative gastrointestinal function in patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. Gastrointestinal recovery plays a crucial role in patient outcomes after bariatric surgery, and regional anesthesia techniques such as TAP block have been suggested to reduce postoperative pain and opioid consumption, which may influence gut motility.

In this study, postoperative gastrointestinal function will be assessed using the validated Patient-Reported Outcome for Dysfunctional Gastrointestinal Motility (PRO-diGI) scale. Additionally, gastric ultrasound will be performed to calculate the Perlas score as an objective marker of gastric emptying and residual volume. These assessments will allow a comprehensive evaluation of both subjective and objective gastrointestinal recovery parameters.

The study will include adult patients scheduled for elective laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy at Elazığ Fethi Sekin City Hospital. Participants will receive standard general anesthesia with or without ultrasound-guided TAP block, and their postoperative recovery will be monitored. Primary outcomes include PRO-diGI scores at defined postoperative intervals, while secondary outcomes include Perlas scores obtained via gastric ultrasonography.

The findings from this research are expected to provide valuable insights into the potential benefits of TAP block on gastrointestinal motility and overall recovery after bariatric surgery.