In a transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block, local anaesthetic is deposited in the fascial plane between which two muscle layers?

• A External oblique and internal oblique
• B Transversus abdominis and peritoneum
• C Rectus abdominis and posterior rectus sheath
• D Internal oblique and transversus abdominis ✓

Explanation

The TAP block targets the neurovascular plane between the internal oblique and transversus abdominis muscles, where the anterior primary rami of spinal nerves T10-L1 travel. Deposition of local anaesthetic here blocks sensory innervation of the anterolateral abdominal wall, providing excellent somatic analgesia for abdominal surgeries (caesarean section, laparotomy, laparoscopy). It does not provide visceral analgesia. Ultrasound guidance is standard of care to identify the characteristic three-layer appearance (external oblique, internal oblique, transversus abdominis) and confirm the correct fascial plane.

Reference: Morgan & Mikhail's Clinical Anesthesiology, 6th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.