24/03/2026
ā±ļø Efficiency in the Theatre: LAPTAP vs. ULTAP in Colorectal Surgery
Is the laparoscopic-guided technique for a TAP block (LAPTAP) a viable alternative to the traditional ultrasound-guided method (ULTAP)? Our latest research, conducted at Danderyd Hospital in Sweden, provides some compelling evidence.
In this randomised, observer-blind controlled trial, we compared both techniques in 175 patients undergoing minimally invasive colorectal surgery.
The Key Findings:
Significant Time Savings: The LAPTAP procedure was, on average, 6 minutes faster than the ultrasound method (2 mins vs 8 mins).
Reduced Anaesthesia Duration: Total time under anaesthesia was a median of 27 minutes shorter in the LAPTAP group.
Comparable Pain Relief: VAS pain scores were similar across both groups, proving LAPTAP to be a feasible and highly efficient approach.
In conclusion, LAPTAP provides comparable postoperative pain relief whilst significantly reducing precious time spent under anaesthesia.
Authors: Jonas Nilsson, Felix Bjerregaard, Tobias Pettersson, Ulf O. Gustafsson & Klas Pekkari
š” Exclusive for EAES Members
Are you a member of the EAES? If so, you can access the full paper entirely free of charge through the member portal. Itās a fantastic way to stay at the forefront of surgical innovation.
š Read the full publication here: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00464-025-12430-9