Liposomal Bupivacaine in Transversus Abdominis Plane Block for Postoperative Pain Control After Autologous Breast Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Autologous breast reconstruction using abdominally based flaps is common post-mastectomy, but donor-site pain often leads to prolonged opioid use. The transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is a common regional anesthesia technique, with bupivacaine as the standard anesthetic. Liposomal bupivacaine (LB), a prolonged-release formulation, aims to extend pain relief and reduce opioid consumption, though its efficacy remains debated.

Objective

This systematic review and meta-analysis compared LB versus plain bupivacaine (PB) in TAP blocks for autologous breast reconstruction, focusing on opioid consumption, pain scores, and hospital stay.

Methods

A systematic search identified randomized controlled trials and observational studies comparing LB (with or without

SUBMITTER: Almeida VFA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12493009 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature