Beyond the Basics: Anatomical and Technological Advances in TAP Block Applications

Since its introduction by Rafi in 2001, the Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) block has become a fundamental technique in multimodal analgesia for abdominal surgeries, including cesarean sections under general anesthesia. The description of the Quadratus Lumborum (QL) block by Blanco in 2007 marked a significant modification, paving the way for more refined approaches. Today, TAP block has evolved into several anatomical variants—subcostal, lateral, posterior, and anterior (ilioinguinal-iliohypogastric)—tailored for surgical needs and patient factors. With the advancement of technology, early applications of artificial intelligence (AI) began to influence various scientific fields, including medicine. Early AI algorithms for ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia progressed rapidly from preclinical validation (2018) to prototype clinical implementation that same year. By 2021, these systems began integrating into routine anesthesia practice. The field reached a significant milestone in 2023 with the publication of the first systematic review comprehensively evaluating AI-assisted ultrasound techniques for regional anesthesia. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of TAP block variants, detailing their anatomical considerations, clinical indications, and technical execution. The integration of ultrasound guidance and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) is also discussed in the context of improving procedural accuracy and safety. These advancements continue to redefine the role of regional anesthesia in modern perioperative care. “Those who does not want to imitate anything, produces nothing.” — Salvador Dalí.