This study is a comparison of the analgesic efficacy of TAP blocks provided by ropivacaine bolus plus continuous ropivacaine infusion via catheters versus single shot TAP blocks with liposomal bupivacaine.~In the Liposomal Bupivacaine group, TAP block will be performed using ultrasound guidance. 12ml of 0,25% plain bupivacaine will be used for skin infiltration and to open up the TAP. Liposomal Bupivacaine 266 mg (1.3% in 20 ml) will be diluted to 40 ml volume with 20 ml of preservative free normal saline. 20 ml (133mg) of liposomal bupivicaine will then be injected into the TAP.~For those randomized to the TAP catheter group, ultrasound guidance will be used for TAP block and 5 mls 1% lidocaine will be used for skin infiltration. A peripheral nerve catheter will be placed approximately 3-5 cm into the TAP space after injection of ropivacaine. A bolus dose of 2.5 mg/kg of ropivacaine will be administered in a volume of 30 ml up to a maximum of 150 mg. An infusion with a programmable pump will be initiated at a rate of 8 ml/hr of 0.2% ropivacaine on the inpatient floor.
This study is a comparison of the analgesic efficacy of transversus abdominis plane (TAP) blocks with ropivacaine bolus plus continuous ropivacaine infusion via catheters versus single shot TAP blocks with liposomal bupivacaine.