TAP Blocks vs Epidural Analgesia in Reconstructive Breast Surgery: A Retrospective Analysis of Opioid Use and Length of Stay

Saturday, November 15, 2025

10:08 AM - 10:16 AM CT

Location: Griffin Hall - Screen 05

Introduction:

Patients undergoing reconstructive breast surgery often suffer from significant postoperative pain. Transverse abdominal plane (TAP) blocks and epidural catheters are two effective strategies to improve multimodal pain control. Systematic reviews have demonstrated efficacy of both modalities (1, 2), however evidence directly comparing TAP to epidural blocks in major breast reconstructions is limited. This study compares the efficacy of TAP blocks vs epidurals for reducing opioid consumption and hospital length of stay in complex breast surgeries.

Submitting Author(s)

TM

Tyler Muser, MD

Resident Physician
St Joseph's Medical Center, United States

Co-Author(s)

HS

Huma Saleem, MD

Study Coordinator
George Washington University Hospital, United States
BR

Bharat Ranganath, MD

Assistant Professor of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery
George Washington University Hospital, United States
AP

Akhil Patel, MD

Assistant Professor of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine
George Washington University Hospital, United States