TAP study: Control of surgical abdominal pain in dogs

Category:
Status: Open and enrolling
Dr. Kennedy
[email protected]
612-625-5991
Amber Winter
Research Study Technician Specialist
[email protected]
612-624-1352
Study title
Evaluation of a novel technique to control surgical abdominal pain in dogs
Purpose of study
The objective of this study is to evaluate whether transversus abdominal plane (TAP) blocks, a local anesthetic technique, can provide lasting pain relief in dogs following abdominal surgery, possibly without the need of opioids and other medications. A separate goal of the study is to evaluate whether a new formulation of local anesthetic (liposomal-encapsulated bupivacaine) will provide longer-acting relief than traditional bupivacaine when used for local anesthesia.
Eligibility criteria
- Adults, and at least 10 kg (22 pounds) in weight
- Planning abdominal surgery at the Veterinary Medical Center
- Owners not planning any changes during the week of the study (moving, vacation, new people or pets)
Excluded dogs:
- Elective spay surgery
- Trauma surgeries (vehicular accident)
- Other exclusions apply (contact us)
Procedures
- Screening visit (may be part of surgical planning visit), owner education on how to use the pain scale
- Surgery day: dogs will be randomized to one of 3 groups: saline control, bupivacaine, or liposomal bupivacaine and given a TAP block while under anesthesia prior to surgery. All dogs will receive standard opioid-based pain medications during surgery.
- During hospital stay, the dog’s pain is evaluated at regular intervals and additional pain medication given if needed
- Dogs discharged and owners will assess pain at home twice/day for 5 days
- Final recheck, collecting forms
Costs
The costs of the TAP block are covered by the study. In addition, at the conclusion of the study, owners will be eligible for a $100 debit card.