Modified Thoracoabdominal Plane Block (M-TAPA): Narrative Technical Review

Vol 6 | Issue 2 | July-December 2025 | Page 00-00 | Shilpa Bhat

DOI: https://doi.org/10.13107/ijra.2025.v06.i02.000

Open Access License: CC BY-NC 4.0

Copyright Statement: Copyright © 2025; The Author(s).

Submitted: 07-09-2025; Reviewed: 28-09-2025; Accepted: 23-11-2025; Published: 10-12-2025

Authors: Shilpa Bhat [1]

[1] Department of Anaesthesia, Yenepoya Medical College, Mangaluru, Karnataka, India.

Address of Correspondence

Dr. Shilpa Bhat,
Department of Anaesthesia, Yenepoya Medical College, Mangaluru, Karnataka, India.
Email ID: shilpabhat04@gmail.com

Abstract

The modified thoracoabdominal plane block through a perichondrial approach (M-TAPA) is an emerging ultrasound-guided fascial plane technique developed to improve analgesia for upper abdominal surgery. This narrative technical review summarizes current anatomical concepts, procedural technique, injectate spread, clinical applications, and available evidence. Relevant anatomical, cadaveric, ultrasound, and clinical studies were critically reviewed to provide a practical overview. Available data indicate that M-TAPA predominantly provides anterior abdominal wall analgesia with preferential involvement of anterior cutaneous branches and may reduce postoperative pain and opioid requirements in selected procedures. Dermatomal spread, however, remains variable and appears to depend more on fascial anatomy, probe positioning, and accurate perichondrial plane identification than on injectate volume alone. Existing literature is limited by small sample sizes and heterogeneity in methodology, limiting direct comparisons with established fascial plane blocks. Overall, M-TAPA represents an anatomy-driven refinement with promising clinical utility when performed using meticulous ultrasound guidance and sound anatomical principles.
M-TAPA is a promising ultrasound guided fascial plane block that offers targeted anterior abdominal wall analgesia. Further high-quality comparative studies are needed to define its optimal indications, reproducibility, and role in contemporary perioperative pain management.
Keywords: Modified thoracoabdominal plane block, M-TAPA, Ultrasound-guided fascial plane block, Abdominal wall analgesia, Perioperative pain management.

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