Ultrasound-Guided Transversus Abdominis Plane Block Versus Epidural Block for Umbilical Hernia Analgesia

This observational study aims to compare the postoperative analgesic effectiveness of ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block and single-dose epidural anesthesia in patients undergoing umbilical hernia surgery. Pain intensity will be assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) at predefined postoperative time points. The study seeks to determine which analgesic approach provides superior pain control and patient satisfaction in the postoperative period.

Inclusion Criteria: * Patients aged 18 to 65 years * Patients scheduled for elective umbilical hernia surgery * ASA physical status I or II * Patients who undergo surgery under either: Single-dose epidural anesthesia, or general anesthesia with postoperative ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block, as part of routine clinical practice * Ability to understand and use the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) * Provision of written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * ASA physical status III or higher * Known allergy or contraindication to local anesthetic agents * Coagulopathy or ongoing anticoagulant/antiplatelet therapy contraindicating regional anesthesia * Infection at the site of epidural or TAP block application * History of chronic pain, long-term opioid use, or chronic analgesic consumption * Neurological disorders affecting pain perception or assessment * Severe hepatic or renal disease * Pregnancy or lactation * Inability to cooperate with postoperative pain assessment or inability to use VAS * Emergency surgery