The role of the rectus sheath block in modern perioperative care for midline laparotomy: a review of the evidence
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Perioperative management of pain is crucial in optimising patient outcomes after laparotomy. This review focuses on the rectus sheath block (RSB) and its use in midline laparotomies. This article will examine the current evidence on the clinical efficacy of this method, comparing it to alternative anaesthetic methods and outlining the numerous benefits of its use. The future of the RSB is considered, with an emphasis on where advancements may be achieved and the areas that require further research. We refer to the complications associated with RSB, which are uncommon. If a rectus sheath block is performed in accordance with the evidence-based steps outlined in this review, the likelihood of complications should be minimal.
Source: Frontiers in Anesthesiology
Authors: Marcus Abbawy, David Okoh, Arundhati Binuraj, Finlay Holden, Benjamin Fox, Rajneesh Sachdeva, Jagtar Pooni, Manpreet Singh, Thomas Allen, Saibal Ganguly, Fang Gao-Smith, Tonny Veenith
Institutions: University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Walsall Manor Hospital, The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital King's Lynn NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, University of Birmingham, University of Wolverhampton, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research
Language: English
Subfield: Surgery
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,353
OpenAlex ID: W7128803716