Background The transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is a regional anesthesia technique newly described over the last decades. Used in conjunction with opioids for post-operative analgesia, it reduces opioids requirements and putatively reduces the incidence of opioid related side-effects. It improves the total satisfaction of patients. Objective This paper introduces the transversus abdominis plane block and discusses the future perspectives of its use for post-operative analgesia. Content This paper provides a brief historical perspective on the TAP block, describing relevant anatomy, current techniques, clinical effects, complications, the problems unsolved and suggestions for clinical research or use of this block. Trend The TAP block holds considerable promise as part of a multimodal analgesic regimen for post-operative analgesia. It is safe and effective.