A Comparison of Ease of Nerve Localization and Complications Between Posterior and Lateral Approaches of Popliteal Block
Year: 2015
Type: article
Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Popliteal block is a rarely performed regional anaesthetic technique because it requires placing the patient in prone position which is technically difficult.A recent technique called intertendinous or lateral approach which is done laterally can be done with patient in supine position itself.In this study, we have compared ease of nerve localization and complications between posterior and lateral approaches of Popliteal block.METHODS: 120 patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery were randomized to receive the block using either the posterior (n = 60) or the lateral approach (n = 60).With both techniques, 30mL of 1% alkalinized (by adding 1.5ml of 10% sodium bicarbonate) lignocaine with 1:200,000 epinephrine were injected under nerve stimulation guidance.RESULTS: There were no differences in onset and duration of block between two techniques.The Posterior approach was associated with significant incidence of vascular puncture (10%) but lateral approach though technically difficult was safer with nil incidence of vascular puncture.CONCLUSIONS: Although, the lateral approach was technically difficult requiring more attempts (P value < 0.05) was safer, with no incidence of vascular puncture.
Authors: Radhakrishnan A, Krishna Prabu R, Raghuraman M S
Language: English
Subfield: Surgery
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W2604811481