Sciatic nerve block at the popliteal fossa for foot surgery
Monsó, A.; Santaliestra, J.; Barbal, F.; Fitó, F.; Riudeubás, J.
Revista Espanola de Anestesiologia y Reanimacion 43(1): 27-29
1996
ISSN/ISBN: 0034-9356 PMID: 8851832 Document Number: 468676
We review the results of 312 cases of sciatic nerve blockade in the poplitea fossa for surgery of the dorsal foot. An atraumatic, insulated needle connected to a neurostimulator was used to make a single puncture using a posterior approach. The anesthetic was 1% mepivacaine (4-5 mg/kg-1). Mean latency was 12.4 min. Efficacy was very high (86% excellent, 10% adequate, 4% failed). Time of analgesia was 6 h 15 min (range 3-16 h). No complications or sequelae were recorded. We conclude that the technique is highly effective and comfortable for patients, as it requires only one puncture and gives good postoperative analgesia with no major side effects.