[Levobupivacaine for Ultrasound-guided Interscalene Block: Block with 6 ml Leads to Less Occurrence of Respiratory Depression and Hemidiaphragmatic Paralysis].

BACKGROUND: Interscalene brachial plexus block (ISBPB) complications depend usually on the dose administered. METHODS: The object of this study was to determine whether ultrasound-guided ISBPB with 6 ml of 0.5% levobupivacaine would reduce occurrence of respiratory depression and hemidiaphragmatic paralysis. RESULTS: Patients undergoing arthroscopic shoulder surgery under nerve block with general anesthesia (n = 20) were recruited. There were no differences between pre and post operative respiratory function (forced expiratory volume 1.0 (sec) % and vital capacity). Hemidiaphragmatic paralysis on postoperative ultrasonography was found in two patients. CONCLUSIONS: The use of low-volume ultrasound-guided ISBPB is associated with less respiratory depression and hemidiaphragmatic paralysis.

[Ultrasoud-guided paravenous approach for saphenous nerve block in ankle surgery].

BACKGROUND: Blocking conduction in the saphenous nerve is important in providing surgical anesthesia of the lower leg. The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the efficacy of ultrasound-guided paravenous approach for saphenous nerve block. METHODS: Twenty-eight patients underwent ankle surgery after saphenous nerve block using ultrasoud-guided paravenous approach below the knee combined with sciatic nerve block under general anesthesia. Sensory blockade was evaluated at the upper part of the leg as compared with the contralateral leg. RESULTS: Twenty four patients (85%) had sensory blockade on the day of the surgery. Six patients (21%) had sensory blockade the day after surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Paravenous approach for saphenous nerve block may be effective particularly with limited resources.