Ultrasound-Guided Midthigh Sciatic Nerve Block-A Clinical and Anatomical Study

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Ultrasound-guided sciatic nerve block is a relatively new regional anesthesia technique with few descriptions in the literature. The objective of this study was to assess the ease with which the sciatic nerve could be imaged in the midthigh region using ultrasound and to describe the anatomy surrounding the sciatic nerve at this location. Methods: In this prospective observational study, 40 patients scheduled for surgery where sciatic nerve block was indicated were scanned between the gluteal and the popliteal regions using an ultrasound machine (Vivid-i®, GE Healthcare, Chalfont St. Giles, Bucks, UK). Patients then received real time ultrasound-guided sciatic nerv..