Articles: nerve-block.
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Acta Anaesthesiol Belg · Mar 1984
Supraclavicular brachial plexus block with the aid of a nerve stimulator.
Hundred supraclavicular brachial plexus blocks according to the subclavian perivascular technique were performed with the aid of a nerve stimulator Neutracer in order to verify the value of the technique and the acceptance by the patients. The technique is extensively described and the results and complications are presented. The rationale for the use of the supraclavicular approach and the advantages of the use of a nerve stimulator in regional anesthesia are discussed.
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The exact role of calcium in nerve conduction in neurons that have been blocked by local anesthetics remains controversial. Recently, attention has been drawn to the importance of examining both frequency-dependent and nonfrequency-dependent conduction block, since it is felt that frequency-dependent block provides a model that more closely approximates the normal physiologic state. The present study was designed to examine the effects of calcium on both the nonfrequency-dependent and frequency-dependent components of lidocaine nerve block. ⋯ Compound action potentials were measured, and both frequency-dependent block and nonfrequency-dependent block were compared in each solution. Low calcium concentrations significantly enhanced both nonfrequency- and frequency-dependent lidocaine block. The effect of low concentrations of calcium was greater at higher frequencies of stimulation.
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Twenty patients undergoing a posterolateral thoracotomy for lung resection or a nonpulmonary procedure were divided into four groups. Group 1 was the control group. Patients in Group 2 had an intercostal nerve block at the time of closure. ⋯ It is concluded that bedside spirometry is a simple and reliable technique to assess postoperative changes in ventilatory mechanics due to pain. The pain that follows posterolateral thoracotomy can be substantially decreased with a continuous intercostal nerve block. Anterolateral thoracotomy is notably less painful than posterolateral thoracotomy and should be considered the approach of choice for patients with decreased pulmonary reserve who undergo uncomplicated pulmonary resection.
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A technique of continuous sciatic nerve block is described. The method was used to relieve pain from ischaemic gangrene of the foot for 2 days before below-knee amputation and, combined with a continuous inguinal paravascular block, to provide regional anaesthesia both for the surgery and for the first 2 postoperative days.
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Oral Surg. Oral Med. Oral Pathol. · Feb 1984
Alcohol blockade of the inferior dental nerve under radiographic control in the management of trigeminal neuralgia.
A classification of the various treatments available for controlling the pain of trigeminal neuralgia is given. The cause of this disorder remains unknown. ⋯ Radiographic localization of the position of the needle tip prior to the injection of alcohol is described. It is suggested that this technique gives more reliable results, with fewer side effects, and reduces the volume of the alcohol injection required.