Ultrasound-guided obturator block experience from past year at Kocaeli University Hospital

Abstract

Obturator nerve block is recommended to prevent obturator nerve reflex during transurethral resection. However, alternate techniques have been developed. The aim of the present study was to examine outcomes of interadductor approach. After obtaining approval from the ethics committee, files of patients who underwent transurethral resection surgery between October 2013 and October 2014 were reviewed. A total of 137 transurethral resection patients were identified, in 69 (2 women, 67 men) of whom a combination of spinal anesthesia and obturator nerve block was used. Obturator nerve blocks were ultrasound-guided with interadductor approach. Nerve block was unsuccessful in 2 cases due to obturator nerve reflex. Surgeries were performed without complication. Obturator nerve block is an effective method of preventing obturator nerve reflex. Combination of obturator nerve block and spinal anesthesia seems to be a safe method of anesthesia in transurethral surgery. Ultrasound guidance improves success rates and provides additional advantages for patient safety.