Ultrasound-guided Nerve Block Research Articles

Ultrasound-guided popliteal sciatic nerve block for surgical anesthesia in wound care patients with ongoing anticoagulant/antiaggregant therapy: A single-center, prospective study.

Ultrasound-guided peripheral nerve blocks may be a good alternative in patients under antithrombotic drugs. We evaluated the efficacy of ultrasound-guided popliteal sciatic nerve block in patients undergoing lower extremity wound debridement of whom antithrombotic drugs could not be stopped. We focused on hemorrhagic complications related to sciatic nerve block. Wound care patients followed by Cardiovascular Surgery Department scheduled for lower extremity wound surgery were included in this prospective observational study. Data was collected between March 2021 and September 2022. All patient were under antithrombotic therapy and discontinuation of anticoagulant drugs were not possible. Single-insertion and multiple-injection sciatic nerve block at popliteal region was applied to all patients under ultrasound guidance. Primary outcome was the rate of hemorrhage. Secondary outcomes were block onset times, block success and postoperative analgesia times. Data of 105 patients was evaluated, 87 were male and 18 were female. Mean patient age was 61.92 ± 10.06, mean patient body mass index was 25.68 ± 6.33. All patients were under 1 or more antithrombotic drugs. Only one minor hematoma was detected by postoperative ultrasonography control in 1 patient. Hemorrhage complication rate was 1 of 105 (% 0.95, 95% CI, 0.00024-0.051). Overall block success rate was 99.05%. Mean block onset time was 16.27 ± 5.69 minutes. Mean postoperative analgesia time was 19.5 ± 11.22 hours. Sciatic nerve block under ultrasound guidance using in-plane technique was safe and provided sufficient surgical anesthesia and postoperative analgesia for lower extremity wound debridement surgery in patients on antithrombotic drugs.

Description of an ultrasound-guided maxillary nerve block in dogs: a cadaveric study and case series

Description of an ultrasound-guided maxillary nerve block in dogs: a cadaveric study and case series

Cadaver study of ultrasound-guided pudendal nerve block in six horses

Cadaver study of ultrasound-guided pudendal nerve block in six horses

A case report of ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane nerve block for pediatric renal colic in an emergency department

A case report of ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane nerve block for pediatric renal colic in an emergency department

Randomized Controlled Trial of Ultrasound-Guided Parasternal Intercostal Nerve Block and Transversus Thoracis Muscle Plane Block for Postoperative Analgesia of Cardiac Surgical Patients

Randomized Controlled Trial of Ultrasound-Guided Parasternal Intercostal Nerve Block and Transversus Thoracis Muscle Plane Block for Postoperative Analgesia of Cardiac Surgical Patients

Effects of Different Ultrasound-Guided Nerve Block Modalities on Inflammatory Stress Response in Elderly Patients after Total Hip Arthroplasty.

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of different ultrasound-guided nerve blocks on the postoperative inflammatory and stress response in elderly patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA), providing a theoretical foundation for clinical application. Elderly patients with THA who received ultrasound-guided nerve block combined with general anesthesia from June 2021 to June 2022 in the hospital were selected as a retrospective cohort study. Patients were divided into two groups based on the type of nerve block used. The observation group (n = 60) received ultrasound-guided pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block combined with femoral nerve block (FNB), while the control group (n = 60) received ultrasound-guided PENG block. The cortisol (Cor), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, and pain medication consumption in both groups were compared. The observation group demonstrated significantly lower serum levels of Cor, TNF-α, and IL-6 at postoperative 1 day, 3 days and 7 days, as well as lower soluble protein-100β (S100β) levels at postoperative 1 day compared to the control group (p < 0.001). The VAS score in the observation group was significantly lower than that in the control group at postoperative 1 day, 3 days and 7 days (p < 0.001), with no significant difference in preoperative VAS score between the two groups (p > 0.05). Additionally, opioid consumption in the observation group was significantly lower than that in the control group at postoperative 48 h (p < 0.001). The combination of ultrasound-guided PENG block and FNB effectively reduces postoperative pain and the inflammatory response in elderly patients undergoing THA, facilitating early recovery.

Ultrasound-guided Genicular Nerve Block in Patients Undergoing Knee Arthroscopy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This study was to investigate the efficacy of ultrasound-guided genicular nerve block for patients who underwent knee arthroscopy. Patients were randomized into two groups: 1. nerve block group: ultrasound-guided genicular nerve block (superomedial, superolateral and inferomedial genicular nerve, 2-ml 0.5% ropivacaine each nerve.) prior to the general anesthesia, 2. control group: no intervention prior to the general anesthesia. The measurements were pain severity at 3,6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours after surgery at rest and at activity(Pain severity was primary outcome at 3 hours after surgery at rest); the time for first ambulation; straight leg raise; mechanical pain threshold of the block areas; time of the surgery, anesthesia and extubation; the use of analgesics in the perioperative period and 72 hours after the surgery; the number of patients awakening from pain on the first two nights after the surgery; the length of hospital stay; postoperative adverse effects. The pain severity was performed by VAS (A 10-point visual analogue scale, 0 points painless, 10 points severe pain) and median (interquartile range; IQR). A total of 70 patients (median age: 53 y, 32 men; 35 per group) were included. Compared to the control group, the nerve block group had a lower pain VAS score at rest (2[2-2] vs. 3[2-4], P&lt;0.01) at 3 hours, and lower pain VAS score at rest persisted for 24 hours and activity persisted for 12 hours after the surgery, also had lower intraoperative dosage of sufentanil (20±4.8 vs. 28.5±5.1 mg; P&lt;0.001), lower requirement for analgesics for pain and lower PONV (postoperative nausea and vomiting) throughout the 72-hour observation period. There were no significant difference for the incidence of postoperative adverse effects and straight leg raise. In conclusion, ultrasound-guided genicular nerve block could reduce the pain severity after knee arthroscopy and decrease the use of intraoperative sufentanil without affecting motor function.

Surgeon-administered ultrasound-guided combined popliteal sciatic nerve and adductor canal block in fixation of trimalleolar fracture

Introduction: Combined popliteal sciatic nerve and adductor canal block under ultrasound guidance has been described as a safe and effective mean of regional anesthesia for foot and ankle surgery. Limited studies have shown its effectiveness while performed by surgeons. This study aims to assess the effectiveness and safety for this mode of regional anesthesia while carried out by orthopedic surgeons. Method: Patients presented to our unit with trimalleolar fracture of ankle who underwent operation under surgeon-administered ultrasound-guided combined popliteal sciatic nerve and adductor canal block were evaluated in this study. A total of 13 patients with mean age of 57.8 were included. Data regarding the diagnosis, pattern of injuries, comorbidities in American Society of Anesthesiologists Classification, duration of operation, blood loss, intraoperative pain control in visual analog scale (VAS), degree of motor blockage, postoperative pain control and hospital length of stay were collected and evaluated. Result: All patients experienced complete anesthesia with VAS 0 and complete motor blockage throughout the operation. Average operative time was 179 min. Postoperative pain control was satisfactory. There was no regional anesthesia related complication arise. Conclusion: Surgeon-administered ultrasound-guided combined popliteal sciatic nerve and adductor canal block is a safe and effective mean to provide anesthesia for trimalleolar fracture fixation according to our experience.

Emergency practitioner-administered ultrasound nerve blocks in the emergency department: A retrospective analysis

Abstract OBJECTIVES: In the realm of acute pain management within emergency departments (EDs), the prevalent reliance on systemic analgesics, notably opioids, presents challenges due to associated risks and suboptimal efficacy. The emerging alternative of ultrasound-guided nerve blocks (USGNBs) has shown promise in prospective studies. However, the safety and efficacy of USGNBs when performed by emergency medicine practitioners remain largely unexplored, necessitating this study to address the research gap. The primary objectives of this study were to assess the efficacy of Emergency physician-performed USGNBs and changes in patient-reported pain (pre- and postnerve block) at 15 and 30 min. In addition, the time taken to perform nerve blocks, type of nerve block, frequency, indications, procedure time, and complications were all studied. METHODS: Conducted at a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital in Pune, India, this single-center, retrospective observational study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of USGNBs in the ED context. A retrospective analysis covered 274 emergency practitioner-performed USGNBs recorded from January 2022 to December 2023. Participants included consecutive ED patients consenting to nerve blocks, with practitioners utilizing bupivacaine (0.25%) and ropivacaine (0.25%) based on individual preferences. The study systematically recorded patient demographics, block types, indications, complications, and pre- and postpain scores on a Numerical Rating Scale. RESULTS: The study demonstrated a significant reduction in pain scores post-USGNB, with an average decrease of 2.9 ± 1.08 at 15 min and 5.8 ± 1.39 at 30 min. Commonly performed blocks included the femoral nerve, fascia iliaca, and serratus anterior, with notable pain relief in fracture management cases. Procedural durations varied, ranging from 2 to 12 min, while four complications were reported, including diaphragmatic paresis and arterial punctures during interscalene nerve block and fascia iliac compartment blocks, respectively. CONCLUSION: This extensive study in an academic ED setting supports the proficiency of emergency practitioners in performing USGNBs. The findings emphasize the transformative potential of USGNBs in academic ED pain management, showcasing notable pain reduction and minimal complications. These results advocate for the integration of advanced pain relief techniques into emergency medicine training programs, contributing to a comprehensive approach to acute pain management.

Assessment of ultrasound-guided intercostal nerve block for acute herpes zoster and its' possible prophylaxis for postherpetic neuralgia: a retrospective and case-controlled trial.

This study aimed to compare the intercostal nerve block (ICNB) and thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB) for acute herpes zoster-associated pain (ZAP) and possible prophylaxis for post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN). This study enrolled 128 patients with ZAP. Their records were stratified into standard antiviral treatment (AVT) plus US-guided TPVB (the TPVB group), AVT plus US-guided ICNB (the ICNB group) or AVT alone (the control group). Herpes zoster (HZ)-related burden of illness (HZ-BOI) within the post-procedural 30 days was defined as the primary endpoint, determined by a composite of pain severity and follow-up duration. Procedure time, rescue analgesic requirement, PHN incidence, health-related quality of life and side effects were also recorded. Significantly lower HZ-BOI-AUC30 was reported in the TPVB and ICNB groups as compared to the control group, with a mean difference of 57.5 (P < 0.001) and 40.3 (P = 0.003), respectively. However, there was no difference between the TPVB and ICNB groups (P = 0.978). Both TPVB and ICNB reported significantly greater improvements in PHN incidence, EQ-5D-3L scores and rescue analgesic requirements during follow-up, as opposed to the control AVT. Shorter procedure time was observed in ICNB as compared to TPVB (16.47 ± 3.39 vs. 11.69 ± 2.58, P < 0.001). Both US-guided TPVBs and ICNBs were effective for ZAP, and accounted for possible prophylaxis for PHN, as compared to AVT alone. The ICNB approach could be recommended as an alternative to conventional TPVB with a better consumed procedure time and side effect profile.a.

92EMF Improving Procedural Safety, Efficacy, and Patient Outcomes for Ultrasound Guided Nerve Blocks in the Emergency Department via Objective Competency Measures

92EMF Improving Procedural Safety, Efficacy, and Patient Outcomes for Ultrasound Guided Nerve Blocks in the Emergency Department via Objective Competency Measures

344 Use of a Nerve Block Supply Cart in Promoting Ultrasound-Guided Nerve Blocks Done in the Emergency Department

344 Use of a Nerve Block Supply Cart in Promoting Ultrasound-Guided Nerve Blocks Done in the Emergency Department

Ultrasound-guided forearm selective nerve block: A bright future on the horizon

Objective: In light of the advancement of modern medicine, anesthesiologists and surgeons are increasingly prioritizing patient comfort in diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. A growing body of research revolves around the utilization of ultrasound-guided forearm selective nerve blocks for surgeries involving the distal upper limb. This review aims to provide an overview of regional anesthesia techniques in forearm, hand, and wrist surgeries, laying a theoretical foundation for the prospects of ultrasound-guided forearm selective nerve blocks in optimizing comfort during diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Methods: A retrospective review of literature sourced from the PubMed database was conducted to comprehensively evaluate and elucidate the advantages and drawbacks of ultrasound-guided forearm selective nerve blocks, brachial plexus blocks, Bier blocks, and wrist blocks. Additionally, a summary was provided regarding the selection of local anesthetics for ultrasound-guided forearm selective nerve blocks. Results: Overall, ultrasound-guided forearm selective nerve block techniques exhibit several advantages over Bier’s block, brachial plexus block, and wrist block for the majority of forearm, wrist, and hand surgeries. These advantages include reduced anesthesia-related time, prolonged duration of analgesia, and minimal impairment of upper extremity motor function. Consequently, these techniques enhance surgical safety and facilitate postoperative recovery. Furthermore, the addition of dexmedetomidine or dexamethasone to ultrasound-guided selective nerve blocks of the forearm could extend the duration of analgesia. Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided forearm selective nerve block is a straightforward and conducive anesthesia method for distal upper limb surgeries, aligning with the principles of fast surgical recovery and enhanced patient comfort during diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Given its manifold benefits, widespread promotion and adoption of this technique in clinical practice are warranted.

Ultrasound-Guided Lumbar Plexus-Sciatic Nerve Blocks Versus Epidurals for Orthopaedic Surgeries: A Study to Compare the Competency of Novice Anaesthesiology Residents in a High-Volume Level 1 Trauma Centre.

The relative merits of peripheral nerve blocks (PNB) over central neuraxial anaesthesia and the advantages of the above two techniques over general anaesthesia for surgical interventions of the lower limb are well established. The competency of anaesthetic trainees in a high-volume level 1 trauma centre in administering dual ultrasound and nerve stimulator-guided lumbar plexus-sciatic nerve block(DUNLuPS) vs. epidural anaesthesia (EA) was compared by reporting the adequacy of anaesthesia with the two techniques, time taken for the performance of block, time of onset of sensoryblock (TOSB), and time of onset of motor block (TOMB). This prospective, randomized, study enrolled 92 patients aged 18-80 years with lower limb fractures admitted in trauma triage and scheduled for surgery. Thepatients were randomly allocated equally into the EA group and the DUNLuPS group. A total of 20 anaesthesia trainees in the third year of residencywith clinical experience of more than 15 independent lumbar plexus-sciatic nerve blocks were included in the study.A volume of 20 ml of 0.5% ropivacaine was administered in the lumbar plexus (Shamrock technique) but the volume used for sciatic nerve (subgluteal approach) was varied so that the cumulative dose did not exceed 3 mg/kg. For each block, the onset of nerve blockade was assessed every five minutes, and the assessments continued for an additional 30 minutes after the nerve blocks were finished. Clinical characteristics and adequacy of anaesthesia were comparable, i.e., 95.65% and93.47% success in the EA (n = 46) and DUNLuPS (n = 46) groups, respectively. Performance time was significantly more in the DUNLuPS group but followed by significantly less TOSB and TOMB. The time for the first analgesic request was 351.63 ± 148.70 minutes in the DUNLuPS group and 147.60 ± 52.65 minutes in the EAgroup (p < 0.0001). Both EA and DUNLuPS provide effective and comparable intra-operative anaesthesia for orthopaedic lower limb surgeries (OLLS) when administered by residents with more than two years of experience (third year of residency)in ultrasound-guided regional nerve blocks in a high-volume level 1 trauma centre. Statistically significant differences in the block performance characteristicshad no clinical advantage as it was compensated by the faster onset time in the DUNLuPS group. Post-operative pain management was better in the DUNLuPS group, sothe practice and conduct of anaesthesia for trauma patients should focus on the establishment of "block rooms" and timely training of residents in the former so that the advantages can be extended to the patient population.

A Comparative Study Between Femoral Nerve Block and Suprainguinal Fascia Iliaca Compartment Block for Post-Operative Analgesia in Femur Fracture Fixation

Introduction: Femur fractures and their surgical fixations are common. Adequate postoperative pain relief is mandatory as it facilitates rapid recovery by enhancing early ambulation and mitigating stress response. This is barely achievable with conventional pain control methods. Ultrasound-guided regional blocks like femoral nerve block and supra-inguinal fascia iliaca compartment block are simple yet promising techniques for postoperative analgesia in femur fractures. Aims: To compare post-operative analgesia duration and satisfaction attained between the patients receiving ultrasound-guided femoral nerve block with, those receiving ultrasound-guided supra-inguinal fascia iliaca compartment block, after femur fracture fixation. Methods: Seventy-four patients, aged 16−85 years, of either sex, ASA I−II, who underwent femur fracture surgical fixations under spinal anesthesia, were randomly divided into two equal groups: groups 1 and group 2. Postoperatively, Group 1 (n= 37) received a femoral nerve block with 15 ml 2.5% bupivacaine whereas Group 2 (n = 37) received a supra-inguinal fascia iliaca compartment block with 30 ml 2.5% bupivacaine. Duration of analgesia, patients' level of satisfaction, visual analogue scale scores, and hemodynamic parameters at different time intervals were recorded in the first 24 hours postoperatively and compared. Results: The demographic profiles between the two groups were comparable. Group 2 had a significantly longer duration of analgesia than Group 1, with the means 795.14 vs 538.65 minutes respectively, and a P value of .002. Although group 1 patients had predominantly 3 and 4 levels of satisfaction whereas group 2 had 4 and 5, there was no statistically significant difference in patients’ level of satisfaction between the groups (P=.249). Conclusion: Supra-inguinal fascia iliaca block provides a longer duration of analgesia than femoral nerve block in femur fracture fixation. The level of satisfaction in both groups is high and comparable.

Comparison of the Analgesic Duration Using Ultrasound-guided Popliteal Sciatic Nerve Block between Diabetics with Neuropathy and Nondiabetics without Neuropathy.

In India, the prevalence of diabetes mellitus neuropathy was reported to be as high as 30%. Eight percentage of the diabetic population suffer from foot ulceration and 1.8% have amputations. Popliteal nerve block can be potentially used for foot and ankle surgery with several advantages. To compare analgesic duration of an ultrasound (US)-guided popliteal sciatic nerve block between diabetics with neuropathy and nondiabetics without neuropathy. Participants were allocated into two groups for popliteal sciatic nerve blocks under US guidance. The primary outcome was the duration to onset of sensory and motor blockade. The secondary outcome was the duration to rescue analgesic and the visual analog scale scoring within 24 h. Hemodynamic outcomes were also monitored along with the above variables. It was observed that the onset of sensory blockade was faster in participants with diabetes mellitus with peripheral neuropathy as compared to the nondiabetic participants and the duration for onset of motor blockade in dorsiflexion was faster in diabetic patients as compared to the nondiabetic patients (17.48 ± 3.21 min). However, there was no significant changes when comparing the onset of duration to loss of plantar flexion, in diabetics (17.86 ± 2.29 min) versus in nondiabetics (18.51 ± 3.32 min). The duration for rescue analgesics was found to be longer in diabetic participants (13.19 ± 2.14 h) as compared to the nondiabetic participants (11.44 ± 1.86 h). No differences were observed in the hemodynamic changes and the complications associated with local anesthetics in either group. Diabetic patients with neuropathy have faster onset of blockade when compared to nondiabetic patients without neuropathy which may be due to the degenerative condition of the peripheral nerves in them. The hemodynamic parameters do not play a role in defining the outcome of the block.

Effect of ultrasound-guided ilioinguinal-iliohypogastric nerve block on chronic pain in patients undergoing open inguinal hernia surgery under spinal anesthesia: a randomized double-blind study.

Pre-operative ilioinguinal-iliohypogastric nerve block (II-IHNB) has a proven role in lessening acute postoperative pain and opioid consumption following hernia repair. However, its role in preventing post-herniorrhaphy groin pain (PHGP) is still unknown. The current study aims to assess pre-operative II-IHNB's impact on PHGP three and six months after open inguinal hernia repair under spinal anesthesia. Seventy patients posted for inguinal hernia surgery were randomly allocated into group A (received ultrasound-guided II-IHNB with 10 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine and 4 mg [1 mL] dexamethasone) and group B (received ultrasound-guided II-IHNB with 11 mL of 0.9% normal saline). The time to first analgesic request, pain scores, opioid consumption, DN4 score, and PHGP at 3 and 6 months were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests. The numerical pain rating scale at movement in group A was significantly reduced at all the time intervals of 3, 6, 12, and 24 hours compared to group B. Total opioid usage was lower in group A (3.71 mg [3.90]) versus group B (12.14 mg [4.90]) with a mean difference of -8.43 mg (95% CI -10.54, -6.32), P < 0.001. The time required for the first rescue analgesic was significantly longer in group A (360 min [180-360]) versus (180 min [180-360]) in group B (P < 0.001). However, there was no difference in the incidence of PHGP at three and six months between the two groups. Pre-operative ultrasound-guided II-IHNB reduces postoperative analgesic requirement but does not reduce the incidence of chronic PHGP following hernia surgery at 6 months.

Impact of Ultrasound-Guided Suprascapular Nerve Block in Stroke Survivors With Hemiplegic Shoulder Pain Undergoing Neurorehabilitation: A Retrospective Case Series.

Background Hemiplegic shoulder pain (HSP) is one of the most common complications seen in stroke survivors. HSP is an important cause of disability in these patients and may act as a barrier to rehabilitation and functional recovery. Suprascapular nerve block (SSNB) has been shown to be an effective treatment option for managing HSP, and it may also improve overall functional and motor recovery. Methodology This is a retrospective case series. Six stroke patients with HSP received an ultrasound-guided SSNB as a part of their inpatient individualized neurorehabilitation program. They were evaluated before the intervention and at 4 and 12 weeks of follow-up. Primary outcome measures were the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) score, active range of motion (AROM), and the visual analog scale (VAS) score of the hemiplegic shoulder. Secondary outcome measures were the passive range of motion (PROM) and manual muscle testing (MMT) of the hemiplegic shoulder. Results Of the six patients, four (66.7%) were male, four (66.7%) had hypertension, and two (33.3%) were also suffering from diabetes mellitus. Improvement was seen in the VAS score and the pain subscale of SPADI in all six cases at 12 weeks of follow-up. VAS score improvement was between 40% and 100%, while SPADI pain subscale score improvement ranged from 21.74% to 100%. Total SPADI score improved in all cases, with improvement ranging from 7.94% to 54.55%. No Improvement was seen in four of the six cases in the SPADI disability subscale. AROM showed an improvement in three of the six cases, with the most improvement in flexion (up to 55.56%). PROM improved in all six cases for flexion and abduction and in four cases for external rotation. MMT of only two patients improved by at least two grades. Conclusions SSNB is a safe and effective treatment option for patients with HSP. Along with an improvement in pain, the addition of SSNB in neurorehabilitation may play an important role in aiding functional and motor recovery in stroke survivors with HSP.

Analgesic effect of ultrasound-guided extraoral mandibular nerve block compared to intraoral conductive block of the inferior alveolar nerve after lower third molar alveolectomy: a clinical prospective study

BackgroundThe analgesia after lower third molar alveolectomy is based on the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that have significant risks, and are contraindicated in the third trimester of pregnancy. Aiming to reduce NSAIDs use after this surgery, we quantified analgesic effects of ultrasound (US)-guided extraoral mandibular nerve block.MethodsThirty-six patients were equally allocated to the experimental or control group, based on their willingness to receive experimental US-guided extraoral mandibular nerve block for postoperative analgesia. The experimental block applied prior to lower third molar alveolectomy, was followed by standard intraoral inferior alveolar nerve block. In the control group, patients received only intraoral block of inferior alveolar nerve. All patients reported pain level (visual analogue scale, VAS) right after the application of blocks. The next day, patients reported duration of pain-free time and the use of analgesic.ResultsThe US-guided extraoral mandibular nerve block prolonged the pain-free time to 8 h (vs. 4 in control group, P < 0.001) and reduced NSAIDs use (12 patients needed analgesic in experimental vs. 17 patients in control group, P = 0.038). The application of experimental block was less painful (VAS = 2) than the application of intraoral inferior alveolar nerve block (VAS = 4, P = 0.011). In 8/18 patients in the experimental group US-guided extraoral mandibular nerve block solely achieved adequate surgical anesthesia.ConclusionUS-guided extraoral mandibular nerve block prolonged pain-free period and reduced the use of NSAIDs after lower third molar alveolectomy, thus proving to be successful analgesia method for this dental surgery.Clinical trial registrationhttps://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT06009302, identification number: NCT06009302, date of registration: 18/08/2023.

Ultrasound-Guided Selective Glossopharyngeal and Maxillary Nerve Blocks for Analgesia After Tonsillectomy: A Pilot Study.

Purpose Postoperative pain management methods for tonsillectomy commonly include the use of opioids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and acetaminophen. However, some patients report pain despite the use of these medications. In recent years, ultrasound-guided selective glossopharyngeal nerve block (UGSGNB) and ultrasound-guided maxillary nerve block (UGMNB) have been reported to be effective for analgesia post-tonsillectomy. We retrospectively analyzed the effects of UGSGNB and UGMNB in the perioperative management of patients who underwent tonsillectomy under general anesthesia. Methods This retrospective study evaluated adults (18-61 years old) who had received general anesthesia for tonsillectomy. The control group comprised 25 patients who received general anesthesia using the standard protocol, and the nerve block group comprised 10 patients who also received additional UGGNB and UGMNB. Results While these nerve blocks may have contributed to improving the postoperative food intake, they did not reduce the frequency of postoperative analgesia used. Improved dietary intake after UGSGNB and UGMNB could be advantageous for postoperative recovery. Conclusion Further research with a larger number of cases and prospective intervention studies are necessary to determine the effects of combining UGSGNB and UGMNB for post-tonsillectomy analgesia.