[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.