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Sciatic nerve catheter placement: success with using the Raj approach.
Christopher Robards1, R Doris Wang, Steven Clendenen
1Department of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic Florida, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA. robards.christopher@mayo.edu
Anesthesia and Analgesia
|August 20, 2009
Summary
The Raj approach simplifies sciatic nerve catheter placement using a midpoint landmark, proving effective and safe for regional analgesia in patients. This method enhances ease of use and successful nerve blocks in clinical practice.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Pain Management
- Regional Anesthesia
Background:
- Continuous regional analgesia is increasingly standard for surgical pain.
- Various sciatic catheter insertion techniques exist with pros and cons.
- The Raj approach utilizes a simple midpoint landmark for sciatic catheter placement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and simplicity of the Raj approach for sciatic nerve catheter placement.
- To determine if a midpoint landmark facilitates accurate catheter insertion.
Main Methods:
- 20 patients underwent sciatic catheter placement using the Raj approach (midpoint between ischial tuberosity and greater trochanter).
- An insulated Tuohy needle was used, followed by nerve stimulation and catheter insertion.
- Sensory and motor block assessments were performed after administering 1.5% mepivacaine.
Main Results:
- Sciatic nerve blocks were successfully performed in all patients.
- The procedure was easy to execute.
- No significant complications or adverse side effects were observed.
Conclusions:
- The Raj approach, using a simple bony landmark, enhances the ease and success of sciatic nerve catheter placement.
- This technique is recommended for clinical practice due to its simplicity and effectiveness.
- The method provides reliable regional analgesia with minimal risk.
